Carole Kirschner
@carolekirschner.bsky.social
Director, CBS Writers Program & WGA Showrunner Training Program.
Entertainment Career Coach, Speaker & Author
Once kicked out of girl scouts for telling a dirty joke.
https://linktr.ee/carolekirschner
Entertainment Career Coach, Speaker & Author
Once kicked out of girl scouts for telling a dirty joke.
https://linktr.ee/carolekirschner
Pinned
Hi, I'm Carole Kirschner. I have over 20 years of success helping people break into, and move up the ranks in, the entertainment business! I also run the CBS Diversity Program and the WGA Showrunner Training Program. More about me in this THREAD:
The most successful showrunners I work with have figured out something crucial: protected relationships actually make you better at your job. When you've set clear boundaries, you're more focused during work hours and make decisions faster.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
January 26, 2026 at 6:24 PM
The most successful showrunners I work with have figured out something crucial: protected relationships actually make you better at your job. When you've set clear boundaries, you're more focused during work hours and make decisions faster.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
Reposted by Carole Kirschner
This is wise guidance... in any field or situation
Writers: That moment when you feel your blood pressure rising during notes? That's your cue to breathe, not speak. Jot something down. Nod thoughtfully. Your immediate emotional reaction and your best creative response rarely arrive at the same time. Give yourself that gap.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
January 23, 2026 at 7:18 PM
This is wise guidance... in any field or situation
Reposted by Carole Kirschner
And if the notes are just sent to you, give yourself a day or two and take a hike or something rather than let yourself react. Even if the people you're working with won't hear it, it's still good for your own mental health.
Often you'll find a way to address the note that leaves you happy too.
Often you'll find a way to address the note that leaves you happy too.
Writers: That moment when you feel your blood pressure rising during notes? That's your cue to breathe, not speak. Jot something down. Nod thoughtfully. Your immediate emotional reaction and your best creative response rarely arrive at the same time. Give yourself that gap.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
January 23, 2026 at 6:07 PM
And if the notes are just sent to you, give yourself a day or two and take a hike or something rather than let yourself react. Even if the people you're working with won't hear it, it's still good for your own mental health.
Often you'll find a way to address the note that leaves you happy too.
Often you'll find a way to address the note that leaves you happy too.
Writers: That moment when you feel your blood pressure rising during notes? That's your cue to breathe, not speak. Jot something down. Nod thoughtfully. Your immediate emotional reaction and your best creative response rarely arrive at the same time. Give yourself that gap.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
January 23, 2026 at 6:03 PM
Writers: That moment when you feel your blood pressure rising during notes? That's your cue to breathe, not speak. Jot something down. Nod thoughtfully. Your immediate emotional reaction and your best creative response rarely arrive at the same time. Give yourself that gap.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
Going on a TV staffing meeting is like dating — here’s what to expect 👀
Want to chat one-on-one? Take a look at my coaching services: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#ScriptSky #Screenwriters #FilmIndustry #Television #Hollywood
Want to chat one-on-one? Take a look at my coaching services: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#ScriptSky #Screenwriters #FilmIndustry #Television #Hollywood
January 23, 2026 at 2:15 AM
Going on a TV staffing meeting is like dating — here’s what to expect 👀
Want to chat one-on-one? Take a look at my coaching services: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#ScriptSky #Screenwriters #FilmIndustry #Television #Hollywood
Want to chat one-on-one? Take a look at my coaching services: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#ScriptSky #Screenwriters #FilmIndustry #Television #Hollywood
If you’re stressed, make a two-column list: what's working in your script vs what needs work. I guarantee the "working" column is longer than you think. Writers fixate on problems and forget their scripts have strengths worth building from. Start there.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
January 22, 2026 at 5:50 PM
If you’re stressed, make a two-column list: what's working in your script vs what needs work. I guarantee the "working" column is longer than you think. Writers fixate on problems and forget their scripts have strengths worth building from. Start there.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
In Hollywood meetings, people remember stories, not statements. Tell the person you’re meeting with who you are by sharing the events and stories that shaped you. But answer the question: "Tell me about yourself" in one and a half to 2 minutes. No longer.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
January 21, 2026 at 6:02 PM
In Hollywood meetings, people remember stories, not statements. Tell the person you’re meeting with who you are by sharing the events and stories that shaped you. But answer the question: "Tell me about yourself" in one and a half to 2 minutes. No longer.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
Scripts don't break in. Writers do. The industry isn't searching for the perfect script in someone's drawer—it's searching for writers who consistently create excellent work. Become that writer first. The rest follows.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
January 20, 2026 at 5:33 PM
Scripts don't break in. Writers do. The industry isn't searching for the perfect script in someone's drawer—it's searching for writers who consistently create excellent work. Become that writer first. The rest follows.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
There’s only so much you can control in Hollywood.
So focus on what is in your power: your craft, your preparation, and your professionalism.
Ready to take the next step in your screenwriting career? Check out my coaching services: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#Screenwriting #ScriptSky
So focus on what is in your power: your craft, your preparation, and your professionalism.
Ready to take the next step in your screenwriting career? Check out my coaching services: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#Screenwriting #ScriptSky
January 20, 2026 at 3:00 AM
There’s only so much you can control in Hollywood.
So focus on what is in your power: your craft, your preparation, and your professionalism.
Ready to take the next step in your screenwriting career? Check out my coaching services: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#Screenwriting #ScriptSky
So focus on what is in your power: your craft, your preparation, and your professionalism.
Ready to take the next step in your screenwriting career? Check out my coaching services: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#Screenwriting #ScriptSky
After 20+ years in Hollywood, I've learned this: if someone reschedules 4 times, they don't want to meet. On the 4th reschedule, say "Maybe we should try when your schedule is less full." It shows you understand the game, gives them a graceful out, and preserves your dignity.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
January 19, 2026 at 10:56 PM
After 20+ years in Hollywood, I've learned this: if someone reschedules 4 times, they don't want to meet. On the 4th reschedule, say "Maybe we should try when your schedule is less full." It shows you understand the game, gives them a graceful out, and preserves your dignity.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
I see so many talented writers arrive in Hollywood riding high on success in film school, festivals, and competitions. They assume they'll get immediate traction.
Then nothing happens. And they can't figure out why.
The answer is often simple to say, but hard to hear… 🧵⤵️
Then nothing happens. And they can't figure out why.
The answer is often simple to say, but hard to hear… 🧵⤵️
January 16, 2026 at 7:59 PM
I see so many talented writers arrive in Hollywood riding high on success in film school, festivals, and competitions. They assume they'll get immediate traction.
Then nothing happens. And they can't figure out why.
The answer is often simple to say, but hard to hear… 🧵⤵️
Then nothing happens. And they can't figure out why.
The answer is often simple to say, but hard to hear… 🧵⤵️
Learning to tell your story in 60 seconds isn't about having a polished elevator pitch. It's about articulating the thing that makes you different—the perspective only you can bring to a room. This takes real thought and practice, but it's the most valuable networking skill you can develop.
January 15, 2026 at 5:48 PM
Learning to tell your story in 60 seconds isn't about having a polished elevator pitch. It's about articulating the thing that makes you different—the perspective only you can bring to a room. This takes real thought and practice, but it's the most valuable networking skill you can develop.
Writers Discord servers can be goldmines for real, long-term connections. Google "screenwriting discord" and sort by member count to find active communities where writers regularly exchange work and build lasting relationships.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
January 14, 2026 at 6:12 PM
Writers Discord servers can be goldmines for real, long-term connections. Google "screenwriting discord" and sort by member count to find active communities where writers regularly exchange work and build lasting relationships.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
Even when it’s hard, try not to compare or despair. Just keep writing! Undeniable scripts do get noticed and they’ll rise to the top.
Want to chat one-on-one? Take a look at my coaching services: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#ScriptSky #Screenwriting #FilmIndustry #Writers
Want to chat one-on-one? Take a look at my coaching services: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#ScriptSky #Screenwriting #FilmIndustry #Writers
January 13, 2026 at 11:29 PM
Even when it’s hard, try not to compare or despair. Just keep writing! Undeniable scripts do get noticed and they’ll rise to the top.
Want to chat one-on-one? Take a look at my coaching services: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#ScriptSky #Screenwriting #FilmIndustry #Writers
Want to chat one-on-one? Take a look at my coaching services: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#ScriptSky #Screenwriting #FilmIndustry #Writers
Every successful TV writer faced rejection at some point in their career. What separated them from writers who gave up? They treated rejection as redirection, not failure. They kept improving, kept submitting, kept believing their voice mattered. Persistence is the difference.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
January 13, 2026 at 5:39 PM
Every successful TV writer faced rejection at some point in their career. What separated them from writers who gave up? They treated rejection as redirection, not failure. They kept improving, kept submitting, kept believing their voice mattered. Persistence is the difference.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
Getting noticed through Black List scores, contest placements, or showcase performances can attract manager attention. But remember: managers reaching out doesn't mean you should sign immediately. Finding the right fit still matters more than just having representation.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
January 12, 2026 at 5:28 PM
Getting noticed through Black List scores, contest placements, or showcase performances can attract manager attention. But remember: managers reaching out doesn't mean you should sign immediately. Finding the right fit still matters more than just having representation.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
Many talented creators believe in a myth: if your work is exceptional enough, it will find its audience, and doors will naturally open.
Understanding that this is a myth -- and learning how Hollywood actually works -- is critical if you hope to break in. Let me explain. 🧵⤵️
Understanding that this is a myth -- and learning how Hollywood actually works -- is critical if you hope to break in. Let me explain. 🧵⤵️
January 9, 2026 at 8:42 PM
Many talented creators believe in a myth: if your work is exceptional enough, it will find its audience, and doors will naturally open.
Understanding that this is a myth -- and learning how Hollywood actually works -- is critical if you hope to break in. Let me explain. 🧵⤵️
Understanding that this is a myth -- and learning how Hollywood actually works -- is critical if you hope to break in. Let me explain. 🧵⤵️
Older writers: Stop treating your life experience like baggage and start treating it like currency. Those decades of career knowledge, unique perspective, and specialized expertise? They're not competing with 22-year-old film school grads—they're offering something those writers can't possibly have.
January 8, 2026 at 11:19 PM
Older writers: Stop treating your life experience like baggage and start treating it like currency. Those decades of career knowledge, unique perspective, and specialized expertise? They're not competing with 22-year-old film school grads—they're offering something those writers can't possibly have.
"Shows promise" doesn't get you representation in 2026. Managers and showrunners can't take chances on "potential" when they're choosing from hundreds of talented writers. They need to be excited about your work RIGHT NOW.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
January 7, 2026 at 5:05 PM
"Shows promise" doesn't get you representation in 2026. Managers and showrunners can't take chances on "potential" when they're choosing from hundreds of talented writers. They need to be excited about your work RIGHT NOW.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
There are two types of luck in Hollywood: hard work luck and dumb luck 🍀
If you’re interested in personal guidance to help you get staffed or sell your script, I offer one-on-one coaching: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#ScriptSky #Screenwriting #FilmIndustry #Writers
If you’re interested in personal guidance to help you get staffed or sell your script, I offer one-on-one coaching: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#ScriptSky #Screenwriting #FilmIndustry #Writers
January 7, 2026 at 12:15 AM
There are two types of luck in Hollywood: hard work luck and dumb luck 🍀
If you’re interested in personal guidance to help you get staffed or sell your script, I offer one-on-one coaching: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#ScriptSky #Screenwriting #FilmIndustry #Writers
If you’re interested in personal guidance to help you get staffed or sell your script, I offer one-on-one coaching: www.carolekirschner.com/coaching
#ScriptSky #Screenwriting #FilmIndustry #Writers
Creating a TV show requires more decisions than any single person could make. Casting, costumes, editing, music, rewrites, schedules... The showrunners who succeed get strategic about which 10-15% of choices they should spend their time on rather than delegating them.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
January 6, 2026 at 7:33 PM
Creating a TV show requires more decisions than any single person could make. Casting, costumes, editing, music, rewrites, schedules... The showrunners who succeed get strategic about which 10-15% of choices they should spend their time on rather than delegating them.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
So excited for the new 2026 class of the WGA Showrunner training program! This is Yvette Lee Bowser and me. She, Jeff Melvoin and I have been doing this program for 21 years! Can’t wait for classes to start on Saturday.
January 5, 2026 at 9:20 PM
So excited for the new 2026 class of the WGA Showrunner training program! This is Yvette Lee Bowser and me. She, Jeff Melvoin and I have been doing this program for 21 years! Can’t wait for classes to start on Saturday.
Programs want writers with unique perspectives, but here's what applicants miss: unique doesn't mean obscure. The best samples draw from your specific life experience while telling stories with universal appeal. Personal and accessible, not personal OR accessible.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
January 5, 2026 at 5:29 PM
Programs want writers with unique perspectives, but here's what applicants miss: unique doesn't mean obscure. The best samples draw from your specific life experience while telling stories with universal appeal. Personal and accessible, not personal OR accessible.
#scriptsky
#scriptsky
Remember this when pitching to execs: Tell, don’t sell!
Ready to pitch like a pro? Get The Ultimate Guide to Pitching a TV Show that Sells (for free!): www.carolekirschner.com/pitching-ebook
#ScriptSky #WritersNetwork #Filmmaking #Screenwriting #WritingCommunity #WritersLife
Ready to pitch like a pro? Get The Ultimate Guide to Pitching a TV Show that Sells (for free!): www.carolekirschner.com/pitching-ebook
#ScriptSky #WritersNetwork #Filmmaking #Screenwriting #WritingCommunity #WritersLife
January 3, 2026 at 2:35 AM
Remember this when pitching to execs: Tell, don’t sell!
Ready to pitch like a pro? Get The Ultimate Guide to Pitching a TV Show that Sells (for free!): www.carolekirschner.com/pitching-ebook
#ScriptSky #WritersNetwork #Filmmaking #Screenwriting #WritingCommunity #WritersLife
Ready to pitch like a pro? Get The Ultimate Guide to Pitching a TV Show that Sells (for free!): www.carolekirschner.com/pitching-ebook
#ScriptSky #WritersNetwork #Filmmaking #Screenwriting #WritingCommunity #WritersLife
Many creative people believe their work should speak for itself. They feel uncomfortable "selling themselves" and hope that great material will naturally open doors.
This thinking actively holds back careers. Let me tell you about Isaac. 🧵⤵️
This thinking actively holds back careers. Let me tell you about Isaac. 🧵⤵️
January 2, 2026 at 5:40 PM
Many creative people believe their work should speak for itself. They feel uncomfortable "selling themselves" and hope that great material will naturally open doors.
This thinking actively holds back careers. Let me tell you about Isaac. 🧵⤵️
This thinking actively holds back careers. Let me tell you about Isaac. 🧵⤵️