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.
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
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.
**NOTE: Once 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.