Respect The Process

Filmmaker Adam Witten, a seasoned expert in the filmmaking industry and partner in Smokin' Oakham, chats with me about the transformative impact of AI on creative processes. Adam shares his journey and experiences, highlighting how AI tools are reshaping podcast editing and visual storytelling. We delve into the balance between human creativity and technological innovation, discussing the legal and et...

Chris Francis's journey in filmmaking and advertising is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. From his early days as a spelling bee champion and skateboarding videographer to becoming a church storyteller and a key creative force at Raindrop Agency, Chris has continuously evolved by embracing diverse experiences. His work reflects a unique blend of humor, authenticity, and technical skill, which he applies to craft...

Oscar-nominated filmmaker Courtney Marsh shares her inspiring journey behind the camera directing acclaimed commercials and short films. Courtney emphasized the importance of building strong industry relationships and trusting the creative process, even when faced with constraints like iPhone filmmaking. Her insights into personal branding and the evolving landscape of filmmaking offer valuable lesson...

Composer, filmmaker, and Supernatural Sounds founder Randy Shattuck joins us to talk about crafting "music for the heart of the story" and why he wants access as early as the script stage. We dive into "temp love"—that dangerous attachment to placeholder tracks that directors can never quite shake—and how it can sabotage your final score if you're not careful. Randy also shares how his ukulele-driven ...

Filmmaker Josh Baker's journey from a staff filmmaker to the founder of The Wolf Bear Agency is nothing short of inspiring. We first crossed paths at my Commercial Directing Bootcamp, where his passion for storytelling and his unique ability to wear multiple hats in production stood out. Over the years, Josh has honed his craft, directing over 100 commercials, and has become a master at creating impactful video campai...

Want to actually book more jobs for yourproduction company? James Keblas is one of the smartest minds in commercial production sales systems — and in this episode, he breaks down what really works when it comes to landing clients, building relationships, and staying consistently booked. And please, you must check out James' s...

So long 2025. In this episode, I pay tribute to my longtime collaborator and dear friend, Pat Finn, reflecting on our twenty years of creative partnership in commercial filmmaking shooting Valley Toyota. Pat starred as "Pat" in "Pat TV" campaign from LT, the Phoenix agency also mourning their dear Pat. Just me babbling through heartfelt stories and fond memories, to honor Pat's comedic brilliance, generosity, and the lasting impact...

Filmmaker Barry Walton and I discuss the value of passion projects, the lessons learned from giving back, and the significance of respecting the creative process. Barry shares insights from his many documentary adventures, emphasizing the personal growth that comes from overcoming challenges. The discussion culminates in a reflection on how life teaches us to respect the process, both in filmmaking and in personal endeavors. 

Barry...

Director Zack Seckler has been steadily working with the best agencies and brands for years. We chat about this Career Migration spot (click to see and read about it in Shots) and so much more. Zach has been featured in every industry publication, on both the advertising and production side. A treat to finally get to chat.

COMMERCIAL DIRECTING BOOTCAMP - 01.24.2026
Saturday, January 24th. Limit 10 filmmakers. This an in-person, int...

Rob Spera is a seasoned director and educator, on the pod to share his journey through the world of filmmaking. With over 25 feature films and 100 hours of television under his belt, Rob brings a wealth of experience and insight into the art of directing. In this episode, we delve into his acclaimed book, "Film and TV Directors Field Manual," exploring the practical maxims that have guided his career. Rob's passion for teaching and...

Director Michael Martin and I delve into the intricacies of the creative industry, sharing personal anecdotes and professional insights. Michael discusses his journey from agency life to founding his own production company, Two Seam, highlighting the importance of building genuine relationships in the industry. The conversation touches on the evolving nature of in-house production, the value of creative freedom, and the significanc...

I sit down with the talented director Quinn Katherman, whose creative vision has brought to life memorable commercials, including the Super Bowl spot with Cardi B and the humorous Downy campaign. Quinn shares her journey from a creative director to a celebrated director, revealing the insights and experiences that have shaped her unique approach to storytelling. Discover how Quinn navigates the challenges of commercial directing wi...

October 22, in Venice, Califonia, Thomas is hosting a fun, free meet up for commercial industry types. Back on the pod, I sat down with Thomas Anderson, an Emmy-winning Executive Producer who has seamlessly navigated the worlds of both agency and freelance production. With a career built on a foundation of freelance production work and the founding of Different Gravy Films in Southern California, Thomas has made things happen on se...

In this engaging conversation, Jordan Brady and Jason Slaughter delve into the intricacies of filmmaking, particularly focusing on the role of a First Assistant Director (AD). They explore personal connections, the journey into the film industry, and the evolution of technology in filmmaking. Jason shares valuable insights for new filmmakers, emphasizing the importance of trusting the crew and respecting the creative process. The d...

1 out of 8 men will get prostate cancer, which means 7 of you are in the clear. I found out I have it in early June and tomorrow I'm having a radical prostatecomy... removal of the prostate. By the time many of y'all hear this, I'll be cancer-free.

The procedure is farily routine, my friends and family are here for me and I live a charmed life. I'm relatively young, healthy with excellent health insuranc...

Filmmaker Kristyna Archer is a talented interdisciplinary artist working across film, photography, art, and now AI, creating visually-compelling, stylized worlds.  Her work is colorful, quirky, playful, FUN...occassionally absurd. I love her stuff! Kristyna 3.0, as I call her, shares her journey of creative reinvention, from her early days in monochromatic photography to embracing new technologi...

Great prizes. Winners of the "Spot in A Pocket" commercial contest win a year subscription to Agency Source, articles in both LBBonline and The Howler, my online Masterclasss and a guest appearance on this show. Independent Rep extraordinaire Ann Asprodites expliains that and more in the episode. Ann is a longtime pal and one of the best. She's a Co Founder or AIR, the Alliance of Indie Reps. 

FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA...

Director/DP Matt Uhry is a highly regarded commercial director celebrated for his unique ability to work with both people and animals—particularly cats—on commercial sets. Matt has developed a reputation for his focused, collaborative, and calm demeanor, which is especially valuable when directing animal talent. He shares his expertise through a popular video series on directing cats, offering practical tips and behin...

Mark Kohl is a renowned cinematographer, director and producer whose journey goes far beyond the camera lens. Mark shares how his experiences in the high-pressure world of filmmaking led him to explore psychedelics, mindfulness, and the pursuit of true purpose. From the collective flow of a film crew to the personal revelations found in altered states, Mark reveals how embracing new perspectives can unlock creativity and fulfillmen...