We have a track record of pairing writers with experts so they can produce award winning shows that make a difference.
We’ve Consulted on the Biggest Shows
How We Work
We connect screenwriters, showrunners, producers, and other industry creatives researching for their script with an expert related to their inquiry. We help facilitate these one-on-one consultations for free!
A quick question?
We can provide quick answers. We know you work on tight deadlines. Our staff is ready to help. We’ll find facts, case examples, experts and real people who can share their stories.
Experts who’ll answer questions and offer perspective.
Our list of experts who’ll answer questions and offer perspective is far-reaching—it covers academic, government and health care organizations around the world.
Our experts can brief your writers on the hottest health issues.
We can bring information on a wide range of health and climate change topics to your creative teams— right inside the writers rooms.
Finding inspiration on the streets of L.A.
We offer on-the-ground experience to writers, connecting them with local storytellers to learn about health challenges and innovative solutions, from NASA’s JPL to Santa Cruz Island to urban mini-farms in East Los Angeles. Contact us at hhs@usc.edu and tell us where you’d like to go!
Health issues that fit your characters and storylines.
We can share patient stories, public health investigations and focus group findings from our files.
Entertaining programs on health challenges and storytelling.
Our discussions feature public health experts, first responders, patients, families—as well as writers and producers—exploring topics such as disabilities, addiction, bioterrorism and HIV/AIDS.
Where filmmakers and experts mix it up.
Our screenings present provocative and inspiring films, with Q&As featuring the filmmakers and experts on hand to discuss their work and the latest research.
“The thing that always strikes me about the experts you folks bring to the table is not just that they’re knowledgeable, but they’re really enthusiastic and have terrific ideas. These calls always make the scripts so much better.”
Executive Producer“Notorious”, ABC
How to become a HH&S Consultant
Our program is a free resource assisting television writers/producers, networks, and studios, connecting the entertainment community with topic experts in an effort to ensure accuracy in scripts that inform audiences. If you are interested in becoming a consultant, please get in touch with us here.
FAQs
Q: How are your consultation services free?
A: We receive funding from various grants, foundations, and partners to ensure our services are always free.
Q: How are consultations facilitated?
A: We facilitate all inquiries and arrange Zoom meetings or phone calls, coordinating all communication between you and the show/project. Some inquiries can be handled over email.
Q: When are consultations scheduled?
A: We schedule 30-to 60-minute calls at mutually convenient times (Monday-Friday 9 am to 5 pm).
Q: Is there any compensation or credit for consulting on a show?
A: Consultations are a pro bono service, so there is no credit or compensation.
Q: Can I talk about a show/episode I’ve consulted on?
A: Consultation details discussed should stay confidential until it airs or is released.
Q: Can I pitch a story idea while consulting on a project?
A: We respect everyone’s time – consultant and creatives alike – so we do not allow for pitching during consultations.