In this 167th episode of The Thriller Zone, host Dave Temple interviews John Lindstrom, a movie and television star turned debut author.
Lindstrom discusses his journey from acting to writing, including his experience writing screenplays and the lessons he learned about storytelling. He also shares the challenges he faced in writing his first book and the importance of authenticity in storytelling.
As we get going, Lindstrom reflects on his career in soap operas and the attrition rate in Hollywood, and discusses his wife's involvement in theater and the impact and evolution of indie films.
The conversation concludes with a discussion on the dark side of Hollywood and the cautionary tale in Lindstrom's book, 'Hollywood Hustle,' a book that reflects, in part, some of his experiences in the entertainment industry. In this engaging conversation, Jon shares his passion for supporting orphanages and helping foster kids tell their stories through film.
Dave and Jon also discuss the contrasting characters in his book and the dark side of Hollywood. Perhaps most of the fun involves an "acting conversation" which has the two personalities reading from the book, playing two characters. And sure, there are potential film adaptations and casting choices, but that remains to be seen.
As we close, Lindstrom shares his writing process and the therapeutic nature of writing, and as always, Dave concludes the show with much-loved "Rapid-Fire Questions." It's fun for everyone.
To learn more about Jon visit: JonLindstrom.com, and as always, connect with TheThrillerZone.com & watch our podcast at YouTube.com/thethrillerzone.
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Takeaways
Writing screenplays can teach valuable lessons about storytelling, structure, and character development.
Authenticity is crucial in writing, and it is important to draw from personal experiences and knowledge.
The attrition rate in Hollywood is high, and maintaining a successful career requires perseverance and gratitude.
Indie filmmaking remains a challenging endeavor, despite advancements in technology and accessibility.
'Hollywood Hustle' explores the dark side of Hollywood and serves as a cautionary tale about the pursuit of fame and success.
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Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Background
03:00 - Writing Screenplays and Learning Storytelling
06:19 - Attending Book Conferences and Working with an Editor
08:44 - Writing What You Know and the Importance of Authenticity
11:36 - The Challenges of Writing a Book
13:28 - The Importance of Research and Authenticity in Writing
15:16 - The Challenges and Benefits of Writing What You Know
17:45 - The High Lonesome Band and the Music Industry
19:40 - The Beginnings of John's Acting Career in Soap Operas
24:37 - The Difference Between Soap Operas and Episodic Shows
26:34 - The Attrition Rate in Hollywood and John's Career
28:00 - John's Wife, Katie McClain, and Her Involvement in Theater
30:01 - The Impact and Evolution of Indie Films
34:01 - Stylistic Influences from Books and Films
42:23 - Product Placement and Movie References in 'Hollywood Hustle'
45:16 - The Dark Side of Hollywood and the Cautionary Tale in the Book
49:33 - Investing in Orphanages
50:30 - Kids in the Spotlight
50:58 - Contrasting Characters
51:28 - Dark Side of Hollywood
52:16 - If This Scene Could Talk
52:46 - Chapter 31: Hollywood Hustle
53:43 - Phone Call with the Kidnappers
56:10 - Potential Film Adaptation
57:08 - Casting the Characters
58:36 - Tough Casting Choices
59:35 - Recommendation: Your Honor
01:00:03 - Writing as Therapy
01:03:54 - Enjoyment of the Book
01:04:52 - Rapid Fire Questions
01:08:15 - Top of TBR Stack
01:09:10 - Dream Dinner Guests
01:20:48 - Writing Advice: Trust Your Desire
01:25:14 - Memorizing Lines
01:27:34 - Realistic Acting
