On this episode of In the Cut, Rae invites writer Aeryn Michelle Williams (HARLEM, UMBRELLA ACADEMY) to break down “Forks” — one of the most beloved episodes of FX’s The Bear (Season 2, Episode 7 - READ SCRIPT HERE). We dive into how this episode turns Richie’s character arc into one of the most powerful transformations on TV. Join us as we unpack: How The Bear uses structure, pacing, and tone to tell a story about purpose and growth What makes “Forks” a masterclass in character development and visual storytelling Why this episode resonates with writers, filmmakers, and anyone chasing excellence. 🎬 Filmed at the Young Musicians Foundation in South LA — visit ymf.org to learn more. #TheBear #TheBearFX #ForksEpisode #Screenwriting #TVWriting #InTheCutPodcast #WritingPodcast #Storytelling #FXTheBear #characterdevelopment Chapters 00:00 – Intro: In The Cut Podcast 00:29 – The Bear Overview & Episode “Forks” Context01:24 – Meet Aeryn Michelle Williams (TV Writer) 02:01 – Fade In / Fade Out: The Bear Edition 05:12 – Why Aeryn wanted to Discuss “Forks” 08:24 – Cold Open: Coach K Sets the Stage for Richie's Transformation 15:33 – Garrett Tells Ritchie to Respect Himself 19:42 – Character Transformation: Richie Delivers Deep Dish 23:19 – Act 3: Olivia Colman as Chef Terry-- Watch full episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@InTheCutLA/videosProduced by: Raenbo Media & Video Del Mar Host & Executive Producer: Rae Benjamin Director & Executive Producer: Joseph Fuentes Audio Engineering: Max Fishman Original Music by: Michael Shann aka MadOne For more resources, live events, and virtual workshops, visit https://inthecutla.org/ Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthecutlaFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthecutla1Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq -- Season 2 Credits: Key Set PAJose Medina RodriguezSet PAsCathie Arteaga Julio Correa Jordan Patton Terrence Little Michael Shann IIIPost-Production PAJohan BarryWriter’s AssistantsRa Djhuty Balla-Gabriele Laura Ferdinand Keith A. WallacePR/Marketing AssistantsMarcy Best Tiffany D. Pinkney
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How Netflix’s Mo Balances Comedy and Trauma | TV Writing Breakdown with Darryl Wesley
On this episode of In The Cut Podcast, writer and host Rae Benjamin sits down with actor and writer Darryl Wesley (The Upshaws - Netflix, Clipped - FX, The Game - Paramount+) to break down the powerful pilot episode of Netflix’s "Mo." They explore how creator Mo Amer masterfully balances humor and heartbreak while telling a deeply personal story about identity, immigration, and resilience. From authentic Houston storytelling to finding comedy in dark moments, Rae and Darryl unpack how Mo turns real struggle into universally relatable television. 🎬 Filmed at the Young Musicians Foundation in South LA — visit ymf.org to learn more. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:21 Mo — Netflix’s Authentic Comedy 01:17 Welcome Darryl Wesley 01:56 Fade In / Fade Out: Houston Edition 04:18 Why Darryl Chose Mo to Discuss 05:13 Cold Open: Cruisin' Through Houston 08:12 Humor in Serious Topics: Palestinian Statehood & ICE 11:52 Writing Flawed but Lovable Characters 17:06 The Grocery Store Scene 19:46 Finding Comedy in Darkness 23:34 How the Pilot Sets Up Mo’s Journey 26:09 Career Talk with Darryl Wesley 30:30 From Basketball to Writing for TV 33:09 Outro — Stay In The Cut-- Watch full episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@InTheCutLA/videosProduced by: Raenbo Media & Video Del Mar Host & Executive Producer: Rae Benjamin Director & Executive Producer: Joseph Fuentes Audio Engineering: Max Fishman Original Music by: Michael Shann aka MadOne For more resources, live events, and virtual workshops, visit https://inthecutla.org/ Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthecutlaFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthecutla1Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq -- Season 2 Credits: Key Set PAJose Medina RodriguezSet PAsCathie Arteaga Julio Correa Jordan Patton Terrence Little Michael Shann IIIPost-Production PAJohan BarryWriter’s AssistantsRa Djhuty Balla-Gabriele Laura Ferdinand Keith A. WallacePR/Marketing AssistantsMarcy Best Tiffany D. Pinkney
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Schitt’s Creek- The Comedic & Emotional Genius of the Open Mic Episode
On this episode of In the Cut Podcast, we paddle up Schitt’s Creek to discuss Season 4, Episode 6, “Open Mic.” Rae and guest Joya McCroy (ABBOTT ELEMENTARY) cover comedy writing structure, David and Patrick’s heartfelt open mic, and Moira’s unforgettable one-liners showcase the show’s perfect balance of comedy and emotion. Plus Joya shares what it's like to attend the Emmy's and her tips for writing a compelling pilot. If you love Schitt’s Creek, or just want to learn more about classic sitcom writing, this is the deep dive for you. Subscribe for more deep dives into your favorite TV shows and episodes!Chapters:00:00 Intro - In the Cut Podcast 00:17 Schitt’s Creek Episode Summary & Context 01:07 Meet Joya McCroy (Abbott Elementary Writer) 01:58 Fade In/Fade Out: Schitt’s Creek Edition 03:21 Why Joya Chose Schitt’s Creek “Open Mic” 06:22 Cold Open Breakdown – A Baby on the Way 11:10 Where Did All the Episodic TV Comedies Go? 15:29 David & Patrick’s Open Mic – A Perfect TV Moment 20:07 Joya McCroy on Her Writing Journey in Hollywood -- Watch full episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@InTheCutLA/videosProduced by: Raenbo Media & Video Del Mar Host & Executive Producer: Rae Benjamin Director & Executive Producer: Joseph Fuentes Original Music by: Michael Shann aka MadOne For more resources, live events, and virtual workshops, visit https://inthecutla.org/ Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthecutlaFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthecutla1Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyqMamatoosa Podcast: https://linktr.ee/mamatoosapod -- Season 2 Credits: Key Set PAJose Medina RodriguezSet PAsCathie Arteaga Julio Correa Jordan Patton Terrence Little Michael Shann IIIPost-Production PAJohan BarryWriter’s AssistantsRa Djhuty Balla-Gabriele Laura Ferdinand Keith A. WallacePR/Marketing AssistantsMarcy Best Tiffany D. Pinkney
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Reservation Dogs: The GENIUS of Authentic Voices
On this episode of In The Cut Podcast, we break down the incredible pilot of Reservation Dogs with TV writer Sebastián Rea. We dive deep and explore how the show creator, Sterlin Harjo, utilizes authentic dialogue and a perfect blend of comedy and emotional grief to craft one of the most important series in modern television. We track the journey of Bear, Elora, Willie Jack, and Cheese as they try to scrape together enough money to get to California, analyzing the scenes that make this show so powerful. Sebastián also shares his career journey, from humble beginning as an assistant to Jennifer Lopez, to being accepted into the NBCU Launch writers program. Chapters: 0:00 - Welcome to In The Cut Podcast & Introduction 0:19 - Reservation Dogs Summary: The Pilot Episode1:09 - Guest Introduction: Sebastian Rea, Writer & Producer 2:11 - Fade In / Fade Out: Reservation Dogs Edition 5:31 - The Cold Open: The Chip Heist 8:16 - Bear's Homework: Exposition in a Unique Way 13:02 - The NDN Shootout: Masterful Use of Comedy and Action 17:10 - The Truck Driver's Misfortunes 23:23 - The Memorial Scene: The Emotional Core of the Pilot 32:38 - Career Talk: Sebastian Rea on Finding Your Voice and Getting Into NBC's Fellowship -- Watch full episodes on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@InTheCutLA/videosProduced by: Raenbo Media & Video Del Mar Host & Executive Producer: Rae Benjamin Director & Executive Producer: Joseph Fuentes Original Music by: Michael Shann aka MadOne For more resources, live events, and virtual workshops, visit https://inthecutla.org/ Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthecutlaFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthecutla1Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq-- Season 2 Credits: Key Set PAJose Medina RodriguezSet PAsCathie Arteaga Julio Correa Jordan Patton Terrence Little Michael Shann IIIPost-Production PAJohan BarryWriter’s AssistantsRa Djhuty Balla-Gabriele Laura Ferdinand Keith A. WallacePR/Marketing AssistantsMarcy Best Tiffany D. Pinkney
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Andor is the Best Star Wars Show PERIOD.
On this episode of In The Cut Podcast writer and producer Tian Jun Gu (House of Cards, Y the Last Man) comes on to break down “Make It Stop,” an episode from the second season of Andor (Disney+). From Dedra’s relentless pursuit of Axis, to the shocking fate of Luthen, to we dive into the episode’s bold storytelling choices, cinematic visuals, and moral ambiguity at the heart of rebellion. Plus, Tian Jun shares invaluable insights he gain while participating in the Writers' Guild East Showrunner's training program.Whether you’re a Star Wars fan, an aspiring writer, or just love great TV, this episode is packed with storytelling gems. Chapters: 0:00 – Welcome to In The Cut Podcast 0:19 – Andor Series Overview & Make it Stop Summery 1:42 – Fade In / Fade Out: Star Wars Edition (Rapid Fire Game) 8:22 – Opening Scene of Make It Stop (Lonnie’s Betrayal & Death Star Reveal) 14:39 – Dedra Meets Axis (Luthen’s Tense Confrontation) 18:29 – Kleya & Luthen's Relationship vs Cassian & Maarva 25:09 – Final Scene & The End of Luthen (A Fitting Farewell) 34:17 – TV Writing Tips & Showrunner Lessons with Tian Jun Gu -- 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 For more resources, live events, and virtual workshops, visit https://inthecutla.org/ Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthecutla Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthecutla1 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-cut-podcast/id1786880317 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1QpovDQ7d2yiLV5K0fxhyq --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
In the Cut Podcast dissects the best episodes of television with professional writers. Hosted by Rae Benjamin, TV Writer and Founder of In the Cut, a company that provides education and resources for Black writers and other people of color.
For more info, visit our website inthecutla.org follow us on IG instagram.com/inthecutla and subscribe on youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@InTheCutLA
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