In The Cut Podcast

The Bear at its Best: "Forks"

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0000

On this episode of In the Cut, Rae invites writer Aeryn Michelle Williams (HARLEM, UMBRELLA ACADEMY) to break down “Forks” — one of the most beloved episodes of FX’s The Bear (Season 2, Episode 7 - READ SCRIPT HERE). We dive into how this episode turns Richie’s character arc into one of the most powerful transformations on TV.

Join us as we unpack: How The Bear uses structure, pacing, and tone to tell a story about purpose and growth What makes “Forks” a masterclass in character development and visual storytelling Why this episode resonates with writers, filmmakers, and anyone chasing excellence.

🎬 Filmed at the Young Musicians Foundation in South LA — visit ymf.org to learn more.

#TheBear #TheBearFX #ForksEpisode #Screenwriting #TVWriting #InTheCutPodcast #WritingPodcast #Storytelling #FXTheBear #characterdevelopment

Chapters

00:00 – Intro: In The Cut Podcast

00:29 – The Bear Overview & Episode “Forks” Context

01:24 – Meet Aeryn Michelle Williams (TV Writer)

02:01 – Fade In / Fade Out: The Bear Edition

05:12 – Why Aeryn wanted to Discuss “Forks”

08:24 – Cold Open: Coach K Sets the Stage for Richie's Transformation

15:33 – Garrett Tells Ritchie to Respect Himself

19:42 – Character Transformation: Richie Delivers Deep Dish

23:19 – Act 3: Olivia Colman as Chef Terry

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

Audio Engineering: Max Fishman

Original Music by: Michael Shann aka MadOne

For more resources, live events, and virtual workshops, visit https://inthecutla.org/

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq

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

How Netflix’s Mo Balances Comedy and Trauma | TV Writing Breakdown with Darryl Wesley

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 16:05:23 +0000

On this episode of In The Cut Podcast, writer and host Rae Benjamin sits down with actor and writer Darryl Wesley (The Upshaws - Netflix, Clipped - FX, The Game - Paramount+) to break down the powerful pilot episode of Netflix’s "Mo."

They explore how creator Mo Amer masterfully balances humor and heartbreak while telling a deeply personal story about identity, immigration, and resilience. From authentic Houston storytelling to finding comedy in dark moments, Rae and Darryl unpack how Mo turns real struggle into universally relatable television.

🎬 Filmed at the Young Musicians Foundation in South LA — visit ymf.org to learn more.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

00:21 Mo — Netflix’s Authentic Comedy

01:17 Welcome Darryl Wesley

01:56 Fade In / Fade Out: Houston Edition

04:18 Why Darryl Chose Mo to Discuss

05:13 Cold Open: Cruisin' Through Houston

08:12 Humor in Serious Topics: Palestinian Statehood & ICE

11:52 Writing Flawed but Lovable Characters

17:06 The Grocery Store Scene

19:46 Finding Comedy in Darkness

23:34 How the Pilot Sets Up Mo’s Journey

26:09 Career Talk with Darryl Wesley

30:30 From Basketball to Writing for TV

33:09 Outro — Stay In The Cut

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

Audio Engineering: Max Fishman

Original Music by: Michael Shann aka MadOne

For more resources, live events, and virtual workshops, visit https://inthecutla.org/

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq

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

Schitt’s Creek- The Comedic & Emotional Genius of the Open Mic Episode

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 6 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

On this episode of In the Cut Podcast, we paddle up Schitt’s Creek to discuss Season 4, Episode 6, “Open Mic.” Rae and guest Joya McCroy (ABBOTT ELEMENTARY) cover comedy writing structure, David and Patrick’s heartfelt open mic, and Moira’s unforgettable one-liners showcase the show’s perfect balance of comedy and emotion. Plus Joya shares what it's like to attend the Emmy's and her tips for writing a compelling pilot. If you love Schitt’s Creek, or just want to learn more about classic sitcom writing, this is the deep dive for you.

Subscribe for more deep dives into your favorite TV shows and episodes!

Chapters:

00:00 Intro - In the Cut Podcast

00:17 Schitt’s Creek Episode Summary & Context

01:07 Meet Joya McCroy (Abbott Elementary Writer)

01:58 Fade In/Fade Out: Schitt’s Creek Edition

03:21 Why Joya Chose Schitt’s Creek “Open Mic”

06:22 Cold Open Breakdown – A Baby on the Way

11:10 Where Did All the Episodic TV Comedies Go?

15:29 David & Patrick’s Open Mic – A Perfect TV Moment

20:07 Joya McCroy on Her Writing Journey in Hollywood

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://inthecutla.org/

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq

Mamatoosa Podcast: https://linktr.ee/mamatoosapod

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

Reservation Dogs: The GENIUS of Authentic Voices

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

On this episode of In The Cut Podcast, we break down the incredible pilot of Reservation Dogs with TV writer Sebastián Rea. We dive deep and explore how the show creator, Sterlin Harjo, utilizes authentic dialogue and a perfect blend of comedy and emotional grief to craft one of the most important series in modern television.

We track the journey of Bear, Elora, Willie Jack, and Cheese as they try to scrape together enough money to get to California, analyzing the scenes that make this show so powerful. Sebastián also shares his career journey, from humble beginning as an assistant to Jennifer Lopez, to being accepted into the NBCU Launch writers program.

Chapters:
0:00 - Welcome to In The Cut Podcast & Introduction

0:19 - Reservation Dogs Summary: The Pilot Episode

1:09 - Guest Introduction: Sebastian Rea, Writer & Producer

2:11 - Fade In / Fade Out: Reservation Dogs Edition

5:31 - The Cold Open: The Chip Heist

8:16 - Bear's Homework: Exposition in a Unique Way

13:02 - The NDN Shootout: Masterful Use of Comedy and Action

17:10 - The Truck Driver's Misfortunes

23:23 - The Memorial Scene: The Emotional Core of the Pilot

32:38 - Career Talk: Sebastian Rea on Finding Your Voice and Getting Into NBC's Fellowship

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://inthecutla.org/

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq

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

Andor is the Best Star Wars Show PERIOD.

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

On this episode of In The Cut Podcast writer and producer Tian Jun Gu (House of Cards, Y the Last Man) comes on to break down “Make It Stop,” an episode from the second season of Andor (Disney+).

From Dedra’s relentless pursuit of Axis, to the shocking fate of Luthen, to we dive into the episode’s bold storytelling choices, cinematic visuals, and moral ambiguity at the heart of rebellion. Plus, Tian Jun shares invaluable insights he gain while participating in the Writers' Guild East Showrunner's training program.

Whether you’re a Star Wars fan, an aspiring writer, or just love great TV, this episode is packed with storytelling gems.

Chapters:

0:00 – Welcome to In The Cut Podcast

0:19 – Andor Series Overview & Make it Stop Summery

1:42 – Fade In / Fade Out: Star Wars Edition (Rapid Fire Game)

8:22 – Opening Scene of Make It Stop (Lonnie’s Betrayal & Death Star Reveal)

14:39 – Dedra Meets Axis (Luthen’s Tense Confrontation)

18:29 – Kleya & Luthen's Relationship vs Cassian & Maarva

25:09 – Final Scene & The End of Luthen (A Fitting Farewell)

34:17 – TV Writing Tips & Showrunner Lessons with Tian Jun Gu

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://inthecutla.org/

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq

--
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

Why the Barbershop Episode is the Most STRESSFUL Episode of 'Atlanta'

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In this episode of In The Cut Podcast, we break down one of the most chaotic episodes of "Atlanta" with writer and actor Kyra Jones (QUEENS - ABC, WOKE - HULU). From the tense cold open to a truly wild goose chase across Atlanta, we dive into every anxiety-inducing moment of the episode. We also get into the deeper themes of this one-man-against-the-world adventure, and how this episode turns from a wild ride into a true nightmare. Kyra also shares her best tips on breaking into a writer's room and developing your own TV show. Whether you’re a writer or a fan of great storytelling, this is the place to understand the craft of television writing.

Chapters:

0:00 - Intro: The Podcast & The Barbershop Episode

0:19 - Episode Summary: The Most Stressful Episode of 'Atlanta'

1:23 - Guest Introduction: Kyra Jones, Writer, Actor & Producer

2:03 - Fade In / Fade Out: 'Atlanta' Edition

5:28 - The Cold Open & The Unspoken Rules of the Black Barbershop

9:26 - Paper Boi's Wild Ride With Bibby Begins

13:02 - The Promise of Leftovers Instead of Lunch

19:51 - A Haircut at Last? The Final Confrontation

25:24 - The Writer's Journey: Indie Creator to TV Staff Writer

28:05 - Developing Selling Your Own TV Shows

34:08 - Closing Remarks & Podcast Outro

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://inthecutla.org/

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq

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

"Carrie Was Flawed but Real" TV Writers Break Down Sex and The City

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 8 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

On this episode of In The Cut Podcast, host Rae Benjamin (The Witcher) sits down with showrunner, writer, and creator Ilana Peña (Diary of a Future President, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend) to break down the iconic episode "My Motherboard, My Self" (Season 4, Episode 8).

Rae and Ilana discuss how this classic SATC episode masters storytelling and character, and why it's a must-watch. Listen to pros as they analyze Carrie's actions toward Aidan, and how they reveal her deeper fears about commitment. The writers explore one of the most relatable grief scenes in TV history—the one moment that masterfully captures the complex emotions of loss without a single flashback. They also discuss why platonic love is the real heart of the show and how the series' most powerful moments aren't about men, but about the true friendship between the women. Finally, Ilana shares her journey from staff writer on Crazy Ex-Girlfriend to showrunner, and what it took to sell her own show and deal with imposter syndrome.

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://inthecutla.org/

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq

--
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

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

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 1 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

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

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

In the Cut Podcast - Season 2 Trailer

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

You asked for it, we're bringing it. In the Cut Podcast is coming back with all new episodes for Season 2. Join host Rae Benjamin as she invites a batch of all new guests to breakdown their favorite episodes of TV. This season is all about the Emmy's, as we deep dive into award-winning classics like SEX AND THE CITY, ATLANTA, THE BEAR and more. If you liked the first season of the podcast, you'll absolutely love season 2. We're coming back with more episodes, higher production value, and the same passion for the craft of expert storytelling. Mark your calendars; new episodes drop September 1st.

Atlanta’s Pilot Changed TV Forever—Here’s Why

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0000

When Atlanta premiered, it redefined what a TV show could be. The Emmy-winning series, created by Donald Glover, blends surrealism, comedy, and social commentary like nothing before it. But how did it all start?

On this episode of In the Cut Podcast, host Rae Benjamin is joined by TV writer Racquel Callahan (The Chi, Swagger, Good Trouble) to break down the Atlanta pilot. They explore why Donald Glover tricked FX into greenlighting the show, how the pilot follows classic sitcom structure despite its experimental style, and why the series resonated across so many different audiences.

From Earn’s struggle to get Paper Boi’s song on the radio to the genre-bending moments that make Atlanta unique, we dive into what makes this pilot one of the most important of the last decade.

📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube – https://youtu.be/NDxwF331uQQ

📽️ Produced by: Raenbo Media & Video Del Mar

🎤 Host: Rae Benjamin
🎙️ Guest: Racquel Callahan
🎬 Producer, Editor, and Videographer: 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/inthecutla

🎧 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

Veep’s Pilot Is the Funniest Show About Politics—Period

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 3 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

What makes Veep one of the smartest and sharpest political comedies ever made? From its rapid-fire dialogue to its brutal satire of Washington politics, the Emmy-winning HBO series redefined what a comedy could be.

On this episode of In the Cut Podcast, host Rae Benjamin is joined by TV writer Rickey Larke (Mr. Throwback, Grown-ish, Black-ish) to break down the Veep pilot. They dive into the fast-paced writing, how improv shaped the show, and why unlikable characters can still be compelling. Plus, they discuss how Veep predicted modern politics and whether a show like this could still get made today.

#Veep #TVWriting #ComedyWriting #InTheCutPodcast #Screenwriting #HBO #storytelling

📽️ Produced by Raenbo Media & Video Del Mar

🎤 Host: Rae Benjamin

🎙️ Guest: Rickey Larke

🎬 Producer, Editor, and Videographer: 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/inthecutla

📹 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InTheCutLA/podcasts

🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317

🎵 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq

Diarra from Detroit Is a Genre-Bending Ride

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

What happens when you mix crime, comedy, and a missing person mystery—all set in Detroit? Diarra from Detroit does something we’ve never seen before, and we’re breaking down how it works. The show is executive produced by NAACP Award winning writer and producer Kenya Barris (Black-ish, Grown-ish) for BET+.

On this episode of In the Cut Podcast, host Rae Benjamin is joined by TV writer Kira Talise (Insecure, A Black Lady Sketch Show, Black and Sexy TV) to dive into what makes Diarra from Detroit so unique. From its film noir influences to its sharp humor and social commentary, they discuss why this show is changing the game for TV storytelling.

#DiarraFromDetroit #TVWriting #Screenwriting #InTheCutPodcast #ComedyWriting #CrimeDrama #BET

Produced by Raenbo Media and Video Del Mar

Host: Rae Benjamin

Guest: Kira Talise

Producer, Editor, and Videographer: Joseph Fuentes

Original Music by: Michael Shann aka MadOne

For more resources including live and virtual events, visit inthecutla.org

YouTube:

https://youtu.be/_0Q-9BHG2nk

Instagram:

https://Instagram.com/inthecutla

Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq?si=f-fdmRcPRVax49P7O6C6jQ

Queen Sugar Pilot—A Lesson in Visual Storytelling & Subtext

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In the Cut Podcast host Rae Benjamin is joined by TV writer Alesia Etinoff (The Game) to break down the Queen Sugar pilot. In this episode, we explore how Ava DuVernay crafted a deeply cinematic and subversive drama—one that defies traditional TV structure in favor of rich character studies and visual storytelling.

Queen Sugar is a groundbreaking family drama that follows the estranged Bordelon siblings as they reunite to save their family's struggling sugarcane farm in Louisiana. With stunning cinematography, complex character dynamics, and a slow-burn approach to storytelling, the series delivers an emotionally resonant experience rarely seen on television. Though it never received the awards recognition it deserved, Queen Sugar remains a standout example of Black storytelling at its finest.

Produced by Raenbo Media and Video Del Mar

Host: Rae Benjamin

Guest: Alesia Etinoff

Producer, Editor, and Videographer: Joseph Fuentes

Original Music by: Michael Shann aka MadOne

For more resources including live and virtual events, visit inthecutla.org

Instagram: https://Instagram.com/inthecutla

Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq?si=f-fdmRcPRVax49P7O6C6jQ

Abbott Elementary Pilot Nails Character & Heart

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In the Cut Podcast host Rae Benjamin is joined by TV writer Jonterri Gadson (Everybody Still Hates Chris, The Upshaws, A Black Lady Sketch Show) to break down the Abbott Elementary pilot. On this episode, we explain how Quinta Brunson crafted a pitch-perfect first episode—balancing comedy, heart, and unique characters.

Abbott Elementary is a mockumentary-style sitcom that follows a group of dedicated teachers at a public school in Philadelphia. Led by the passionate yet inexperienced Janine Teagues, the quirky faculty navigates the challenges of underfunded classrooms and unruly students. With a mix of heartfelt moments and sharp humor, the Emmy-winning show highlights the resilience of teachers who are committed to making a difference in their students' lives. It’s a fresh take on education with plenty of laughs and relatable moments for anyone who’s ever been in a classroom.

🎬 Want more behind-the-scenes breakdowns of great TV? Subscribe for more!

#AbbottElementary #TVWriting #ComedyWriting #InTheCutPodcast

Produced by Raenbo Media and Video Del Mar

Host: Rae Benjamin

Guest: Jonterri Gadson

Producer, Editor, and Videdographer: Joseph Fuentes

Original Music by: Michael Shann aka MadOne

For more resources including live and virtual events, visit inthecutla.org

Instagram:

https://Instagram.com/inthecutla

Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq?si=f-fdmRcPRVax49P7O6C6jQ

Breaking Bad’s Pilot is a Masterclass in TV Writing—Here’s Why

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Mon, 3 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Memorable storytelling is built on conflict and change—and no one changed more than Walter White on the iconic AMC drama, Breaking Bad. From his initial introduction as a mild-mannered chemistry teacher to his first foray into dealing drugs, every moment pushes the protagonist Walt toward his inevitable transformation. Listen as professional writers Rae Benjamin and Troy Dangerfield break down the Breaking Bad pilot and explain why the show is truly the GOAT.

Watch the Episode on YouTube

Produced by Raenbo Media and Video Del Mar

Host: Rae Benjamin

Guest: Troy Dangerfield

Producer, Editor, and Camera Operator: Joseph Fuentes

Original Music by: Michael Shann aka MadOne

For more resources including live and virtual events, visit inthecutla.org

In the Cut Podcast Trailer

podcast@inthecutla.org (In The Cut) — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 18:06:15 +0000

In the Cut Podcast Trailer.