Best Aster Podcasting Network Podcasts (2025)

1
019 - The Social Network (Aaron Sorkin) 51:27

7d ago51:27

51:27

What makes Aaron Sorkin’s The Social Network one of the most studied and celebrated screenplays of the last 20 years? In this episode of Screenplay Lab, host Jeff Barker breaks down The Social Network scene by scene, revealing why its rapid-fire dialogue, layered structure, and relentless conflict have made it a benchmark for screenwriters everywhe…

1
018 - Aster, Peele, Eisenberg, Baker & More: Screenwriters 40:13

14d ago40:13

40:13

In this episode of The Screenplay Lab, Jeff Barker explores the creative journeys of some of today’s most exciting screenwriters and filmmakers, from Oscar winners to breakout indie voices. We dive deep into the writing styles, influences, and careers of: 🧠 Jesse Eisenberg (A Real Pain) 🔥 Coralie Fargeat (Revenge, The Substance) 🌊 Trey Edward Shult…

1
017 - Companion (Drew Hancock) 28:16

28d ago28:16

28:16

In this episode of Screenplay Lab, we dive into the genre-bending screenplay of Companion (2025), a sci-fi horror comedy written and directed by debut filmmaker Drew Hancock. Starring Sophia Thatcher (Yellowjackets) and Jack Quaid (The Boys), Companion is a bold, twisty narrative that shifts from dark comedy to sci-fi thriller to full-on horror, al…

1
016 - Hereditary (Ari Aster) 39:22

1M ago39:22

39:22

Ari Aster’s Hereditary – Prestige Horror Screenwriting In this episode, Jeff Barker breaks down the Hereditary screenplay by Ari Aster, the 2018 A24 film that redefined modern horror. Whether you’re a screenwriter, filmmaker, or horror fan, this deep dive explores how Aster builds emotional horror through grief, trauma, and supernatural dread. We’l…

1
015 - Challengers (Justin Kuritzkes) 33:52

2M ago33:52

33:52

Welcome to The Screenplay Lab, the podcast that treats screenplays like the art they are. I’m Jeff Barker, a screenwriter, and in this episode, we’re dissecting the bold, layered, and seductive script behind Challengers (2024) — written by Justin Kuritzkes and directed by Luca Guadagnino. Starring Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist, Challengers…

1
S3E2 - Gaze 1:04:05

2M ago1:04:05

1:04:05

The relentless stare of a hundred digital cameras, thousands of glares under masks, all focus in on a certain nobody — Caine Reyes — as they search for Su-jin, the only one they have eyes for. Featuring a split meaning for the title’s pun, a way to make doors open, and three new voices… though one’s more familiar to some. Trigger warnings for loud …

1
014 - La La Land (Damien Chazelle) 24:01

2M ago24:01

24:01

In this episode of The Screenplay Lab, host and screenwriter Jeff Barker takes a closer look at the screenplay behind La La Land by Damien Chazelle. Known for its music and emotional impact, this film offers just as much inspiration on the page as it does on the screen. Jeff examines how the screenplay employs musical storytelling without lyrics, s…

1
013 - The Lighthouse (Max & Robert Eggers) 29:17

3M ago29:17

29:17

In this episode of The Screenplay Lab, host and screenwriter Jeff Barker takes a deep dive into the brilliantly unhinged screenplay for The Lighthouse (2019), written by Robert and Max Eggers. This A24 psychological horror film, starring Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson, is a claustrophobic two-hander soaked in myth, madness, and maritime misery. …

1
012 - Babygirl (Halina Reijn) 33:52

3M ago33:52

33:52

In this episode of The Screenplay Lab, Jeff Barker deconstructs the provocative and award-winning screenplay for Babygirl (2024), written and directed by Halina Reijn and starring Nicole Kidman and Harris Dickinson. This psychological erotic thriller, produced by A24, subverts the genre by placing a powerful woman at the center of a dark, complex, …

1
011 - Waves (Trey Edward Shults) 39:41

4M ago39:41

39:41

In this deep-dive podcast episode, screenwriter Jeff Barker explores Trey Edward Shults' emotionally captivating screenplay, Waves (2019), an A24 cult classic praised especially by Gen Z audiences for its unique storytelling and profound emotional resonance. Discover how Shults innovatively uses screenplay conventions alongside experimental techniq…

1
010 - US (Jordan Peele) + Curry Barker 44:35

4M ago44:35

44:35

In this special audio episode, host and screenwriter Jeff Barker dives deep into the genius behind Jordan Peele's groundbreaking screenplay, "Us" (2019). Explore how Peele intricately weaves supernatural horror, psychological depth, and relentless suspense into a captivating narrative that examines powerful societal themes like class division, iden…

1
009 - The Brutalist (Corbet & Fastvold) 33:54

4M ago33:54

33:54

Join us for a riveting exploration of THE BRUTALIST, the film that has stormed the Oscars with ten nominations, including Best Original Screenplay, Best Picture, and Best Director. In this episode, we dissect the genius of Brady Corbet and Mona Fastvold’s screenplay, an intense period drama that goes beyond mere architectural discourse to challenge…

1
008 - Conclave (Peter Straughan) 32:16

5M ago32:16

32:16

In this episode, Jeff Barker takes a deep dive into CONCLAVE, the Oscar-nominated screenplay written by Peter Straughan. Adapted from Robert Harris’ novel, this gripping script blends political intrigue, religious drama, and even sports movie elements, creating one of the most unique and suspenseful screenplays of the year. 🔥 What We Cover in This …

1
007 - Anora (Sean Baker) 40:35

5M ago40:35

40:35

Sean Baker’s Anora is a Romantic Drama turned Thriller infused with comedy and sharp social commentary. Recently nominated for SIX Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay, this modern anti-Cinderella story explores love, independence, and class conflict with breathtaking nuance. What to expect in this episode: The brilliance of Sean Bake…

1
S3E1 - Return 47:29

5M ago47:29

47:29

Caine chases after Su-jin, flying back down the road that leads to one place: Metropolis West. It’s time to come home — and time to leave another one behind. Featuring a split in the team, a way to keep doors shut, and a familiar voice. Trigger warnings: Reference to drugging, violence, emotional manipulation, yelling, discussion of family issues/m…

1
006 - A Real Pain (Jesse Eisenberg) 34:33

5M ago34:33

34:33

Jesse Eisenberg’s A Real Pain isn’t just an Oscar-nominated screenplay. It's a strong example of character-driven storytelling, mental health representation, and emotional depth. In this episode of The Screenplay Lab, we break down the script, analyze its hidden meanings, and explore how Eisenberg crafts psychologically rich characters through his …

1
005 - The Substance (Coralie Fargeat) 43:45

5M ago43:45

43:45

This week, we’re diving into THE SUBSTANCE by Coralie Fargeat, the Academy Award-nominated satirical psychological body horror film that’s making waves with its visceral storytelling and extensive practical effects. We’ll explore how this screenplay drives readers to confront themes of aging, beauty, and perfection, all while dissecting its bold st…

1
004 - Quick Cast: A Complete Unknown - Screenplay vs. Film 4:38

5M ago4:38

4:38

This week, we’re diving deep into A Complete Unknown, the Academy Award-nominated Bob Dylan biopic by James Mangold and Jay Cocks. In this QUICKCAST episode, we break down the creative changes that took this film from script to screen. From missing scenes (remember Johnny Cash jumping into a stranger’s car?) to reimagined character moments and modi…

1
003 - A Complete Unknown (Mangold & Cocks) 42:34

6M ago42:34

42:34

This week, we're diving deep into A Complete Unknown, the stunning biopic about Bob Dylan, penned by the legendary James Mangold and Jay Cocks. Nominated for 7 Academy Awards (Best Adapted Screenplay), this script chronicles Dylan’s journey from an unknown 19-year-old in New York to his groundbreaking electric performance at the Newport Folk Festiv…

1
002 - Nosferatu (Robert Eggers) 53:42

6M ago53:42

53:42

This Week on The Screenplay Lab: We're diving deep into Robert Eggers' Nosferatu screenplay, a masterful reimagining of the gothic classic. Fresh off the presses, this screenplay showcases Eggers’ unique style, oscillating between lush, sprawling sentences and punchy bursts of intensity. What We’ll Cover: Robert Eggers: A modern trailblazer of psyc…

1
001 - Heretic (Beck & Woods) 38:29

6M ago38:29

38:29

A deep dive into the screenplay: Heretic by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods. Two young missionaries are forced to prove their faith when they knock on the wrong door and are greeted by a diabolical Mr. Reed, becoming ensnared in his deadly game of cat-and-mouse. Dive into "Heretic," a standout script by the writers of "A Quiet Place." Known for its uniq…

1
The Screenplay Lab - Trailer 1:25

6M ago1:25

1:25

This is… THE SCREENPLAY LAB. My name’s Jeff Barker, and I’m a screenwriter. Join me as we analyze one screenplay at a time. I’m not talking about the film… I’m talking about the screenplay. This unique literary device creates a sensory explosion, causing the reader to make a movie in our own minds. We’re going to search for what brings the heat… Sc…

1
S2E14 - Change of Heart (Part II) 33:37

11M ago33:37

33:37

Under the watchful eyes of two surgeons, Tari de Whitte has a change of heart. And maybe others do too. Featuring a phrase often repeated, a much-needed hug, and snap decisions. Trigger warnings: Medical discussion and procedures, drug abuse, surgery, surveillance, discussions of memory loss, fainting, discussion of death, alarms, fire, yelling, br…

1
S2E13 - Change of Heart (Part I) 56:54

12M ago56:54

56:54

There's a timer ticking on Tari de Whitte's life and everybody knows it. And while eir survival hangs in the balance, Haven's freedom encroaches on the fate of Cair Mallplex--and Zero Zero along with it. Featuring a trip backwards in time, reckless decisions, and confessions in waiting rooms. Trigger warnings: Discussions of death, drug and alcohol…

1
ANNOUNCEMENT: Season 2 Finale Update and APN's official statement for a Free Palestine 4:11

1y ago4:11

4:11

Donate to Operation Olive Branch here: https://linktr.ee/opolivebranchDonate to Palestinian's Children's Relief Fund here: https://pcrf1.app.neoncrm.com/forms/gaza-recovery Transcript: Hi, everyone. Eli Ramos here, creator and editor of Under the Electric Stars and Head of Aster Podcasting Network. Hello! It's been a really long time since I've tal…

1
S2E12 - Inside 1:08:01

2y ago1:08:01

1:08:01

Three sets of footsteps have been left behind in the dust, a wild chase winding its way through the deserted halls. And the only lights to guide Caine, Jet, and Vic as they chase down the trail are the holoframes of long-gone POTEN Co. influencers and the dawn creeping up on the outpost. At the end of it all, there’s a deadly confrontation that, if…

1
S2E11 - Breach 1:07:44

2y ago1:07:44

1:07:44

The enigmatic leader of Cair Mallplex finally reveals her past: one that defies the history that POTEN Co. has sold their citizens for years. And beyond the room where she tells her tale, another story is quickly unfolding. Featuring unexpected reactions, new names, and the return of a few old gadgets. Trigger warnings: Loud sounds (alarms, planes/…

1
S2E10 - Recall 1:08:07

2y ago1:08:07

1:08:07

As the sandstorm buries Cair Mallplex under its gusts, one memory has swum to the surface for Caine and Jet. And at the edge of other late-night memories, familiar faces and half-remembered voices are recalled. Featuring just the right amount of sugar, features that may be bugs, and acronyms that can be hard to follow. Trigger warnings: Dehumanizat…

1
CROSSPOST - Petja: A Hi Nay Love Story 41:19

2y ago41:19

41:19

This is a crosspost with Hi Nay, a supernatural horror podcast created by Motzie Dapul. They're currently crowdfunding for their show, so please give them a listen and toss them some money if you have the means! Check them out at https://hinaypod.podbean.com/ SUPPORT THE FUNDRAISER FOR MORE HI NAY at ko-fi.com/hinaypod We're continuing our fundrais…

1
S1E6 - Another Angle 43:55

2+ y ago43:55

43:55

Friday discovers some bad family news and Molly struggles to console her. In the meantime, the Spectral Assembly devises a plan to investigate this whole new magic deal. Content warnings: Discussion of family illness and death, discussion of exploitation of grief. TeamInigo Sherwani as Molly WingfieldBreeana Aplin as Friday DaoSorrel Pepple as Jule…

1
S1E7 - Victory Repeats Itself 1:05:45

2+ y ago1:05:45

1:05:45

Trigger warning for intense action sequences, glitched audio, references to past domestic abuse (drug use, trauma bonding between a parent and child, Munchausen's by proxy, neglect) Bilal and Lee try to escape, while Heer, Nazzy, and Altaf struggle to find them. Find us on social media! Twitter: @crownjewelspod Website: https://crownjewelspod.carrd…

1
S2E9 - Arrival 52:44

2+ y ago52:44

52:44

More than one threat looms over Cair Mallplex: the raging dust storm and the huge shadow of Elizabeth Haven snuff out the last of the wan light. And there’s no escaping the specters of the past that have arrived. Featuring a one-off nickname, a mystery solved, and a question of what it means to be human. Trigger warnings: Dehumanization, violence, …

1
S1E6 - Alex? 24:27

2+ y ago24:27

24:27

Alex goes missing. Trigger warnings: Distorted audio, missing person, manipulation, panic attacks, screaming. Social MediaTwitter - https://twitter.com/SkillSetPodTumblr - https://skillsetpodcast.tumblr.comTranscripts can be found on our website after the episode’s official release: https://skillsetpodcast.tumblr.com Thanks to Lucas, Christine, Fer…

1
S2E8 - Broken/Break 58:25

2+ y ago58:25

58:25

A certain kind of calm has fallen over the outposts. After new arrivals, high tensions, power outages, and the world seeming to shift on its axis, at the end of the day, the world readjusts. And life goes on. Zero Zero may be considering their return home. Cair Mallplex has finally come to the calm after the storm. Though that's not usually how tha…

1
S1E5 - Knight in Ink Armor

2+ y ago

—

Alex gets back into drawing, and everything seems fine. However, after a conversation with Condie, the group's fear skyrockets. Trigger warnings: Distorted audio, loss of autonomy, mentions of bruising. Social MediaTwitter - https://twitter.com/SkillSetPodTumblr - https://skillsetpodcast.tumblr.comTranscripts can be found on our website after the e…

1
UTES Interstitial: The Ultras 1:05:28

3y ago1:05:28

1:05:28

Astra Kilby is the most sought after musician beyond Metropolis West. When she's not playing yet another show, he's patrolling the outposts with the Ultras, a rebel group dedicated to stopping the Correctors from taking over. Audition day has come up for her and Katz Delany's new band, and it's time for them to find a new sound--and a new name for …

1
S1E5 - Smoke and Mirrors

3y ago

—

While Birdie's away, Kit and Jules play a game of truth or dare. Trigger warnings: Discussion of child neglect/abuse, discussion of death, arguing. TeamRomeo Di Giovanni as Kit BaileyGeorgia Head as Birdie AylesworthTilian Colón as Jules Aylesworth Thanks to Lucas, Ferris, Ezra Lee Buck, Chris Magilton, Audrey Pham, Yan, Joshua Hazeghazam, Eliseo R…

1
S2E7 - In the Shadow of the Tower 1:12:18

3y ago1:12:18

1:12:18

A curtain rises. The stage lights burst to life, cutting through the darkness to find their mark. Three stories from different times all come together. You've been waiting to hear these for a long time, haven't you? Featuring a little credit to those deserving, meals that are better at restaurants, and a legitimate audio technique you can visualize…

1
S1E4 - In Absentia 37:59

3y ago37:59

37:59

Birdie attends a party to talk about her "wellspring of magic" and finds the other attendees an... interesting bunch. Trigger warnings: Memory loss/dementia, loss of a baby, loss of a partner, detailed descriptions of sickness, illness, and death. Find us on our website at spectralevidence.carrd.co!Support us on Patreon at patreon.com/mxeliramos!Or…

1
S1E4 - Naive No Longer 20:55

3y ago20:55

20:55

Eshe, Laura, and Michael try their best to continue on with their lives. But these university students realize that this evil is bigger than they thought. Trigger warnings: Hospitals, deadnaming, yelling. Social MediaTwitter - https://twitter.com/SkillSetPodTumblr - https://skillsetpodcast.tumblr.comTranscripts can be found on our website after the…

1
S1E6 - Super Very Normal Day 34:27

3y ago34:27

34:27

After the events at the fair, the Kazans try to get back to normal. Trigger warning for sexual language, injury, and mentions of death. Find us on social media!Twitter: @crownjewelspodWebsite: https://crownjewelspod.carrd.coTranscripts available at https://tinyurl.com/crownjewelstranscripts Cast and CrewINIGO SHERWANI, the Showrunner and on Writing…

1
S2E6 - Connection 1:01:39

3+ y ago1:01:39

1:01:39

Time is not on Cair Mallplex's side--doors stay jammed shut, the oxygen is rapidly depleting, and the power is still down for the count. Jet, Caine, Sebastian, and Ganymede make the journey to repair the power grid, while tensions mount ever higher between the Reyes family. Featuring deep reads about character, a lot of mannequins, and a new narrat…

1
S1E3 - Dead Air 36:28

3+ y ago36:28

36:28

After Kit storms out of Valerie's cabin, she finds herself at the local record store with Molly, Friday, and a familiar voice from the radio. Something new has made its way to the little town of Wyrm Harbor, and Kit and his friends just might have front row seats. Trigger warnings: Discussions about implied abusive parental figures. Find us on our …

1
S1E3 - Empty Air 22:07

3+ y ago22:07

22:07

With their future stripped away from them, Alex is left to their own devices. What happens when the lonely are left alone? Trigger warnings: Distorted audio, derealization, panic attacks, blood mention. Social MediaTwitter - https://twitter.com/SkillSetPodTumblr - https://skillsetpodcast.tumblr.comTranscripts can be found on our website after the e…

1
S2E5 - Reputations 56:49

3+ y ago56:49

56:49

Zero Zero has been trying to get some of the Cair Mallplex crew onboard with the revolution, but it's proving difficult: Nell's disappearing around every corner while Ganymede dodges questions like laser blasts. Only Tari, ever energetic and perky, seems to have an in--but can Caine handle eir influencer ways before they lose their cool? Featuring …

1
S1E2 - Subverted Serendipity

3+ y ago

—

Birdie and Kit go to visit the cabin of one Miss Valerie Tique: local documentarian of strange phenomenon and the wife of Miss April June. But will Ms. Tique believe the impossible story they tell? And what answers could she possibly give to explain it? Trigger warnings: Mention of scars/injury, misophonia warning (drinking sounds at 10:50 to 11:22…

1
S2E4 - Follow the Lead 45:34

3+ y ago45:34

45:34

Kaleo and Ava have been stuck at home for the last few days, with a case quickly growing cold and a grudge the size of the whole Metropolis against each other. But when a mysterious drive appears, prompting the duo to find its sender before he disappears, they’ve got to join forces again and follow their one and only lead. Featuring an indulgent Ha…

1
One Year Anniversary Commentary 37:04

3+ y ago37:04

37:04

Well, a little over a year, but you get the point! Eli Ramos here--I had the pleasure of interviewing Inigo about Crown Jewels: their inspirations, challenges, and favorite parts of creating the show, among other things! Listen to us gush about the actors, do impressions of Altaf, and talk about the future of Crown Jewels post-hiatus! If you heard …

1
S1E2 - Get Better Soon! 21:31

3+ y ago21:31

21:31

Alex Fuentes isn't acting like their usual self. Could this be the aftermath of the events in the sewers, or could something more sinister be rising within? Trigger warnings: A character experiences a deep depressive episode. Social MediaTwitter - https://twitter.com/SkillSetPodTumblr - https://skillsetpodcast.tumblr.com Transcripts can be found on…

1
S1E5 - After It All 42:41

3+ y ago42:41

42:41

The Kazans close in on Altaf, while unknown forces begin to close in on all of them. Trigger warning for kidnapping and hostage situations, stalking, explosives, physical violence, character injury, and death. Find us on social media!Twitter: @crownjewelspodWebsite: https://crownjewelspod.carrd.coTranscripts available at https://tinyurl.com/crownje…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Aster Podcasting Network

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide