Hey gang! Posting here that in 2024 after I "came back" from a 30-year absence in the industry, I immersed myself in pitching, writing in different genres, learned how to make a great pitch deck, took a course in loglines, attended conventions, entered over 100 film festivals, assoc. produced a film, and networked (a lot). Now--In 2025 I'm focusing on making money at the craft (been hired 2x since January as a pen for hire in Horror and Faith genres lol). I've never won a Stage32 contest, not yet received an OWA, and had my scripts requested here from pitches but nothing further. That does NOT mean it won't happen. As a person who has been on both sides of the audition process as an actor/director for decades, I truly want to say that rejection is part of the game and to NOT take it personally. Please keep writing AND networking. A man I met on this platform just hired me as we started a friendship/business relationship here 8 months ago. I spend almost as much time networking as I do writing (and not on SM either, the OG way). I think we need tenacity and grit, as well as sensitivity and compassion. KEEP GOING and tell your stories. And talk to a lot of people!
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Hey, Susan Kelejian! You've done a lot since you've been back! Congratulations on getting hired twice since January and everything! You have the right mindset. I'm rooting for you to have even more success! Thanks for encouraging the community!
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Maurice Vaughan Thanks Maurice! It's just so hard for a lot of people not to get discouraged. I am having so much fun in the process and not attaching to outcomes whilst still having goals. It's not easy, though. I am grateful that, for whatever reason, I have zero social anxiety and have always been that way. Makes a big differene IMO.
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You're welcome, Susan Kelejian. You're right. It's so hard for a lot of people not to get discouraged. That's one thing I love about Stage 32. People can jump on and get encouraged.
I think not attaching to outcomes whilst still having goals helps. Something that helps me not get discouraged is keeping in mind that I just need to find that one producer, director, etc. for a project, and it could take off. And starting a fun, new project instead of thinking about the rejection, thinking about a pitch not going right, etc. helps me too.
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Humble greetings Susan Kelejian
Your perseverance and resilience are truly inspiring! I'm thrilled to see your hard work paying off, and I'm honored to be part of this community with you.
Your emphasis on networking, tenacity, and compassion resonates deeply. Let's keep pushing boundaries, sharing our stories, and uplifting each other. I'm excited to collaborate and contribute to exceptional projects together!
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@Susan Thanks for the positivity post! We must keep the passion for our craft flowing, life may get in the way to create obstacles but the ultimate control is our own. Negativity may come from outside but not from within. Network! As leader RB says it’s a people industry!
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Susan Kelejian, this is such an inspiring post! Your journey back into the industry and your dedication to both the craft and the business side of things is a testament to the power of persistence. I love that you highlight networking as just as important as writing. It really is about building relationships over time. It’s also refreshing to hear a reminder that rejection is part of the game and doesn’t mean the door is permanently closed. Congrats on your recent writing hires, and I have no doubt that even more opportunities are on the horizon for you! Keep going!
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Keep it going Susan Kelejian ! The talent oozes out of your every pore
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Pat Alexander what a lovely comment. Thank you so much