In this episode of the Bookum Founders Talk Podcast, Kyle Colley sits down with Franklin Leonard, the founder of The Black List, the industry-leading platform that discovers and showcases the best screenplays and now fiction novels.

Franklin shares his insights on Hollywood in 2026, the future of film, the Oscars, and what it really takes to break into the industry as a writer or filmmaker.

We discuss:

• How The Black List expanded from screenplays to fiction books
• Franklin’s unique approach to curation and discovering talent
• Major Hollywood shifts, including Paramount, Warner Bros., Disney Sora Deal, and Netflix podcasting
• Tips for writers navigating publishing and screenwriting
• What makes a great story and what should be in every writer’s or filmmaker’s toolkit

Whether you are a creator, writer, or just curious about the future of storytelling, this conversation is sure to inspire.

Connect with Franklin Leonard:

• Website – The Black List
• Instagram
• X / Twitter
• Substack
  
  

Get the Bookum App:
Host or join dynamic online book clubs and connect with fellow readers: https://www.bookumapp.com

This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs.

Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com

Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!