Write Your First Screenplay
Have you been thinking about writing a screenplay—or wondering how to turn your memoir or novel into a script? Whether you're just beginning or finally ready to dive in, Screenwriting 101 is the perfect place to start. In this foundational course from Story Summit, you’ll learn the essential elements of screenwriting, including structure, pacing, and how to create an emotional connection with both the reader and the audience. You’ll also begin developing your unique writing voice for the screen. This is the first class in our tiered screenwriting curriculum, with intermediate and advanced levels to follow in the new year. If you're ready to take that first exciting step, this class will give you everything you need to build a strong foundation for your screenwriting journey.
Beginning Storytelling for Writers:
The Four Pillars
Every great story stands on four essential pillars: character, plot, setting, and theme. In this foundational course from Story Summit, you'll learn how to build each one with clarity, creativity, and purpose. Whether you're pursuing publishing or screenwriting, this class is a must for writers who want to craft compelling, well-structured stories from the start. It’s the first course in our new tiered storytelling program, with intermediate and advanced levels launching after the first of the year. Save yourself months—or even years—of trial, error, and rejection by learning the storytelling fundamentals that every writer needs to succeed.
Self-Publishing for Beginners
With so many publishing options available today, self-publishing—and its close cousin, hybrid publishing—has become a powerful and viable path for many authors. But if you’ve never worked in the industry or published a book before, the process can feel overwhelming. In this four-week introductory course, you'll gain a clear understanding of how self-publishing works, why it might be the right choice for you, and what you need to know to get started. From making key decisions to understanding your publishing options, this class will walk you through the first essential steps to becoming a published author—on your own or with a team.
Final Draft: A Beginner’s Guide
Final Draft is the industry-standard software for screenwriting—but if you’re new to it, the features, tools, and formatting options can feel daunting. In this hands-on, two-night workshop, you’ll learn how to navigate Final Draft with confidence, from setting up your first script to using shortcuts, templates, and professional formatting tools. We’ll cover everything you need to make your writing process smoother, faster, and more creative—so you can focus on telling your story without getting stuck on the tech. Whether you’re preparing your first screenplay or polishing a finished draft, this class will give you the skills to make Final Draft work for you.
Lights, Camera, Christmas:
Writing the Holiday Romance
What would the holidays be without a happily-ever-after? From Hallmark and Lifetime to Netflix and bestselling books, holiday romances are one of the most beloved and bankable genres out there. Whether you’re an aspiring screenwriter, a novelist with a holiday twist in mind, or just a fan of the feel-good magic, Holiday Extravaganza is your ticket to the heart of this festive storytelling world.
Now in its newest edition, this two-evening event features a fresh lineup of instructors, content, and delightful surprises—so even if you've joined us in the past, you'll come away inspired and energized with new insights and ideas. In fact, last year two Summiteers had their holiday movies premiere on Hallmark, thanks in part to what they learned in this very class.
We’ll cover everything from plotting a classic holiday romance to creating irresistible characters, crafting unforgettable meet-cutes, and understanding exactly what producers are looking for. Join us for this joyful, behind-the-scenes journey into writing (and selling) holiday magic.
The Story Summit Substack Series
Substack is quickly becoming one of the most powerful platforms for writers—whether you're building a publishing career, launching a screenwriting brand, or creating a thriving writing-based business. That’s why Story Summit is proud to offer a three-part Substack series designed to support you at every stage of your journey.
Substack Success for Beginners will help you get started with clarity and confidence, guiding you through setup, content planning, audience building, and writing in your authentic voice.
Substack Next-Level Strategies is designed for those who are already up and running and want to grow their readership, add paid subscriptions, and elevate their content and visibility with more advanced tools and tactics.
Graduates of either course are invited to join our Substack Monthly Forum, a one-hour Zoom session held each month featuring successful Substackers, discussion of best practices, and ongoing support and coaching from the Story Summit community.
Whether you're just beginning or ready to expand your reach, this series will help you tap into the full potential of Substack and build a platform that truly reflects your voice and vision.
Story Summit Membership subscribers will receive all of these upcoming classes at no additional cost. Not a subscriber yet? Join here.
