Recap: Fireside Chat Proof of Concept x Jeff Luini

Recorded: October 23, 2025

In this Fireside Chat, Emmy®-winning producer Jeff Luini offered a candid, behind-the-scenes look at what gets a project and its creator taken seriously in today’s industry.

From It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia to Welcome to Wrexham, Jeff shared how a strong Proof of Concept and clear, confident packaging help storytellers stand out, build credibility, and move closer to production. The session focused on actionable ways writers can take ownership of their ideas, regardless of access or budget, and present them in a way that commands attention.

You’ll laugh, learn, and leave fired up.

▶️ Replay’s below. Short on time? We’ve got the highlights for you.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Proof of Concept = Sales Tool

  “It’s your one shot to show voice, tone, and execution.”

  • It can be a scene, a sizzle, or a montage of tone.

  • Executives prefer links they can click vs. long PDFs.

• PoC Length: Keep it Short

  3–4 minutes is ideal unless you’ve got a huge reputation or strong referrals

• What turns execs off?

  • Overwriting direction, rigid feedback resistance, or making people “work too hard” to get it.

  “Be flexible. Be cinematic. Don’t be annoying.”

• Should Writers Direct Their First Project?

  “If I know the project won’t get made with me directing, I’ll step aside but stay involved.”

  • Draw your line if you have the leverage.

  • Otherwise, build momentum by collaborating first.

• What Writers Can Control

  • Be informed! Read Deadline, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter…every day.

  • Know your comps, market, and what’s getting greenlit.

• Be Smart About AI — Know Your Audience

  • AI is polarizing in Hollywood; some love it, some hate it.

  • Include a disclaimer in your PoC if AI was used.

  • Use AI to bridge cost gaps, but don’t lean on it for soul.

• Culture, Kindness, and Assistants

  • Reputation matters. Be the person others want to root for.

  • Stay humble even when you’re hustling.

  “Treat assistants with respect, they’re future execs.”

The average time it takes to get something made is seven years 😱

Pro tip: Build a portfolio of projects so you’re not waiting years on a single yes.

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Coming Up: Fireside Chat x Jeff Luini – Inside the Pipeline

What really happens after the pitch? Join Jeff for a behind-the-scenes look at how TV series go from idea to greenlight. From networks and notes to rewrites and real deals, this is the stuff no one teaches.

Thursday, November 13, 2025 - 4:00 PM 5:00 PM

Limited Time Offer

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Limited Time Offer *

Thanks for checking out the recap!

As a thank-you, we’re offering $10 off the $59.99 application fee to join GET IT MADE.

If you’re looking to develop a Proof of Concept, or want support with development and packaging for your project, this is the perfect next step.

During your 30-day application journey, you’ll get:

• A meeting with an Industry Pro

• A 1:1 session with a Story Producer

• A Project Readiness Assessment

• Full access to our creative community and exclusive tools

Use code POC10 at checkout to get started.

*Offer expires 10/31/2025