A podcast where playwrights talk to playwrights about the things usually left unsaid. In a conversation that dives into life’s muck, we learn what irks, agitates, motivates, inspires and — ultimately — what makes writers tick. For this special episode of The Subtext, the SAG-AFTRA Foundation hosted a live discussion with playwrights Steve Yockey, Molly Smith Metzler, Nick Jones, and Bekah Brunstetter, who previously appeared on The Subtext on Episode 5. They discussed their experiences writing for television, what inspires them about the medium, and why they keep returning to the theatre. The discussion was recorded in front of a live audience on June 12, 2017. The audio for this episode was generously provided by the SAG-AFTRA Foundation.Reach The Subtext at [email protected], or on Twitter @SubtextPodcast.

In this episode, Brian speaks with playwright and poet Dan O'Brien about finding one's roots, performing with an Irish accent (in front of an Irish audience), and crafting a narrative out of real life.

In this episode, John Glore, the Associate Artistic Director with South Coast Repertory, discusses his long history with the organization, including his beginnings in the literary office, first foray writing for young audiences, and the invaluable support he was given by Artistic Directors Martin Benson and David Emmes.

In this episode, playwright Cory Hinkle digs deep into his Oklahoma childhood and shares stories that continue to influence his work to this day.

In this episode, Zakiyyah Alexander tells Brian the story of writing a play in defiance of grad school professors, growing up with hippie parents, converting to Islam, and the power of names in a highly politicized world.

In this episode, Brian and Deb Hiett talk about about growing up in Alabama, what it means to have "earned" a production, and performing in "Lil Abner" with (the former) Bruce Jenner.

In this episode, Brian and Alena talk about attending a progressive grade school in upstate NY, and how that reshaped Alena's concept of rebellion. Alena's journey has taken her from precocious, adolescent avant-garde theatre maker to rising TV writing star, but the theatre clearly never leaves her mind.

In this episode, things get personal when Brian and Daryl talk about finding faith, losing faith, and perhaps finding it again. Daryl tells the story about his decision to walk across the United States, and what happened three days into his journey. Finally, despite their best wishes, they talk about the election.

In this episode, Brian speaks with Mary Laws talk about her life growing up in Texas, misconceptions of Christianity, and the holy trinity of Sarah Ruhl, Sarah Kane, and Caryl Churchill.

In this episode, Brian talks to Tira Palmquist about transitioning from acting to poetry to playwriting, relying on a spouse for notes, crushing on scientists, and... mermaids.