Publishing

Tune into live conversations with authors, editors, and literary agents sharing their journeys and expertise in the world of publishing.

Screenwriting

Watch live panels featuring screenwriters as they break down their techniques for crafting compelling scripts and navigating the entertainment industry.

Filmmaking

Discover live streaming events where directors, producers, and cinematographers discuss the creative and technical processes behind their films.

A Book Proposal Coach’s Secrets to Selling Your Non-Fiction (or Fiction) Book

October 21, 2026
Even your fiction book can benefit from examining it like a business person. Because that's what editors and publishers do. Your proposal, which outlines your project for a publisher, has to be so good that editors fall in love with it and believe that readers will, too. In fact, writing a proposal will set you up for success even if you plan to self-publish. The problem? Most writers have no idea how to create a winning proposal. They simply don’t think like business people which is exactly what's needed. And this is a problem for authors. But Amy B. Scher is going to change that.

Book Pipeline

Book Pipeline connects writers to publishers, agents, and the film industry through competitions and workshops, providing hands-on support to bridge the gap between emerging authors and the industry since 2014.

Script Pipeline

Script Pipeline connects writers with producers, agents, and managers, facilitating over $8 million in sales through competitions and ongoing industry support, helping launch major films and secure high-profile representation since 1999.

Film Pipeline

Film Pipeline connects filmmakers and writers with agencies and executives, focusing on diverse storytelling and playing an active role in developing and promoting projects, reviewing thousands of submissions annually since its launch in 2018.

Doug Richardson


Doug Richardson, born in Arcadia, California, grew up on a ranch near Sacramento and developed a passion for cinema after discovering Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels. He studied at USC’s School for Cinematic Arts, initially aspiring to direct, but shifted his focus to screenwriting, which led to a contract with Warner Brothers and the opportunity to write for major studios. His breakthrough came with the screenplay for Die Hard 2, followed by successes like Bad Boys, Money Train, and Hostage. In addition to his screenwriting career, Doug authored novels, including the Lucky Dey Thriller series, known for their dark and gripping storytelling. Living in Southern California with his wife, Karen, Doug balances his Hollywood projects with writing novels, enjoying golf, scotch, and cooking for loved ones.

Panelist of 3 Events

One-on-One with Die Hard Doug Richardson

February 28, 2024
Doug Richardson has spent decades writing for the film industry. You might have heard of Die Hard 2, Hostage, and the OG Bad Boys. He's that Doug. But he's also a novelist, bourbon aficionado, and producer ... and a hell of a lot of fun. Pipeline exec Jeanne Veillette Bowerman sits down with Doug to chat about all things writing, and also asks Doug your questions, live, in our Q&A.

Hard Truths: Straight Talk About Handling Feedback

August 23, 2023
Whether a writer is up-and-coming or a pro, they need to know when to ask for feedback and how to handle receiving notes in order to elevate their stories and improve their craft. Join our panel discussion with Pipeline Execs Michael Owens and Matt Misetich, joined by Doug Richardson (Die Hard 2, Bad Boys, Hostage), and screenwriter Merridith Allen for a live Q&A.

Hard Truths: Filmmaking

December 8, 2021
Our panelists share the hard truths about filmmaking at our Symposium Town Hall. Whether an indie production or within the studio system, bringing a screenplay to life requires a multitude of mental and creative talents.

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Upcoming Events

A Book Proposal Coach’s Secrets to Selling Your Non-Fiction (or Fiction) Book

October 21, 2026
Even your fiction book can benefit from examining it like a business person. Because that's what editors and publishers do. Your proposal, which outlines your project for a publisher, has to be so good that editors fall in love with it and believe that readers will, too. In fact, writing a proposal will set you up for success even if you plan to self-publish. The problem? Most writers have no idea how to create a winning proposal. They simply don’t think like business people which is exactly what's needed. And this is a problem for authors. But Amy B. Scher is going to change that.

How a Book Becomes a Movie: What Authors and Screenwriters Need to Know

October 28, 2026
The filmmaking business is complex and baffles many—even those working in it. The reality is, there is no single way to get a film made. But there’s no question that Hollywood loves adapting intellectual property. The more authors and screenwriters understand the different adaptation paths, the better their odds of success.

The Power of Short Story IP—From Concept to Execution

November 10, 2026
Short stories are emerging as essential IP for an intro to the studio system, and some of our most iconic films began with only a handful of pages. Using short fiction references from Stephen King and more, this course explores how writers can recognize the cinematic engine (and core dilemma) inside a short story and to brainstorm or refine an idea of their own. 

Latest Streaming

Stop Waiting for Permission. Write and Produce your Proof-of-Concept Short!

October 14, 2026
Award-winning screenwriter and filmmaker, Merridith Allen, guides you step-by-step through making a proof-of-concept short film that will get you noticed ... and expand your options for either financing or representation.

I Finished My Script—Now What?

October 7, 2026
Timothy Michael Cooper shares the insights earned during his decades-long career, teaching you how to interpret and incorporate feedback, find the true heart of the story, focus your rewrites,cut away characters and scenes that aren’t pulling their weight, and build strategic relationships to get your script into the right hands.

One-on-One: Explore Historical Fiction Writing with Adam Sikes

September 30, 2026
Jeanne Veillette Bowerman chats with novelist Adam Sikes to dissect the processes they each use when writing their historical novels. Join us for a casual conversation, including your questions, as they dive into the strategies that have helped them as well as the challenges of bringing history to life in a dynamic, and fictional way.

Symposium, presented by Pipeline Artists, is a year-round virtual conference empowering creatives with honest, no-nonsense guidance across the arts. Through seminars, industry panels, and Town Hall discussions on screenwriting, filmmaking, publishing, and career-building, Symposium offers grounded advice from working professionals to help you forge your own unique path.

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