Home Base: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Bio: As a new lawyer, I remember settling into the rhythms of adult life, mundane but pleasant enough. Yet I experienced an inarticulate restlessness, like a character in a Robert Frost poem who wonders if this, then, was everything. It wasn’t until I went to see the film version of Phantom of the Opera that I realized that I was lacking a means of self-expression in my life. I was a writer before law school, and so I returned to it with a newfound appreciation.
Initially, I was intimidated by the idea of writing a screenplay, so I settled on beginning with the more manageable television script. But, from my first Burn Notice script, I have been hooked on the TV genre.
Spec Script Portfolio:
Rectify Spec: “Flying Lessons.” Daniel questions the reliability of his memories when no one else in his family remembers one of the most pivotal moments from his childhood.
Second Rounder, Austin Film Festival.
Mad Men Spec: “Cup a Joe.” Don’s small indiscretion snowballs into an escalating series of events that threatens to ruin his and Megan’s plans for a fresh start in California.
Walking Dead Spec: “Better Than Dead.” The Governor “recruits” Rick for his new scheme for Woodbury while Maggie struggles to come to terms with life among the zombies.
Finalist, Acclaim TV Script Contest.
Burn Notice Spec: “Tell Me No Secrets.” Michael and Fiona help an unscrupulous whistleblower steal documents to take down a corrupt defense contractor, but are caught off guard when the conflict lands in Michael’s own backyard
Why I Write: I am compelled to express myself, to say what I think. Always. I just can’t stop myself. Fortunately, I’ve learned it’s way less offensive to do this on paper than out loud. I like to think that being an artist is just that – expressing a well-articulated world view – in a more polished fashion.
Inspiration: Ordinary people everywhere. I look and them to discover what make each person unique and, therefore, extraordinary — a random hand gesture, a tone of voice, an inaudible sigh, a flash of sadness around the eyes. These “tells” become the basis for story. I will have composed a narrative for everyone sitting around me at a bar by the time I finish my beer and walk out the door. Perhaps I should just introduce myself…
Brand: Character-driven serialized dramas.
Writing Process: I’m a planner, so I tend to use regimented steps as I progress from story idea to full-blown script. For me, that translates to agonizing over synopsis, beat sheet, and outline. That doesn’t mean I can’t be spontaneous as I’m writing; I just don’t like surprises – like gaping plot holes – in the eleventh hour.
Writing Schedule: I write for two hours every morning. Just me the computer, and coffee. If I’m tempted to do anything else, I’ll read the sign taped to my computer: “Keep your butt in the chair.” So I do.
Actions I’ve Taken to Further My Career: Taking courses through UCLA Extension, entering writing contests, maintaining contact with people in the industry I’ve met whose talent I respect.
What’s Worked: All of the above, plus constant effort. I just keep plugging away at it.
What Was a Waste of Time: Taking advertising-heavy writing courses that promise to turn you into a writer, and contacting people in the biz before having an adequate portfolio or any notable accomplishments.
