The AAFCA Podcast

The AAFCA Podcast

The AAFCA Podcast highlights the cinematic experience through conversations with leading talent, creatives, and filmmakers, as well as leaders from the various communities, the entertainment industry, and prominent thought leaders. Hosted by Ed Adams, the podcast is produced by the African American Film Critics Association.

Episodes

April 16, 2025 28 mins

In this episode, we welcome Cameron Bailey, CEO of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), for an insightful conversation on one of the world’s most influential film festivals. Bailey shares how TIFF continues to shape the global film industry, champion diverse voices, and create a space for groundbreaking storytelling. Tune in as we discuss the festival’s impact, the evolving landscape of cinema, and what’s next for TIFF!

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In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Friday, President of Nice Crowd and a driving force behind the American Black Film Festival (ABFF). She shares insights into ABFF’s mission to amplify Black storytelling, support emerging talent, and create spaces where diverse voices thrive.

Nicole dives into the festival’s impact on the film industry, its evolution over the years, and what makes ABFF a premier destination for filmmakers and...

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In this episode, we sit down with Claudia Puig, Program Director of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, to explore the festival’s role in celebrating global cinema and elevating diverse storytelling. Claudia shares insights on curating impactful films, fostering emerging talent, and how Santa Barbara has become a key destination for filmmakers and cinephiles alike. Tune in for a fascinating discussion on the evolving fil...

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In this episode, we’re joined by Kathleen Bertrand, Executive Producer of the BronzeLens Film Festival, to discuss the festival’s mission of celebrating and amplifying Black filmmakers. Kathleen shares the festival’s journey, its impact on Atlanta’s thriving film scene, and how BronzeLens continues to champion diverse voices in the industry. Don’t miss this engaging conversation on the power of storytelling and the importance of cr...

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In this episode, we welcome Christina Routhier, Executive and Artistic Director of the Savannah Film Festival, to discuss the festival’s role in showcasing innovative films and supporting emerging talent. Christina shares insights into the festival’s unique connection with SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design), its impact on the industry, and the importance of fostering diverse storytelling. Tune in for a fascinating conversati...

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In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival with its visionary founders and producers, Stephanie and Floyd Rance. They share the festival’s journey in elevating Black storytelling, fostering a vibrant creative community, and providing a platform for filmmakers to showcase impactful narratives. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on the evolution of the festival, the importance of au...

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In this episode, we sit down with Wendy Guerrero, President of the Bentonville Film Festival, to discuss the festival’s mission of championing inclusion in media, the power of diverse storytelling, and what makes Bentonville a unique space for filmmakers. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the evolving landscape of film festivals and the impact of authentic representation on screen!

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In this episode of the AAFCA Podcast host Ed Adams speaks with Ikem Chukumerije, one of Hollywood's top real estate agents. We discuss how he got into the business, what are some the myths surrounding the market in LA, and about his agency, The Sports Relocation Agency

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In this episode of the AAFCA Podcast, Host Ed Adams chats with President and Literary Agent, Gloria Loomis of The Watkins/Loomis Agency about the role of the literary agent, and how they work with their clients to bring their works from print to film and television. 

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Barbie was one of the biggest movies of 2023 and in this episode, host Ed Adams speaks with fashion and toy designer, Stephen Sumner at MGA Entertainment about the toy business, intellectual properties, and what Barbie the iconic doll and the film so special. 

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In this episode of the AAFCA Podcast, Host Ed Adams explores the in flight entertainment and connectivity industry with Catherine McDaniel, Lead Content Curator - Movies for Delta Studio. 

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AAFCA celebrates the Special Achievement TV Vanguard Award winner. Host Ed Adams speaks with President and CEO of Hallmark Media, Wonya Lucas about her amazing career, lessons she's learned throughout her journey and advice she gained from her legendary father Bill Lucas and her uncle Hank Aaron. 

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March 23, 2023 44 mins

AAFCA highlights a Special Achievement award winner. Ed Adams speaks with TriStar Television Executive Vice President, Jennifer Turner about her journey to her role, and her passion project, Mad Cool Community and Fitness. 

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Season 5 of the AAFCA Podcast kicks off with a discussion about 'The Black Beauty Effect'. This three-part docu-series focuses on the history and impact people of color have had on the cosmetic, hair, and skin care industry. This passion project was a collaboration of producers Andrea Lewis and CJ Faison who helm the project. 

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August 5, 2022 51 mins

In this episode of the AAFCA Podcast, host Ed Adams speaks with former TMZ host, Van Lathan about his move from Louisiana to Los Angeles, his experiences at TMZ and the many projects he's done since leaving the show, including a new book and an Oscar and AAFCA-winning short, "Two Distant Strangers".

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In this episode host Ed Adams speaks with NFL athlete turned filmmaker Matthew A. Cherry about his  Academy Award-winning animated short, "Hair Love" and other film and television projects. 

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July 8, 2022 57 mins

In this episode of the AAFCA Podcast, host Ed Adams speaks with Deon Taylor and Ephraim Salaam, two lifelong friends who charted their own, unique paths from sports into the entertainment industry. Deon, left his career in basketball to start his own production company, Hidden Empire Film Group and has written, directed, and produced several films and television shows. Ephraim left a successful career in the NFL and became a writer...

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In this episode of The AAFCA Podcast, host Ed Adams speaks with architect and designer Kulapat Yantrasast, Creative Director at WHY about the exhibit design contributions for the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. 

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To kick off season four of The AAFCA Podcast, host Ed Adams speaks with NFL great and entertainment multi-hyphenate, Michael Strahan about his career, his motivations, and his company SMAC Entertainment.

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Rich Kleiman is not new to the entertainment business. He started out in the music industry working for Jay-Z and RocNation representing several artist in their portfolio and produced his first film – the concert film, “Fade to Black” in 2004. Fast forward to 2016, NBA MVP Kevin Durant and Kleiman start Thirty-Five Ventures, the umbrella company for all their business interests across sports, tech, and culture. 

Thirty-Fiv...

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