Jon Shaivitz is an LA-based writer and director. Since moving to Los Angeles in 2009, he's earned recognition in prestigious competitions such as the Academy Nicholl Fellowship (Top 50), StoryPros (Runner-Up), and the Atlanta Screenplay Awards (Best Feature).

His work has led to multiple script options, industry collaborations, and a growing reputation as a bold, innovative voice in filmmaking. In 2025, Jon makes his feature writing and directorial debut with ROSES ON THE VINE, a gripping drama set for worldwide release.

Recently, he’s been working on reinventing the screenplay-to-film pipeline with Pitcheroo, a game-changing new platform where screenwriters can connect with producers to get movies made.

Pitcheroo.com will launch Summer 2025 and soon after, Pitcheroo.org, a sister site that is non-profit to train and lift up the next generation of creators.

You can join their mailing list here: https://form.jotform.com/250508294545157

In this interview, we talk about his background and career, the film industry in Baltimore and the DC area, his film ROSES ON THE VINE, the concept and purpose of Pitcheroo, the problems with traditional screenwriting contests, and much more.

Want more? Steal my first book, INK BY THE BARREL - SECRETS FROM PROLIFIC WRITERS right now for free. Simply head over to www.brockswinson.com to get your free digital download and audiobook. If you find value in the book, please share it with a friend as we’re giving away 100,000 copies this year. It’s based on over 400 interviews here at Creative Principles. Enjoy!

If you enjoy the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts? It only takes about 60 seconds and it really helps convince some of the hard-to-get guests to sit down and have a chat (simply scroll to the bottom of your iTunes Podcast app and click “Write Review"). Enjoy the show!