Bleav No Script No Problem: Recent Episodes
Bleav Podcast Network
Executive Producer Steve Berkowitz has been producing unscripted television, documentary series and sports for 20 years. Each episode, Steve interviews some of the most talented people working today in television, film, music, sports, business, medicine, and much more. Listen as he shares fascinating and riveting stories from behind the scenes of your favorite documentaries, reality TV shows, game shows, and true crime docu-series.
In this episode of No Script No Problem, BAFTA-nominated filmmaker NATALIE HEWIT joins the show to talk about her new epic Nat Geo documentary, "ENDURANCE," which deftly chronicles the inspiring stories of two landmark expeditions in Antarctica - the original by Ernest Shackleton in 1914 and the modern-day search for his sunken ship. Natalie shares some riveting details of what it was like to be on the boat with the crew searching for the shipwreck Endurance while filming in below freezing temperatures. She also describes some of the groundbreaking AI technology they used to bring Shackleton's voice into the film.
If you love adventure and defying the odds, this is a documentary you will love. You can watch it on Nat Geo, Disney + and Hulu. Listen to my interview with Natalie anywhere you get podcasts and watch it on YouTube.
Some other topics I discuss include:
- Comcast's possible spinoff of its cable assets
- Governor Newsom's proposal to increase the film tax credit in California
- Netflix's 3rd quarter earnings
Links below for more information:Newsom proposes an increase in tax credit
Comcast could spin off cable assets
Endurance Trailer
This week on No Script No Problem, I talk to documentary filmmaker Amy Nicholson about her new feature doc “Happy Campers,” which chronicles the final days at a waterfront Virginia trailer park that welcomes all with a smile… until developers come in, buy up the property, and kick the folks who've loved the place for generations out.
Listen as Amy explains how she lived in the trailer park during production and how she felt when capitalism collided with this loving community. Amy also explains how she got the film made, which was not easy, and gives some advice for young filmmakers. You can watch "Happy Campers" via video on demand on platforms like Apple TV+ and Amazon. Here's the trailer.
Listen to NSNP anywhere you listen to podcasts and watch the show on YouTube. Thanks!
This week I chat with award-winning filmmakers Mary Robertson and Emma Schwartz to discuss their Emmy-nominated, critically acclaimed, and hugely popular MAX and Discovery ID docuseries - "Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV," which sheds light on the troubling experiences of child actors in the entertainment industry, particularly those who worked on popular Nickelodeon shows produced by powerful showrunner Dan Schneider. Emma and Mary explain how they brought the project together and the keys to getting this very sensitive information from folks who were hesitant to talk. We also discuss why these types of projects are so important.
The groundbreaking series set the internet ablaze with revelations of a toxic environment on set that included a voice coach getting arrested for sexually abusing one of the young stars. Dozens of former child stars have spoken out both during the series and since causing a reckoning in Hollywood and forcing the industry to make changes.
Afterwards, I discuss the recent slew of insane announcements in entertainment, including a famous chicken restaurant entering the streaming wars and journalists declaring cable TV dead.
This week I'm joined by Barry L. Levy, the creator and executive producer of the new Apple TV+ original coming-of-age superhero series, “ME”. The show revolves around 12-year-old Ben Vasani, who is struggling at a new school with his new blended family when his life gets even more complicated. Ben discovers that he can transform into anyone he meets. As a shapeshifter, Ben must figure out who he is and who he wants to be.
We get into how he sold an original series in the time where IP is everything and platforms are hesitant to buy new ideas. We also talk about his visions of an "Apple Cinematic Universe" and how he crafted the characters based on people he knows in real life. Plus, I get into the struggles in reality TV and the industry at large. Listen to the episode anywhere you get your podcasts and check out "ME" on Apple TV+. You can find the trailer below along with my website. Thanks!
ME Trailer
My Website
A little horror and a little hip-hop in this two-interview episode of No Script No Problem. I'm joined by award-winning documentary filmmaker SACHA JENKINS to discuss his amazing film, "ALL UP IN THE BIZ," about the late rapper BIZ MARKIE, and I talk to author CHRIS PANATIER about his riveting new horror novel, "THE REDEMPTION OF MORGAN BRIGHT." Check out the All Up in the Biz Trailer and watch the documentary on Showtime or Paramount +. Or maybe it's Paramount + with Showtime. Something like that. Biz's hit "Just a Friend" is one of the top 100 greatest hip-hop songs of all time, and his humor was groundbreaking to the genre. I talk to Sacha about the legacy Biz leaves behind and his influence on hip-hop.
Chris talks about his evolution as an author and his attraction to the horror genre. His journey from civil litigator to full-time writer is inspiring and definitely worth hearing. The book is scary and gripping. If you like thrillers or horror, this is for you. You can buy The Redemption of Morgan Bright on Amazon here.
Send any questions you have here: NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com
Thanks!
In this episode, I chat with Jeff Hasler, executive producer of the new NETFLIX documentary, "RATHER," which chronicles the career and life of the legendary newsman, DAN RATHER. We discuss the 4-year process to get the film made and how Dan changed journalism during his long tenure at CBS. Jeff and I also break down some of the struggles producers and production companies face right now in the unscripted TV industry, and he reveals how Original Productions' new FAST Channel is a way his company is pivoting during these challenging times.
I also talk to sports reporter EMILY BICKS of Heavy Sports about the controversial commencement speech by Harrison Butker, the kicker of the Kansas City Chiefs. Bicks covers the Chiefs and provides some critical insight on the issue. We also chat about Caitlin Clark's first week in the WNBA, which was a bit bumpy, and what kind of a marriage Netflix and the NFL will have on Christmas Day.
Thanks for listening. Send any questions you have here: NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com and you can find me on social media here
In this episode, I chat with sports reporter Emily Bicks of Heavy Sports about the NFL draft and the surprises and decisions that have fans, players and insiders talking. We break down the Atlanta Falcons' selection of Michael Penix Jr., the New York Giants' choice of Malik Nabers, and the trade between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills, which has given Patrick Mahomes a potentially dangerous weapon in Xavier Worthy.
Emily Bicks covers the Buffalo Bills, Seattle Seahawks, and Kansas City Chiefs for Heavy Sports and has interviewed some of the biggest stars in sports, including Shaquille O'Neal, Jerry Rice, and Stefon Diggs. With a passion for delivering breaking news and in-depth analysis, Emily provides readers with the latest updates on player performances, team dynamics, and off-field controversies. Her expertise and experience make her a valuable voice in the world of sports journalism. Check out her reporting on Heavy Sports in the link below.
Emily Bicks - Heavy Sports
I also examine the chaos at Paramount Global as they deal with the firing of Bob Bakish and the uncertainty of a merger or buyout. And finally, I share my thoughts on the battle for NBA broadcast rights, as Amazon emerges with streaming rights.
I chat with filmmakers Rachael Dyer and Scott Ruderman about their PARAMOUNT + documentary "Pay or Die," which explores the skyrocketing prices of insulin in the United States and the impact on individuals and families. The co-directors discuss the genesis of the project and Scott's deeply personal connection to the issue. They highlight the stranglehold of the pharmaceutical companies on insulin prices and prescription medications as a whole. We also discuss the challenges of making and selling impact and issue-based documentaries today. Lastly, Scott and Rachael offer some advice for aspiring doc filmmakers. You can watch the trailer in the link below and see the film on Paramount +.
Pay or Die Trailer
Pay or Die Film on Paramount +
Academy Award winning filmmaker Eva Orner joins the show to discuss her riveting new HBO documentary, "Brandy Hellville and the Cult of Fast Fashion," which is streaming now on MAX. She discusses the challenges of exposing a global, popular and successful... but extremely toxic fashion brand like Brandy Melville and the role of social media in its success. Eva also addresses the lack of accountability from the CEO of Brandy Melville and the responsibility of parents in supporting their young daughters, whom make up a majority of the Brandy Melville employees.
Eva also delves into the fast fashion industry as a whole and the exploitation and environmental damage it causes. She further highlights the importance of consumer awareness and the need to buy less. Additionally, we discuss how she became interested in documentaries and the power they have to bring about change. Lastly, Eva teases her upcoming documentary on the Ohio State wrestling scandal, which is executive produced by George Clooney.
Find the trailer to "Brandy Hellville and the Cult of Fast Fashion" below. Watch the film on HBO or MAX and listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Brandy Hellville Trailer
Filmmaker Deborah Riley Draper discusses her experience directing the four-part documentary series on James Brown, titled "JAMES BROWN: SAY IT LOUD," which you can watch on A&E, the A&E app, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. She shares her excitement in being chosen for the project and emphasizes the importance of putting blackness at the center of the storytelling. Draper explains her detailed approach to the storytelling process, using primary source material and James Brown's own words and music to create an authentic and powerful narrative. Plus, Draper explains the challenges of addressing James Brown's flaws and legal troubles in the documentary, while still celebrating his career and legacy. Check out the film's trailer below. All that plus I talk about the emergence of AI in entertainment. Listen anywhere you get podcasts. Thanks!
Trailer for "James Brown: Say It Loud"
Where to watch the documentary
My Website
In this episode, I talk to award-winning producer/director Kyra Knox about her dynamic feature documentary debut "BAD THINGS HAPPEN IN PHILADELPHIA," which is executive produced by former NBA superstar, Allen Iverson. In "Bad Things," Kyra explores the gun violence problems of her hometown, Philadelphia, and the nonprofit organizations and residents, who are trying to stop the tragedies that are poisoning the City of Brotherly Love.
Hear how Kyra made her first feature doc come to life with a lot of hard work and a little help from her friends. And find out how she was able to get NBA Hall-of-Famer Allen Iverson to come onboard as an executive producer and what doors that opened up for the project. You can watch "Bad Things Happen in Philadelphia" on Fox Soul and Amazon Prime Video. Check out the trailer below.
I also discuss some of the issues plaguing the reality TV industry and the rising prices of streaming services. Please make sure to subscribe, download, and rate. My website is below. Thanks for listening!
Bad Things Happen in Philadelphia Trailer
My Website
My guest is Maria Baltazzi - an author, Emmy-winning TV producer, wellbeing teacher, world traveler, and luxury travel designer who specializes in transformative adventures. We discuss her new book, "Take a Shot at Happiness: How to Write, Direct & Produce the Life You Want," which is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, GoodReads, and pretty much anywhere you get books. Check out Maria's website below to buy the book for someone yourself or someone you care about.
One of the original producers on CBS's hit reality show, "Survivors," Maria is an incredibly talented storyteller. We discuss how her work in TV and her world travels inspired her to write this book, which provides 8 Happiness Essentials that can create a happier, more fulfilling life. We chat about how important travel is to finding happiness. And Maria knows. She has walked over 7500 miles to raise funds for charity, including marathons on all 7 continents, climbed the 15,000-foot trail to Machu Picchu, summited Mt. Kilimanjaro twice, and trekked to Everest Base Camp.
I also share my initial reactions to Netflix's surprise release of their "engagement numbers," which reveal what shows and movies are receiving the most hours of viewing. I'm still going through the 18,000 titles and it's really fascinating... if you're into this sort of thing. In the first half of 2023, about 21% of their shows were watched less than 150,000 hours. But on the flip side, “The Night Agent,” a series that debuted globally March 23, racked up 812 million hours viewed by the end of June and finished first. More to come in future episodes.
Lastly, as we near the end of the year, I recommend 3 organizations to donate to. Take a look at the websites below if you need the information.
Maria's Website
Buy Maria's Book on Amazon
Variety Goes Inside the Netflix Numbers
My Website
My Threads
The Cameron Boyce Foundation
Cure Epilepsy
The Epilepsy Foundation
Award-winning filmmaker Sonia Kennebeck joins me on the No Script No Problem Podcast to discuss her new film, "Reality Winner," which you can and should watch on AppleTV+ and Amazon Prime. Filmed over 5 years, "Reality Winner" is a riveting, present-tense documentary about the young NSA whistleblower of the same name, who exposed Russian interference in U.S. elections... and went to jail for it. Sonia digs in like only she can and reveals how one document and one brave decision changed Reality's life and her family's lives... forever. Check out the trailer for the film below.
I also discuss the domino effect of Shohei Ohtani's record-breaking $700-million contract with the Dodgers and give my 2 cents on the NBA's first-ever in-season tournament. Listen to the No Script No Problem Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Bleav.com, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Send any questions you have to NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com.
Reality Winner Trailer
Sonia's website
My website
This week, I talk to producer, creative executive, entrepreneur and meditation teacher Tim Duffy, who shares some amazing tools and tips to overcome the anxiety, stress, anger, frustration, worry, and disappointment that comes in the crazy world we live in today. I also dig into the latest efforts to unionize reality TV, which is very complicated, and how streaming costs are going to keep rising and rising. Plus, I address the struggles we are facing in unscripted TV amidst the rising costs of streaming and the slow decline in broadcast viewing.
For information on Tim's meditation practices or to reach him, check out his website: https://www.timduffymeditation.com
And check out the amazing food biz he and his brother created as well. https://yumcrunch.com
This episode, I talk to former MTV creative executive, producer, and director Billy Rainey - one of the driving creative forces behind the hidden camera prank show, "Punk'd." He pulls back the curtain on some of his favorite pranks from the smash hit and reveals how the show got off the ground after a very rough and litigious start. Billy and I also discuss some of the issues facing the entertainment industry today and I share my thoughts on the strikes and the Barbenheimer phenomenon. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts. Thanks!
https://berkreport.com/shows/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-berkowitz-5a09ab8/
https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-no-script-no-problem/
I chat with talented producer BRAD BOGART in a wide-ranging discussion covering everything from creating TLC's hit "OutDaughtered" to finally making the feature film, "Spinning Gold," the biopic about his legendary father, Neil Bogart.
Listen as Brad shares stories from behind the scenes of the film and talks about making the movie with his brothers - Tim and Evan - as well as the long road it took to get it made. We also chat about his new weight loss series on TLC and reminisce about our time working together on OutDaughtered.
In "SPINNING GOLD," Neil Bogart launches Casablanca Records in the 1970s, giving rise to such musical acts as Donna Summer, Parliament, Gladys Knight, the Isley Brothers, the Village People, Bill Withers and KISS. Along with a rag-tag team of young music lovers, Casablanca Records rewrites history and changes the music industry forever. Some of today's hottest music stars are playing the icons including Grammy and Golden Globe nominee Wiz Khalifa as George Clinton, Jason Derulo as Ron Isley of the Isley Brothers, Pink Sweat$ as Bill Withers, Grammy Award nominee Tayla Parx as Donna Summer and multi-Grammy winner Ledisi as Gladys Knight.
Make sure to watch "Spinning Gold" on one of the following platforms: Amazon Video, Universal on Demand, Vudu, DIRECTV, AMC on Demand, and YouTube.
SPINNING GOLD TRAILER
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mljzHokm17I
SPINNING GOLD FULL MOVIE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_UiTeYatVg
https://digitalmoviedeals.nbcuniversal.com/products/spinning-gold
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In this NSNP episode, I chat with filmmakers Jordan Tetewsky and Joshua Pikovsky about their debut feature film, "HANNAH HA HA." I'm also joined by the star of the indie darling, HANNAH LEE THOMPSON. Hear how they took a short film and expanded it into a feature that is a NY Times critics pick and the winner of the best narrative feature prize at the 2022 Slamdance Film Festival. Hannah Ha Ha Puts New Twist On Old Coming-Of-Age Tale, setting up a sweet and realistic movie about finding oneself and figuring out how much the opinions of others matter. The movie is out in theaters now and will then head to Fandor. Find theater info, the movie trailer, and other info below.
THEATER INFO: NYC
AMC Empire 25 (2/10 – 2/16) (Q&A 2/10 and 2/11)
Alamo Lower Manhattan (2/13 – 2/15) (Q&A 2/14)
LA
AMC Americana at the Brand (2/10 – 2/16)
Alamo Downtown LA (2/13 – 2/15)
https://linktr.ee/hannahhahamovie
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/09/movies/hannah-ha-ha-review.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HnTac2VhNg
https://slamdancechannel.com/films/hannah-ha-ha/61ae80355dd06f34d7007f51
This episode, I talk REBECCA and JOSH TICKELL ("Kiss the Ground") and WILLIAM MAPOTHER ("Lost") about their powerful new environmental thriller, "ON SACRED GROUND." Josh and Rebecca directed the film and William stars in this drama, which is inspired by real events surrounding the 2016 protests over the Dakota Access Pipeline at Standing Rock Reservation. Josh and Rebecca are veteran documentary filmmakers but this is their first narrative feature. We discuss the pressure they faced and why they chose to make this story their first scripted film.
"On Standing Ground" is inspired by Josh's actual experiences at Standing Rock and follows the colliding paths of a journalist (Mapother) searching for the truth and an oil man (David Arquette) determined to get the pipeline built and oil flowing. Amy Smart also stars. Check out the trailer and website below and see the film in theaters or on demand now.
"ON SACRED GROUND" TRAILER
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F64dUVAaQV8
WEBSITE
https://www.onsacredgroundmovie.com
In this episode, I talk to award-winning director RACHEL LEARS ("Knock Down the House") about her riveting new climate crisis documentary, "TO THE END," and one of the film's stars, ALEXANDRA ROJAS, the executive director of Justice Democrats. Filmed over 4 tumultuous years, "To the End" captures the emergence of a new generation of environmental leaders and the movement behind the most sweeping climate change legislation in U.S. history. The film follows four dynamic young women— Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, activist Varshini Prakash, climate policy writer Rhiana Gunn-Wright, and political strategist Alexandra Rojas— as they grapple with new challenges of leadership and power and work together to defend their generation’s right to a future.
As Rachel and Alexandra tell me, these bold leaders went from street protests to the halls of Congress, fighting to shift the narrative around climate, revealing the crisis as an opportunity to build a better society. Check out the film's trailer and website below. It's in theaters now so go see it!
https://www.totheendfilm.com
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cv2jtKboDi0
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Emmy-winning documentary filmmaker RORY KENNEDY joins the podcast to chat about the new film she's directed, "THE VOLCANO: RESCUE FROM WHAKAARI,"which premieres December 16, 2022, on NETFLIX. The feature doc chronicles the tragic events surrounding a sightseeing trip to a remote island off the coast of New Zealand in 2019, where 47 tourists and guides became trapped by a volcanic eruption. Rory does a fantastic job with minute-by-minute iPhone footage, stylish recreations and intimate interviews with individuals who were there, as you really see humanity at its most resilient. Listen to the interview and watch the doc on Netflix. Trailer below.
"THE VOLCANO: RESCUE FROM WHAKAARI" - TRAILER & INFO
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnxGV9RQutE
https://www.indiewire.com/2022/11/the-volcano-rescue-from-whakaari-trailer-leonardo-dicaprio-1234786172/
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In this episode, I chop it up with filmmaker CJ RUSSO, the visionary behind the wonderful documentary feature film, "LADY BUDS," which tells the story of 6 courageous women who come out of the shadows of the CANNABIS underground to forge a path to legalization, battling deep-pocketed corporations as they risk everything to make their American Dream come true in the market they helped create. This film has heart, humor, and grit. CJ talks to me about how she brought it to life over 4 years and had to gain the trust of the cannabis community, which doesn't always welcome outsiders.
You can watch "Lady Buds" on STARZ, AMAZON PRIME, YouTube, VUDU, GOOGLE PLAY, ITUNES, and MICROSOFT. Trailer below as well as some great news for CJ regarding a scripted spin on the "Lady Buds" story. Listen to this episode of "No Script, No Problem" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn, and Google Podcasts. Thanks! 🙏
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxYoD1xDD7c
https://deadline.com/2022/02/lady-buds-cannabis-doc-spinoffs-1234958078/?fbclid=IwAR1fAwf28jPgkNgjFTo64UlkZBlXNYmVVrij7OjH5dsyQop8sivkoZ_iypg
The 2022 Academy Awards are set for March 27th, and my guest - MATT OGENS - will be there with his film - "AUDIBLE" - nominated for an Oscar in the category of Best Documentary Short. Streaming now on NETFLIX, "Audible" is a cinematic and immersive coming of age documentary film, which takes you inside a high school football season with the Maryland School for the Deaf, introducing the world to some incredibly talented and resilient student-athletes who face many obstacles — on and off the field.
Twelve years in the making, Matt, a Maryland native, talks about how special and personal this project is to him and how this is much more than a "sports doc." We also discuss the stylistic choices he made to develop a sense of intimacy and how he made "sound a character." Along with Ogens, acclaimed "Friday Night Lights" director PETER BERG serves as an executive producer on the project, so don't be surprised if you feel some of those "clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose" chills when you watch "Audible." Check out the film on Netflix now and let's root for Matt on the 3/27/2022 at the Academy Awards! Trailer below.
Trailer for "Audible" on Netflix
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5htMIBhdGk
In this episode, I talk to award-winning director and executive producer ALEXANDRA DEAN about her shocking and powerful 10-part A&E documentary series, Secrets of Playboy, a no-holds-barred exposé on the Playboy empire and legendary founder Hugh Hefner. The series paints a damning portrait of Hefner, the pipe-smoking, silk pajama-wearing mogul, who once was a famed champion of women's rights and the sexual revolution. As Alex tells me on the podcast and you can see in the docu-series, several former Playmates claim Hefner raped, coerced and dominated them, allowing his friends and celebrities (among them Bill Cosby) to do likewise, and fashioned a cult-like environment to satisfy his incessant appetite for sex and power.
Alex talks to me about her investigative process, specifically how she uncovered the dark side of the Playboy Mansion, as numerous former Playmates and employees revealed tales of abuse and cover-ups to keep scandals out of the press. We also discuss the role that E!'s reality show, "The Girls Next Door" played in perpetuating the myth of Hugh Hefner and building up the Playboy facade. Check out the trailer below and watch the series on Mondays on A&E. Listen to our conversation on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. Thanks! 🙏
"Secrets of Playboy" - Trailer
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YuWdBMon3EU
In this episode, I talk to the talented filmmakers of the wonderful HBO documentary, "STREET GANG: HOW WE GOT TO SESAME STREET," a fascinating film that gives a rare window into the early days of the groundbreaking TV series, “Sesame Street,” revealing the creators, artists, writers and educators, who together established one of the most influential and enduring children’s programs in television history. My guests are the fantastic director of the documentary, Marilyn Agrelo, and two of the producers, Trevor Crafts and Ellen Scherer Crafts - both of whom put years into making this film happen. The trio explains how Sesame Street is as relevant today as it was when it began in 1969, and we discuss the many important barriers it broke, becoming an essential part of our culture and national dialogue.
“STREET GANG: HOW WE GOT TO SESAME STREET” is on HBO and HBO Max. Find links to the trailer below and their website. You can hear the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Bleav.com, and TuneIn. See my website below as well. Email questions and suggestions to: NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com 📧 Thanks! 🙏
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQEFS6aKXCU&t=1s
https://www.hbo.com/movies/street-gang-how-we-got-to-sesame-street
https://berkreport.com
In this episode, I chat with director/editor/producer JODY MCVEIGH-SCHULTZ about his outstanding 3-part HBO true crime documentary series, “The Murders at Starved Rock,” which explores the 1960 brutal murders of three women at Starved Rock State Park in LaSalle, Illinois, and the decades of questions and doubts left in their wake. 🎥 Jody tells me about the pressures of directing his first TRUE CRIME docu-series and how he brought his own style and POV to it but also makes sure to give true crime fans what they want and maintains the HBO standards. 📺 🙌 We discuss how they made this a story as much about generational trauma as it is about the search for truth and who is guilty. Of course, I also had to ask Jody about his time editing DRUNK HISTORY, one of my favorite guilty pleasures. He shares some fun insights from that experience. 😂
You can watch “The Murders at Starved Rock” on HBO and HBO Max and you can hear my interview with Jody and all eps of "No Script, No Problem" on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. See links below to the trailer of the HBO docu-series as well as where to find me on social media. Email any questions you have here: NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com
Thanks! 🙏
https://www.hbo.com/murders-at-starved-rock
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVZL2pAnaZU&t=2s
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In this episode, I chat with Academy and Emmy Award-winning film producer and director EVA ORNER, whose incredible works include “Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator” on Netflix, “Burning” on Amazon Prime, "Chasing Asylum," "Out of Iraq," "Taxi to the Dark Side" (she won an Oscar for producing this), and "Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson." Listen as Eva shares some fascinating details about the making of her amazing documentary, "Burning," which takes an unflinching look at the unprecedented and catastrophic Australian bushfires of 2019-2020, known as ‘Black Summer.’ Eva exposes the Australian government's negligence and disregard for climate change, as she documents the deadly effects of fire after fire throughout Australia over the decades. The film tackles the climate crisis head-on and leaves viewers longing for and demanding political change.
Watch "Burning" on Amazon Prime now. There's a link to the film and the trailer below. We also discuss Eva's powerful feature doc about the criminal yoga guru, Bikram Choudhury, which is streaming on Netflix. Her passion for uncovering wrongdoing and shining a light on critical societal issues comes through again here, as it has throughout her career.
Listen to the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. Please remember to subscribe, download, and rate the show with 5 stars. 📧 questions or suggestions to: NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com
Thanks!
https://www.amazon.com/Burning-EVA-ORNER/dp/B09M45NHTX
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTfyD7ALJtU
In this episode, I'm psyched to chat with Peabody and Emmy Award-winning director/producer ERIKA COHN, who Variety recognized as one of 2017’s top documentary filmmakers to watch. We discuss her powerful, shocking and incredibly impactful feature doc, "BELLY OF THE BEAST," which exposes modern-day eugenics and illegal sterilizations in California prisons.
Erika explains how she filmed Belly of the Beast over seven years and was able to gain such extraordinary access and intimate accounts from currently and formerly incarcerated people. She shares insight of how patience, passion and determination helped her and her team achieve change in the system and reparations for the victims of forced sterilizations. And the film even boasts a theme song from the one and only Mary J. Blige!
You can find info on Erika and Belly of the Beast below as well as where to find me on social media. Please remember to subscribe, download, and rate "No Script, No Problem" with 5 stars. You can find it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher and TuneIn. Thanks! 🙏
ERIKA'S WEBSITE: https://www.idlewildfilmsinc.com
BELLY OF THE BEAST TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoD7VgFl9EI
MY WEBSITE: https://berkreport.com
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In this episode, I'm honored to have the award-winning documentary filmmaker SONIA KENNEBECK as my guest, as we discuss 3 of her incredible films: "Enemies of the State," "United States vs. Reality Winner," and "National Bird." In the 3 films, Sonia investigates the critical topics of government surveillance, national security, and the role of the whistleblower in a powerful and necessary way. We talk about how Sonia adjusted in real time during the filming of "Enemies of the State" to several twists and turns in the story. We also get into why she thinks the story of whistleblower Reality Winner needs more attention and why her story is important for all Americans. And of course, we chat about "National Bird," which focuses on the controversial drone program and premiered at the Berlin Film Festival 2016 and was also selected for Tribeca, Sheffield, and IDFA. You can find info on Sonia and her films below as well as where to find me on social media. Please remember to subscribe, download, and rate "No Script, No Problem" with 5 stars. You can find it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher and TuneIn. Thanks! 🙏
SONIA'S WEBSITE: https://www.codebreakerfilms.com
WEBSITE FOR "ENEMIES OF THE STATE": https://www.enemiesofthestate.movie
WEBSITE FOR "NATIONAL BIRD": http://nationalbirdfilm.com
MY WEBSITE: https://berkreport.com
MY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/steveberkowitz
MY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/stevemberkowitz/
Love this episode! Producer/Director/Filmmaker REBECCA HALPERN joins "No Script, No Problem" to talk about her new documentary film: "Love, Charlie: The Rise and Fall of Chef Charlie Trotter," which premieres 10/18/21 at the Chicago Film Festival. 🎥 Halpern, a Chicago native, makes her feature doc debut with a complex and nuanced portrait of the legendary chef, Charlie Trotter, who could be a hopeless romantic, who mentored dozens upon dozens of young talents, who is lauded as a wonderful friend and a dedicated father — but could also be enigmatic, mercurial, hot-tempered and dismissive of anyone he felt couldn’t meet his impossibly high standards. Rebecca explains the challenges of making her first film during the pandemic and how she adapted her style and approach but was still able to accomplish her goals. A veteran of true crime, Rebecca talks about how she used her unscripted TV skills as she makes the transition to feature docs. Check out the amazing review "Love, Charlie" received in the Chicago Sun Times below and listen to the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. Thanks! 🙏
https://chicago.suntimes.com/movies-and-tv/2021/10/12/22714995/love-charlie-review-trotter-documentary-chef-chicago
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If you love docs, this is a great episode for you. My guest is award-winning producer ETHAN GOLDMAN, the founder and president of Anchor Entertainment, a production company that collaborates with documentarians and filmmakers to create timely, character-driven content for premium networks and platforms. 🎥 Ethan and I talk about Anchor's incredible feature doc, "Rebel Hearts," which is currently streaming on DISCOVERY +. We also discuss their upcoming documentary about legendary newsman DAN RATHER and why that is such an important project to make at this moment in time.
Ethan also explains what he looks for in a documentary, what it takes to sell a doc today, and provides some advice for young non-fiction filmmakers. 🎞 Please remember to subscribe, download, and rate with 5 stars. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. Email questions to: NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com 📧
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Veteran executive producer, director and content creator PATTY IVINS SPECHT joins "No Script, No Problem" to discuss her compelling new 3-part documentary special, "ALY RAISMAN: DARKNESS TO LIGHT," which premieres on both LIFETIME and HULU Friday, September 24th. 📺 Specht serves as executive producer and director for this timely and powerful project, as Raisman, the gymnastics gold medalist and world champion, just testified in front of the US Senate about the FBI's failures in her sexual abuse case. Specht tells us this documentary is designed to raise awareness about sexual abuse across all ages and backgrounds while supporting survivors. The special follows Raisman as she meets with individuals who have suffered abuse and discusses their trauma while sharing her story.
Listen as Patty describes what it was like working with Aly and how she approached this project from a unique POV. Here's the teaser for "Aly Raisman: Darkness to Light": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1oc-sT8nJc 🎥
We also discuss Patty's career, which includes reality TV hits like "The Simple Life" and "Dress My Nest." And of course, we chat about the 2021 Emmys. Please subscribe and download the show. You can find it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. 🎙
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The super talented and hilarious Sahara Bushue joins the "No Script, No Problem" podcast to talk about her exciting role as Senior Vice President and Head of Unscripted at Westbrook Studios, a subsidiary of Westbrook Inc., the media company founded by Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith to empower artists to tell stories that connect with a global audience. 🙌
After working for 12 years at NBC, rising all the way to SVP of Alternative Development & Current Programming, Sahara is now on the selling side at Westbrook Studios. She reveals what it's like being on the other end of a pitch and how her time as a buyer is helping her in the new job. Sahara also shares some of her favorite moments from her time at NBC, including a wild story from the set of "America's Got Talent," as well as the best and worst pitches she's ever heard. Listen for all of this and more on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and Tuneln. Thanks! 🙏
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If you're a fan of HISTORY CHANNEL's hit survival series "ALONE," you'll love this episode of the "No Script, No Problem" podcast. 🎙 SHAWN WITT, the Co-President of Leftfield Pictures and an executive producer on the series, breaks down how the show came about, how it's produced, and the keys to casting these incredibly unique individuals. We also chat about Shawn's development strategy in today's always changing entertainment landscape with new streamers popping up all the time. And we get into how Shawn's time as an internal producer at MTV during the "Total Request Live" days helped to hone his skills and create some unforgettable memories. Listen in as Shawn pulls the curtain back to share some stories from BTS of both Alone and TRL. You can find NSNP on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. Thanks! 🙏
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It's hard to believe that iconic prank and stunt show "JACKASS" has been a part of our lives for over 20 years! 🤕 With "Jackass 4" ready to hit theaters this fall, I chatted with Executive Producer TRIP TAYLOR about the keys to the franchise's lasting success, his favorite pranks, working with Johnny Knoxville, the most disgusting and shocking moments, and how the series has evolved over the years from MTV into full length films on the big screen. 🎥 🍿 Trip also executive produces the NITRO CIRCUS franchise with Travis Pastrana so we discuss what it's like to produce a show where someone could literally die and the type of stress and excitement that brings. 🏍
As you can imagine, Trip has some insane and hilarious stories to share from his 21 years with Jackass. Learn how Johnny Knoxville tore his urethra, how they kidnapped Brad Pitt, and why it's not a good idea to wear a fart helmet. 🪖 Definitely an episode you wanna check out. 🙌🎙
Plus, make sure to check out the Jackass Shark Week Special on Discovery Channel Sunday, July 11, at 10 p.m. ET/PT 🦈👍📺
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In this episode of "No Script, No Problem," I'm joined by award-winning filmmaker KIM A. SNYDER, director of "US KIDS" - an incredible documentary about the 2018 school shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, and the subsequent student-led worldwide March for Our Lives movement, which became the largest youth protest in American history. Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival, "Us Kids" is an insightful, rousing coming-of-age story of a generation of youth leaders determined to take the reins and fight for justice at a most critical time in our nation’s history.
Listen in as Kim, who won a Peabody Award for her previous documentary "Newtown," reveals how she gained access and trust with the students, traveled the country chronicling the work of the activists for months, and found a way to tell a traumatic story with passion and sensitivity. You can watch "Us Kids" on all Video On Demand platforms. The website and trailer are below.
"Us Kids" Official Website
https://uskidsfilm.com
"Us Kids" Trailer
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8xAjFPBg-c&t=2s
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Trailblazer Studios SVP of Development Ashleigh DiTonto joins me to discuss the company's TWO powerful documentaries about the 1921 Tulsa Massacre. DiTonto serves as executive producer on both projects and we chat about how each came about, why they are different, and why it's so important to tell these stories. You can watch "Rise Again: Tulsa and the Reds Summer," directed by Dawn Porter, on Nat Geo and Hulu. Additionally, "The Legacy of Black Wall Street" is directed by Deborah Riley Draper as a 2-part doc for OWN and is streaming now on Discovery +. 🎥
Ashleigh and I also talk about how Trailblazer, which is based in North Carolina, stays competitive with bigger production companies in LA and NY. And as a bonus, she describes how she went from working behind the scenes in porn (yes, seriously) to working at a network to developing reality TV & game shows to producing premium docs. This is a good story, trust me. 👍
Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, and TuneIn. Thanks! 🙏
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We cover a lot of topics in this episode, as I welcome back RI-KARLO HANDY, the CEO of Sunwise Media and the founder of the HANDY FOUNDATION. We discuss inclusion and diversity in entertainment, mental health awareness, the massive merger between WarnerMedia and Discovery, and the importance of telling the true story of the 1921 Tulsa Massacre. A year ago, Ri-Karlo came on the show after his post looking for Black editors went viral. Now, he's back to talk about what has changed since then and what his foundation is doing to provide more opportunity and mentorship for people of color, who are looking to break into the entertainment industry.
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SHARK TANK superfans - this episode is for you! I chat with supervising casting producer, MINDY ZEMRAK, who has been working the 4-time-Emmy-winner since season 1, as well as supervising producer, SAMI AZIZ. They take us behind the scenes, as the hit ABC show gears up for what will be season 13 this fall. If you've ever had an idea for a product you thought should be on Shark Tank, listen and hear what Mindy looks for in those initial casting calls. She's the first step to getting your product in front of the Sharks!
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Executive Producer and showrunner ANGIE DAY is one of the smartest people I've worked with in my career. In this episode, I chat with Angie about her latest project, HBO Max's "GENERATION HUSTLE," a captivating, shocking and important 10-part documentary series, which shines a light on the world of scams, con men, pyramid schemes, gaslighting, hustlers, and get rich quick schemes.
Filmed during the pandemic, Angie explains how they managed to pull off a complicated, highly stylized docu-series with multiple directors and crews filming simultaneously in dozens of locations. And this eye-opening series covers a crucial topic - how anyone can believe a charismatic individual or big, visionary idea that ends up being a dangerous, often costly scam.
We also discuss Angie's diverse career, as she has also executive produced the sitcoms, "Odd Mom Out" on Bravo and "Donny!" on USA. Find out how she is able to produce effectively in both scripted and unscripted television, something that's not easy to pull off.
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This is one of my favorite interviews from "No Script, No Problem." If you're looking for stories about Mariah Carey, Tara Reid, or Gene Simmons - this is the episode for you! 🎙 I chat with the multi-talented ADAM FREEMAN, who somehow finds a way to balance his work as President of Creative at Thinkfactory Media ("Mama June Not to Hot"; "Marriage Boot Camp"; "Gene Simmons Family Jewels") 🎥 with his work as a standup comedian and successful writer of comic books (The Highwaymen) & graphic novels. 🦸♂️
Adam also shares some wild stories from his decade working at MTV, where he produced iconic shows like "Total Request Live" and "Spring Break". 📺 Adam's drive to create is extraordinary, and he reveals some of his inspirations and keys to his creative process. Give it a listen 🎧 🙏
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After 14 years and 20 seasons on E!, the epic reality TV series KEEPING UP WITH THE KARDASHIANS is finally coming to an end. In this episode of "No Script, No Problem," I talk to FARNAZ FARJAM CHAZAN, an executive producer who has been on the show since season 1 and seen it grow from a filler in the lineup to a mega-hit to a cultural phenomenon. 🎥 💎
FARNAZ is currently the executive vice president of current programming at Bunim-Murray Productions, the company behind KUWTK, and has gone from showrunning the series to now working as the creative executive overseeing it for the company. The show and the family have become and forever will be a big part of her life. Listen as she shares some of her wildest and fondest memories from the show as well as some regrets she has, what she'll miss the most, what it was like dealing with KANYE WEST, and what she thinks the legacy of Keeping Up With The Kardashians will be. 📺
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If you're like me and you remember the days of renting videos at the iconic BLOCKBUSTER VIDEO, then you will love this episode of "No Script, No Problem." 🎙 Filmmakers TAYLOR MORDEN and ZEKE KAMM join NSNP to chat about their terrific Netflix documentary, "THE LAST BLOCKBUSTER," which chronicles the dramatic rise and fall of Blockbuster Video and how the one final store in Bend, Oregon, keeps the spirit of a bygone era alive. 📼
Taylor and Zeke share some fascinating details from their 4-year journey to make this film, including: how they shot the movie, financed it, got distribution, and managed to get it on NETFLIX. Plus, the guys provide some very valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers on how to make an independent film. 🎥
The film is cleverly narrated by Lauren Lapkus and includes some fantastic celebrity interviews with Adam Brody, Ione Skye, Doug Benson, Paul Scheer, Kevin Smith, Jamie Kennedy and Ron Funches. Listen to the podcast and then watch "The Last Blockbuster" on Netflix... or vice versa. 😎
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This episode is a fantastic behind the curtain look at a number of nonfiction hits with some fascinating stories from a veteran producer and creative executive. My guest is Russ McCarroll - an Emmy award-winning producer, who is now the CEO and founder of Pocket Square Productions. Prior to that, Russ spent time as a senior vice president of development at both Discovery Channel and the History Channel. And all that came after his time working on NBC's Today show. Some of his many credits include: Sell this House, The Fieldhouse, Alone, The Men Who Built America, Top Gear USA, Mountain Men, Sons of Liberty, Gangland, The World Wars, The Liberator and Knightfall.
Russ shares some incredible insight from his illustrious career, which has entered a new phase, as he runs his own production company with the pressure of selling shows in a competitive environment. We chat about some of his new series like "The Fieldhouse" and "Sell This House" as well as some of his biggest hits from the History Channel: "Alone" and "The Men Who Built America". Plus, he reveals what it was like filming in the White House with Presidents Obama and George W. Bush. You don't want to miss this one!
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A fresh teaser for ya! "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM" is the podcast that takes you behind the curtain of non-fiction entertainment like never before with insight from some of the best in the business of documentaries, reality TV, competition shows, true crime, game shows, docu-series, and much more. From "Big Brother" to "The Last Dance" to "Love is Blind" to "All In"… If it’s non-fiction, we’ll get into it. 📺
I’m your host – STEVE BERKOWITZ. I’m a 15-year veteran producer of unscripted television with shows like Extreme Makeover Home Edition, Battlebots, OutDaughtered, The Rachel Zoe Project and Friday Night Tykes among my credits. I also used to be a small-town sports reporter in a previous life. 😬🤦♂️🏀 🏈 (Yes, seriously) So, I’ve interviewed thousands of incredibly talented and fascinating people from all walks of life – including dozens of high-profile celebrities, personalities, and athletes. 🎥 🎤
Each episode, I talk to some of the most gifted individuals working in non-fiction entertainment today as well as elites in industries like comedy, writing, sports, business, medicine, and law because, at the end of the day, I’m a storyteller. If you enjoy No Script, No Problem, please subscribe, download and rate the show. It’s available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. You can also find it on Bleav.com and @BleavPodcasts. You can follow me on Twitter and Clubhouse @steveberkowitz and on Instagram @stevemberkowitz. Email any questions or suggestions to NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com 📧
If you’re interested in advertising on this show, please contact Bleav at Bleav.com. Thanks for supporting the show! 🎙 🙏
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If you like documentaries, give this episode of "No Script, No Problem" a listen. My guest is award-winning filmmaker ELIZABETH LO, whose debut feature documentary, "STRAY," won the Top Jury Prize at Hot Docs and was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award, a Critics Choice Award, and two Cinema Eye Honors after premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2020. A rising star, Elizabeth has been featured in Filmmaker Magazine’s 25 New Faces of Independent Film, DOC NYC’s 40 Under 40 List, Cannes Lions’ New Directors Showcase, and the artist academics of Locarno Film Festival and New York Film Festival. She tells me about the long 2-year journey making "Stray" in Turkey and the difficult creative choices she had to make throughout the filmmaking process. Elizabeth has some valuable advice for anyone developing or making their own content as well. For information on "Stray," go to - https://www.straymovie.com
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If you enjoy unscripted TV of any kind today, you owe a big thanks to the original reality show - MTV'S "THE REAL WORLD," which premiered in 1992. In honor of Paramount + streaming "THE REAL WORLD HOMECOMING: NEW YORK," my guest is George Verschoor, who produced and directed seasons 1-4 of "The Real World" and is a true pioneer of unscripted television. George gets emotional talking about what it was like to return to the original loft with the season 1 cast, where he and the show's creators launched the series 30 years ago. He also reflects on some of his most powerful memories from the groundbreaking reality series, including what it was like to film with season 3's Pedro Zamora just before he passed away from AIDS. We also chat about our time working together on Extreme Makeover Home Edition. Give it a listen and check out "The Real World Homecoming: New York" on Paramount +
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Executive Producer and creative executive Abby Greensfelder joins "No Script, No Problem" to talk about her groundbreaking new production company: EVERYWOMAN STUDIOS, a purpose-built media company whose mission is to tell female-focused stories that might not otherwise be told, and that can have a positive impact on our culture. She also shares some details from the one-of-a-kind development system they have at Everywoman Studios, known as "Propelle," which is a female-focused accelerator program with the goal to bring more female creators into the non-fiction ecosystem and have more diverse voices making content. And of course, we chat about Abby's monster hit from her time at Half-Yard Productions - TLC's "SAY YES TO THE DRESS". Give it a listen!
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If you are one of the millions of 90 Day Fiancé fans out there, then you'll love this episode of "No Script, No Problem!" The dating franchise, which has spawned over a dozen spinoffs, is a juggernaut for TLC, leading the cable network to unprecedented ratings success. I'm joined in this episode by Gabriela Tavakoli Bailey, the VP of Production at TLCand an Executive Producer on 90-Day Fiancé and several of its spinoffs, including: 90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After, 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days, 90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way, The Family Chantel, and Darcey & Stacey. Gaby breaks down what makes the franchise so popular and pulls back the curtain on some of her favorite moments and characters. She also gives us a preview of 3 exciting new spinoffs: Love Games, 90 Day Bares All, and 90 Day: The Single Life. Get the inside scoop on all things "90 Day" with this special episode of NSNP.
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On this episode of "No Script, No Problem," I'm joined by two of the best directors of photography / directors in the unscripted genre: JASON "NINJA" WILLIAMS ("The Challenge," "Love and Listings," "The Rap Game") and DAVE THIES ("Peanut Butter Falcon," "Rob Dyrdek's Fantasy Factory," "One Man Army"). 🎥
We talk about the adjustments that camera crews and directors are making during the pandemic to film safely while still getting the same fantastic product on screen. 😷 📺
We also discuss how they achieve a distinct style and/or look while still capturing great story. Dave and Ninja also provide fantastic advice for young, aspiring camera operators and/or directors in the unscripted genre. 🎞
Oh, and Dave shares a pretty hilarious Kanye West story. Def worth a listen. 🎙
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On this episode of "No Script, No Problem," DAVID COLLINS, the Emmy award-winning Creator and Executive Producer of the critically acclaimed hit NETFLIX series QUEER EYE and the Co-Founder of Scout Productions, talks about some of the biggest moments in his illustrious, award-winning career, which all began in Cincinnati, Ohio. David shares some incredible stories about starting out and working his way up in the industry with legends like JODIE FOSTER and ERROL MORRIS. He also pulls the curtain back and reveals how the idea for Queer Eye came about. That's a story you don't wanna miss. Naturally, David and I also discuss some of his big projects, like LEGENDARY, HBO Max's voguing competition series, THE QUEST, a fantasy reality/scripted hybrid on Disney +, and EQUAL, a powerful four-part docu-series on the history of the LGBTQ+ movement on HBO MAX. You get all that plus some extremely valuable pearls of wisdom from one of the best in the unscripted genre. Give it a listen.
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My guest on this episode of "No Script, No Problem" is BRIAN MCGINN, an Emmy-nominated director, writer, producer, show-runner, and the co-founder of the production company SUPPER CLUB. Brian is best known for directing, writing and producing the powerful NETFLIX documentary "Amanda Knox," executive producing and directing the incredibly stylish Netflix food docu-series "Chef's Table," and executive producing and directing the Netflix legal docu-series "Trial By Media." We get into all these projects in detail, including how he sold Chef's Table, whether he thinks Amanda Knox is guilty, and what the media's role is on court cases. Brian also shares some details from Supper Club's upcoming slew of shows for DISNEY +.
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If you love female ensemble docu-soaps, this is a great episode to listen to. Executive Producer CARLOS KING, the CEO of Kingdom Reign Entertainment, joins "No Script, No Problem" to talk about his new unscripted series on OWN, "Belle Collective," as well as his other hits like "Love & Marriage: Huntsville" (OWN), "Behind Every Man" (OWN), and "Hollywood Divas" (TV One). Carlos also talks about his emergence as one of then top producers in REALITY TV, his powerful social media presence, the importance of his faith, and the responsibility he feels being the face of his production company.
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PAUL DIMEO, a talented and hilarious carpenter and host, who starred for 9 seasons on the Emmy-winning EXTREME MAKEOVER HOME EDITION for ABC and 2 seasons on BUILDING WILD for NAT GEO, joins "No Script, No Problem" to chat about his experience on these 2 dynamic renovation shows and what he takes away from his years building homes, schools and cabins for others. Paul also shares his fond and funny memories of auditioning to be a cast member on Extreme Makeover Home Edition back in the early 2000s and what it was like to make the pilot episode, not knowing the show would be a hit at all. Have a safe NYE and a great 2021, everyone!
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If you're a fan of shows like LOVE AFTER LOCKUP, BRAXTON FAMILY VALUES or GROWING UP HIP HOP, this episode of the "No Script, No Problem" podcast is for you. Ashley McFarlin Buie, the Vice President of Development for WE tv,joins the show to discuss the cable network's growing and diverse slate, which also includes the edgy docu-series, BEYOND THE POLE. Ashley also reflects on how her time as an executive producer on reality TV shows like SOUTHERN CHARM NEW ORLEANS and GIRLS' CRUISE and how that has shaped her as a network executive. Lastly, Ashley shares her riveting and inspiring personal story of overcoming a daunting and scary medical challenge she faced in her life. That alone is worth a listen. Trust me.
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If you liked the HBO Emmy-nominated documentary series, McMillions, and/or A&E's hit family docu-sitcom Wahlburgers, give this episode of "No Script, No Problem" a listen. Executive Producer ARCHIE GIPS joins NSNP to share some behind the scenes stories from these incredible hits. Gips also breaks down how he and his partners at UNREALISTIC IDEAS - Mark Wahlberg and Stephen Levinson - are dealing with the pandemic and how he handles the stress of running a production company at this difficult time. Additionally, Archie discusses his rise in the industry from being a writer/director to working on early unscripted shows like Blind Date to being a showrunner on celebrity driven series like Braxton Family Values and Wahlburgers.
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Despite sagging ratings for many cable and broadcast networks, HGTV is thriving. A VERY BRADY RENOVATION attracted more than 28 million total viewers and averaged a 1.59 live plus three-day rating among P25-54! The series also was nominated for an Emmy! CELEBRITY IOU attracted more than 25.7 million total viewers in its first season! And RENOVATION ISLAND attracted more than 22 million total viewers during its 11-week run. How are they doing it? Well, HGTV Group Senior Vice President of Production & Development LOREN RUCH joins this episode of "No Script, No Problem" to talk about the network's ratings success, the evolution of their programming, the type of designers & contractors they look for, the keys to great home renovation shows, and what fans of HGTV can expect in the near future.
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Since its inception, REALITY TV has been the "Wild West" of the entertainment industry - not just creatively but also on the business side. And with the streaming wars going full blast amidst a global pandemic, the industry is changing quicker than ever before. RYANN LAUCKNER, the President & Chief Strategy Officer at Asylum Entertainment Group, joined "No Script, No Problem" to chat about these changes and more. We talk about the lasting effects "working from home" may have on the entertainment industry and how her company has adjusted to the challenges of Covid. We also discuss the best ways for production companies to support producers, the influence of new streamers, and how Asylum has made podcasting part of their business. Asylum, The Content Group, and its partners have produced such shows as: TLC's "Doubling Down with the Derricos," Bravo's "To Rome For Love," Oxygen's "In Ice Cold Blood," and "Eli Roth's History of Horror" on AMC.
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Innovative producer and creative executive ERIC EVANGELISTA, the Co-president of Hot Snakes Media, joins "No Script, No Problem" to talk about his company's fascinating new NETFLIX docu-series, "DEAF U" as well as their long-running hit on TLC - "RETURN TO AMISH" (formerly "BREAKING AMISH"). Eric and I also discuss his keys to pitching shows, what it's like running a production company with his wife, Shannon, and the death of QUIBI. Check it out!
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Evolution Media Co-President ALEX BASKIN joins "No Script, No Problem" to talk about some of the company's biggest hits, such as: The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, The Real Housewives of Orange County, Vanderpump Rules, Botched, and The Hills: New Beginnings, as well as the keys to making a successful DOCU-SOAP these days. He reveals some of his favorite moments from both of their Housewives series and talks about the process of rebooting MTV's "The Hills."
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Could you run a company with your sibling? How do you handle stress at work, especially during the pandemic? What's it like working with Santa Claus ? 🎅 🤶 🤷♂️👍
I get into these burning topics and much more with TIM DUFFY, the Co-President of UGLY BROTHER STUDIOS and former development executive at Spike (now Paramount Network; soon to be Paramount Movie Network), in this episode of "No Script, No Problem." Our candid, wide-ranging discussion covers everything from how Ugly Bros. is getting back to work with the new Covid-19 protocols to his disappointment with what's happened at Viacom since his departure to how he uses mindfulness to cope with the stress of producing reality TV. Tim also reveals what it's like working with his twin brother, Mike. Finally, Tim tees up what we can expect from the second season of Nickelodeon's Christmas competition series, "Top Elf".
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In a must-listen-to episode, Gena McCarthy - the EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT and HEAD OF PROGRAMMING for LIFETIME UNSCRIPTED and FYI - joins "No Script, No Problem" to chat about their powerful docu-series, SURVIVING JEFFREY EPSTEIN, and their long-running relationship series, MARRIED AT FIRST SIGHT. Gena also teases an exciting new Lifetime project with SARAH JESSICA PARKER, explains what people should be pitching her, and reveals the worst pitch she's ever heard. You don't want to miss that. Trust me. 😊
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Veteran executive producer SEAN RANKINE joins "No Script, No Problem" to chat about the upcoming season of OWN's hit series, "IYANLA: FIX MY LIFE" and share his keys to bringing out the best in talent like Diddy, Shaunie O'Neal, Yolanda Hadid, Iyanla Vanzant and Jermaine Dupri. Sean also details his philosophy on show running, how he balances chaos and story on set, the turning point in his career, and how he tries to keep things positive on his shows. From "Basketball Wives" to "Making the Band" to "The Rap Game" to "College Hill" and "Iyanla: Fix My Life" - Sean has a resume filled with hits, and we are lucky he is sharing some pearls of wisdom on NSNP.
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AMY SAVITSKY, Senior Vice President, Development and Programming at HISTORY CHANNEL, joins "No Script, No Problem" in a riveting discussion about what gets a show a greenlight, what makes a good pitch, why there are so many shows in ALASKA, and what she's looking for as a buyer in the time of a global pandemic. We examine her exciting, unique journey as a creative executive from Discovery Health to Discovery Channel to TLC, A&E and now landing at History at such a pivotal time for our nation. We get into the stories behind some of the biggest, most explosive series she's helped develop, such as: "MY 600-POUND LIFE," "LEAH REMINI: SCIENTOLOGY AND THE AFTERMATH," and "THE MURDER OF LACI PETERSON." And I couldn't talk to a History Channel exec without discussing "ALONE!"
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In an age where TV shows are lucky to get a second season, it's incredible to think that MTV's "THE CHALLENGE" just finished its 35th season with a 36th coming up. Executive Producer JULIE PIZZI, the President of Entertainment and Development at Bunim-Murray Productions, joins "No Script, No Problem" to chat about the keys to success of their long-running hit series, which she has been a part of for 12 seasons. Julie also reveals how "TOTAL BELLAS" and "KEEPING UP WITH THE KARDASHIANS" are managing to film during the pandemic, what it's like producing LAVAR BALL, and how development is changing for her team.
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Legendary unscripted producer ARTHUR SMITH - the Chairman of A.Smith and Co. and the Chairman of Tinopolis USA - joins "No Script, No Problem" for a wide-ranging discussion, as his company approaches its 20-year-anniversary. We chat about working with DWAYNE JOHNSON on THE TITAN GAMES, AMERICAN NINJA WARRIOR'S evolution from Japanese fringe sensation to an American fitness phenomenon, and the genius of GORDON RAMSAY on HELL'S KITCHEN. Arthur also reveals how his company is finding a way to film during the pandemic and what to expect from their exciting, upcoming gospel music series on NETFLIX with PHARRELL.
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Editor, producer, director and CEO of Sunwise Media, RI-KARLO HANDY, joins "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM" to talk about the firestorm of controversy surrounding his Facebook post on June 16th looking for "black union editors" and what's transpired since then, including a renewed push for more diversity and inclusion throughout not just REALITY TV but the ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY as a whole. Also, producer TIFFANY MILLS returns to NSNP, as we discuss TYRA BANKS taking over as host of "DANCING WITH THE STARS" and COLIN KAEPERNICK'S new overall deal with DISNEY.
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Showrunner extraordinaire JEN LANE of the NETFLIX smash hit "QUEER EYE" joins "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM" to discuss the keys to the success of the two-time Emmy-winning transformation series, her favorite moments on set and the show's cultural relevance at a time of great division in America. Plus, Jen talks about the chemistry between the FAB 5, the immense amount of work that goes into making the show and how they are handling the pandemic.
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Super Producer NANCY GLASS joins "No Script, No Problem" to talk about her rise from host and reporter to owning her highly successful Glass Entertainment Group, which has pumped out hits like "The Vet Life," "Pool Kings," "Tanked," "Manson: The Women," "Method of a Serial Killer," "Desert Flippers," "Kemper on Kemper: Inside the Mind of a Serial Killer," "Hit Properties with Nathan Morris," and "Pope: The Most Powerful Man in History." Nancy shares some incredible stories about interviewing Jeffrey Dahmer, exploring the Catholic Church's archives, and she even gives us a preview of her upcoming series on Abraham Lincoln for CNN.
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Four of the top producers in REALITY TV join host Steve Berkowitz for a candid discussion about RACE in the unscripted genre and the powerful, dramatic, life-changing events taking place in our country right now. CARLOS KING (Styling Hollywood, The Real Housewives of Atlanta), JODI BASKERVILLE (The Bachelor, The Bachelorette), TIFFANY MILLS (Rhythm and Flow, Love and Hip Hop: Atlanta) and SUN DE GRAAF (Summer House, Vanderpump Rules) each provide tremendous insight and share personal experiences about racial issues they've dealt with in our industry and where they believe this movement in our nation will go from here. Recorded on 06/10/20.
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Veteran "BIG BROTHER" Co-Executive Producer HEATH LUMAN - one of the top challenge producers in unscripted television - joins "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM" to talk about what makes a great REALITY COMPETITION SERIES and how he and his team pull off such incredible and innovative games on CBS's long running summer smash hit. Note: This episode was recorded a couple wks ago prior to the protests of the past few weeks.
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Acclaimed producer, journalist, musician, author and documentary filmmaker SACHA JENKINS talks with host Steve Berkowitz about the explosion of DOCUMENTARIES in recent years and why they've become so popular. The talented director of "FRESH DRESSED" (CNN), "WORD IS BOND," and "WU-TANG CLAN: OF MICS AND MEN" (Showtime) breaks down his unique evolution as a storyteller, the keys to his success as a filmmaker, and what we can expect from his upcoming RICK JAMES doc.
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Showrunner extraordinaire IZZIE PICK-IBARRA joins "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM" to talk about her journey from producing hits overseas in England to bringing DANCING WITH THE STARS to life here in the U.S and now running Fox's ratings juggernaut, THE MASKED SINGER. We chat about the costumes, clues, celebrities and why The Masked Singer has become a favorite among American families. Izzie also has plenty of amazing stories to share - from having someone hold costumes hostage to people throwing meat at contestants - it's an episode REALITY TV fans will love.
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On this episode of "No Script, No Problem," host Steve Berkowitz is joined by the co-presidents of LIGHTHEARTED ENTERTAINMENT, JEFF SPANGLER and ROB LAPLANTE, producers of such hits as MTV's "ARE YOU THE ONE?" and OWN's "READY TO LOVE". The talented duo explain how they are adapting to the pandemic, describe what goes into making a successful relationship show, and share some great stories from VH-1's "DATING NAKED." Plus, Rob talks about his time producing "THE APPRENTICE" with TRUMP.
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BELOW DECK MEDITERRANEAN showrunner NADINE RAJABI joins host Steve Berkowitz on this special COVID-19 episode of "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM." The duo discuss why the nautical docu-soap has become a big hit for BRAVO, how she's running the show during the "shelter in place" situation, and how the coronavirus will affect the entertainment industry. Plus, Nadine describes her wild journey from comedian and writer to one of the top executive producers in REALITY TV.
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In this episode of "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM," host Steve Berkowitz has a lively chat with showrunner and writer, TODD HURVITZ, about a wide array of topics, including: mustaches, singing in the shower, tasing LaToya Jackson, creating comedy in reality TV, pranking celebrities on "PUNK'D" and pranking students - with celebrities - on his new NICKELODEON series, "THE SUBSTITUTE."
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In this episode of "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM," host Steve Berkowitz chops it up with CAT RODRIGUEZ, the VP of Unscripted Development and Programming at LIFETIME. The duo discuss what makes a successful dating show, the SUPERNANNY reboot, MARRYING MILLIONS, Steve's need for therapy, Cat's move from producer to network executive, and their admiration of Netflix's documentary series, "DON'T FK WITH CATS**."
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On this episode of "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM," host Steve Berkowitz breaks down the reboot and revival of legendary renovation and transformation show, EXTREME MAKEOVER HOME EDITION, with the show's executive producer and showrunner, BRADY CONNELL. The two discuss how the show has changed, moving from ABC to HGTV and with a brand new cast of designers, but how the feel-good core of the program has stayed the same.
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In this episode of “NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM,” veteran producer and current Paramount Network executive CHAZ GRAY joins host STEVE BERKOWITZ to discuss the evolution of travel, food, transformation and competition television. From his early days producing "AMAZING RACE" to his time as showrunner on "TOP CHEF" to his role now overseeing "BAR RESCUE," Chaz shares some terrific stories and insight, as he has traveled the world and worked with some of the best talent in reality TV... and even Nancy Pelosi.
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In this episode, producer, explorer, and paranormal expert ERIN RYDER joins "No Script, No Problem," as we examine the rise of ghost hunting, monster chasing, mystery solving, and UFO searching in REALITY TV. Ryder – the former co-host of “DESTINATION TRUTH” – is a veteran of several paranormal shows and shares numerous tales of escaping death, breaking bones, and even getting stuck on the Great Wall of China.
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Welcome to "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM," the show that takes you behind the curtain of unscripted television like never before with insight from some of the best in the business of reality tv, documentary series, competition shows, social experiment, and game shows. Host STEVE BERKOWITZ is a 15-year veteran producer of unscripted TV with shows like "Extreme Makeover Home Edition," "The Rachel Zoe Project," and "Battlebots" and "OutDaughtered" among his many credits.
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In this episode of “NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM,” host Steve Berkowitz examines the unscripted sub-genre of prank shows and hidden camera reality TV with producer and developer Matt Mazzant, who discusses his days as a writer, producer and prankster on “Punk’d,” a game-changing show, originally on MTV that is being rebooted for Quibi.
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In this episode of “NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM,” host Steve Berkowitz breaks down the dynamic and unpredictable landscape of selling UNSCRIPTED TV shows today with one of the REALITY TV industry’s best developers and sellers, Madison Merritt, the SVP of Alternative Programming at eOne in the U.S. The duo talk about the keys to getting a sale, the importance of attaching talent, and the evolution of pitching over the years.
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