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Breaking In: How to get started as a Writer, Director, or Showrunner
Details
Breaking In: How to get started as a Writer, Director, or Showrunner
APPLICATION GROUP 1
Applications Open:
January 28, 2026
THIS CIRCLE IS PERFECT FOR
- Students
- Recent Graduates
- People looking to make a career change
WHAT TO EXPECT
- What networking and branding is really all about
- Interview best practices
- How to create resumes, cover letters and portfolio websites
- How to put together an original series/feature pitch
- Negotiating/advocacy basics
- How/when to get representation
- How/when to partner with a producer/studio
WHAT NOT TO EXPECT
- Software demonstrations
- Animation pipeline discussions
- Production management
- Fundamentals of CG/2D skills
* (Note, entry into this circle is not a promise for potential representation, and Siobhan is unable to accept unsolicited submissions on behalf of Gotham’s production team)
Qualification Criteria
Student (final year)
Aspiring Professional (0 yrs of experience)
Day / Time
Times Per Month: Twice
Day / Time: Thursday, 5:30 PM
Timezone: PST
* You must meet the qualification criteria AND be able to attend the posted day/time of the circle (please note the timezone posted)
CIRCLE DESCRIPTION
Are you looking to build a career as a Writer, Director, or Showrunner? If so, it’s imperative that you understand the business basics of this industry that will set you up for success. In this circle, we will get you up to speed with your peers and future colleagues by discussing industry norms that aspiring professionals are expected to know before their first day on the job. From networking and branding to pitching and negotiating, consider this a 101 class that will be part lecture, part guest speaker Q&A.
Topics covered:
- Professional Development in Animation: this includes understanding the path from an entry-level job to becoming a Writer, Director, or Showrunner, networking and branding essentials, interview best practices, and creating effective resumes, cover letters, and portfolio websites)
- Pitching and Producing:
guidance on how to develop and present an original series or feature pitch, along with insights into partnering with producers or studios. - Career Advancement Strategies: basics of negotiating and advocacy, and advice on when and how to seek representation in the animation industry
Near the end of the circle, mentees will have a choice to practice pitch an original series or feature pitch for feedback.
(NOTE: Entry and participation in this circle is not a promise for potential representation, and Siobhan is unable to accept unsolicited submissions on behalf of Gotham’s production team).
ADDITIONAL Application Requirements
Please submit the following as part of your Application Profile:
*(AFTER you click to apply, you must go into your member profile and complete the member-specific portion; these requirements should be submitted through that profile):
- Cover letter with an immediate goal and 10 year goal
- List of 5 tv or film inspirations. Ex; Spirited Away, SpongeBob, Game of Thrones
- Resume
- Original script if an aspiring writer
- Reel/website portfolio if an aspiring director
Circle Leader
Siobhan Blanas
Siobhan Blanas studied animation and film at DePaul University in Chicago. Gravitating towards mentorship and advocacy, she got her start at boutique talent agencies in Chicago before learning the ropes at Creative Artists Agency in Los Angeles, as a mailroom clerk turned assistant.
She joined The Gotham Group as an assistant in 2019 and quickly rose through the ranks to become a literary manager. Siobhan is overjoyed to be collaborating with the top animation creatives in the business and has built a global list of writers, artists, directors, and producers. An advocate for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ voices, Siobhan represents award-winning creatives and fresh new voices. Signing EP/Creators such as Natasha Kline (Primos) and Melissa Shepherd (Lego Dreamzzz), as well as rising indie animation voices such as Millie Holten (Longhead) and Kiana Khansmith (Pretty Pretty Please I Don’t Want to Be a Magical Girl).
Additionally, Siobhan is instrumental in representing the prolific children and YA titles of publishing juggernaut, Simon & Schuster. Most recently, Siobhan was honored on The Tracking Boards’ “Industry Next List” for her work championing and advocating emerging and underrepresented voices, was a panelist at AfroAnimation and moderated a panel at 2023 Comic Con. In her spare time, she mentors rising talent through WIA and Stage32.

