Respect The Process
One-on-one chats with commercial directors, advertising agency creatives, actors, editors, producers, crew and more. Filmmaker Jordan Brady, who has directed over 1300 spots, four feature films, three full-length documentaries, and one Netflix special, hosts the show. It's edited by Jake Brady. Jordan is also the founder of Commercial Directing Film School and owner of True Gentle Industries, a commercial production company in Los Angeles. The podcast has been running since 2013.
Episodes
Ben Levy Says Pitch The Wow Before the How.
Ben Levy is a creative coach, author, and expert in helping people present ideas with clarity, confidence, and humanity. In our conversation, we explored his powerful pitching principle: "wow before how." Whether you're a filmmaker, agency creative, or entrepreneur, Ben's advice will help you earn attention, build trust, and turn your next pitch into a genuine conversation. FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSH
How Producer Tony Finley Built a Fairer Model for Directors and Crew.
I sat down with Tony Finley, founder of We Film Sh*t, for a candid conversation about the changing business of commercial production. We talked about why directors deserve more ownership and profit, how bloated production-company models can hold creatives back, and why creative risk is essential to making better work. Tony also shared his vision for using AI to connect directors with the right pro
Comedy Director Michael Martin on Ego, Craft and Landing the Next Big Commercial.
Michael Martin and I discuss how commercial directors can stand out by developing a distinct point of view, taking creative risks, and making work that reflects their voice. Michael shares the story behind his handmade Starbucks director's cut, while both directors explore pitching, career setbacks, ego, humility, and the value of enjoying the creative process. Together, they offer practical persp
Puppet Master Jamie Shannon on the Magic of Simple Puppets for Brands Work.
Legendary puppeter Jamie Shannon's approach to puppetry shows that the most memorable characters come from simplicity, intention, and a process that leaves room for both the performer and the audience to bring them to life. Check out his Puppet Island site. Jamie Shannon is the creator behind beloved puppet projects including Nanalan', the beloved Mr. Meaty, The Groggs on YTV, and the viral commer
Nott Bros. Return to Talk Repeat Clients, Better Commercials and Career Momentum.
Loved hanging out with Nathan Miller and Mark Danciger of the Nott Brothers - talking about what it really takes to make it as a director. We get into how they approach the business side of directing, how they work with clients and agencies, and why being clear and collaborative makes the whole process better.We also talk about how their style has evolved, what they've learned along the way, and
How PJ Koll's Timmy IO Turns Production Chaos into Real-Time Profit Data.
EP PJ Koll has spent years in production and founded Where the Buffalo Roam before building Timmy.io, a platform shaped by his experience with the chaos of managing creative work. PJ shares a little of that history and how it led him to create a better way for production teams to stay organized. Enjoy! My Filmmaker Retreat has 3 spots left so save your spot now! FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '26 -
Wild Gravity's Jon Sneider on Hacking Advertising.
Jon Sneider, Founder of Wild Gravity, teaches us how his small, experienced teams can create better work faster than big, layered agencies. Jon shares lessons from advertising, filmmaking, and AI, showing why speed, collaboration, and craft still beat bureaucracy—and why creators who learn to work lean can make stronger ads, save money, and move ideas into the world much more quickly. Buy his book
Beauty Commercial Director Jasmin Kuhn: Finding Your Voice.
In this conversation with beauty director Jasmin Kuhn, we dig into the path that helped shape her voice as a filmmaker—from her early exposure to visual storytelling to the commercial work that defines her today. Jasmin shares honest insight on craft, collaboration, paid treatments, and what it really takes to build a strong reputation in the industry. It's a thoughtful look at how experience, cl
Pat Finn Would've Loved These Lovebirds with Tom Kenny & Jill Talley.
Just 15 minutes of me rambling about my caldron of feelings over fun, new work. Enjoy. My Filmmaker Retreat has 7 spots left so save your spot now! NEW COURSE - VIRTUAL PRODUCTION FOR COMMERCIAL DIRECTORS Filmmkaer and friend Kevin O'Brien has shot close to 100 spots on the LED wall. His new course is a tremendous head start to us that will shoot or considering to film on the volumn. Use cose "vir
Shiouwen Hong & Nathan Freise Are Married Filmmakers Thriving Apart.
Explore the dynamic world of Shiouwen Hong and Nathan Freise, married filmmakers thriving on separate creative paths. Shiouwen focuses on impactful documentary projects, while Nathan directs alongside his brother Adam. Discover how these two lovebirds balance personal and professional lives, maintain unique voices, and support each other's artistic journeys. A key takeaway: embracing individuality
Ikigai Plus and Your Filmmaker Voice = Reel plus Reputation.
After the last episode's babble, I dig into what it really means to "find your voice" as a filmmaker—especially in the commercial world. It isn't just a visual style, but the combination of your reel and your reputation: the work you put out plus what it's like to work with you. I talk about the balance of ego and humility on set, and explain why repeat business is the magic fourth "R" that grow
From 30-Foot Colons to CGI Critters: Staying Tool Agnostic as a Commercial Director.
Just me talking about staying tool agnostic as a commercial director—moving between live-action, CG, and AI without losing my point of view. I share recent job stories, how I'm using my Filmmaker Retreat Joshua Tree and Posh Duo promos as testing grounds for new tools, and why I still put actors, crew, agency team - you know - collaboration above whatever camera, crane or software is hot this week
Jonathan Del Gatto: Brand Films, Direct-to-Consumer & Creative Coaching.
Jonathan Del Gatto is a visionary filmmaker and creative coach, known for his transformative work in brand films and direct-to-consumer content. In this episode, Jonathan shares his journey from editing TV commercials to founding Brighter Company, where he crafts compelling narratives that connect with audiences. We explore the evolution of content creation—balancing artistry with strategy, the sh
Jonathan Del Gatto Nails Direct-to-Consumer and Creative Coaching
Jonathan Del Gatto is a visionary filmmaker and creative coach, known for his transformative work in brand films and direct-to-consumer content. In this episode, Jonathan shares his journey from editing TV commercials to founding Brighter Company, where he crafts compelling narratives that connect with audiences. We explore the evolution of content creation—balancing artistry with strategy, the sh
Happy Accidents and Hard Cuts: Inside Commercial Editor Gary Knight's Edit Suite.
Gary Knight is a legendary commercial editor and partner at Cut+Run whose work spans iconic spots for brands like Adidas, American Express, and Chase. In this episode, Gary traces his journey from rubber-numbering film cans as a teenage runner in Soho to becoming a sought-after storyteller in the edit bay. We dig into the craft of editing—taste vs. tools, why watching all the footage still matters
Our Editor's Picks: Jake Brady's Top 10 Filmmaker Conversations.
Happy birthday to Jake Brady, our show's editor. I asked him to choose his Top 10 recent episodes and here it is, in no particular order: director Courtney Marsh, director Quinn Katherman, editor Chris Salters (Part 2), Chris Salters (Part 1), writer/director/producer Michael Patrick Jann, dynamic directing duo Morgan & Nick, director Elana Barkowski, director JJ Adler, actor and improv legend Pat
Scotty Bergstein Shares The Value of Embracing Change and Letting Go of Ego in Advertising
Creative Director/Director Scotty Bergstein has been revolutionizing the commercial production process by embracing integrated teams, trust-based collaboration, and cutting-edge technology. Streamlining workflows, enhancing creativity, and delivering high-quality results faster and more cost-effectively are needed to stay relevant. Whether you're a director, agency, or client, his insights provide
Exploring Art and AI in Modern Media with Adam Witten.
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 an
The Joys Being An In-House Filmmaker with Chris Francis.
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 technic
Creativity and Career Growth with Director Courtney Marsh.
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 le
Music for the Heart of the Story: Randy Shattuck of Supernatural Sounds.
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-dri
Unpacking A Gray Wolf and Brown Bear Friendship: Inside Filmmaker Josh Baker's Wolf Bear Agency.
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 i
How To Book Direct to Brand Gigs: Biz Dev Unleashed with James Keblas.
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' stellar podcast called "Crossing The Axis". We call is a Simulpod© and we
Remembering Pat Finn: 20 Years of Comedy and Friendship.
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,
From Sailboats to the Himalayas with Filmmaker Barry Walton.
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 filmmakin
Filmmaker Zack Seckler On Mastering Comedy In Top-Tier Advertising.
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
Unlocking Filmmaking Secrets with Director Rob Spera.
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 car
From Agency to Autonomy: Comedy Director Michael Martin's Journey.
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 cr
Commercial Director Quinn Katherman On Innovative Storytelling, Comedy and Adapting To The New World.
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 ch
Commercial Producer Thomas Anderson Navigates Agency and Freelance Production Producing.
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,
The Role of a First AD: Insights from Jason Slaughter
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 res
My Summer Fling With Prostate Cancer.
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 i
Filmmaker Kristyna Archer On Artistic Growth and Bold Career Moves.
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 technologies
Directors' Rep Ann Asprodites' Call For Entries To "Spot in A Pocket" Content.
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. FIL
Filmmaker Matt Uhry Is The Cat Whisperer.
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 pra
Mark Kohl On Film Sets And Psychedelics: Finding Purpose in Filmmaking.
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 c
How Filmmaker Jon Schwartz Went From Skate Parks to Big Brand Commercials.
Jon Schwartz is a dynamic filmmaker with a knack for technical precision, blending creativity with collaboration. His work reflects a deep respect for the filmmaking process, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and adaptability. His dream project is a fingerboarding, specifically a tech deck commercial using motion control, probe lenses, and cloning techniques to create an "insane" and highly
Gabriel Shalom Is Reinventing Production: Lessons from the Creative Frontlines.
Filmmaker Gabriel Shalom is a multidisxiplinary creative (Screenwriter | Experiential Producer | Artist | Inventor | Futurist Speaker | ex-Meta Creative) now adds agency owner to his many credits with the launch of Brave New Agency. In this episode, Gabriel and dive into the rapidly changing world of creative strategy, production, and the impact of AI on advertising. They discuss the evolving role
Filmmaker Tony Franklin's Passion Project: "The Big Green House".
Commercial and documentary director Tony Franklin returns to share a remarkable journey through his creative world. From his early days in Target's creative department to becoming an acclaimed filmmaker, Tony shares the inspiring story behind his documentary "The Big Green House" - a passion project that took six years to complete and chronicles an extraordinary Minneapolis family who housed 80 pe
From Short Film to F1: Lessons from Joseph Kosinski's Self-Investment.
Investing in yourself is the ultimate career hack. When you believe in your vision enough to create something - even on the side, even without guaranteed success - you open doors that might never have existed. Joseph Kosinski didn't wait for permission; he made a CGI short in his apartment, submitted it to festivals, and that single act of creative courage launched his entire career. His journey p
The AI Filmmaking Sandwhich Will Outshine Slop.
The secret sauce is humans in front of an behind the camera. AI filmmaking can do it all, but I don't think it cuts it alone, just yet. Just me walking you through my "AI Sandwich" technique—a creative approach I believe will empower filmmakers and stretch budgets without sacrficing craft or human connection. Not saying my video is great, but the idea works. FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '25 Thurs
Filmmaker Matt Macedo Explains Directing Vertical Features.
Director Matt Macedo, the OG of this emerging vertical feature format, breaks it down for us. These aren't just quick clips—we're talking full 80 plus page scripts shot in five to ten days, distributed in bite-sized, addictive chunks. Matt's navigating this whole new world of cinema, where platforms like Reel Short are making billions and giving young filmmakers unprecedented opportunities. It's t
My Latest Documentary: How One Farmer Fights for Family Farms.
Lucinda, a badass 8th generation Missouri farmer, takes on the meat industry and proves ethical farming isn't just possible, it's profitable. Watch "Trust The System" my short documentary (under 19 minutes) on YouTube... I know you'll love it. Thanks! FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '25 Thursday, September 25th – Sunday, September 28th, 2025. Limit 15 Filmmakers. This will be our 4th year and it's s
Filmmaker Bryan Buckley: Super Bowl Ads, Social Change & Cinema With a Conscience.
Director Bryan Buckley, a two-time Oscar-nominated writer/director, has earned the nickname "King of the Super Bowl" from The New York Times for directing 71 Super Bowl commercials since 2000. A co-founder of Hungry Man, Buckley's work has been recognized with over 60 Cannes Lions (including two Grand Prix wins), multiple Emmys, a DGA Award, and induction into the MoMA permanent collection. In 202
Directing Actors From Casting to Final Cut.
Monday, May 19th at 10am Pacific, I'm giving a live workshop on the Filmmakers Academy platform. "Directing Actors: From Casting to Final Cut." I love working with actors, and I believe their performances are what truly sell a commercial. I'll be covering everything from initial conversations with casting directors to communicating with editors about the best takes and how to perserve the tone of
How to Survive the Commercial Production Revolution with CMS Production President Tony Low.
I sit down with Tony Low, Owner and President of CMS Productions, to dive deep into the current state of commercial production. Tony reveals how union compliance really works and why major brands are suddenly creating their own studios. He breaks down the "flip" phenomenon on set and explains why Los Angeles is losing its production mojo. This is the real, unfiltered story of what's happening in p
Rock Climbing Drag Queens, Belize and Unconventional Storytelling with Dustin Devlin.
When he's not shooting, filmmaker Dustin Devlin is likely out surfing on the Cape or soft-rocking (barefoot) somewhere. Moving from the editor suite to the director's chair and everything in between, Dustin is enamored with the production process and knows the TLC required to nurture each project from beginning to end. Dustin co-founded VAGRANTS out of a need and passion to disrupt the status quo
From Prince To Pick Up Trucks with Director Scott McCullough.
Director Scott McCullough's career trajectory reads like a Hollywood fever dream. From shooting intimate music videos with Prince to capturing the raw energy of NASCAR and crafting cinematic commercials for Kubota and Pepsi, Scott's journey is a masterclass in creative adaptability. We dive deep into the art of networking, the importance of staying curious, and how a filmmaker can transform unexpe
That Time Val Kilmer Took Us Camping.
Val Kilmer was more than a movie star—he was a father, a poet, an actor, and an enigma. But above all, he was a generous soul who deeply understood the importance of creating meaningful moments. When our sons were in grade school together, Val invited my family on an unforgettable camping trip to his sprawling ranch in New Mexico. Every activity he planned was designed to build lasting memories fo
Sniffing Glue and Cutting Felt with Mike Slane and Adrian Bishop, aka Practice.
My friends fimmakers Mike Slane and Ade Bishop are the creative duo behind Practice, a commercial directing studio known for their whimsical mixed-media animation. They've worked on projects for Sesame Street, Thumbtack, and Blonde Beards, bringing characters to life with a unique blend of practical effects and digital magic. Their approach is all about play, creativity, and finding joy in the pro
Chasing Creativity and Community with Mack Garrison of Dash Studio.
Mack Garrison, the co-founder and creative director of Dash Studio, a motion design agency based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Mack and I cover a ton of ground in this conversation - from his adventures hiking in Patagonia, to the origin story of starting his own studio, to the importance of building genuine relationships in this industry. We also dive into the challenges of balancing creativity and
PJ Pereira Is Redefining Creativity: Exploring the Transformative Power of AI in Advertising.
My esteemed guest is PJ Pereira, a true creative pioneer at the intersection of advertising, storytelling, and artificial intelligence. As co-founder of Pereira O'Dell, he has led groundbreaking AI-driven campaigns (see: Coca Cola's ai made "Holidays Are Coming") that push the boundaries of modern marketing. A thought leader in the industry, PJ explores how AI enhances creativity, shaping the futu
Crafting Captivating Director's Treatments with Charles Barclay of Hollywood Secret Service.
A pleasure to chat with Charles Barclay, the founder of Hollywood Secret Service. He's a master of director's treatments and more. Check out my rant about treatments in Little Black Book. COMMERCIAL DIRECTING BOOTCAMP 04.05.2025 Filmmakers learn how to win jobs and craft better work that leads to more opportunities. Agency creatives will learn how the flow goes on-set before the shoot. Limit 10 fi
Embracing Your Creative Journey: My Reflections on Passion and Perseverance.
As I sit in my trailer-studio, "Breezy," we call her, I can't help but reflect on the journey that has brought me here. From my early days watching Steve Martin on SNL to the evolution of my own creative path, the pursuit of artistry has been a constant companion. This is just me, share insights on committing to your passion projects, embracing change, and finding fulfillment in the very process o
The Sawtooth Saga Continues: Chris Salters Part II
Chris Salters, editor and founder of Sawtooth, tells us the importance of using the right tool for the right job in filmmaking. Whether it's LED walls, green screens, or AI-powered tools, the key is understanding the limitations and challenges of each technology and using them responsibly to achieve the desired creative outcome. It's about leveraging technology in a thoughtful and effective manner
Launching Sawtooth: How Editor Chris Salters is Redefining the Post-Production Landscape.
Editor Chris Salters launched Sawtooth, his own freelance-driven editorial house. Chris and I talk about how he's providing an all-in-one post solution for agencies and brands. We unpack the evolving role of AI in post-production, and we dive into his work in spots obviously. I love his work on the Pinocchio documentary by Guillermo del Toro, where managing massive amounts of footage was key. Of c
Make Your Passion Project Now With Filmmaker Michael Patrick Jann.
Writer/Director/Producer Micheal Patrick Jann ("Drop Dead Gorgeous", "The State", "The Good Doctor") and I are holding a live webinar called "Make Your Passion Project Now" on Feb. 18th. 6pm Pacific. Live with a spirited Q&A and VIP pop ins. Sign up here. 100% of the ticket sales go to Red Cross LA to help the victims of the LA fires. Graciously hosted by our dear friends at the Filmmakers Academy
Micro Steps to Macro Progress: Tiny Assignments for Filmmakers.
Welcome our newest sponsor: Spot School - the best commercial directing courses on the planet. Thanks to all that have supported the victims of these horrific LA fires. My family is safe, but countless friends and colleagues have lost their homes. We're doing a fund-raising webcast called Make Your Passsion Project Now with filmmaker Michael Patrick Jann (Award-Winning Writer/Director/Producer "Or
Omnicom/RAPP Global CCO Troy Hitch's Million Little Big Ideas.
Troy Hitch, the Global Chief Creative Officer at Omnicom/RAPP. As a leader at the forefront of shaping the future of advertising, Troy's insights into the art and science of RAPP's precision marketing techniques were nothing short of fascinating. Troy shared his concept of "a million little big ideas" - the challenge of creating personalized, emotionally engaging experiences that go beyond just tr
Commercial Director Cassandra Brooksbank's Explosive Approach to Action Comedy.
Director Cassandra Brooksbank is a rising star in the commercial directing world - she has a style that's all her own - a high-energy blend of action, comedy, and pure, unadulterated chaos. When I sat down with Cassandra, I truly understood the magic she brings to the table. There's a fearlessness and creativity to her work that's simply captivating, and a wicked sense of humor that keeps you on y
Producer Director Daniel Brea Urges Us to Delegate, Elevate, Dominate Filmmaking.
When Producer-Director Daniel Brea's unassuming yet impactful Instagram ads for his Dream Rach Media started popping up in my feed, I knew I had to get him on the show. His message of delegating, building a team, and not trying to be a one-man band really resonated with me - it's a philosophy I've long advocated for in the commercial filmmaking world. As we dove into Daniel's journey, from his Eur
Trey Nelson's Lens of Compassion: Directing for a Cause.
Commercial director Trey Nelson shares his remarkable journey of finding purpose and intention in his work. Trey describes how a near-death experience led him to focus on creating emotionally resonant, purpose-driven content - exemplified by his impactful work with Cookies For Kids Cancer. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating a collaborative, "safe space" on set, and speaks passionately abo
Teddy Stoecklein, ECD at VIA, Unlocks The Keys To Creative Collaboration.
Teddy Stoecklein is the Co-Executive Creative Director at Via, the Portland, Maine-based advertising agency. With over 16 years of experience at the agency, Teddy has helped guide Via to win numerous accolades, including being named the Clio Small Agency of the Year. In addition to his leadership role, Teddy remains actively involved in the creative process, bringing his passion for mentoring youn
Lessons in Boldness from Steve Red, President/Co-CCO of RTO+P.
Steve Red, Chief Creative Officer and co-founder of Red Tettemer O'Connell + Partners, gives a candid chat about creating bold, unforgettable campaigns that cut through the noise. Steve pulls back the curtain on the agency's most iconic work—like the hilariously disruptive "Dietz Nuts" Super Bowl spot with Craig Robinson, and reveals the creative principles that fuel their success. With a blend of
Director Julian Acosta Blends Tradition and Innovation To Evolve His Creative Voice.
Growing up in Bakersfield, Filmmaker Julian Acosta discovered his passion for filmmaking later in life, finding his voice through visual storytelling that connects with audiences on a human level. As a globally sought-after director, Julian has navigated the evolving landscape of the industry, embracing new tools like AI while staying true to his authentic creative vision. In this insightful discu
MoinkFest: LA Gets a Taste of Family-Farmed, Ethically Raised Beef.
MoinkFest is December 19th, 2024 in Los Angles. It is FREE. Just sign up to attend and give your honest opinions & thoughts on camera. We're celebrating family farmers that bring ethically-raised beef, pork, chicken and lamb to your door. I want city folk to taste the quality of the meat for themselves, while learning what regenerative farming does for the families that own and operate them. And i
Relationship-Fueled Filmmaking with Commercial Directing Duo Morgan and Nick.
Directing duo Morgan & Nick (Morgan Bond Grisham and Nickolas Grisham) discussed their journey in establishing their production company CamLock Films, the importance of relationships and reputation in the industry, their use of advanced filmmaking techniques like previz, the challenges of self-promotion on social media, and their recent creative projects. They also touched on their passion for per
Gratitude On This Day of Thanks.
Happy Thanksgiving! Just me rambling for 13 minutes about how much I appreciate everyone for listening and engaging over the years. Also so grateful for you, my whole team and just to be a working commercial director. And of course, without my family what is the point? #familyfirst Congrats to filmmaker Kat Raphael is the reipient of Commercial Directing Film School alumni Staci Talley's Female Fi
Florence EP Ned Brown on Mentorship, Creativity and Supporting Directorial Talent.
Florence Managing Director and Executive Producer Ned Brown has been a key figure in the commercial production world for as long as I've been in the business. He's a savvy EP and generous with his knowledge, continuing to help to guide the careers of many talented directors. Ned and I discuss the evolution of the industry, the importance of authenticity, and how he supports his directors' creative
Marc Schölermann Shares His Commercial Directing Secrets In His New Book: "Directing Commercials."
Veteran commercial directors Marc Scholermann shares his many insights on navigating the industry, building a diverse portfolio, collaborating with agencies, and the importance of maintaining strong client relationships. Wow, there's a wealth of practical advice for both aspiring and seasoned commercial directors looking to elevate their craft and grow their careers. Marc's new book, "Directing Co
Ad Production Insider Insights from Media Fixer Michael Pierce.
A real pleasure sitting down with industry veteran Michael Pierce for a captivativing conversation and I was eager to learn more about Michael's unique role as a "media fixer." What struck me most was his ability to evolve from a creative freelancer to a strategic media connector, leveraging his extensive network and deep industry knowledge. The role as a "media fixer" is truly multifaceted, encom
From Documentaries to Commercials: The Creative Journey of Filmmaker Jessica Sanders.
Jessica Altina Lee Sanders's martial arts action comedy short "THE COCKTAIL PARTY" exploring female empowerment, premiered at the 2021 Tribeca Film Festival and won numerous international festival awards. The action packed, playful film tells the story of a cocktail party that turns into an unexpected martial arts action film. Jessica directed and produced the short film "End of the Line" which pr
Commercial Filmmaking Insights from Advertising Veteran Anthony Vagnoni.
Advertising industry veteran Anthony Vagnoni and I had an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of commercial filmmaking and marketing. With decades of experience spanning roles in publishing, PR, and production, Vagnoni provides a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing up-and-coming directors. From the importance of self-promotion to the shifting dynamics between
Ilanna Barkusky: Embracing Her Unexpected Path to Directorial Success.
Born in Vancouver, Canada and now based in Los Angeles, Ilanna Barkusky is an internationally awarded commercial director, filmmaker and photographer. Her creative journey originated in the action sports industry, capturing athletes in the mountains with her camera in tow while completing her Bachelor of Arts at the University of British Columbia. Through her work, she unifies dynamic movement wit
Hybrid Collective's Susan Munro On the Art and Discipline Behind Editing Powerful Stories.
Susan Munro (on the right) of Hybrid Collective and more recently of her sister company Session City, (seen above with co-founder Starr Session Varga, left) has consistently impressed me with her passion and dedication to the craft. As longtime friends who have worked together for over a decade, I've always admired her ability to blend technical expertise with a deep understanding of how to maximi
Director Lars Timmermann Mixes Whimsy, Wonder and Technical Prowess.
Commercial director Lars Timmermann is a true master of his craft, blending technical prowess with a boundless creative spirit. From meticulously crafted stop-motion miniatures to collaborating with skilled puppeteers, Lars' work is a testament to the power of practical effects and handcrafted elements. I was struck by his unwavering commitment to respecting the entire filmmaking team, fostering a
Behind the Mix at Signature Sound: Insights from Audio Professionals on Their Collaborative Process.
Audio industry veterans Dawn Redman, Larry Benjamin, and Tim Hoogenakker join me in a lively conversation at Signature Post. Dawn is the director of scheduling, where she oversees operations. Larry is a re-recording mixer who has worked on shows such as Ozark and is currently mixing Jason Bateman's upcoming series Black Rabbit. Tim is also a re-recording mixer and has a background in live music re
EP Scott Dodoro's Journey Launching Local Boy Productions.
Executive Producer Scott Dodoro shares how his passion for film led to starting Local Boy Productions after over a decade working for another company. Local Boy, by the way, is a full service production company in Detroit, built for the future. He discusses building his roster of directors and tackling big projects for Buick, Cadillac and GMC> Golly we even talk about using AI in spots. Scott offe
AI Storytelling From An Early Adaptor's Point of View, Filmmaker Jon Finger, Part Two.
The conclusion to my fascinating chat with Filmmaker Jon Finger, my guru of AI filmmaking tools, discusses their impact on the creative industries from the perspective of an early adopter. While acknowledging tools like image generation raise valid concerns, Jon believes AI can empower independent artists by lowering barriers to distribution. Jon shares experiences experimenting with AI storytelli
Filmmaker Jon Finger Quells Our Fears Of AI Storytelling Tools. Part One.
Jon Finger, my guru of AI filmmaking tools, discusses their impact on the creative industries from the perspective of an early adopter. While acknowledging tools like image generation raise valid concerns, Jon believes AI can empower independent artists by lowering barriers to distribution. Jon shares experiences experimenting with AI storytelling but finds human connection vital. He stresses resp
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