The Back Door to TV Writing

Good morning,

Just discovered a fascinating insight about breaking into TV writing from the duo behind Disney's The Santa Clauses. Here's what really works:

The Key Strategy: Start Anywhere, Build Everywhere:

"If you work hard, even if you're getting coffee, they will remember you." - Emalee Burditt

Let's break down their unconventional approach:

1. Entry-Level Excellence

• Embrace PA positions

• Learn TV production from the ground up

• Build relationships while learning craft

2. Strategic Networking

• Email contacts consistently

• Stay top-of-mind with decision-makers

• Convert coffee runs into writing opportunities

3. Complementary Skills Development

• Master multiple aspects of production

• Find your unique strengths

• Partner with writers who complement your skills

The game-changing insight: Success in TV writing often comes through the back door. Instead of holding out for writing positions, start anywhere in the industry and leverage that position for growth.

Their practical advice:

• Take any industry job you can get

• Build relationships before you need them

• Learn production logistics to strengthen your writing

Quick mindset shift: Stop thinking about "breaking in" as a writer. Instead, focus on breaking in as an industry professional who happens to write.

Fun fact: Both writers started as PAs on Last Man Standing before eventually landing writing roles on shows like The Santa Clauses and A Man on the Inside.

Ready to rethink your approach to breaking into TV?

Keep writing,

- Brock Swinson

P.S. Here’s my full audio interview with the writers of The Santa Clauses.

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