Coffee & Content: Finding the Heart of Your Story
Coffee & Content: Finding the Heart of Your Story
Happy Sunday, Creative Army!
Have you had a creative weekend so far? I have some content here for you that is sure to get the creative juices flowing, so grab your coffee, and let's dive in.
When we sit down to write, we don’t always know what the story will become. Sometimes, the heart of it reveals itself in the process. In this week’s first video, Erin Foster shares how her own experience converting to Judaism led to the inspiration for her new Netflix romantic comedy series, Nobody Wants This. She didn’t initially set out to write a rom-com, but she recognized something deeply relatable—how the biggest challenges in relationships don’t just come from love alone, but from two people bringing their unique backgrounds, beliefs, and personal histories into a shared life. It’s not always about overcoming the “wrong” person, but figuring out how to grow with the “right” person.
Her writing style is natural, conversational, and grounded in real-life humor, proving that comedy doesn’t always need a punchline—it just needs truth. By leaning into the authentic, everyday moments that make us laugh and connecting them to deeper themes of identity, faith, and relationships, Erin Foster created a show that resonates. If you’re working on a script, take a page from Erin’s process. What personal experiences can you draw from to find the heart of your story? Your life doesn’t have to mirror your characters exactly, but real emotions, struggles, and revelations make for the best storytelling.
It’s no secret that female-led projects are dominating both the box office and critical acclaim, and this isn’t a fleeting trend—it’s a long overdue correction in the industry. In this video, I break down why this is happening and why you should lean into it. From Greta Gerwig’s record-breaking directing work to Margot Robbie’s powerhouse production slate, we’re seeing a new wave of female-driven storytelling taking center stage. But it’s not just female filmmakers leading the charge—male writers and directors are also embracing female-led narratives in new and exciting ways.
What’s even more important to recognize is that many of these scripts were written years ago and were shelved because there "wasn’t a market" for them. Now, with demand growing, those scripts are finally being pulled out of the drawer and given the attention they deserve. If you have a female-led project, now is the time to make sure it’s ready to go. The industry is listening.
Let’s talk! What stories are you developing, and how do your personal experiences shape your writing? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
As always, here at Stage 32, we love to share stories and knowledge with our fellow film fans. Know someone who would love this content? Share it with them! Tag them below! You can keep up with all of our content by subscribing to the Stage 32 YouTube. For more inspirational, educational, and motivational content on all things entertainment industry, follow me on Instagram and X @rbwalksintoabar.
Wishing you a very happy, healthy, & creative Sunday.
Cheers,
RB
Still Watching Netflix | Nobody Wants This- Erin Foster's Vision
RBWalksIntoABar | Are Female Led Films A Fleeting Trend?
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About the Author
Richard "RB" Botto has created the online platform and marketplace designed to democratize the entertainment industry, Stage 32. By leveling the playing field for all film, television and digital content creators and professionals worldwide, Stage 32 provides networking and training opportunities as...