Liz and Sarah are back from Puerto Rico! They discuss how being on location can be a (busy!) break from reality and how they’re tackling re-entry to their lives in Los Angeles and Ojai. Then, in Take A Hike, it’s crunch time on Fantasy Island. Liz and Sarah explain what double days are—two crews shooting two episodes at the same time—and how they’re managing the pressure with breathing techniques, meal kits, and Corgis! Next, from the Mailroom, Liz and Sarah answer a listener question about how to figure out your pilot story—focus on character intros, story structure, conflict, and twists. Finally, this week’s Hollywood Hack will brighten your day and someone else’s: pass on a compliment!
Latest Episodes
Episode 250: Our 250th Episode!
topics featured on the podcast. From their very first Hollywood Hack—saying “fuck” in a meeting—to revelatory conversations with guests like Channing Dungey, Marcia Clark, Annie Duke, and more. Favorite pointers include “be an insulator,” the value of the “boulder pusher,” what to wear on Zoom, and asking: “Does this move the needle?” If you’ve been listening from the beginning, join Liz and Sarah as they look back; if you’re new here, this episode is a great place to start—and welcome!
Episode 249: HIH WFH—Work From… Hotel!
Liz and Sarah discuss how taking a moment to add a personal touch to your work can make a big impact. One example? The necessities-filled beach bags that Fantasy Island production had waiting for them in their hotel rooms. Next, now that Liz and Sarah are back in Puerto Rico for Season Two, they assess what they REALLY need to WFH—Work From… Hotel! At the top of the list—free breakfast, a coffee maker, and good WiFi. Then, in The Craft (and Fain), they talk about Story vs. Moves—what the difference is between the two, and how one makes for great TV, the other not so much. Finally, this week’s Hollywood Hack is a portable, compact snack that’ll ease your mind while traveling—protein bars!
Episode 248: Embrace A New Identity
TV writers wear many hats, and it’s important for writers of all levels to have the chance to wear them. Liz and Sarah share how getting to do ALL parts of the job early on in their career helped them learn how to run a show, and how offering the same opportunities they received makes the job more fulfilling for everyone. Next, in Take A Hike, Liz has some news of the four-legged variety—Nacho the Corgi now has a sister, Daisy! Liz and Sarah discuss how embracing a new identity is both freeing and exhilarating. In Take Two, they reveal listeners’ reactions to their scripted pandemic podcast idea—it’s a fairly even split! Finally, this week’s Hollywood Hack will light up your space in style: a personalized LED sign.
Episode 247: The Power Of Positive Feedback
As Season Two of Fantasy Island takes shape, Liz and Sarah discuss how getting positive feedback on their work energizes them to work even harder – and it makes it easier to take criticism. In Hits & Bombs, Liz and Sarah give a mutual Hit to their assistant, Lauren, for her help with the podcast, and they give a mutual Bomb to meetings that should be emails. Sarah also gives a Hit to Liz for a recent morale boosting visit, and a Bomb to her time in Ojai. Liz gives a Hit to Sarah for remaining creatively present at work despite everything on her plate, and she gives a Bomb to herself for not even remembering what she’s supposed to be doing to be healthier in 2022. Finally, this week’s Hollywood Hack will help you layer your necklaces: the Triple Layering Clasp from Necklet.
Episode 246: Take The Room & Fantasy Island Music Supervisor Melany Mitchell
Do you have a room in your home that’s reserved for guests? Liz and Sarah discuss the merits of staking a claim and taking up space. Then, in Hollywood Jobs, they talk with Fantasy Island’s Music Supervisor Melany Mitchell about how she became a Music Supervisor, what the job entails, and how she transports audiences through music, all while working with a lean budget. Next, in Amplify, Sarah shares a new favorite cookbook — Nom Nom Paleo Let’s Go! Simple Feasts & Healthy Eats by Michelle Tam and Henry Fong. Finally, this week’s Hollywood Hack is a great gift idea that will help you help others: the Changing The Present Charitable Gift Card.