Hello Women in Film & Television International Members,
As we continue to build on our exciting new global collaboration between Stage 32 and WIFTI, I’m thrilled to highlight some of the fresh, topical education available through Stage 32 that you can access at exclusive member discounts. One of the hottest topics right now in the entertainment industry is vertical storytelling – the fast-paced, mobile-first format that’s exploding into a legitimate marketplace for building IP, engaging audiences, and advancing careers.
What started as an emerging format has quickly become a real opportunity for writers, filmmakers, and producers to create compelling content tailored for vertical viewing on phones. These micro-dramas and short-form vertical series are driving massive engagement, especially in genres like drama, romance, and thrillers, and they’re opening new doors for diverse creators.
Stage 32 has been at the forefront with recent webinars led by top industry experts who are actively shaping this space. Here are a few standout sessions that are perfect for WIFTI members looking to explore this trend:
Understanding Vertical Storytelling “Verticals” 101
Taught by Ammon Lyle, Senior Vice President of Production & Partnerships at Mansa, where he leads the Vertical Originals Division. Ammon brings an impressive background from major players like The Walt Disney Company, Amazon Prime Video, Audible, and previously ReelShort, where he specialized in high-engagement vertical micro-dramas. He’s managed multi-million-dollar deals, driven content acquisition, and overseen production across TV, film, and digital platforms—making him one of the most knowledgeable voices on why verticals are booming and how to succeed in this format.
In this on-demand webinar, you’ll get a comprehensive introduction to vertical storytelling: what defines a “vertical,” how it differs from traditional media, who’s watching and engaging, and the creative and production essentials for launching your own series. You’ll walk away with a clear roadmap for creating, producing, and launching vertical content, plus a sample episode script to kickstart your ideas.
How to Write Vertical Micro Drama Scripts
Also taught by Ammon Lyle, this session dives deeper into the craft side. You’ll explore why vertical micro-dramas are gaining massive traction, how to structure addictive short-form scripts that hook viewers instantly, and techniques for pacing, emotional beats, and binge-worthy storytelling optimized for mobile screens. By the end, you’ll know how to write, structure, and pitch your own micro-dramas, complete with a 1-page Micro Drama Script Starter template for a 2-minute episode.
Verticals: How to Package and Protect Your IP
Led by Jackie Ward, Senior Associate at Ramo Law, a star in entertainment law with expertise in structuring deals for independent film, TV, podcasts, and emerging digital platforms such as verticals. Jackie has a solutions-first approach, blending creative vision with precise legal frameworks. Before joining Ramo, she handled production, financing, and distribution counsel across various media. She’s also proud to represent Breaking Through the Lens, a non-profit supporting marginalized filmmakers through grants, mentorship, and industry connections.
This webinar gives an insider’s view on the business realities of vertical projects: how to package and position your IP, navigate deals and partnerships, protect your rights, and understand the platform landscape. It includes a downloadable Vertical Packaging & Platform Landscape Map and insights from dealmakers negotiating these agreements daily – essential for turning your creative work into viable, protected opportunities.
These webinars showcase why vertical storytelling is more than a trend—it’s a powerful way to combine strong, emotional narratives with real industry momentum in a mobile-driven world. Whether you’re a screenwriter crafting hooks that keep viewers swiping, a producer packaging projects, or simply curious about new pathways, these sessions provide practical, immediately applicable tools from professionals deeply embedded in the space.
As a WIFTI member, you can take advantage of your exclusive discounts. Please check your inboxes or contact your chapter heads to access these codes.
If you’re experimenting with vertical formats or considering your next project in this space, we’d love to hear from you! Feel free to email me at edu@stage32.com with questions, ideas, or to share your experiences.
We’re committed to bringing you education that keeps you ahead of the curve and helps turn your vision into opportunity. Let’s keep supporting women and gender-diverse creators worldwide to thrive!
Cheers,
Amanda Toney
Managing Director, Stage 32