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.

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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

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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

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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