Hey Stage 32 Fam,
Welcome to our very first Creative Growth Check-In! Each week, we’ll open this thread as a space to reflect on how we’re actively challenging ourselves to grow, whether that’s creatively, professionally, or personally.
Growth doesn’t always look like finishing a script or shooting a scene. Sometimes it’s the quieter work that helps us become more resilient, prepared, and confident as creatives.
This week, I’ve been challenging myself to learn more about the different audiences on various social media channels and how they may engage with creative content differently. As creatives, marketing ourselves, building a brand around our work, and growing an audience is an important (and often overlooked) part of the process. It’s easy to leave things like that until the end, but by the time you have a finished project, you want an audience ready to receive it.
I’ll be honest, it’s overwhelming to educate myself on, but I feel empowered by what I’ve learned and inspired to try new approaches.
Now it’s your turn: What are you doing (or hoping to do) this week that challenges you to grow?
Even if you’re unsure or struggling, your voice belongs here. Drop a reply, we’ll be here to cheer you on.
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Hey, Ashley Renee Smith. That's great that you've been challenging yourself to learn those things! Congratulations! I'm challenging myself to outline my first adult animated script (a short) this week.
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For me I’m watching classics from the 80s as part of the process also talking to different age groups to see what they like to watch on tv or screen.Ashley Renee Smith plus learning from all the webinars at stage 32 thank you so much.
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Thanks Ashley, after years teaching the thing, I've jumped back in as a student taking a screenwriting class to force me to work on at least one of the ideas rattling around in my brain. Currently working the 8 Sequence.
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I love this and the accountability for it. This week I want to learn more ways to incorporate AI to help our workflow and share it with the team!
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I'm submitting to OWA. I'm also taking all of my queries and synopsis to punch them up and make them sizzle, for my series bible for each show. I'm also submitting to writing gigs. In between time, I'm taking time to celebrate myself for being at this stage of my writing journey and doing some much needed self-care.
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Mone't Weeks Congrats! Every milestone counts. Writers are like athletes. It's the daily grind that counts.
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This week I've already made some pretty big strides in my day job, namely signed up to get certified for a new skill. I'm also slated to help out for a major event, also day-job related, this weekend. There's a third thing, too, but nonetheless I'm going through a hell of a character arc lol
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After years of writing features, I'm exploring the 9-act structure of the MOW world. Watching Hallmark Christmas movies this weekend for inspiration. A big bowl of popcorn will help.
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Ashley Renee Smith“Such a wonderful post, Ashley. I really admire the effort and heart you put into nurturing this community. It’s inspiring to see how you encourage genuine reflection and creative growth every week. Thank you for everything you do — it truly makes a difference.”
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Maurice Vaughan that’s such an exciting challenge! Adult animation opens up so much creative freedom, both visually and narratively, and it’s amazing that you’re diving into that space. Outlining is such an important step, especially for animation, where tone and pacing can make or break a story.
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Tania Ocasio That’s such a fantastic approach! Studying the classics and engaging with audiences directly is the perfect combination for understanding timeless storytelling and modern tastes. I love that you’re drawing inspiration from multiple generations and complementing that with the knowledge from Stage 32 webinars. Do you have a favorite webinar that you've watched recently?
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Candice Clasby, I love that you’ve stepped back into the student role! There’s something really energizing about approaching the craft with fresh eyes, especially after teaching it. It’s amazing how revisiting fundamentals can reignite creativity.
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Love that, Amanda Toney!
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I only read history books on this one.
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Mone't Weeks you’re really covering all the bases! It sounds like you’re in a season of both momentum and mindfulness, which is such a powerful combo. Submitting, refining, and pitching all take so much creative energy, so I love that you’re also making time to celebrate yourself and rest. You’ve clearly put in the work to get here, and it’s inspiring to see you honoring that.
If you want or need any tips or advice, you can email our Success Team- Success@Stage32.com, and they'll be happy to help you out.
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That’s amazing, Banafsheh Esmailzadeh, it sounds like you’re really stepping into a season of growth and leveling up! Getting certified in a new skill is such a great investment in yourself, and helping with a major event on top of that takes real drive. I love how you called it a character arc; that’s exactly what it is. Every challenge, every new step is part of your story’s next act.
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That sounds like the perfect creative weekend, Erik Gagnon! I love that you’re diving into the MOW structure; it’s such a different rhythm from features, but it really sharpens your storytelling instincts. And honestly, studying Hallmark Christmas movies is a masterclass in emotional beats and audience connection. Popcorn and story structure, that’s the dream combo!
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That’s so kind of you to say, Ilay Yılmaz, thank you so much! It really means a lot to know that these check-ins resonate. One of my favorite parts of this community is watching everyone grow together, share honestly, and support each other through every stage of the creative process. I’m so glad you’re here and part of it. What’s something that’s been inspiring your creative growth lately?
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Thank you Ashley Renee Smith, yeah, it's been a rewarding week though it's also been stressful lol (especially the last thing... so much to take in lol) nonetheless it's all for the character arc :) the event went really well though, it helps that I got better acquainted with our clients and there were also several really beautiful and friendly dogs haha. Any day I see a dog is a good day :)