Step 1: Pitch Prep Program

Career Writer Program
$449.00
Select Deposit Option

You will be sent an invoice for the remainder of your balance to the email address you use to pay the deposit. Balances must be paid in full prior to the end of the class unless prior arrangements are made. Failure to pay invoices in a timely manner will result in the forfeiture of your spot and you will not be permitted to complete the program. Questions? Email info@roadmapwriters.com.

Pitch Prep Program is Step 1 of the Career Writer Program.
Writers must complete Steps 1-4 to be considered for our Top Tier Program.

STEP 1: PITCH PREP PROGRAM


Hone your written & verbal pitch, mold your brand, and get prepared to properly market your material!

So you're finally getting the hang of this writing thing—it's all starting to come together. But when it comes time to pitch it, your amazing story is not coming through—or worse, you freeze up and have no idea what to say—and you can't figure out why. Roadmap understands your frustration, which is why we've put together a Pitch Prep Program that revolves all around pitching and how to master your pitch! 

There are two groups each month. While both groups will have common lectures and other sessions, each group's Workshops and Roundtables (and due dates) will be unique. Use the drop-down above to choose your desired month/group, then go to the Schedule tab to see each program's unique session dates.

Train with the Roadmap Team and working industry executives to refine your pitch and figure out what's breaking down in translation and how to build it up!

Learn step-by-step tools you will use for the duration of your career. Walk away with:

  • a polished 2-page written pitch
  • a practiced 5-6 min. verbal pitch ready to put to the test
  • and a personal brand logline highlighting your unique perspective as a screenwriter

Limited to 9 writers each month so every writer gets optimal attention!


IN THIS PROGRAM, YOU WILL... 
Demystify breaking into the industry as an emerging screenwriter.
Learn a formula to structure your pitch. 
Master tone and voice when pitching. 
Practice with professionals who can help you identify where your pitch is weakest—and strongest. 
And gain confidence for the hot seat!

MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE!

We are so confident in the quality of this program that it comes with a money-back guarantee. If you read/watch everything in your syllabus, attend every session, stay the whole time, turn in all your assignments, and are still dissatisfied at the end of the month, we'll refund your fee in full.

Orientation & Logline Prep Lecture

Date / Time
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Summary

Learn the fundamentals of pitching and compose your watertight 2-pg. written pitch, including loglines, tonal comps, characters, synopses, & more! This is one of our most popular Clinics with consistent results!

Host:
Dorian Connelley - Co-Founder/COO, Roadmap Writers

Dorian was fresh off working for producer Mark Ciardi (THE ROOKIE, MIRACLE, CHAPPAQUIDDICK) when she co-founded Roadmap Writers as its COO where she has been teaching writers how to pitch (whether they like it or not) ever since. With years of experience in talent management, live events, and feature film producing, Dorian is also a proud Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Guinea/Mali '08-'10). When she's not helping writers perfect their pitches, Dorian can be found at music festivals and karaoke bars.

Verbal Pitch Prep Lecture

Date / Time
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Summary

This lecture and Q&A will cover:

  • The general structure of a pitch
  • Honing in on the basic goals of pitching
  • Tips on holding an exec's attention during your pitch
  • And you'll hear an example verbal pitch to get you off on the right foot!
Host:
Chris Deckard - Manager / Co-Founder, Fictional Entity

Prior to co-founding the management/production company Fictional Entity in early 2017, Chris Deckard spent over seven years working with and representing talent at the major agencies ICM Partners and WME. While at WME, Chris worked in the media rights department, selling books for series and film adaptations before moving into the talent department, where he worked closely with high level actors in film, television, and the then-emerging digital space. While at ICM Partners, he again worked with high level actors and worked closely with the packaging and sales department and the digital media group. For over a decade, Chris has worked closely with traditional and new media buyers to find and develop content for domestic and international audiences. In addition to helping cast and package numerous features and series, he has evaluated thousands of scripts for actors and directors. Chris graduated from Cornell University and earned his J.D. from Notre Dame Law School.

Chris helps his clients navigate the evolving entertainment landscape in the United States and abroad. He has negotiated deals for features, series, and podcasts in several international territories. His clients have been named to The Black List, The Hit List, The Young & Hungry List, The Blood List and been lauded by the PAGE Awards, the International Emmys, and The GLAAD Awards. Clients have also earned nominations and placements from The Heath Ledger Scholarship, The Academy Nicholl Screenwriting Awards, the AWG, ADG, SPA, and AACTA. Clients have written, directed, starred, and produced in numerous formats, including features, TV, virtual reality, and podcasts, independently and for companies like Netflix, Lucasfilm, NBCUniversal, Legendary, Marvel, Fremantle, SyFy, the CW, Warner Bros., Amazon, Blumhouse, Hulu, XYZ, The BBC, Comedy Central, the ABC Australia, Foxtel, TruTV, Super Deluxe, Hallmark, Lifetime, CBS, Facebook, E!, and MSNBC.

Several of Chris’ clients had films shoot in 2021, including one for Netflix, and another which sold to XYZ Films, both of which are slated for 2022 release. Within the past year, clients have sold series to Amazon, Netflix, eOne, and Hulu. Chris, along with his business partner, is also an Executive Producer on a scripted series project alongside two writing EPs from New Amsterdam which sold to Universal Television in 2021.

Logline & Comps Clinic

Date / Time
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Summary

We will workshop your Loglines together as a group, including Title, Format, Genre, and Comps. After the clinic, you will then receive the worksheet we used to keep and refer back to you as you revise. 

Host:
Dorian Connelley - Co-Founder/COO, Roadmap Writers

Dorian was fresh off working for producer Mark Ciardi (THE ROOKIE, MIRACLE, CHAPPAQUIDDICK) when she co-founded Roadmap Writers as its COO where she has been teaching writers how to pitch (whether they like it or not) ever since. With years of experience in talent management, live events, and feature film producing, Dorian is also a proud Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Guinea/Mali '08-'10). When she's not helping writers perfect their pitches, Dorian can be found at music festivals and karaoke bars.

Written Pitch Prep Lecture

Date / Time
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Summary

We’ll continue the rest of the Written Pitch Prep Lecture including Characters, Synopsis, Season One, and Series Overview sections. Following the lecture, we’ll look through the notes on the marked-up pitch documents you submitted in ASSIGNMENT #2 for anyone who wants to stay. After the session, you will receive a Word and/or Google Docs copy of your marked-up pitch document to use to complete your revision for the following week.

Host:
Dorian Connelley - Co-Founder/COO, Roadmap Writers

Dorian was fresh off working for producer Mark Ciardi (THE ROOKIE, MIRACLE, CHAPPAQUIDDICK) when she co-founded Roadmap Writers as its COO where she has been teaching writers how to pitch (whether they like it or not) ever since. With years of experience in talent management, live events, and feature film producing, Dorian is also a proud Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Guinea/Mali '08-'10). When she's not helping writers perfect their pitches, Dorian can be found at music festivals and karaoke bars.

The Writing Hour & Roadmap Writers Q&A

Date / Time
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Summary

Ask any lingering questions you may have about Roadmap Writers, the Career Writer Program, how to make sure you're getting the most bang for your buck, and then spend a luxurious session writing with your fellow writers, perhaps with prompts, perhaps with music, perhaps just with the company of other writers. Hop on and get those pages done!

Branding Prep Clinic

Date / Time
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Summary

Hone in on what you, as a writer, deliver. Learn to see beyond genre and better understand how your own perspective seeps into every script you write and capitalize on that. Create an exciting and quickly digestible personal logline to better pitch yourself—and your scripts—to executives.

During the session, you'll present your personal brand logline and workshop it together with the group.

Host:
Terra Joy - Director of Consultations & Script Services, Roadmap Writers

Terra Joy started her career in Washington, DC as a journalist where she then transitioned into nonprofit advocacy and managed a documentary film campaign, resulting in 115+ screenings in under nine months. She was also very active in the local screenwriting community as a member of WIF. Before joining the RoadCrew, she was a reader for Slamdance. She has read  over a thousand scripts, and has seen the trends in feedback from execs on over 5K screenplays. Terra is also a professional proofreader and line editor.  As a craft nerd, a writer herself, and a Virgo with OCD, she loves to use her detail obsession to benefit story development. She's been to 35+ countries, has a B.A. in Political Science, and when she's not connecting awesome creative people with other awesome creative people, she's writing, or thinking about writing, or analyzing astrological birth charts for her scripts' dream casting, and trying to find the best boba tea flavor.

Roadmap Writers is a talent training and discovery platform for screenwriters ready for a guided path to success. Our programs are hosted by working industry executives and are designed to empower writers with actionable tools and insights to elevate your craft, and cultivate relationships with industry professionals. Since 2016, we have helped more than 350 writers from all over the world sign to representation, staff on series, and option and produce their projects. Our writers have been staffed on BRIDGERTON, THE FLASH, CHICAGO PD, THE FIRST LADY, NIGHT COURT, THE GOOD DOCTOR, THE RESIDENT, REACHER, FUBAR, SUBJECT TO CHANGE, MAYANS, COBRA KAI, POKERFACE, and others. They have also sold to, set up projects at, and been produced by Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, MGM, Warner Bros., Lionsgate, Starz, Legendary, American High, New Republic Pictures, Anvil Pictures, Bohemia Group, Lifetime, Will Packer Studios, Roku, and more.

Written Pitch Prep Clinic - Material Review

Date / Time
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Summary

Dorian will have marked up your revised pitch documents ahead of time and during the session we will read through each writer’s pitch together in its entirety, fixing any last issues & areas of confusion along the way.

Host:
Dorian Connelley - Co-Founder/COO, Roadmap Writers

Dorian was fresh off working for producer Mark Ciardi (THE ROOKIE, MIRACLE, CHAPPAQUIDDICK) when she co-founded Roadmap Writers as its COO where she has been teaching writers how to pitch (whether they like it or not) ever since. With years of experience in talent management, live events, and feature film producing, Dorian is also a proud Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Guinea/Mali '08-'10). When she's not helping writers perfect their pitches, Dorian can be found at music festivals and karaoke bars.

Verbal Pitch Prep Clinic

Date / Time
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Summary

Learn the art of delivering your verbal pitch, including how to pitch conversationally (without reading!), how to efficiently incorporate all of the necessary elements of a pitch (tone, characters, plot), and how to make your pitch relatable and universal. Then, deliver your verbal pitch for practice and notes.

Host:
Alexandra Davies - Director of Education, Roadmap Writers

Alexandra holds a degree in English Literature from UCLA, which she earned while pursuing acting. As an actress for many years, she learned the ins and outs of character, story and entertainment first hand, both on stage and in front of the camera. As the Director of Education at Roadmap, Alex strives to identify the most common hurdles writers face in developing their work and design classes, clinics, and webinars to address these issues. In addition, Alex is a writer with several scripts, a novel, a short film (produced during the AT&T Shape Create-A-Thon), and a webseries (coming soon!) under her belt. Prior to Roadmap, Alex worked in live events, law, and education.

Verbal Pitch Roundtable #1

Date / Time
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Summary

You'll take turns delivering your verbal pitch in a Roundtable setting and receive feedback from the exec on strengths and areas of improvement specific to your verbal pitch. Learn from notes on your own pitch and from notes given to your peers!

Host:
Justin Ross - EVP of Development & Production, Bohemia Group Originals

Justin Ross began his film career as a screenwriter. Mr. Ross’ script, THE ANSWER, was made into a short by Nebula Films in 2007.

In 2008, he joined Intrinsic Value Films as a Creative Executive. During his tenure at Intrinsic, he secured relationships with top talent, including Scott Free Productions and the estates of two of his favorite authors Ray Bradbury and Philip K. Dick. Mr. Ross joined Bohemia Group Originals as Director of Production in 2015 and was promoted to Executive Vice President of Development and Production in 2016 where he championed the company’s first feature, A DARK PLACE (distributed by Gravitas Ventures); winner of “Best Thriller” at the Manhattan Film Festival. Further credits include Associate Producer on the Spike Lee Executive Produced SON OF THE SOUTH. Upcoming projects include PREY with Oscar winner Sir Ben Kingsley and GLASS MOUNTAIN with Oscar winner Helen Hunt.

Verbal Pitch Roundtable #2

Date / Time
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Summary

You'll take turns delivering your verbal pitch in a Roundtable setting and receive feedback from the exec on strengths and areas of improvement specific to your verbal pitch. Learn from notes on your own pitch and from notes given to your peers!

Host:
Marilyn Atlas - Manager/Producer, Marilyn Atlas Management

Marilyn R. Atlas is a talent and literary manager and award-winning producer. Among her credits as film producer are REAL WOMEN HAVE CURVES for HBO, which won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival; A CERTAIN DESIRE, starring Sam Waterston; and ECHOES, which won the Gold Award at the Texas International Film Festival. Marilyn has also produced a variety of programming for the cable/pay TV market. In live theater, Marilyn co-produced the West Coast premiere of the musical God Bless You Mr. Rosewater by Ashman and Menken (the writers of ENCHANTED and TANGLED). She also co-produced the award-winning play To Gillian on Her 37th Birthday, which was made into a film starring Michelle Pfeiffer and Peter Gallagher. In 2014, she co-produced the play Detained in the Desert at the Guadalupe Theater in San Antonio, TX. Her additional credits as a producer in live theater include Today’s Special and As I Sing. In addition to Marilyn’s film/TV credits, she has sold (first time) novels “Chasing the Jaguar” to HarperCollins, “Hungry Woman in Paris” to Grand Central Publishing, and the “Ave Maria Bed & Breakfast” to Hachette Publishing, and the “Last Ride of Caleb O’Toole” to Source Books. Her Lifetime movie THE CHOKING GAME based on the YA book by Diana Lopez aired in summer 2014. Previously, Marilyn developed the BRIDES' MARCH for Lifetime Television as well as a limited television series. She previously produced the short musical version of REAL WOMEN HAVE CURVESin Los Angeles in 2009 and is involved in the current development of a full-length production for 2018. Marilyn is currently developing a TV pilot based on the Gary Phillips series of novels “High Hand” and “Shooter’s Point” featuring strong-willed African-American protagonist Martha Chainey. She is also developing a Chinese historical epic with the Metan Development Group and CODEBUSTERS, a children’s show for TV based on a series of best-selling books. Marilyn is also featured in the book “Write Now!” from Penguin/Tarcher. She is the co-author of a relationship-based, screenwriting guide called “Dating Your Character,” about an organic approach to character creation for Stairway Press’ 2016 catalog.

Opening Pages Analysis

Date / Time
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Summary

Your host will give several volunteer writers from the Marketing Intensive (Step 2 of the Career Writer Program) specific feedback on their opening 3 pages. The pages will be shared on-screen with the rest of the group so everybody can learn from the feedback. The Opening Pages Analysis will start with a lecture on some of the immediate reasons an executive might pass on your work—and you might not even know you're doing one of these things! Remember, most execs won't read past page 5 if they aren't hooked from the start.

Host:
Joey Tuccio - CEO & Co-Founder, Roadmap Writers

Joey started in the industry at Bold Films (DRIVE, NIGHTCRAWLER, WHIPLASH) and has read for Hugh Jackman's company, George Clooney's company, and Night and Day Pictures, to name a few. Experiencing how hard it was for writers to receive real tangible advice on how to break into the industry, Joey and Dorian created Roadmap Writers over 7 years ago.  At Roadmap, Joey focuses on connecting vetted writers with execs in the industry. He has helped hundreds of writers connect to their representation, get staffed and get produced. He also mentors for Cinestory and The Writers Lab. When he's not helping writers, he spends his time rescuing animals in need. 

Testimonials

I cannot get over how effective the lectures (and their content!) were. To see all of us improve SO much over a month—to feel 10 times more confident at the end of the month than I did at the beginning. Everything was purposeful and useful. I'd recommend to anyone!

~ Ashley Glacel, Roadmap Signed Screenwriter #253

Even if you have been raised by wolves, Dorian can show you how to get to the heart of your story and then package it professionally like a human writer. Her experienced insight and surgeon-like precision are pretty inspiring to watch in action. We've all become better writers because of her. And her energy and humor make the classes a delight.

~ Cath Gulick, Roadmap Signed Screenwriter #195

I'm not sure what I was expecting at Roadmap but I am getting so much more out of it than I thought; it has been illuminating in so many ways. I think as writers we work in a bubble; being able to work in a group like this is so helpful. I also found that refining both the written and verbal pitch has revealed ways I can improve my scripts structurally. Honestly, I LOVE Roadmap!

~ Lucinda Spurling, Screenwriter

What an amazing lesson that I can use forever. Thank you!

~ Mika Frank, Roadmap Signed Screenwriter #130

The Pitch Prep Program really worked! My previous written pitches got a big yawn but the latest feedback scores almost all excellent ratings. Thanks.

~ Greg Price, Optioned Screenwriter (Radioactive Pictures)

I was three for three on script requests this past weekend with my exec meetings. I attribute that success to the pitch prep. I really learned a lot during the past couple of months. Thank you so much!

~ McKenzie Hamilton, Screenwriter

I wanted to pass along a thank you to you guys. I had a good pitch today and at the end, the exec asked me to send him a pitch document. Thanks to Dorian’s class in the pitch prep I felt I had a professional document to send and was able to get it right out to him. So, thanks, guys!

~ Marc Leighton, Screenwriter

I have to say Pitch Prep went way beyond my wildest expectations! It was fabulous. The logline, written pitch, and verbal pitch skills I picked up were invaluable. Can't wait to see what's in store in the Marketing Intensive.

~ Laurie Miller, Screenwriter

Dorian answered a question on loglines for me that cut through all the bulls*** and helped me finally rewrite 3 of mine. Those 30 seconds alone were worth the fee for the whole course.

~ Jaime Kawamoto, Roadmap Signed Screenwriter #255

I honestly am so grateful for everything I learned during any of my sessions with Roadmap, it definitely opened my eyes to a new side of the business, and it's especially helped with all of my pitches (I still refer to your pitch tips)!

~ Ashlei Hardenburg-Cartagena, Screenwriter (2021-22 Warner Bros. Writers’ Workshop Fellow)

I can't believe how much I'm getting out of my journey down the 'road'. Working with Roadmap is the single smartest decision I've made since I started writing.

~ Tom Holowach, Screenwriter

Dorian is a force of nature! It was such a pleasure working with her in the Pitch Prep Program and Marketing Intensive. Our group learned so much; it's clear our confidence is growing every time we pitch—all thanks to Roadmap! We received specific notes, invaluable guidance, and, most importantly, we laughed all along the way.

~ Brenda Lynn Bynum, Screenwriter

If you told me I could create a watertight logline, written pitch AND verbal pitch in just one month WHILE making new friends, I wouldn't believe you. But you can – Dorian and the team are that amazing. It would have taken me months to do it on my own, and I still wouldn't know if it was any good or have anyone to test it out on. If you're on the fence, ask me questions!

~ Kyle Collins, Screenwriter (@kylecollins on Twitter)

Roadmap changed the game for me. The Career Writer Program was instrumental in getting eyeballs on my work. I think every writer should take Dorian's logline workshop in the Pitch Prep Program. Her formula is genius and taught in a way that sticks! I've had 8 different scripts requested in less than two months and that's because my loglines tell a story and have helped me stand out. Thank you for helping me on this road to getting a rep. Now that I'm signed, I'm so excited to really get to work!

~ Jaime Kawamoto, Roadmap Signed Screenwriter #255

Just wanted to let you know what's going on with me... I sold a pitch late last year to a MAJOR animation studio and am now co-writing a feature for them!! I honestly couldn't have done it without the Career Writer Program! It got me comfortable in front of execs and helped me craft a super tight pitch. Thank you so much for truly preparing me to shine whenever these opportunities arise.

~ Jaclyn Chan, Diversity Initiative Winner (August 2018)

Before Roadmap. I was feeling extremely lost about how to pursue a professional writing career. Once I joined the Career Writer Program, I acquired more tools and knowledge in the first month than I had in years of trying on my own. I now understand how to talk about my projects and my brand with such ease, which was exactly what I needed to sign with my first literary manager! I cannot tell you how grateful I am for the Career Writer Program—not only do I have skills and confidence I will use throughout my career, but I also have a community of support that I will lean on forever. Worth every penny!

~ Kristina Denton, Roadmap Signed Screenwriter #254

As someone who has sold a few projects, been a finalist at the AFF pitch competition, and actually TAUGHT pitching for a long time, I thought I didn't need to take this first class. Being the arrogant SOB that I am, I thought I needed to go directly to the advanced stuff—I should be in Top Tier. But I decided to just take it for a week or two with the promise that if I didn't think it was for me, we could talk. And I gotta tell you... I learned SO MUCH in those first couple of weeks. I couldn't believe how much more there is beyond what most writers consider a basic pitch. The amount of effort Dorian put into just my stuff (let alone everyone else's) was really quite extraordinary. I was really, truly blown away.

~ Lovinder Gill, Produced Screenwriter, Host of the Scriptcake Podcast, and Author of “Sciptcake Secrets: The Top 10 Mistakes Novice Screenwriters Make and How to Fix Them”

Thank you so much for all of your help on my project—especially on the business, marketing, and pitching side. Who knows what will come from any given meeting, but it’s a good feeling when someone requests the script or asks about additional materials and if I currently have reps. Right now, an A-lister's development producer is reading the script and I’m meeting with a streaming exec tonight. I feel so much better prepared to pitch and take these meetings because of Roadmap.

~ Todd Hunter, Screenwriter

I've wanted to take this program for so long & I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity. Every lecture and roundtable was loaded with so much incredible information. This month built up my confidence so much & energized me for the new year, and that's a great feeling. My coach Tristan was such a knowledgeable & supportive (& hilarious!) guide.

~ Stella Ruggiero, Screenwriter

Pitch Prep with Dorian was challenging, clarifying, and motivating. You quickly learn how to talk about and market your writing, and you also build skills to vet future project ideas. I have not found this type of information in other programs. Highly recommended!

~ Amy Schleunes, Screenwriter

I am obsessed with Roadmap! I just completed the Pitch Prep Program—the information and value are unmatched! I had taken a handful of pitch classes in the past and always left with more questions—until I found Roadmap! The level of detail and instruction Dorian provided us with was incredible. Not to mention, the class is so organized and easy to access. I had been looking for a class like this one that would give me the tools I needed to feel confident out in the world. If you put in the work, it's impossible NOT to be prepared by the end of the month! I am so thankful to Dorian and the entire Roadmap team!

~ Tiffany Chandon, Screenwriter

I've spent so much money on silly services. Obviously, none of them worked. But I've gotten more out of Roadmap in the last month than anything else I've tried in a decade. Even though this class is about the business of screenwriting and not screenwriting itself, somehow I'm learning more about the craft than I have in years. I'd been feeling like my scripts had plateaued; I just didn't know how to make them better. Now, I'm going through all of my scripts and reworking/elevating them.

~ Shaun Crawford, Screenwriter

This is such a special group. Four months ago, I would not have imagined being anywhere close to where I am now. The Career Writer Program is an incredibly well-thought-out, transparent program that really does think of everything. I can't wait to get repped and get my work into the studios so I can return to Roadmap and give back to the writers. Thank you for seeing something in me and giving me this chance.

~ James Murphy, Screenwriter

I felt the need to reach out and say that the documents and recorded lectures from when I took the Pitch Prep Program a year ago continue to REALLY help me today. Not just as a writer, but for my brain and overall mental health. Referring to those documents constantly helps keep me grounded and organized. You are fabulous—thank you so much for all that you do!

~ Sierra Sanborn, Screenwriter

After YEARS of making films, winning festivals, and writing (yes, enjoy that humble brag), the Pitch Prep Program showed me how the entertainment industry actually worked. Furthermore, working with Tristan was a delight - he truly cares about the art of storytelling. I can't recommend doing this program enough!

~ Jared Januschka, Screenwriter

The Pitch Prep Program completely changed my understanding of how to effectively pitch. Pitching is hard and scary because we're all sensitive artists, but there is no better environment for someone uneasy on this than Tristan's pitch prep course. He brings you up to speed on the basics and before you know it, you're confidently speaking in front of development execs and literary managers and getting instant feedback that will not only make your pitch stronger, but literally make you a better storyteller for the rest of your career. Tristan teaches an incredible class and couldn't be a better teacher. Every single exercise he met with excitement and support, even when things needed fixing and we felt like idiots, Tristan was kind and encouraging when we needed it most as we put ourselves out in the open for the world to see. There are no safer hands to be in than his. Do not hesitate, just take this course. You will thank me later. I owe so much to this!

~ Andrew Jenner, Screenwriter

The Roadmap Writers' Pitch Prep program was my first encounter with pitching and I'm not gonna lie - I was terrified! Pitching face-to-face is something I've managed to avoid for years but I knew it was keeping me from fully committing to screenwriting as a career. But Holy Crap! With Tristan as my coach, I not only learned to write a stellar logline, pitch and synopsis - I learned to sell myself and my story in a face-to-face pitch. So far, I've pitched at least a dozen times leading to a nice handful of script requests!

~ Shauna Ratapu, Screenwriter

I refer to Pitch Prep as Film School 2.0 for a reason. Over the course of a month, you learn vital and beneficial lessons you can (and should) apply to every project you have. I learned more in Pitch Prep than I did in University! Uni taught me how to use Final Draft, but Pitch Prep taught me how to brand myself, tell my story, and how to move forward progressively in my writing career. I would honestly recommend this to anyone who is ready to move up in their career but doesn't know where to start. The notes (especially from my coach Tristan) are cutthroat, but what you learn is invaluable.

~ Gabby Font, Screenwriter

Taking Pitch Prep was one of the most impactful decisions I have made in my writing career. I had spent the last 18 years trying to break in as a writer in Los Angeles, to no avail. I sold a show 8 months after taking Pitch Prep and the things I learned from Tristan were directly responsible for my recent success. I literally did what he said and sold a show. He is kind, patient, funny and really breaks it down.

~ Joel Dovev, Screenwriter

Roadmap Writers was everything I needed at this stage in my screenwriting journey. Within the first five minutes of Pitch Prep, I knew I was in the right place and it only gets better from there. I got more value and traction out of one month with Roadmap than I did through years of pouring money I didn't have into so many other script services and platforms. If you feel like you just can't break into the film industry, Roadmap instantly plugs you into the network and gives you all the tools to brand and present yourself. For the first time ever, meaningful industry executives are actually looking at my work.

~ Shaun Crawford, Screenwriter

With Tristan as your teacher, rest assured you are in the best hands for honing the crucial skill of pitching your writing projects. Pitch Prep proved to be a transformative experience for me. It provided invaluable insights on structuring my story pitches, making them both tangible and professionally appealing for studio executive meetings. As a new writer navigating the uncertainties, this class served up a feast of education. It stands out as my favorite, offering a comprehensive guide to unpacking the art of pitching.

~ Jayde Rossi, Screenwriter

To say the least, because of Tristan’s help and guidance, I can take any of my projects and easily put them in perspective for a pitch, which is the guideline for my outline and the blueprint for any movie or pilot. With Tristan’s help in Pitch Prep I was able to reshape my feature, giving me the confidence and clarity to deliver my pitch in any room.

~ Attiyya S. Brown, Author/Screenwriter

Taking pitch prep with Tristan allowed me to take my career to the next level. Ever since I decided I wanted to pursue screenwriting, pitching absolutely terrified me. Working with such a supportive, upbeat, and positive teacher washed away my nerves and allowed me to shine in front of execs, while his expert script notes allowed me to elevate my story and gain tangible traction. I truly wouldn't be where I am without Tristan or pitch prep.

~ Colleen Glennon, Screenwriter

The Pitch Prep classes were invaluable and thorough, and Tristan’s witty sense of humor made the session times fly by. He was always dialed in, and his notes were actionable and easy to follow. Overall, Pitch Prep has improved my pitching by leaps and bounds. I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to Roadmap. Tristan, thanks for all of the above. Your sessions are the reason I felt confident in continuing the program and why I can’t stop telling other writer friends about it.

~ Petula Miller, Screenwriter

Pitch Prep is simply the best program you can get. It’s a massive amount of useful info, a step by step guide, a safe space to get feedback on your pitch and story… and if you think you already have a good pitch, wait till Tristan does his magic on it, that’s when it’ll really shine!

~ Francesca Tatini, Screenwriter

Pitch Prep with Tristan took the mystery out of how the industry works. It doesn't matter how much time you put into writing, if you never learn how to properly pitch your work to industry pros. With Tristan as my coach, my writing and pitching leveled up. Take this course! You'll thank yourself someday.

~ Stella Ruggiero, Screenwriter

My month in Pitch Prep went beyond all expectations. I had so much growth and confidence in being who I am, authentically, as a writer. I felt like I was in a safe space, and Tristan and the Roadmap team worked tirelessly for us. So much time and effort were put into us in order to develop our brands and pitches as we prepare for careers as screenwriters. Months after Pitch Prep, I still remain in contact with the writers I met, which is invaluable!

~ Monica La Vella, Screenwriter

Pitch Prep is where it’s at, and I only wish I had met Roadmap earlier! You have to be ready for it - as in have a draft well underway - because this workshop will launch you like the Six Flags Superman train. Amazing value, amazing people, amazing creative space energy, the likes of which I had never encountered before.

~ Tristan Vladimir Pierre Convert, Screenwriter

If you break out into cold sweats just thinking about pitching to execs, Tristan takes the edge off. Not only is he great about giving you clear and valuable feedback on how to improve your written and verbal pitching, he keeps things fun. You are in excellent hands with Tristan!

~ Jamie Okubo, Screenwriter

Pitch Prep's value is off the charts. You'll learn the techniques to present your projects like a pro, get individualized coaching to apply the techniques to your unique project and, maybe best of all, join a community of writers where you can share and grow. In an industry where it's easy to feel alone and uncertain, Pitch Prep delivers a safe place to start, the tools to create momentum and a clear path to follow. Bet on your future. Invest in Pitch Prep.

~ Billy Zeinert, Screenwriter

Pitch Prep was transformative for me. I deliberately chose a project that I struggled to eloquently describe, but Tristan J's instruction enabled me to rediscover my passion for the script, express it clearly, and answer the questions why this, why now, why me. Thanks to Pitch Prep, I was ready when practice ended and meetings began.

~ Jessica Jiji, Screenwriter

Tristan helped take my story and craft it into a tight, specific, and compelling pitch. It can be hard to see how to market your own work and it was immensely helpful to have Tristan’s input, edits, and feedback. He has a strong, clear point of view which helped my entire group translate their stories into market-ready pitches. I still can't believe how much we accomplished in a month!

~ Allison Mattox, Screenwriter

Tristan gave me the tools, skills, and confidence I needed to bring my pitch to the next level. I never thought I'd be comfortable presenting my show to executives, agents, and producers, but this program really changed everything for me.

~ Daniel Cox, Screenwriter

The Pitch Prep Intensive was truly worth every penny. Tristan genuinely cares about his students’ careers and goes the extra mile to ensure everyone in his group succeeds. He creates a very positive, supportive learning environment and coaches in a way that feels empowering. Working with Tristan taught me valuable pitching skills and also elevated my skills as a story-teller.

~ Lisa Summers, Screenwriter

Participating in Pitch Prep was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my career. Not only did I walk away with a killer pitch for my pilot thanks to my coach Tristan’s honest and actionable feedback, I became clearer and more confident in my brand as a writer. I’m so clear, that I’ve since fine-tuned all of my pilots with this refocused lens and they are all better for it!

~ Gesley Alexis, Screenwriter

I am loving the Career Writer Program! Ever since I did the Pitch Prep Program, the feedback I've been receiving on my pitches has literally gone up 100x. It’s really night and day since when I was pitching back in the summer and had no clue what I was doing. So thank you sooo sooo much for seriously offering me the best instruction I have received in such a long time.

~ Andrew Varhol, Screenwriter

I did it—I got into Paramount Global's Mentoring Program! The Pitch Prep Program was so incredibly helpful for both the program interviews and the program itself. I am so grateful for Roadmap Writers!

~ Natalie Higdon, 2024 Paramount Global Fellow

Thank you again for your class on pitch prepping. It was extremely helpful and Dorian's delivery is engaging and hilarious!

~ Jessica Rendall, Screenwriter

How it Works

After registering, your confirmation email will include a link for you to access your syllabus for the program, which will include any prep work & resources, class dates & times, join links, assignments, and other instructions.

All interactive sessions are conducted face-to-face via video conferencing software Zoom. While the ability to call in by phone does exist, we strongly recommend taking full advantage of the face-to-face nature of these programs, so you should plan to attend your sessions in front of a computer or stationary tablet at a desk or table in a well-lit room. 

Please ensure you are familiar with our Code of Conduct.

**NOTEOnce you have registered for a particular month of the program, you are able to push your registration to a later month up to 7 days prior to the first session of the month for which you originally registered. Please note that the first session of the program may occur up to 5 days prior to the first day of the originally selected month, so check your syllabus accordingly. Changes requested after the 7 day deadline will not be accommodated.

The Roadmap Promise

Roadmap Writers prides itself on the quality of executives we bring to our programs and we work hard to get you the best feedback possible.

Our vetted executives are chosen by the legitimacy of the companies they work for and their ability to evaluate pitches and pages.

Only the executives you sign up for will be provided with your materials.