The Writers Hangout

Understanding Schizophrenia: How Rob And Michele Reiner's Tragic Deaths Highlight The Escalating Mental Health Crisis W/Neal Nordlinger, Interventionist And Former Film Producer

Tragically, on December 14, 2025, Rob and Michele Reiner were fatally stabbed by their son, Nick Reiner. How could something like this happen? To assist in understanding these devastating deaths, our guest is Neal Nordlinger, an author, interventionist, and former film and television producer, as well as the founder of inCrisis Consultants. This organization supports families in navigating treatment options for addiction and mental health.Executive Producer Kristin OvernExecutive Producer and Host Sandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan StollerNovelium: Write With an Editor at Your Sidehttps://novelium.so

The Hostile Takeover of Warner Bros. and Its Implications for Writers

Hang out with Sandy as she discusses the joint statement from WGA East and West about the acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery by Netflix and the hostile takeover by Paramount. Plus, an update on Carl Rinch, the writer/director who embezzled $11 million from Netflix. Carl Rinch’s trial just wrapped up last week. We also share an inspiring story about resilience involving Meryl Streep and Dino De Laurentiis.  Executive Producer Kristin OvernExecutive Producer and Host Sandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan StollerNovelium: Write With an Editor at Your Sidehttps://novelium.so

Murder of Mafia Princess and Screenwriter Susan Berman

Rewind. On Christmas Eve 2000, Susan Berman, a talented journalist, screenwriter, and author, sadly lost her life at her home on 1527 Benedict Canyon Drive in Beverly Hills. Susan, the cherished daughter of a mobster and a former dancer, was raised as part of mob royalty, celebrating birthdays with Elvis and Liberace. Her tragic passing deeply affected her friends, leaving us wondering—did Susan ever suspect her killer?Executive Producer Kristin OvernExecutive Producer and Host Sandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan Stoller

Guillermo del Toro Frankenstein And 8 Writing Tips

Sandy shares writing advice from Guillermo del Toro, a talented director, screenwriter, producer, and artist whose incredible work spans horror, fiction, and fairy tales. Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, in 1964, del Toro’s passion for film and horror blossomed during his childhood. His unique style beautifully blends genres, often finding grace in the grotesque, and draws inspiration from anime, manga, and Japanese TV. Del Toro has brought to life impressive big-budget movies like Blade II, Hellboy, Pacific Rim, and The Shape of Water, along with Netflix’s captivating Frankenstein.  

The Tragic Murder of Screenwriter Adrienne Shelly

 In remembrance of the wonderful writer, director, and actor Adrienne Shelly, we're excited to share again The Writers' Hangout Episode dedicated to her story, which we originally posted in the month she passed. It's a heartfelt chance to get to know this talented and incredible woman, whose life was tragically cut short. We hope you feel inspired and connected through her story.The PAGE International Screenwriting Awards sponsors the WRITERS' HANGOUT.Executive Producer Kristin OvernCreator/Executive Producer Sandy AdomaitisProducer Terry SampsonMusic by Ethan Stoller