The Secret to Writing an Emmy-Nominated Show (The Diplomat)

On this episode of In The Cut Podcast, we break down The Diplomat's Emmy-nominated episode, "When a Stranger Calls," with co-executive producer of TRACKER (CBS) writer, actor, and director Steve Harper. We dive into how the show masterfully blends genres and uses subtle, brilliant writing to draw you in. Here's what we cover: The Secret to Writing Without Words: How the show conveys emotion through silent acting and a single image, so it never feels "on the nose." Compelling Cliffhangers The rules for creating an "earned" cliffhanger that leaves viewers wanting more without feeling cheap. Crowdfunding Advice: Steve shares his incredible journey from writer to director and the secret to getting a web series made and Emmy-nominated! Whether you’re a writer or a fan of great storytelling, this is the place to understand the craft of television writing. -- Watch full episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@InTheCutLA/videos Produced by:Raenbo Media & Video Del Mar Host & Executive Producer: Rae Benjamin Director & Executive Producer: Joseph Fuentes Original Music by: Michael Shann aka MadOne For more resources, live events, and virtual workshops, visit https://www.inthecutla.org Follow us on Instagram: https://Instagram.com/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthecutla1 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq?si=f-fdmRcPRVax49P7O6C6jQ -- Season 2 Credits: Key Set PA Jose Medina Rodriguez Set PAs Cathie Arteaga Julio Correa Jordan Patton Terrence Little Michael Shann III Post-Production PA Johan Barry Writer’s Assistants Ra Djhuty Balla-Gabriele Laura Ferdinand Keith A. Wallace PR/Marketing Assistants Marcy Best Tiffany D. Pinkney