How Mike White Came Up With The Idea For Jack Black’s School Of Rock

Carolyn Omine and Kai Omine hang out with Sandy to discuss their Disney+ episode of The Simpsons called "Yellow Mirror." This mother and son writing team (Carolyn Omine is an Emmy-winning producer who joined the Simpsons’ writing staff in Season ten and became the show's first female Executive Producer when she was credited as an Executive Producer in Season 17) pull back the curtain to share how they ended up writing together, their writing process, and spill the beans to give The Writers’ Hangout two super cool exclusives!The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS HANGOUT.Executive Producer Kristin OvernCreator/Executive Producer Sandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan Stoller

Eight spec scripts have sold so far in August 2025. That's a fantastic achievement that should energize every writer out there. It looks like audiences are eager for movies that keep them guessing, which means fresh, original stories that can still surprise and delight. Sandy reports on this genuine optimism for screenwriters in an industry that has recently been taken over by existing IP.The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS HANGOUT.Executive Producer Kristin OvernCreator/Executive Producer Sandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan Stoller

Today’s guest is Aaron Foster, a standup comic who brings humor to topics like mental health in his stand-up shows. Aaron is touring now with his show “Mostly Jokes,” where he shares honest stories about being clinically depressed, his experience hosting an HGTV show, growing up with a bipolar father, and having a schizophrenic brother. At fifty, Aaron decided to follow his passion for stand-up comedy. I’m genuinely excited to introduce Aaron to you all, writers. Remember, it’s never too late to chase your dreams, and I believe Aaron’s story will inspire you to do just that.The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS HANGOUT.Executive Producer Kristin OvernCreator/Executive Producer Sandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan Stoller

In today’s episode, Sandy shares the latest updates on the ongoing legal battle between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, highlighting three recent actions taken by each side.The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS HANGOUT.Executive Producer Kristin OvernCreator/Executive Producer Sandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan Stoller

Let's rewind and join Sandy and Terry as they chat about how writer, actor, and director Mike White (The White Lotus) came up with the hit movie, “The School of Rock,” which has been loved by audiences and critics alike. "School of Rock" played a role in boosting Black’s profile and stardom, highlighting his comedic and musical talents to a broader audience. The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.Executive Producer Kristin OvernCreator/Producer Sandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan Stoller

Sandy offers a behind-the-scenes look at a major TV show that recently made a surprising mistake—killing off a character twice. How did this happen, and who was responsible? We’ll explore these questions with a focus on "And Just Like That." Even if you haven’t watched the series, you’ll find valuable insights here. Additionally, Sandy discusses how continuity is usually managed in TV production, highlighting Gregg Nations, the talented script coordinator from "LOST," as covered in a New York Times profile.  Executive Producer Kristin Overn, Executive Producer/Creator Sandy Adomaitis, Producer Terry Sampson, with music by Ethan Stoller.

Let's revisit Episode 15, where Sandy and Terry delve into the fascinating differences between the movie and the true story of the 1979 film "The Amityville Horror,” featuring Josh Brolin, Margot Kidder, and Rod Steiger. This haunting tale follows a family haunted by supernatural forces after moving into a house on Long Island, New York, believed to be haunted. Executive Producer Kristin Overn, Executive Producer/Creator Sandy Adomaitis, Producer Terry Sampson, with music by Ethan Stoller.

We're thrilled to introduce our special guest, Leo Andronov! He's a talented screenwriter, director, novelist, dramatist, and the author of FIRST DRAFT PRACTICAL STEPS. Originally from Russia, Leo now makes his home in LA. He's celebrated in his home country, having won the top award at the Eurasia International Dramatist Competition, one of Russia's most prestigious playwriting contests. Leo also wrote and directed his first feature film, 29th Kilometer. His book, First Draft Practical Steps, recently soared to become an Amazon #1 bestseller in the Play & Scriptwriting category.FIRST DRAFT PRACTICAL STEPS by Leo Andronov is available on Amazon.Executive Producer Kristin OvernExecutive Producer Sandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan Stoller

Our guest is Thomas Dekker, an actor, musician, director, and screenwriter. Known for portraying John Connor in "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles," Thomas can next be seen in the upcoming camp horror comedy "HALLOWEEN STORE." Thomas wrote and directed "JACK GOES HOME," featuring Rory Culkin, available to watch on Prime. In this episode, Thomas shares invaluable insights about his screenwriting journey that will benefit writers and all creatives who wake up each day to pursue their dreams.Executive Producer Kristin OvernExecutive Producer Sandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan Stoller

The Writers Hangout Podcast is all ears! In today’s episode, we delve into the latest updates on Elisabeth Finch through the insights of Camilla Luddington and Jessica Capshaw, beloved actors from the iconic medical drama "Grey's Anatomy." Capshaw beautifully portrayed Dr. Arizona Robbins, while Luddington shines as Dr. Josephine "Jo" Wilson. Together, they also co-host the charming podcast "Call It What It Is," where they share valuable life lessons, talk about friendships, and touch on various engaging topics, including Elisabeth Finch.