Media & Monuments: Recent Episodes
Women in Film and Video (DC)
The weekly podcast "Media & Monuments" features conversations with industry professionals speaking on a wide range of topics of interest to all of our WIFV media makers. The series will be a great resource for creators and collaborators who want to learn more about production and all that goes into bringing projects to life, as well as a place to discover communities of support and celebrate our shared passion for visual storytelling. "Media & Monuments" is produced by WIFV DC Communications Committee Members: John Aaron, Sandra Abrams, Candice Bloch, Tara Jabbari, and Steve Lack, with special assistance by Melissa Houghton. Voiceover for open and closing: sheri ratick stroud. Logo designed by Candice Bloch. Recorded and edited courtesy of Steve Lack: Audio
Host Candice Bloch is joined by Kalina Ivanov, an Emmy-winning production designer and storyboard artist with a rich background in both film and television, spanning various genres and styles. She’s known for her work on projects like Little Miss Sunshine, Grey Gardens, Peacemaker, Lovecraft Country, and The Penguin.
As the first artists brought on board a project, Production Designers are responsible for the overall look and feel of a story. Through collaboration on selecting locations, designing sets, and coordinating with other departments like cinematography and costume design, they establish the visual direction and aesthetics of a piece.
In their conversation, we discover Kalina’s creative process, collaboration tips, and insights into visual storytelling in film and television. Kalina combines her artistic vision with a deep understanding of character and story to produce her impressive body of work. Kalina shares about doing her own research and creating mood boards, and offers first-hand stories about some of her past projects.
For example, for the critically acclaimed HBO show, The Penguin, Kalina emphasizes that she focused on telling a New York story, which required careful consideration of the streets and architecture to achieve the desired atmosphere. And for her work on George Clooney’s period film, Boys in the Boat, her research and the historically accurate boathouse built for the production were crucial in capturing the era’s essence.
To learn more about Kalina and her work, as well the Production Designers Collective:
https://www.kalinaivanov.com/
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0412055/
https://www.instagram.com/kalina506/
https://www.productiondesignerscollective.org/
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Film critic and entertainment journalist, Mara Reinstein joins host Sandra Abrams to talk about the state of the film industry from someone who covers it for a living. The life of an entertainment journalist may look glamorous, but it is not. Between the impossible deadlines when the Emmys run late, followed by an early morning screening for a major studio film, it can be a marathon for various publications. Reinstein also explains why large studios focus on remakes or franchises, fewer movies are in theaters, and the impact it has on the movie-going public. But there are a few breakout categories, and she gives insight into the new Tom Cruise movie, DIGGER, a satirical black comedy from director, Alejandro G. Inarritu, set for release in October 2026. Reinstein also shares more of her recommendations for movies to see this fall, plus she tells us about who her favorite actor was to interview - in a restaurant that was cleared out for their conversation!
Check out Mara's website at maramovies.com
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Host Tara Jabbari chats with actress Wendy Braun, who gives us a glimpse behind the scenes of "Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat.” Learn the fascinating process behind the unique scripted comedy, where real human moments blend with meticulously staged interactions. Wendy shares insights about blending authenticity with improvisation, the human stories that resonate amidst comedy, and how creative resilience can transform careers and lives.
Watch the show streaming on Prime Video, all episodes out now.
Wendy Braun’s free guided meditation for CREATING SUCCESS WHILE YOU SLEEP
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Pack your bags and head to small town Champaign, Illinois with Producer Brandon for one last year of the Roger Ebert Overlooked Film Festival, affectionately known to movie-lovers as Ebertfest. Brought back for a final year, festival organizers Chaz Ebert and Nate Kohn programmed a lineup of modern classics and under-the-radar films audiences may have missed.
First, Brandon sits down with actress Betty Gabriel following a screening of her film, Get Out (now coming up on its 10-year anniversary). Critically acclaimed for her role as housekeeper-with-a-disturbing-secret Georgina, Betty reflects on being a part of Jordan Peele’s beloved horror-social satire’s legacy. The conversation then pivots to Betty’s current and upcoming projects in television and film.
Get Out is currently available to stream on HBO Max.
Next, Brandon is joined by writer-director Tracie Laymon & actor French Stewart of the Barbie Ferreira & John Leguizamo dramedy, Bob Trevino Likes It. The film follows a lonely young woman (Ferreira) who strikes up a relationship online with a stranger (Leguizamo) who shares the name of her own narcissistic father (Stewart).
After premiering at the South by Southwest Film Festival, the crowd-pleasing film received both the Narrative Feature Grand Jury Award and the Audience Award for Best Narrative Feature.
Tapping into her own experience with her own father, Tracie discusses the semiautobiographical nature of her film and how the personal themes and narrative have resonated with audiences from all walks of life. In this joint interview, French Stewart provides insight into his role as an unsupportive father and how he approached playing this antagonistic character with pathos and three-dimensionality. Tracie then touches on how following the worldwide success of Barbie, Mattel Studios hired her to write and direct a live-action film based on the discontinued 90’s cult toy, Tony The Tattooed Man.
Bob Trevino Likes It is now streaming on Hulu and Disney+
Watch the trailer
To read more about Ebertfest ‘The Last Dance,’ visit: ‘The Last Dance’ Ends a Beautiful, Impactful Run for the Long-time Roger Ebert Film Festival
In the famous words of Ebertfest founder, Roger Ebert: “the balcony is closed”
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Would you search for your sperm donor dad? In this episode, host Sandra Abrams interviews the people behind the award winning documentary, DAD GENES. The doc follows Aaron Long, a single guy who was a sperm donor for the money 20 years ago. Fast forward to a few years ago, when several of his “kids” decided to go looking for their biological father. Sandra talks to the film’s director Craig Downing, and its editor, Sara Barger (a past president of WIFV). Sara shares what it was like to make sense of hours of footage sourced from the dad and his new kids, following the story that takes many twists and turns. Dad Genes is the winner of the Best Feature Documentary - Jury Award at the 2026 Atlanta Documentary Film Festival and Best Documentary at the Allentown Film Festival.
Dad Genes Trailer
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
All of our hosts - Candice, Sandra, and Tara - come together again for another host special. This time they explore the fascinating world of film scores and soundtracks, highlighting the differences between the two, chatting about iconic composers and film scores, and how music shapes our emotional experience of stories on screen. Are there songs that always bring to mind certain movies when you hear them? Which soundtracks struck a chord with our hosts? Tune in to hear more about the music that brings movies to life!
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Host Tara Jabbari interviews actress and filmmaker Anna Campbell, who shares her journey from acting to directing and producing her first feature film, 'Nora.' They discuss the importance of community in filmmaking, the creative process, and the unique voice each artist brings to their work. Anna emphasizes the need for collaboration, defining one's uniqueness, and the challenges of distribution in the film industry. The conversation highlights the role of music in storytelling and the significance of art in exploring personal and communal questions.
Watch the Trailer
Nora Website
Nora on Instagram
Anna’s imdb
Anna's Instagram
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Sandra Abrams talks to Jamie Coughlin Silverman and Gabriel Silverman about the making of their feature documentary, THE SPIES AMONG US and how a German-American journalism program known as RIAS helped them meet Peter Keup, the subject of their film. The husband and wife duo, who run SideXSide Studios, filmed Keup’s personal journey and the actions he took after reading his secret police file created by the East German government. The secret police, or Stasi, had a data surveillance program on its citizens. From returning to the prison cell he was in, to the actual building where the program was run, Keup confronts high level officials who ran the program in rare one-on-one interviews. The film shows Keup, who was blindsided when he learns his brother was an informant for the secret police, piece his life back together and heal through the process. During their conversation, Jamie also shares what it was like to be a first time director and pregnant during filming.
Learn more about the doc and SideXSide Studios:
thespiesamongus.film
sidexsidestudios.com
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Jessica Steinrock, a pioneering intimacy coordinator, joins host Candice Bloch to discuss the value and particulars of intimacy coordination. Jessica shares her journey from theater to film, emphasizing the importance of consent, safety, and professionalism in intimate scenes. In their conversation, they explore the significance of intimacy coordination, the range of situations that require it, terminology, equipment, and common misconceptions surrounding the role. Intimacy coordination is more than just guidance for “spicy” sex scenes - it’s about ensuring safety and consent in all types of intimate moments on screen. From shower scenes to intense makeouts, these professionals support actors' well-being on sets and create a space where they can explore their craft without fear, thereby focusing on the artistry of their performances.
Jessica is also the CEO of Intimacy Directors and Coordinators (or IDC), a SAG-AFTRA accredited training organization for intimacy coordinators. She shares how IDC is helping educate, train, and certify intimacy coordinators and discusses their resources and offerings, including a two-day virtual Summit on May 2-3, 2026.
Follow Jessica on Instagram @intimacy_coordinator_
Learn more about Jessica here: jessicasteinrock.com
Learn more about IDC here: www.idcprofessionals.com
And their upcoming 2026 Summit
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Host Tara Jabari interviews Grae Drake, a renowned journalist and film critic known for her vibrant personality and insightful commentary on the entertainment industry. Grae reflects on the challenges and joys of being a critic. She highlights the importance of empathy and understanding the filmmaking process. The conversation also touches on Grae's unique approach to interviews, where she balances humor and respect for the subject matter, ensuring that her interactions are engaging and memorable.
Grae’s website: https://www.graedrake.com/
Connect with her: https://www.instagram.com/graedrake/
Read about the panel where Tara met Grae: https://thegameofnerds.com/2026/01/10/how-to-interview-like-a-pro-a-talk-by-josh-horowitz-guests/
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Sandra Abrams talks to documentary filmmakers, Oscar winner Paul Wagner and his wife, Ellen Wagner, about their movie, Georgia O’Keeffe: the Brightness of Light. With actress Clarie Danes serving as the voice of O’Keeffe and Hugh Dancy doing the narration, the feature documentary uncovers new material about the life of the iconic artist known as the Mother of American Modernism. During the episode, the Wagners share how the project came to life and behind the scenes working with the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in Sante Fe. They explained the unique input from the O’Keeffe scholars who reviewed over 25,000 letters written between the artist and her husband, Alfred Stieglitz as a story telling tool.
To learn more about this film visit -
Website: georgiaokeeffefilm.com
Instagram: @georgiaokeeffefilm
Discover more of Georgia O'Keeffe's Art: Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Seasoned documentary producer Lisa Frank chats with host Candice Bloch about her healthcare-focused projects, namely her recent project American Delivery which focuses on maternal health and childbirth, showcasing diverse birthing experiences and the importance of equitable care. In their conversation, you’ll learn about Lisa’s ongoing collaboration with director Carolyn Jones and how creating documentaries around sensitive topics like end-of-life care and maternal health requires extensive pre-production work. The two discuss the challenges and intricacies of filming in healthcare settings, the importance of postpartum care, and the impact of care deserts on maternal health. Lisa shares insights on midwifery care, the role of fathers, and the need for advocacy in maternal health. They also touch on the influence of media in raising awareness about healthcare issues, advice for getting your mission-driven documentary seen by the right audiences, as well as the importance of nurses, and Lisa's upcoming project on global nurse migration.
Learn more about Lisa’s projects at: https://americannurseproject.com/
You can watch American Delivery on PBS at: https://www.pbs.org/show/american-delivery/
American Delivery was also included in Ms. Magazine’s list of favorite feminist documentaries of 2025.
Connect on Socials:
https://www.instagram.com/americannurseproject/
https://www.facebook.com/americannurseproject/
https://x.com/amnurseproject
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-frank-producer/
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode of Media Maker Spotlight, host Tara Jabbari interviews Shellée M. Haynesworth, an award-winning director and producer known for her work in amplifying marginalized voices through storytelling. They discuss Shellée's journey in the film industry, and her recent project, 'Camille A. Brown: Giant Steps,' available on PBS. The conversation also touches on the challenges of funding in filmmaking, the importance of collaboration, and the need for support networks for women in film.
See her company’s website: indigocreativeworks.com
Watch ‘Camille A. Brown: Giant Steps’: https://www.pbs.org/wnet/americanmasters/camille-a-brown-giant-steps/35962/
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with Eden Raskin Jenkins about her documentary, NOTES OF A CITIZEN: THE MARCUS RASKIN STORY. It is the story about her father’s career before she was born. Through family and notable figures, she learns about his work in the Kennedy White House, his role with the Pentagon Papers, the FBI raided his office, and why he was on Nixon’s Enemies List. The episode also highlights the role of music based on her father’s studies at Julliard and the support she received from Women in Film and Video.
Learn more at marcusraskin.com
Instagram: @edenraskinjenkins
Instagram: @marcusraskinfilm
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Award-winning underwater cinematographer Roger Horrocks joins host Candice Bloch to discuss what it takes to capture the amazing underwater scenes we see in epic nature documentaries. Roger has worked on some of the most ambitious and acclaimed documentaries ever created, including My Octopus Teacher, Our Planet, Blue Planet 2, and Our Oceans. These projects have taken him all over the world, and earned numerous awards, including an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature, The Critics Choice Award for Best Cinematography, and a BAFTA for Best Cinematography. Roger shares about his journey into the world of underwater filmmaking and the unique challenges and techniques involved in capturing the beauty of life below the surface. He emphasizes the importance of safety, the specialized equipment used, and the patience required during long shoots. Roger also reflects on the lessons learned from the underwater world and the significance of crew dynamics in filmmaking. You’ll come away with an even greater respect and appreciation of the skill and commitment it takes to bring audiences these incredible glimpses into our oceans and their inhabitants.
You can learn more about Roger Horrocks, his work, and his Ocean Footage Mastery mentorship program here:
www.rogerhorrocks.com
www.oceanfootagemastery.com
www.linkedin.com/in/rogerhorrocks
www.instagram.com/rogerhorrocks
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Tara Jabbari interviews Sierra Urich, an interdisciplinary visual artist and filmmaker whose documentary, 'Joonam' explores themes of identity, displacement, and the immigrant experience. Sierra shares insights from her festival circuit journey, the significance of her family's story, and the challenges of filmmaking in an authoritarian context. The conversation highlights the universal nature of longing for home and the importance of cultural narratives in connecting diverse audiences. Sierra emphasizes the power of persistence in the independent film distribution process and the value of networking at film festivals.
Learn more at: www.joonamfilm.com
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
For the first time, our three hosts: Candice Bloch, Tara Jabbari, and Sandra Abrams share the same recording studio for an in-person chat about all things animation! The trio discuss their early memories of the animated category, some of their favorite films and animated TV shows over the years, different voice actors, and some history of this unique and enduring form of entertainment. Learn more about the hosts from this insightful debate as they share more about themselves, the wide range in animation styles, genres, and audiences, and some hot takes on the impact of different storylines. From early cartoons and shorts to modern CGI features for kids and adults alike, you’ll no doubt join in the feelings of nostalgia and enjoyment that animation has brought, and continues to bring to screens in your life.
Happy Holidays from MediaMaker Spotlight!
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Iconic and prolific costume designer Mona May chats with host Candice Bloch to share about her journey becoming a prominent figure in the film industry. Considered the Queen of 90s Movie Fashion, Mona has created iconic looks for over 70 films and television shows. She is best known for her work on Clueless, as well as Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion, The Wedding Singer, Never Been Kissed, Enchanted, The House Bunny, and countless other films and shows. She discusses the influence of her diverse multicultural background on her colorful design aesthetic, the collaborative process of costume design, and the challenges of working within budget constraints. Mona reflects on her work on fun and feel-good films like Clueless and the importance of positive representation in media. You’ll also learn about her upcoming projects, including a book celebrating the lasting legacy and costumes of Clueless, in honor of the film’s 30th anniversary. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the significance of personal style and self-expression in fashion.
The Fashion of Clueless, released in October 2025, is available wherever books are sold and would make a great holiday gift!
To learn more about Mona May and her costume design work, visit https://www.monamay.com/
Follow her on Instagram @itsmonamay
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Host Sandra Abrams chats with former Hollywood PR executive, Libby Gill, about her book, MALIBU SUMMER, a rom-com story inspired by her life marketing high powered TV shows. Using her years of experience promoting shows produced by Universal, Sony, and Turner, including Dr. Phil, Libby knows how to create compelling characters with Hollywood as the backdrop. As Libby tells it, she had no intention of writing a fiction book. After leaving Los Angeles, she jumped into executive career coaching and wrote many non-fiction books on corporate leadership making this unexpected career switch. Libby also shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes from being in boardrooms with Hollywood suits, advice on making career changes, and how having a writing group makes a big difference for getting your project done! Malibu Summer is a fun read that would make a great holiday gift.
Learn more about Libby Gill at: https://libbygill.com/ and https://www.libbygillbooks.com/
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Host Candice Bloch interviews Sophia Dilley, the Executive Vice President of Concord Originals, about the art of creating music documentaries. They discuss the origins of Concord Originals, the film and TV division of legendary music company Concord, and get into various projects already out (“Stax: Soulsville USA,” “Let the Canary Sing - Cyndi Lauper,” etc.) and some upcoming projects still in work. The two chat about the emotional power of music, the importance of authentic storytelling, keeping a north star of a story’s “why,” and the collaborative nature of documentary filmmaking. Sophia shares insights on the joys and challenges of working with archival footage, engaging with artists and rights holders, and adapting to the streaming landscape and modern audiences. They also touch on upcoming projects, including a biopic about Robert Johnson, branching more into theater productions, and the future of storytelling in the music industry.
Learn more about Concord Originals and their projects here: https://concord.com/originals/
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Host Tara Jabbari talks with Michael Kennedy, one of the screenwriters and executive producers of the rom-com slasher horror film, Heart Eyes. Released a week before Valentine’s Day in February 2025, Heart Eyes - directed by Josh Ruben and starring Olivia Holt and Mason Gooding - was met with positive reviews and grossed nearly $30 million in its first month. In their conversation, Tara and Michael discuss his experience writing solo versus with a writing partner. They talk about how each department on Heart Eyes incorporated various tropes, homages, and much more. In time for the Halloween season, Heart Eyes is now available to stream on various platforms, including Netflix.
Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cRzZcMlJh8
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Host Sandra Abrams has a lively conversation with James Beard Award winning chef, author, and TV show host, Pati Jinich. Pati shares insights on how she blends food, culture, and history into the making of her PBS docuseries, “Pati Jinich Explores Panamericana” - now streaming on the PBS app. In the series, Pati loosely tracks the “Pan-American Highway” where she travels from Alaska to Canada visiting the food scene in remote towns. In each episode, Pati weaves together culture, the history of migration, and food to help the audience understand what brings us together.
In this conversation, Pati shares funny and colorful stories, including how her own family history of emigrating to Mexico from Poland helped her connect with the owner of a bagel and bialy stand in Alaska. The series reinforces that we often connect by sharing memories of the same family experiences with food.
In addition to this three-part series, Pati has an Emmy-nominated public television series, Pati’s Mexican Table, which premiered its 14th season in September, and a James Beard Award-winning PBS primetime docuseries, La Frontera with Pati Jinich. Pati is also featured on the cover of Bethesda Magazine’s September/October issue, “Women Who Inspire: Meet local leaders who are making an impact now.”
To learn more about Pati and her projects:
https://patijinich.com/
https://www.pbs.org/show/pati-jinich-explores-panamericana/
https://www.pbs.org/show/patis-mexican-table/
https://www.pbs.org/show/la-frontera-pati-jinich/
https://bethesdamagazine.com/2025/08/28/women-who-inspire-2025/
https://www.instagram.com/patijinich/
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Host Candice Bloch interviews Steve Cohen, the Emmy Award-winning executive producer of HBO Max's documentary 'Billy Joel: And So It Goes.' Steve is Billy Joel’s longtime lighting designer, creative director, trusted collaborator, and close friend. He was handpicked by Billy to build a team that would tell his story in this documentary.
In the episode, Candice and Steve discuss the evolution of lighting design in music, the impact of lighting on live performances, and the transition from lighting design to film production. Steve shares insights on the collaborative process of creating the documentary, assembling the team (including co-directors Susan Levy and Jessica Levin), the importance of including family and friends in the narrative, and the challenges of sourcing quality archival material, especially from the earlier years. He also reflects on the emotional journey of watching the documentary and the audience's connection to Billy Joel's music, while hinting at future projects.
The two-part documentary, “Billy Joel: And So It Goes” is an extensive look at Billy Joel's life and prolific music career, featuring exclusive interviews, performances, and personal archives. Released in July of 2025, the documentary is available on HBO Max.
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Host Tara Jabbari has an animated conversation with actor Vincent Martella, best known as the voice of Phineas Flynn in the Disney Channel animated series, Phineas and Ferb. After a long hiatus, the show returned earlier this summer with Disney premiering season five on June 5. Vincent discusses with Tara the cultural significance of the show, the trials of being a child actor then navigating the industry as an adult, and the impact of social media on his fan base. He also shares the challenges of being a voice actor in Hollywood and offers actionable advice to other aspiring voice actors.
Learn more about Vincent Martella, and follow him:
https://x.com/vince_martella
https://www.instagram.com/thevincentmartella/
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, MediaMaker Spotlight producer Brandon Ferry hosts behind-the-scenes interviews with two more illuminating artists – direct from the 2025 Ebertfest film festival. First, Brandon speaks with writer-director Angus MacLachlan of 2005’s indie breakout film, JUNEBUG and the soon-to-be released A LITTLE PRAYER (starring David Strathairn, Jane Levy & Anna Camp). Prior to screening at this year’s Ebertfest, MacLachlan’s acclaimed drama debuted at the Sundance Film Festival, and follows a loving, but fractured family in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Humble servant and small business owner, Bill (Strathairn) tries to protect his daughter-in-law, Tammy (Levy) when he suspects his son may secretly be having an affair. Angus touches upon his writing process, the quietly powerful performances of Jane Levy and the legendary David Strathairn, as well as the tough road traveled to get his film distributed (now scheduled for theatrical release in the U.S. on August 29th, 2025!)
Next up, Brandon spotlights composer, concert organist, and specialist in silent film accompaniment, Dr. Steven Ball. As the official organist and composer at Ebertfest, Steven dazzled audiences with his own musical compositions and his takes on classic film scores leading into the festival’s film screenings. In this conversation, Steven dives deep into the history of silent film accompaniment, his journey becoming a scholar in music composition, and stories of performing as a concert organist as an Artist in Residence at the Tampa Theatre.
Learn more about Ebertfest Film Festival
Watch the trailer for Angus MacLachlan’s award-winning A LITTLE PRAYER –
planned for a limited U.S. theatrical release on August 29, 2025 through Music Box Films. Find showtimes in your area here.
To learn more about Steven Ball’s music compositions and view his silent film accompaniment performances, visit his website, his Facebook page and the Tampa Theatre Instagram page
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, MediaMaker Spotlight producer Brandon Ferry sits down with two visionary directors whose films were screened at this year’s Ebertfest film festival held at the Virginia Theater in Champaign, Illinois. Brandon first speaks with trailblazing director of the 80s and 90s, Susan Seidelman, best known for directing the cult classic, DESPERATELY SEEKING SUSAN (rapturously received at Ebertfest), as well as the pilot and multiple episodes of SEX AND THE CITY, and the early-90’s Meryl Streep dark comedy, SHE-DEVIL. The conversation explores Susan’s four-decade career directing genre-blending films that reflect her passion for classic Hollywood storytelling, mixed with a playful New Wave spirit– informed by her years living in downtown NYC. Susan also touches upon her recently-released (not to mention sharp-witted) book, titled Desperately Seeking Something: A Memoir About Movies, Mothers, and Material Girls.
Next, Brandon has an insightful conversation with up-and-coming writer-director, David Fortune, whose moving feature film debut, COLOR BOOK was warmly received by Ebertfest’s audience. COLOR BOOK beautifully tells the story of a devoted single father (William Catlett) embarking on a journey through Metro Atlanta with his 11-year-old son with Down Syndrome (newcomer Jeremiah Daniels) to attend their first baseball game together. Recently named one of Variety's 10 Directors to Watch in 2025, David financed COLOR BOOK after winning AT&T and Tribeca Film Festival’s $1 million Untold Stories prize in 2024. David dives deep into his journey writing and directing his debut feature, the challenges he encountered, and the incredible success he has achieved getting his film financed, developed, and screened across the country at numerous film festivals. Check out these behind-the-scenes interviews, recorded on location, direct from the festival with producer Brandon!
Learn more about Ebertfest Film Festival: https://www.ebertfest.com/
Check out Susan Seidelman’s book: Desperately Seeking Something: A Memoir About Movies, Mothers, and Material Girls (which can be found wherever books are sold). https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250328229/desperatelyseekingsomething/
Watch the trailer for David Fortune’s award-winning debut film COLOR BOOK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=go9ZqJJq7f0
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Sandra Abrams sits down with Chaz Ebert, for a lively discussion about her book, It's Time To Give A FECK. FECK stands for forgiveness, empathy, compassion and kindness. She also shares insights into the many projects she is working on including a documentary, Wellness Warrior, about the life of 103-year old Deborah Szekley, founder of the Rancho La Puerta spa. In addition to directing and writing, Ms. Ebert is the CEO of Ebert Digital LLC and is the legal adviser and TV and movie producer at Ebert Productions. For 24 years, she shared a life with Pulitzer-prize winner and film critic, Roger Ebert, who passed away in 2013. Together, they established the Ebertfest film festival and the Roger Ebert Center for Film Studies at the University of Illinois.
Learn more about the book giveafeck.com
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this conversation, filmmaker Chance McClain sits down with host Candice Bloch and shares his journey from a diverse creative background to founding Heritage Films, a company dedicated to creating personal legacy documentaries. He discusses the importance of storytelling, connecting generations, the emotional impact of capturing family histories, and the production process involved in making these films. Heritage Films has created over 800 films, and counting. Chance also highlights the role of technology, including AI, in enhancing the filmmaking experience while maintaining a focus on personal narratives. The discussion also touches on the lessons learned from various life stories and how they can inspire future projects.
To learn more about Heritage Films, visit: https://yourheritagefilm.com/
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with three WIFV members about their independent feature film, THE OTHER YOU, and how the movie went from an idea during the pandemic to its premiere during the DC Independent Film Festival in March 2025. The surreal comedy sheds light on how a wife and mother tries to find time to work on her writing when a portal in her closet shows her another version of her life. Will she stay or will she go? Director Shoshana Rosenbaum and writer Julie Gold share how they got funding, and producer Robin Noonan-Price tells how she switched gears to get the film made on time when a storm almost derailed the production. Robin, who is a past president of WIFV, also answers questions on being named one of WIFV’s 2025 Women of Vision honorees. Congratulations to Robin!
Learn more about The Other You
Learn more about Women of Vision
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Host Tara Jabbari interviews editor Dustin Elkin who has worked in Los Angeles and Chicago for clients such as CBS, Mattel, Hallmark, and Bally’s. During their conversation, Dustin shares the importance of networking, his work ethic, and why he is a fan of utilizing AI for his work - including for his own podcast, The Video Editing Guru Podcast.
Connect with Dustin:
https://www.dustinelkin.com/
The Video Editing Guru Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-video-editing-guru/id1768209291
Podcraftr is what Dustin uses for his podcast. Here is an affiliate link in case you are interested:
https://podcraftr.com/?linkId=lp_854324&sourceId=dustin-elkin&tenantId=podcraftr
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this celebratory 100th episode of MediaMaker Spotlight, our three hosts - Candice, Sandra, and Tara - reflect on their journey, the evolution of the podcast, and the impact of Women in Film & Video. They discuss the transition to video content, the diverse range of topics covered, and the importance of networking within the industry. The conversation highlights notable guests, achievements, and the learning experiences gained through podcasting, while looking ahead to future milestones. They share memorable episodes, personal connections with guests, and the podcast's role as a resource for aspiring media professionals. The hosts also share updates on their guests' achievements and the global perspectives brought by international guests, culminating in a heartfelt celebration of their accomplishments and future aspirations.
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Candice Bloch interviews William Fay, a seasoned producer and motion picture executive, discussing his extensive career in the film industry. Bill, known for producing and executive producing many notable projects through the years such as Independence Day, The Patriot, 300, The Hangover, The Town, and more, elaborates on the multifaceted role of a producer, his journey into filmmaking, key milestones, and the founding of Legendary Entertainment. He shares insights on balancing creativity with business, the importance of audience engagement, and the evolution of the producer's role over the decades. The discussion also touches on the fun aspects of producing and working with directors, the increased diversity in production teams, and the advancements in visual effects technology. Bill also shares insights on transitioning to new ventures, including his current work in the wine and spirits industry and a theater adaptation of 'Happy, Texas.'
You can see a list of Bill’s credits here: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0269621/
Learn more about his spirits company here: https://steric.com/
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this second episode of a special two-part series, host Sandra Abrams chats with Maxine Peake about her portrayal of Anna Politkovskaya, a Russian-American journalist, in the film Words of War. Maxine shares what it was like to play the real life reporter, wife, and mother of two who risked her life to uncover the truth about the Chechen War. Anna was assassinated on October 7, 2006, the same day as Vladimir Putin’s birthday. The international cast for this geo-political thriller includes Ciaran Hinds as her editor, Dimtry, Jason Isaacs as her husband, Sasha, Harry Lawtey as her son, Ilya, and Naomi Battrick as her daughter, Vera. Maxine says she loved filming on location in Latvia and shares which scene she and Jason did some improvising. Sean Penn serves as executive producer. The film is now in theaters.
Part one of this series (episode 97) features Mark Maxey, President of Rolling Pictures, WIFV board member, and one of the producers of the film.
To learn more about Words of War, visit: https://www.rollingpictures.com/
You can watch the film’s trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pui6KMbHECM
WordsOfWar
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this first episode of a special two-part series, host Sandra Abrams chats with Mark Maxey, WIFV board member and producer of a new geo-political thriller, WORDS OF WAR. The film tells the story of Russian-American journalist, Anna Politkovskaya, who was assassinated on October 7, 2006 for uncovering the truth about the Chechen War. The film opens in theaters on May 2, the day before United Nations’ World Press Freedom Day. The all-star cast includes Maxine Peake as Anna, Ciaran Hinds as her editor, Dmitry, and Jason Isaacs as her husband, Sasha. Oscar-winner Sean Penn and Congressman Eric Swalwell (D-CA) serve as executive producers. In their conversation, Mark shares why this film is so timely to what is happening today when the world seeks to hold the powerful accountable for crimes against humanity. He also gives insight into how Sean Penn joined the film as executive producer.
Part two will feature lead actress, Maxine Peake and will be released on May 11th.
To learn more about Words of War, visit: https://www.rollingpictures.com/
You can watch the film’s trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pui6KMbHECM
WordsOfWar
WorldPressFreedomDay
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Ahead of Earth Day, host Candice Bloch interviews Kat Friis, an Emmy award-winning producer and founding member of Green the Bid, a grassroots, non-profit industry organization that aims to shift the media production industry to zero-waste, minimal carbon, sustainable and regenerative practices. The two discuss the importance of sustainability in the production industry, educating and advocating for sustainable practices, and practical steps that producers can take to reduce their carbon footprint. The conversation also touches on common misconceptions about sustainability, the cost-effectiveness of sustainable practices, and the resources available through Green the Bid for those looking to implement eco-friendly practices in their productions.
To learn more about Green the Bid, visit: https://www.greenthebid.earth/
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Host Tara Jabbari has a conversation with Catherine Haigh and Hannah Congdon to explore the journey of creating their documentary, Women Behind the Wheel, which focuses on women's empowerment in remote communities. They highlight the importance of research, language, cultural challenges, and community support as they share their experiences connecting with local women, the complexities of gender roles, and the impact of social media in their research. They also address serious issues like bridal kidnapping and the nuances of feminism in different cultural contexts, emphasizing the need for small, incremental changes to foster empowerment and support local initiatives.
Learn more about Women Behind the Wheel here: https://catandhan.wixsite.com/womenbehindthewheel
and https://www.instagram.com/women.behind.the.wheel/
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
MediaMaker Spotlight, the official podcast of the DC-based non-profit, Women in Film & Video, features conversations with industry professionals on a range of topics of interest to screen-based media makers. It's a must-listen resource for filmmakers of all interests and experience levels! Through fun and inspiring interviews with award-winning creators, you’ll learn all about what goes into bringing projects to life. We shine a light on subjects such as producing, editing, film festivals, costuming, sets, acting, diversity and inclusion on set, filmmaker resources, and so much more. It’s a great place to gain knowledge and inspiration, while celebrating visual storytelling!
Our interview-style episodes are typically around 30 minutes in length, hosted by our three rotating hosts: Candice, Sandra, and Tara. New episodes drop every other Sunday.
Find all episodes, learn more about the show, search topics, and more on our show website: https://mediamakerspotlight.com/
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Dr. Paul Heinzelmann of the documentary feature, Safe Sets, and Becky Morrison of the production company, The Light, sit down with host Candice Bloch to discuss humane production practices. They explore the systemic issues affecting health and safety on set, alarming statistics regarding mental health, and the historical context of production practices. The conversation highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment for crew members and the need for cultural change within the industry. They also discuss the Safe Sets documentary, which aims to raise awareness and advocate for better working conditions in film production.
To learn more about Safe Sets: https://wwwsafesetsmovie.org/
And https://linktr.ee/safesetsmovie
To learn more about The Light: https://thelight.nyc
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Host Sandra Abrams chats with publishing trailblazer Regina Jones and Soraya Sélène, one of the co-directors of the new documentary, “WHO THE HELL IS REGINA JONES?” The film tells the remarkable story of Jones’s journey from being a financially struggling young mother of five to witnessing the Watts Rebellion in 1965 to creating and running SOUL newspaper. SOUL became a nationwide publication, scoring scoop after scoop with some of the era's biggest artists, like Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Diana Ross, Gladys Knight, and Stevie Wonder. SOUL was where Black artists could get coverage. After her marriage ended, the newspaper shuttered, and her mother died, Jones explains how as a Black woman she navigated all the trials of life during that tumultuous time. Regina and Soraya also reveal how the film came to life thanks in part to the amazing SOUL archive that Jones’s grandson is preserving.
To learn more about Who the Hell is Regina Jones, visit https://whoisreginafilm.com/ or follow the film on Instagram and Facebook @whoisreginafilm
You can watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZRdpxKUxKU
Learn more about co-director Soraya Selene at www.sorayaselene.com and on Instagram @soraya_selene
Learn more about co-director Billie Miossi at www.billy-miossi.com and on Instagram @billy_miossi
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Tara Jabari interviews actor Carl Lumbly, known for his roles in Captain America, Alias, Doctor Sleep, and more. They discuss Lumbly's portrayal of Isaiah Bradley in the latest Captain America: Brave New World, a character rooted in historical injustices faced by African Americans, and the thematic elements of love and sacrifice in the Marvel Universe. Lumbly shares insights from his career, including his experiences on Alias and his aspirations to write a one-man show about James Baldwin. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration and respect in the industry, as well as the anticipation surrounding Lumbly's upcoming projects.
Marvel’s Captain America: Brave New World opened in theaters on February 14, 2025.
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
It’s time for another all-hosts special! Hosts Sandra, Tara, and Candice chat all about romantic comedies ahead of Valentine’s Day. We discuss some of our favorite films, actors, and tropes within the ubiquitous rom-com genre, while also sharing some fun facts. You’ll love hearing the banter about meet-cutes and steamy scenes, and you may even discover some classic movies to cozy up to with a special someone.
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Documentary filmmaker Melissa Davey sits down with host Candice Bloch in this episode to discuss her filmmaking journey and her latest film, Climbing Into Life. The film is about the remarkable story of Dierdre Wolownick, an accomplished writer, artist and musician who got into rock climbing later in life and, at age 66, became the oldest woman to ascend Yosemite’s famed El Capitan. The two also talk about Melissa’s first feature, Beyond Sixty, and her goals of challenging stereotypes about women’s aging. Listen in to hear great advice about filmmaking and life, get inspired by Melissa’s personal story of finding filmmaking at age 65, and rethink your own possibilities for the years that lie ahead.
To learn more about Melissa and her films, visit: https://melissadavey.com/
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Tara Jabbari speaks with Zhanna Ozirna, a Ukrainian filmmaker whose first feature film premiered at the Venice Film Festival. They talk about the inspiration behind her film, the importance of art showcasing challenges like war, winning the Biennale Cinema Competition, plus much more.
The film, Honeymoon (English title) is about a couple, Taras and Olya, who just bought an apartment in the suburbs and are spending their first night there before they are woken up by explosions outside the window. A full-scale invasion has begun and the couple is trapped without electricity, water, and mobile communication. During the coming days, Taras and Olya face a new level of intimacy during a deadly threat.
Her film sites:
https://www.instagram.com/medovyi_misiats/
https://www.facebook.com/filmhoneymoon
https://www.labiennale.org/en/cinema/2024/biennale-college-cinema/medovyi-misiats-honeymoon
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31039377/?ref_=nm_flmg_job_1_cred_t_1
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Candice Bloch has a brief chat with Director Tim Fehlbaum and actors Leonie Benesch and Ben Chaplin of the film September 5. They talk about some of what went into producing the film, which unveils the decisive moment that forever changed media coverage and continues to impact live news today. Set during the 1972 Munich Summer Olympics, the film follows the ABC Sports broadcasting team who quickly shifted from sports reporting to live coverage of the Israeli athletes taken hostage. Through this lens, September 5 provides an important perspective on the live broadcast seen globally by millions of people at the time.
At the heart of the story is Geoff (played by John Magaro), a young and ambitious producer striving to prove himself to his boss, the legendary TV executive Roone Arledge (played by Peter Sarsgaard). Together with German interpreter Marianne (played by Leonie Benesch) and his mentor Marvin Bader (played by Ben Chaplin), the story focuses on the intricate details of the high-tech broadcast capabilities of the time, juxtaposed against the many lives at stake and the moral decisions that needed to be made against an impossible ticking clock.
Paramount Pictures’ “SEPTEMBER 5” is a ‘Best Motion Picture - Drama’ nominee for the 2025 Golden Globes. The film is in select theaters on December 13, 2024, and opens Nationwide on January 17, 2025.
https://www.september5movie.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/September_5_(film)
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28082769/
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with Monda Raquel Webb, former EVP of WIFV (and still a board member), and winner of the 2024 Trailblazer Award from the African American Women in Cinema of New York City. Webb is a book author, filmmaker, and performance artist. As an independent storyteller, she is dedicated to telling stories hidden in the crevices of history's pages through her production company, Little Known Stories. In this conversation, we learn why she describes herself as a visual archeologist and the “little known stories” behind several of her film projects. She is currently serving as the Executive Vice President of the Chesapeake Film Festival Board and as a programming coordinator for the Chesapeake Film Festival. Her latest film, “Mother Knows Best” will be released in January 2025.
Learn more on her Instagram at @mondaraquelwebb
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We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
During a virtual press junket for 2024’s summer blockbuster, Borderlands, actor Benjamin Byron Davis spoke with host Tara Jabbari to discuss his role in the film, plus his experience working in over 50 projects ranging from Gilmore Girls to Guardians of the Galaxy. They talked about what makes a successful and worthwhile colleague in the film industry, his friendship with James Gunn, plus his advice for actors who are starting out. Listen to one of the most dynamic and versatile actors as he shares what he has learned over his career.
Follow Ben on social media:
Instagram and Threads @bigbendavis
TikTok @benjaminbyrondavis
https://www.instagram.com/borderlandsfilm/
https://x.com/BorderlandsFilm
https://www.facebook.com/BorderlandsFilm
BorderlandsMovie
Borderlands
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
VFX editor and DC native, Anedra Edwards sits down with host Candice Bloch to give us a peek behind the curtain of visual effects magic. Anedra shares her knowledge from over 15 years of experience in VFX and picture editing for film and TV, working with world’s biggest entertainment companies including Marvel, Netflix, HBO, BET, Discovery, NatGeo, NBC, Disney, ABC, and beyond. You’ll learn what a VFX editor does (which is different from a VFX artist!) and the importance of coordinating and ensuring visual continuity throughout all stages of a project. Their conversation touches on the differences between roles within the VFX department, invisible effects and compositing, fun and interesting anecdotes from projects such as Marvel’s Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, practical advice, and more!
Check out more of Anedra’s credits here: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6205530/
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Sandra Abrams sits down with another of WIFV’s 2024 Woman of Vision honorees, Sylvia Bugg. As the Chief Programming Executive and General Manager of General Audience Programming for PBS, Bugg shares insight into why she is a life-long learner, how her previous experience at Discovery and CPB shaped her, and what leadership skills she brings to her position. She also explains the PBS opportunity for media content creators to support long and short form documentaries produced and created by diverse/BIPOC filmmakers and what she “envisioned” for her career when she first started out in the media business. WIFV honored Sylvia Bugg in May 2024 at its annual Women of Vision event, held at the National Museum of Women in the Arts.
Learn more at www.pbs.org
www.wifv.org/womenofvision
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Today, we’re sharing a special episode from our friends at PBS’ Webby Award-winning podcast American Masters: Creative Spark. Join host Joe Skinner as he speaks with Oscar-nominated actress Minnie Driver about how she took on the role of one of the most powerful women in history. She talks about the joy of acting in period pieces, and reminds us to “never underestimate the power of dressing up,” even if the corset can be a little too tight at times.
Listen and follow American Masters: Creative Spark for even more interviews here:
https://link.chtbl.com/driver?sid=mediamaker
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Host Tara Jabbari talks all about visual effects with Leah Orsini, a VFX Producer with over 20 years of experience. Leah shares how she started in production and moved to be a VFX Producer, and talks about projects she worked on such as The Gilded Age, Blindspot, Mr. Robot, Falling Skies, and Split, among others. You’ll learn about the difference between special effects and visual effects, how much the profession has changed due to technology enhancements, the growth of diversity on set and behind the scenes, and much more.
Leah Orsini’s IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1924648/
To learn more about visual effects: https://www.vesglobal.org/
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Great sound is the mark of a quality project. In this episode, host Candice Bloch has a conversation with Charlie Hewitt of Mirror Studios to discuss all things audio post and sound design. From the difference between audio mixing and audio mastering, to layering in all the right sound effects at all the right levels, to the new frontier of fully immersive audio, you’ll leave this episode with a greater appreciation for how audio enhances projects and brings them to life. Tune in to hear some of Charlie’s journey, the importance of sound, and why he considers film and television “sensory mediums” for storytelling.
To learn more about Charlie and Mirror Studios: https://mirrorstudios.com/
And to learn more about IAX (the Immersive Audio Experience): https://www.iaxaudio.com/
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
The What Went Wrong podcast series brings you behind-the-scenes of films from massive flops to record-breaking blockbusters to shed a light on what it really takes to make a film. The show’s hosts, Lizzie Bassett and Chris Winterbauer speak with Tara Jabbari about what they learned about what it really takes to make a film, why James Cameron punched his diver in the face, the long road to get the voice of Shrek, and other fun anecdotes. They also discuss how important it is to have more people of color and female-led films and why they should be given a chance.
What Went Wrong Podcast:
https://www.whatwentwrongpod.com/
Follow and Listen anywhere you listen to podcasts.
You can request films and follow them on their Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/whatwentwrongpod/
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Women in Film & Video (WIFV) is turning 45! To mark the occasion, there’s going to be a big dance party on Friday, September 13. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with WIFV Board President Connie St. John to learn more about the organization and the celebration. They discuss how this amazing non-profit got started back in 1979, how it serves a diverse visual media community, and why you should come to the party. St. John also explains many of the wonderful membership benefits including funding options for media projects and networking opportunities available here in the DMV! If you’re not already a member, you’ll want to join this supportive community of creative media makers, no matter your experience level, and whether you work in front of or behind the lens.
You can buy tickets to our 1970s & 80s costume-themed 45th anniversary party, which will be held at metrobar in DC, here: WIFV Dance Party
To learn more about Connie’s production company: No Weapon Production
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this special all-host episode, we are thrilled to debut our new podcast name, MediaMaker Spotlight! During their conversation, hosts Sandra Abrams, Candice Bloch, and Tara Jabbari explain the story behind our rebranding and how making the announcement inspired us to chat about some memorable Hollywood renames and recasts in television shows and films. Tune-in to learn more about our big news and hear some fun facts and industry trivia about other projects that have made changes!
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Sandra Abrams has a conversation with Matt Singer - film critic, editor, podcaster, and author- about his new book, “Opposable Thumbs: How Siskel & Ebert Changed Movies Forever.” The book offers an insightful and funny look into the iconic pair of film reviewers and their combative style, and shares details about how their THUMBS UP or THUMBS DOWN trademark began. Plus, given Matt’s day job as film critic and editor of ScreenCrush.com, he talks about the role of film criticism for audiences in today’s entertainment and media world.
Learn more about Matt Singer and ScreenCrush here: www.screencrush.com/author/mattsinger
Buy “Opposable Thumbs: How Siskel & Ebert Changed Movies Forever” wherever books are sold as well as through:
Penguin Random House
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/710246/opposable-thumbs-by-matt-singer/
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the mediaandmonuments.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast/Communications Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Tara Jabbari sits with writer and director Molly McGlynn to talk about her new film, “Fitting In.” The comedic coming-of-age drama, starring Maddie Ziegler and Emily Hampshire, is a semi-autobiographical story about Molly’s journey with MRKH Syndrome. Molly shares the challenges but also the support she had while sharing such a personal story on a reproductive condition. They also talk about the responses the film has gotten since its release, the importance of representation, plus what it’s like to direct your own material versus being a guest director on established television shows.
For the latest on “Fitting In” and Molly McGlynn, find her on Instagram @mollymarymcglynn
Watch the trailer for “Fitting In”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19SYGGGLcO4 And you can find the film for rent or purchase on various streamers.
The Oxbelly Retreat that Molly mentions:
https://www.oxbelly.com/
The other podcast episode that Tara mentions:
Glamorous Trash Talk: The Barbie Movie and How We Tell Female Stories (with Liza Treyger and Molly McGlynn) https://open.spotify.com/episode/4X6FlKrwSdA4ijbYzMMcj7?si=XVgBRwh_QaOeWtnboEDIFw
Molly’s website: https://www.mollymarymcglynn.com/
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the mediaandmonuments.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast/Communications Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
More stories get written than make it to screen, so what becomes of these lost narratives? In this episode, host Candice Bloch sits down with producer James Walker to dive into a project he and his company, Velocity Studios have embarked upon to revive some of these scripts in an exciting new way. You’ll learn how they produce immersive experiences that envelop a listener in a rich audio-only world. Hear about the benefits and challenges faced when adapting a story intended for screen into a medium that requires its audience to flex their imaginations in a different way. In this interview, they focus on the first project put out in this “Greatest Scripts Never Made” series, a cyberpunk noir called The Metal Detective. You’ll even get a taste of The Metal Detective during this exploration of audio dramas and what they could mean for projects that deserve to be shared with the world.
You can learn more about James, Velocity Studios, their Greatest Scripts series, and The Metal Detective, at: https://www.velocity-studios.com/
The Metal Detective is also available wherever you find your podcasts.
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the mediaandmonuments.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast/Communications Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with WIFV’s 2024 Women of Vision honoree E. Samantha Cheng about her long resume in the media world. She is a writer, director, and producer that has worked in New York City and London before making the DMV home. Her passion and support of the Asian American community has formed the foundation of her work which includes Norman Mineta, the Boy from San Jose, and Honor and Duty: The Mississippi Delta Chinese, which ran nationally on PBS. During this episode, Cheng shares details about her latest project, Dora Fugh Lee: A Life in Art, which ran on WETA, during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, May 2024.
To learn more about E. Samanatha and her educational documentaries, visit www.heritageseries.us
To learn more about WIFV’s long-running Women of Vision Awards, visit: www.wifv.org/women-of-vision-awards/
And to learn more about Gals ‘N’ Gear, check out: https://www.galsngear.tv/
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the mediaandmonuments.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast/Communications Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
In this special double-host, double-guest episode, hosts Tara Jabbari and Candice Bloch sit down with Caitlin Durante and Jamie Loftus, the co-hosts of the popular podcast, The Bechdel Cast. The quartet of podcasters discuss The Bechdel Cast, a weekly podcast from iHeartRadio, that dives into the representation of women and other underrepresented groups in movies. The show gets its name and premise from the Bechdel-Wallace test which investigates whether or not a work includes at least two women conversing about a topic other than a man. The show now often covers other tests as well, and features lively and comedic discussions about films and the portrayals of their characters.
In this episode, you’ll hear about The Bechdel Cast’s origins and process, and some highlights and takeaways from their over-seven-year podcasting journey discussing hundreds of films that span all eras and genres. They discuss their community of supporters on Patreon, recording episodes in front of live audiences on tour, and how they have discovered that their show helps spark conversation about intersectional feminism and representation in movies.
To learn more about the The Bechdel Cast, their tour, and Caitlin and Jamie, the Los Angeles based comedian hosts of the show, you can find links at: https://linktr.ee/bechdelcast
You can find the show’s Patreon (aka Matreon) here: https://www.patreon.com/bechdelcast
You can find The Bechdel Cast wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the mediaandmonuments.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast/Communications Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Lady Whistledown has news: Dearest Gentle Listener - Bridgerton is back! The Regency period romantic drama from Shonda Rhimes dropped on May 16 on Netflix. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with many members of the talented production team to learn how Season 3 came together. Sandra discusses the music with Oscar-winner Kris Bowers, the wardrobe with Costume Designer John Glaser, all those dances with Choreographer Jack Murphy, and everyone’s looks with Emmy-winning Hair and Make Up Artist, Erika Okvist. Listen in to learn about the flowers, production design, music rights, and so much more.
This season of the iconic Netflix series focuses on the romance between Penelope Featherstone and Colin Bridgerton. Watch the first four episodes in Part 1 out on May 16th, and the final four episodes in Part 2, out on June 13th.
www.netflix.com/Bridgerton
Instagram: @BridgertonOnNetflix
Twitter: @Bridgerton
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Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the mediaandmonuments.com *show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast/Communications Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Professional stuntwoman, motion capture performer, and champion martial artist, Thekla Hutyrova sits down with host Candice Bloch for a fun conversation all about bringing action to our screens - on film, television, and in video games. Thekla has worked on films such as Alita: Battle Angel, Logan, and Deadpool 2, shows such as Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Ms. Marvel, and video games such as God of War: Ragnarok, Mortal Kombat 1 and Spider-Man 2.
In their conversation, you’ll learn about how stunts are coordinated and executed, both on and off sets, some of the technology that helps make it happen, and discover more about the profession, the process, and the skills it takes to execute action safely for our entertainment. You’ll leave this episode with a greater appreciation and respect for the professionals that enhance our visual stories, and even some everyday useful information!
You can follow Thekla on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/theklahutyrova
To keep learning more about filmmaking, production, media makers, resources for creators, visual storytelling, and all that goes into bringing film, television, and video projects to our screens, don't forget to subscribe to the show! Check out our show page at mediaandmonuments.com *to discover even more conversations with industry professionals that will inspire, educate, and entertain!
We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast/Communications Team work hard to ensure that this show is a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!*
Israeli director, Anna Somershaf sits down with host Sandra Abrams in this episode to talk about her award-winning feature documentary, Women of Valor. The film follows the odyssey of Esty Shushan, an orthodox mother and wife, as she seeks to change the law for Haredi women to be elected representatives to Israel's Knesset. Over a five year period, there are many obstacles, especially from ultra-religious men, as these Orthodox women become modern-day Suffragettes, fighting to have their own voices heard. For some Orthodox women, it comes at a high cost. The film is in both Hebrew and English, and is the winner of the Best Documentary Feature at the 2023 Richmond International Film Festival. In their conversation, you’ll hear about the journey of getting the film made and more specifics about the powerful documentary.
LINK TO TRAILER: https://vimeo.com/584628555
LINK TO FILM’S FACEBOOK PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/womenofvalor.film
Up-and-coming television comedy writer, Julia Lindon sits down with host Candice Bloch in this episode to chat about her journey in writing. You’ll learn more about the dynamics of the writers’ room, hear stories about leveraging connections to get in the door, and get a glimpse into the process of honing her comedy chops and bringing stories to the screen. Julia began by working at NBC’s Saturday Night Live and Comedy Central’s The Daily Show, and has gone on to work on such hit series as Netflix/A24’s Survival of the Thickest and Apple TV’s Ted Lasso. She is currently writing on Peacock’s NPR parody, In The Know.
To learn more about Julia, you can visit her website at: https://www.julialindon.com/ and follow her on Instagram @julialindon
In this episode, Michael Schulman, author of "Oscar Wars: A History of Hollywood in Gold, Sweat, and Tears'' sits down with host Tara Jabbari for a conversation about notable Oscars moments and their larger significance. Michael shares how voting works for the Academy Awards, and the two discuss how the famous ceremony is a lens into how Hollywood thinks. You’ll hear more about some notable chapters from the book (like when Gregory Peck was the President of the Academy, or when Harvey Weinstein played dirty in campaigning), history-making moments, and more!
Learn more about Michael Schulman: https://www.michael-schulman.com/
Article Michael wrote on Oscar nominations and “Barbie’s” lack of nominations https://www.newyorker.com/culture/notes-on-hollywood/the-oscars-are-confused-about-barbie
Buy “Oscar Wars” https://www.harpercollins.com/products/oscar-wars-michael-schulman
In this episode - our first with a video companion - join all three of our hosts on a journey through the dynamic world of American reality TV. We explore its origins, cultural impact, and evolving genres. From the groundbreaking series "The Real World'' to the global phenomenon of "Keeping Up with the Kardashians," we unpack how these shows reflect and shape our society. Listen in as we share personal anecdotes and discuss how reality TV has become a platform for important conversations.
We examine the mechanics of reality TV and its widespread appeal. Whether it's the satisfaction of quick resolutions or the emotional manipulation of viewers through crafty editing, there's no denying the genre's ability to captivate. Sub-genres provide drama in following celebrities’ lives, binge-worthy spectacle in navigating love connections, inspiration in creative competitions, and so much more… which sub-genre is your favorite?
To watch our conversations, subscribe to our YouTube channel at: http://www.youtube.com/@MediaAndMonuments
People with disabilities have been historically underrepresented in the entertainment industry. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with U.K.- based actress, writer, and disability advocate, Melissa Johns. Johns explains how she landed the role as the brainy Miss Scott in the British detective series, Grantchester, where her disability (born without her right forearm and hand) is a non-factor, who she called first when she landed a role on the iconic soap, Coronation Street, and how her foundation is helping others with disabilities break down barriers in the entertainment industry. She also shares what happened when intimate photos of her were posted online and how she got her power back through writing.
To learn more about Melissa Johns and her organization TripleC, check out: https://triplec.org.uk/
You’ve only got one chance to get it right when the broadcast is live. In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with Remote Operations Manager, Pam Chvotkin all about the fast-paced and intense world of live event coverage. Pam has years of broadcast production experience ranging from professional sports, to concerts, competitions, awards shows, and more. In the conversation, Pam shares her knowledge about the often chaotic but rewarding lifestyle that keeps one adaptable and ready for anything. After listening to what it takes, you’ll watch live programming with a better understanding and more respect for what goes on behind the scenes to make it happen.
To learn more about Pam and her work, visit www.pamchvotkin.com and to see some great behind-the-scenes content, follow Pam @reddusfoximus on the socials.
Thumbs up, thumbs down? Five stars (or are four stars the highest number?)!
In this episode, host Tara Jabbari speaks with film critics to discuss how viewing films has changed over the last few years. When is it worth going to the movie theater? Where should we look to know what’s worth seeing? What’s the difference between Rotten Tomatoes versus Meta Critic? They dive into these topics as well as what goes into being a film critic.
Our guests are:
Ann Hornaday, who has been film critic at The Washington Post since 2002. Learn more about her work here: https://www.washingtonpost.com/people/ann-hornaday/
Bob Mondello, who has been with NPR since 1984. Learn more about his work here: https://www.npr.org/people/3813466/bob-mondello
Leslie Combemale, who is a professional film critic and industry insider.You can learn more about her work on the following sites: https://cinemasiren.com/ and ArtInsights.com and https://womenrockinghollywood.com/ She also discusses being involved with https://awfj.org/
Making a career pivot after 15 years in one job takes guts and some financial planning. Then add to the mix several disabilities and it sounds impossible. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams talks to filmmaker, advocate, and podcaster, Ariel Baska. Ariel shares how she made the leap to a new film career in a niche genre: Queer Horror, and founded the Access:Horror film festival. Ariel explains why inclusion in front of and behind the camera helps everyone on set, not just those with disabilities. She also gives us some insight on the Film Event Accessibility Scorecard.
For more information about Ariel, visit: https://arielbaska.com/
Find her podcast, Ride the Omnibus, wherever you listen to your podcasts.
To learn more about the Film Event Accessibility Scorecard, visit: https://feaw.org/
Learn more about Access:Horror at https://www.accesshorror.com/
In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with the creative team behind the hit indie TV show, ‘Sexpectations.’ Writer Jenna St. John and Director Kevin Good shed light on how they took the series from story concept through production, post-production, and eventually out to audiences on major streaming platforms. They talk about their multi-year journey including self-funding, casting, the show’s message, technical aspects of using CGI, and more.
‘Sexpectations’ centers on an aspiring romance novelist and her quest to lose her virginity for the sake of her writing. Season one of the adult comedy is available for rental or purchase on AppleTV+ or Amazon Prime.
To learn more about the show, visit https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9470422/
Follow the show on Facebook and Instagram at https://www.facebook.com/SexpectationsTVShow and https://www.instagram.com/sexpectationstv/?hl=en
Abby Greensfelder has an instinct for developing not only iconic cable shows such as, “Say Yes to the Dress,” but also documentaries featuring icons Megan Rapinoe and Alicia Keys. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with the indie filmmaker and native Washingtonian, ahead of the World Premiere of UNCHARTED at the Tribeca Film Festival in June. The doc, from her company, Everywoman Studios, is a behind-the-scenes look at Keys’ songwriting camp that hopes to create a pipeline of women songwriters and music producers. The studio’s first film, LFG, featured the U.S Women Soccer team’s fight for fair pay. In this discussion, Abby shares why her company aims to develop women-centric content that has a social impact and how female filmmakers can apply for the Propelle program to develop their media ideas. In May, WIFV named Abby a 2023 Women of Vision honoree.
www.everywomanstudios.com
https://west.realscreen.com/2023/propelle/
To view a complete list of Women of Vision winners, visit https://www.wifv.org/women-of-vision-awards/
Originally released Oct 1, 2023The choice of who is cast in a role can make or break a performance. In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with casting director Anne Chapman all about the art and business of casting a project. Anne draws on her decades of professional experience casting projects of all sizes and styles as they discuss the methods and evolution of the process, the importance of chemistry, the difficulties of casting historical figures, advice for those interested in the career, and more.
To learn more about Anne and her casting company, visit: https://www.annechapmancasting.com/
Originally released on Oct. 8, 2023What is the difference between a cinematographer, camera operator, and director of photography? Has there been more gender diversity behind the scenes? What is the difference between filming on digital versus film? These questions and more are covered in this episode as host Tara Jabbari speaks with the award-winning South African cinematographer and camera operator, Pascale Neuschafer.
To learn about Pascale’s work, visit: https://www.instagram.com/pascaleneuschafer/
https://quickbrownfox.co.za/
To learn more about the International Collective of Female Cinematographers (ICFC), visit:
https://www.icfcfilm.com/
Originally released Nov. 12, 2023
Screen-based media by its very nature, relies on visuals. And as stories unfold on set, the art department is key in not only building those sets, but making them look the part for the world being created. In this episode, host Candice Bloch sits down with Betsy Zuck, an experienced Production Designer, Set Decorator, Lead Person, Set Decorator, fabricator, and beyond. They discuss not only those roles and what they mean, but Betsy draws on her experiences working on crews of all types and sizes to shine a light on the workflow and hierarchy of sets, as well as give some great tips and advice for those looking to break into production design.
Check out more of Betsy’s credits at: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6826143/
Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsy-zuck-26110718/
Originally released on Sept. 14, 2023Love the movie? Read the book before it’s banned! In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with Kristen Lopez, author of "But Have You Read the Book? 52 Literary Gems That Inspired Our Favorite Films” in association with Turner Classic Movies. Kristen knows her topic as creator of the Ticklish Business podcast and a film editor with entertainment daily, TheWrap. Film buffs will get the behind-the-scenes story of how THE THIN MAN, DUNE, and PASSING went from book to an adaptive screenplay and then beloved classic film. They also discuss the impact of the current banned book atmosphere on future screen-based works.
Find the book wherever books are sold, including: Hachette Book Group
Ticklish Business podcast
www.thewrap.com/author/kristen-lopez/
Originally released May 14, 2023In this episode, host Tara Jabbari sits down with actor Shimmy Isaacs on location in Cape Town, South Africa to talk about her Netflix hit crime thriller, Unseen. They discuss the show, Shimmy's acting journey in drama and comedy, her writing process, her time in the USA, and how the arts is a universal language.
You can follow Shimmy for the latest on her work on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shimmyisaacs/
or on Twitter:https://twitter.com/shimmyisaacs/
Watch Unseen on Netflix here.
Originally released on Dec. 18, 2022.
Season two wraps up with this Holiday Special, where all three hosts – Candice Bloch, Sandra Abrams, and Tara Jabbari – discuss the mega genre of Christmas and holiday movies. The trio share fun facts, their personal opinions, and go over the results of Media & Monuments’ own holiday survey, which centered on movies related to “the most wonderful time of the year.” Here are a few highlights from the survey to get you into the holiday mood: Love Actually was voted favorite holiday rom-com, Miracle on 34th Street was voted favorite Santa-theme movie, and A Charlie Brown Christmas was the winner in the animated category.
Want to hear more results or find out if you got a shout out? Want to hear a lively debate on why Die Hard is or is not a Christmas movie? Tune in! While this is the last new episode for 2022, Media & Monuments will play reruns during their winter break, and return with season three in the new year. Happy Holidays from the WIFV podcast committee!
Making a career pivot after 15 years in one job takes guts and some financial planning. Then add to the mix several disabilities and it sounds impossible. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams talks to filmmaker, advocate, and podcaster, Ariel Baska. Ariel shares how she made the leap to a new film career in a niche genre: Queer Horror, and founded the Access:Horror film festival. Ariel explains why inclusion in front of and behind the camera helps everyone on set, not just those with disabilities. She also gives us some insight on the Film Event Accessibility Scorecard.
For more information about Ariel, visit: https://arielbaska.com/
Find her podcast, Ride the Omnibus, wherever you listen to your podcasts.
To learn more about the Film Event Accessibility Scorecard, visit: https://feaw.org/
Learn more about Access:Horror at https://www.accesshorror.com/
Host Tara Jabbari sits down with influencer Nikole Eva, aka Evasive on YouTube, for this episode. After studying film, gaining experience as an editor, and working towards being a comedy writer, Eva started her YouTube channel to get her name out there… and it has been working! Tara and Eva talk about the start of her YouTube channel, how to make money through the videos, copyright issues, the importance of engaging with comments to build your audience, and much more!
Evasive YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUGZFAqUNtF_kJF80XOa5zQ
For business inquiries email: theevasiveone@gmail.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikole_eva_/
In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with the creative team behind the hit indie TV show, ‘Sexpectations.’ Writer Jenna St. John and Director Kevin Good shed light on how they took the series from story concept through production, post-production, and eventually out to audiences on major streaming platforms. They talk about their multi-year journey including self-funding, casting, the show’s message, technical aspects of using CGI, and more.
‘Sexpectations’ centers on an aspiring romance novelist and her quest to lose her virginity for the sake of her writing. Season one of the adult comedy is available for rental or purchase on AppleTV+ or Amazon Prime.
To learn more about the show, visit https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9470422/
Follow the show on Facebook and Instagram at https://www.facebook.com/SexpectationsTVShow and https://www.instagram.com/sexpectationstv/?hl=en
Call Me Dancer is a multiple award winning feature documentary that follows Manish Chauhan, a charismatic street dancer from Mumbai, who dreams of becoming a ballet dancer despite his parents misgivings. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with the filmmakers behind this inspiring film: director and producer Leslie Shampaine, co-director Pip Gilmour, and editor Jennifer Beman. They share their journey of how they made the project that took them from India, to the UK, NY, and Israel, and why it took over five years to complete and edit. From humble beginnings, Manish’s life goes on a roller coaster ride as he navigates the dance world, Covid, and injuries to reach his goals with help from his curmudgeonly ballet teacher, Yehuda Maor. The documentary is in English and Hindi.
Theatrical screenings of CALL ME DANCER begin at the Quad Cinema in NYC Dec 15-21. Check the film website for other dates and locations: https://callmedancer.com/see-the-film/
Film website: https://callmedancer.com/
Instagram for Call Me Dancer: https://www.instagram.com/callmedancermovie
Instagram for Manish Chauhan: https://www.instagram.com/manishchauhan02
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/callmedancermovie
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@callmedacnermovie
Horror invades holiday in a genre mashup comedy! This episode, host Tara Jabbari speaks with director Tyler MacIntyre about his new horror-comedy, It’s a Wonderful Knife. Described as “It’s a Wonderful Life by way of Scream,” they discuss how story elements of the classic holiday film were infused into this killer thriller. Starring Jane Widdop, Jess McLeod, Joel McHale, Katharine Isabelle, William B. Davis, and Justin Long, It’s a Wonderful Knife opened in theaters on November 10th, 2023. It will stream on Shudder at a later date.
It’s a Wonderful Knife trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLdAYrG0xo0
Tyler’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/tmacfilm
Katrinawan PR accounts:
https://www.facebook.com/katrinawanpr/
https://twitter.com/katrinawanpr
Screen-based media by its very nature, relies on visuals. And as stories unfold on set, the art department is key in not only building those sets, but making them look the part for the world being created. In this episode, host Candice Bloch sits down with Betsy Zuck, an experienced Production Designer, Set Decorator, Lead Person, Set Decorator, fabricator, and beyond. They discuss not only those roles and what they mean, but Betsy draws on her experiences working on crews of all types and sizes to shine a light on the workflow and hierarchy of sets, as well as give some great tips and advice for those looking to break into production design.
Check out more of Betsy’s credits at: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6826143/
Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsy-zuck-26110718/
People with disabilities have been historically underrepresented in the entertainment industry. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with U.K.- based actress, writer, and disability advocate, Melissa Johns. Johns explains how she landed the role as the brainy Miss Scott in the British detective series, Grantchester, where her disability (born without her right forearm and hand) is a non-factor, who she called first when she landed a role on the iconic soap, Coronation Street, and how her foundation is helping others with disabilities break down barriers in the entertainment industry. She also shares what happened when intimate photos of her were posted online and how she got her power back through writing.
To learn more about Melissa Johns and her organization TripleC, check out: https://triplec.org.uk/
When it comes to creating a story, where that story is told is very important. In this episode, host Tara Jabbari speaks with Kelly Stuart, a location manager for projects such as the award-winning film, Everything Everywhere All at Once, and television shows like True Blood, The Catch, and American Auto. In their conversation, Kelly talks about what her job entails, what she looks for in a location, how involved she is with other departments like safety and art, and what a person needs to be successful in a job like this.
For more info on Kelly’s credits, visit her IMDb page at: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0835762/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1
You’ve only got one chance to get it right when the broadcast is live. In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with Remote Operations Manager, Pam Chvotkin all about the fast-paced and intense world of live event coverage. Pam has years of broadcast production experience ranging from professional sports, to concerts, competitions, awards shows, and more. In the conversation, Pam shares her knowledge about the often chaotic but rewarding lifestyle that keeps one adaptable and ready for anything. After listening to what it takes, you’ll watch live programming with a better understanding and more respect for what goes on behind the scenes to make it happen.
To learn more about Pam and her work, visit www.pamchvotkin.com and to see some great behind-the-scenes content, follow Pam @reddusfoximus on the socials.
It's time for our season four special! All three hosts - Candice, Tara, and Sandra - come together in this episode to chat about fall television. You’ll hear some background on fall “sweeps,” the origin of the term, and some information on how they impact advertising rates. The hosts also share their thoughts about some of the 2023 fall lineup for both broadcast and streaming, taking into account how the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes have changed the landscape this year. What has been paused or delayed, what shows can we still expect to see, and which ones are our hosts most excited about? Tune in to find out!
What is the difference between a cinematographer, camera operator, and director of photography? Has there been more gender diversity behind the scenes? What is the difference between filming on digital versus film? These questions and more are covered in this episode as host Tara Jabbari speaks with the award-winning South African cinematographer and camera operator, Pascale Neuschafer.
To learn about Pascale’s work, visit: https://www.instagram.com/pascaleneuschafer/
https://quickbrownfox.co.za/
To learn more about the International Collective of Female Cinematographers (ICFC), visit:
https://www.icfcfilm.com/
The choice of who is cast in a role can make or break a performance. In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with casting director Anne Chapman all about the art and business of casting a project. Anne draws on her decades of professional experience casting projects of all sizes and styles as they discuss the methods and evolution of the process, the importance of chemistry, the difficulties of casting historical figures, advice for those interested in the career, and more.
To learn more about Anne and her casting company, visit: https://www.annechapmancasting.com/
In this episode, host Tara Jabbari speaks with two online travel personalities, Gabby Marcellus of Remote Ear and Ashley McDonough from Melanin on the Map. They share their personal journeys, tips on how to make it as a travel influencer, and the importance of creating relatable, engaging content. You’ll learn about the bond between social media influencers and their audience, practical safety advice in the digital world, and much more!
Learn more about Ashley:
https://www.instagram.com/ashley_milani/
Her travel business:
https://www.instagram.com/melaninonthemap/
https://www.melaninonthemap.com/
Learn more about Gabby:
https://www.tiktok.com/@gabby_marcellus
https://www.instagram.com/gabby_marcellus/
Love the movie? Read the book before it’s banned! In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with Kristen Lopez, author of "But Have You Read the Book? 52 Literary Gems That Inspired Our Favorite Films” in association with Turner Classic Movies. Kristen knows her topic as creator of the Ticklish Business podcast and a film editor with entertainment daily, TheWrap. Film buffs will get the behind-the-scenes story of how THE THIN MAN, DUNE, and PASSING went from book to an adaptive screenplay and then beloved classic film. They also discuss the impact of the current banned book atmosphere on future screen-based works.
Find the book wherever books are sold, including: Hachette Book Group
Ticklish Business podcast
www.thewrap.com/author/kristen-lopez/
This episode, host Tara Jabbari speaks with content creator and coach, Chimdi Ihezie. She shares tips that she uses to get her videos seen, how she deals with negative comments, how you can show your authenticity online - and why it matters to be authentic, plus much more!
Chimdi’s YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTC1vsvogotg9sn2j8s0aZQ
Chimdi’s Business Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/coachingbychimdi/
Her Voice Notes From Your Friend Podcast:
https://open.spotify.com/show/5l7wnmKN7Zq5r9TchzdiYS?si=cZ4iV0bpQZKSKVd4vpnHng&nd=1
The ongoing strikes have rocked the media community throughout the summer of 2023. Host Candice Bloch had a discussion on August 18th with three Mid-Atlantic SAG-AFTRA members and strike captains - Towanda Underdue, Gabriel Kornbluh, and Keith Flippen (bios below) - to learn more about their experiences being on strike. They discuss the current SAG-AFTRA strike which began on July 14, 2023, its impact and importance, as well as the value of solidarity with other unions. For more information about the strike and how you can show support, head to sagaftrastrike.org.
To donate to the Entertainment Community Fund: https://entertainmentcommunity.org/
To donate to the SAG-AFTRA Foundation: https://sagaftra.foundation/
Towanda Underdue is a SAG-AFTRA award winning actress, writer, producer, voiceover artist, educator, social activist, and host. She serves on the SAG-AFTRA National Board (Actor/Performer) for the Washington Mid-Atlantic, the President’s National Executive Committee, and the TV/Theatrical Negotiating Committee.
Gabriel Kornbluh, a native Washingtonian, started in the production world nearly two decades ago and joined AFTRA in 2009, first with Voiceover and background/stand-in work. He continues to work on political ads, commercial VO, TV and Film background, and corporate-educational content on and off screen. He comes from a legacy union family and is finishing his first term as a board member for the SAG-AFTRA Washington Mid-Atlantic Local. His passion is spreading the gospel of the "Union Difference" as this country witnesses a desperately needed resurgence in the labor-movement and the fight for worker's rights.
Keith Flippen is a 30 year veteran film/tv/voiceover actor who has spent the majority of that time in Virginia working in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern states with over 70 recognizable screen credits. He is also owner and chief instructor of The Actors Place, Inc. where he has educated hundreds of students over 20 years in the technique and business of camera acting. Currently the Secretary of the Mid-Atlantic SAG-AFTRA local, Keith is also Vice-Chair of the National Professional Representatives Committee and National LGBTQ Committee.
Season four kicks off with a conversation about the ongoing Writer’s Guild of America (WGA) strike. Host Candice Bloch sits down with WGA member, tv writer, standup comic, and podcaster Robby Slowik on day 112 of the strike to learn more. They discuss the demands, the conditions that led to the strike, solidarity with other unions, and much more. To learn more about the WGA strike, visit https://www.wgacontract2023.org/
To learn more about the WGA (West): https://www.wga.org/
To learn more about the WGA (East): https://www.wgaeast.org/
To donate to the Entertainment Community Fund: https://entertainmentcommunity.org/
To learn more about Robby: http://www.robbyslowik.com/
Expert advisors help ground stories in plausibility, and can be vital sounding boards for crafting projects that pass muster with fans. In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with Dr. Erin Macdonald, the science consultant for the Star Trek franchise. Erin Macdonald (PhD Astrophysics) is a public speaker, educator, STEAM advocate, writer, and technical consultant who explains complex physics and astronomy ideas to varied audiences. She is also the founder and owner of Spacetime Productions, a film company dedicated to lifting and sharing traditionally marginalized voices. In their conversation, you’ll hear about Erin’s journey as a woman of science and a sci-fi fan, the importance of seeing smart, strong female characters on screen, and some of the science of Star Trek, past and present. You’ll also learn what it means to consult on several Star Trek shows, advising from concept development through post-production, checking the science, and helping bring the facts to these fictions.
To learn more about Erin and all of her amazing projects, visit: https://www.erinpmacdonald.com/
(Episode originally released 6/11/23)
If you think you need to be in L.A. or New York to have a career as a film producer, think again. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with Sara Elizabeth Timmins, the head of Life Out Loud Films before her trip to the Cannes Film Festival. Sara shares how she has carved out a successful film producer career while living outside of the Hollywood hubs. She also gives tips for fundraising, how to juggle multiple projects at the same time, and shares why she started her company to support women in front of and behind the camera.
To learn more about Sara and Life Out Loud Films, visit: www.lifeoutloudfilm.com and https://www.nofilmschoolnotrustfundnoproblem.com/
(Episode originally released 5/21/23)
The ongoing stories of our planet and universe are vast and often highly visual. In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with Wade Sisler, the executive producer at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, and Lori Perkins, a computer engineer for NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio (SVS). They discuss the exciting process of bringing amazing science stories to the world, collaborating with engineers, explaining complex concepts with animations, and more. Listen to learn about climate-focused content, fascinating discoveries from space, great educational materials about Earth and space science, and the universe of free, high-quality assets and resources available to everyone!
Begin your journey into the media produced by NASA, by checking out the Scientific Visualization Studio at: https://svs.gsfc.nasa.gov/
Find the NASA social media accounts you want to follow at: https://www.nasa.gov/socialmedia
And as always, learn more about NASA and Goddard at: https://www.nasa.gov/ and https://www.nasa.gov/goddard
To reach out specifically, you can email Wade at wade.e.sisler@nasa.gov and Lori at lori.k.perkins@nasa.gov
(Episode originally released on 4/23/23)
A good script is the foundation upon which great stories are brought to life on screen. In this episode, host Candice Bloch sits down with award-winning writer, director, and producer, Claudia Myers to discuss screenwriting. Claudia brings her knowledge and experience as a successful writer and longtime communications professor at American University to the conversation. Learn about her active film career amidst a plethora of great advice for crafting stories for the screen.
To learn more about Claudia and her work, visit: http://claudiamyersfilms.com/
Claudia’s American University profile: https://www.american.edu/soc/faculty/myers.cfm
(Episode originally released 5/07/23
Celebrating Women of Vision honoree, Vonnya Pettigrew! In this episode, host Sandra Abrams has a chat with Vonnya Pettigrew, founder of Baltimore-based Root Branch Media Group, media mogul, and one of WIFV’s 2023 Women of Vision honorees. Listen to hear more about her journey, great advice about building your own studio space, and more!
To learn more about Vonnya and all that Root Branch Media Group has to offer, visit: www.rootbranchmediagroup.com
To learn more about Women in Film & Video (WIFV)’s Women of Vision Awards, visit: https://www.wifv.org/women-of-vision-awards/
(Episode originally released 4/30/23)
In any film, the music score is very important for setting the tone of the piece and supporting the story. Tara Jabbari speaks with Malakoff Kowalski, a Berlin-based musician and composer who has worked with filmmakers from Germany, Sweden, and the United States, to name a few. He shares his process, advice he has for directors on what they need to communicate with composers, and much more.
Learn more about Malakoff: https://www.malakoffkowalski.de/
His music on Spotify
(Episode originally released 4/02/23)
The 48 Hour Film Project (48HFP) challenges its participants to create a short film from scratch on a single weekend. In this episode, host Candice Bloch sits down with Lisa Giles, the city producer for the Richmond 48 Hour Film Project. They discuss how the 48HFP came to be and grow to over 100 cities internationally, the fun details and parameters of the challenge, and more. It just may inspire you to want to join in on a memorable weekend of your own!
To learn more about this fantastic filmmaking extravaganza visit 48hourfilm.com.
And click here to learn more about the Richmond Film Network.
(Episode originally released 3/19/23)
In this episode, Tara Jabbari speaks with Flora Mendoza, a singer and actor, turned political advisor and nomad. She shares her experience of getting her SAG card, being an extra for “Saturday Night Live,” finding agents, and more.
Some websites that Flora recommends for extra work are:
https://www.weistbarronryan.com/
https://actorsaccess.com/
Learn more about Flora here: http://floramendoza.com/
(Episode originally released on 4/16/23)
Media directly impacts how people see themselves in the world. In this episode, host Candice Bloch has a conversation with Madeline Di Nonno, the president and CEO of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media. They chat about the Institute’s mission, the valuable research and data they collect, and how that data is used to help reveal bias and create more equality. While it began with a focus on gender - “if she can see it, she can be it” - the Institute now focuses on gender, race/ethnicity, LGBTQIA+, disability, age 50+, and body type. Listen to hear more about the progress that’s been made in representation, and areas that still need to see improvement.
You can learn more about this amazing Institute, their media bias research tools, and more at seejane.org
(Episode originally released on 02/26/23)
Season three wraps up with another of our specials! Once again, all three of our hosts - Tara, Candice, and Sandra - come together, this time to chat all about summer blockbusters. Learn some history and fun facts while also hearing our hosts share funny memories and insights into which big screen theater movies each is looking forward to this summer 2023.
During our season break, we’ll be sharing some selected reruns. We return at the end of the summer with fresh new content for season four, but don’t forget that all of our episodes are always available wherever you listen to your podcasts, or at wifv.org/podcast
Expert advisors help ground stories in plausibility, and can be vital sounding boards for crafting projects that pass muster with fans. In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with Dr. Erin Macdonald, the science consultant for the Star Trek franchise. Erin Macdonald (PhD Astrophysics) is a public speaker, educator, STEAM advocate, writer, and technical consultant who explains complex physics and astronomy ideas to varied audiences. She is also the founder and owner of Spacetime Productions, a film company dedicated to lifting and sharing traditionally marginalized voices. In their conversation, you’ll hear about Erin’s journey as a woman of science and a sci-fi fan, the importance of seeing smart, strong female characters on screen, and some of the science of Star Trek, past and present. You’ll also learn what it means to consult on several Star Trek shows, advising from concept development through post-production, checking the science, and helping bring the facts to these fictions.
To learn more about Erin and all of her amazing projects, visit: https://www.erinpmacdonald.com/
Abby Greensfelder has an instinct for developing not only iconic cable shows such as, “Say Yes to the Dress,” but also documentaries featuring icons Megan Rapinoe and Alicia Keys. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with the indie filmmaker and native Washingtonian, ahead of the World Premiere of UNCHARTED at the Tribeca Film Festival in June. The doc, from her company, Everywoman Studios, is a behind-the-scenes look at Keys’ songwriting camp that hopes to create a pipeline of women songwriters and music producers. The studio’s first film, LFG, featured the U.S Women Soccer team’s fight for fair pay. In this discussion, Abby shares why her company aims to develop women-centric content that has a social impact and how female filmmakers can apply for the Propelle program to develop their media ideas. In May, WIFV named Abby a 2023 Women of Vision honoree.
www.everywomanstudios.com
https://west.realscreen.com/2023/propelle/
To view a complete list of Women of Vision winners, visit https://www.wifv.org/women-of-vision-awards/
Social media success story and entertainer Austin Maguire sits down with host Candice Bloch in this episode all about creating constant short-form content that we view mostly from our phones. Austin began their self-titled TikTok channel (@austin_maguire) in 2019 and quickly rose to digital fame, creating content that’s mostly satirical characters and funny observations. Currently sporting 645k followers on TikTok and 45k on Instagram, they know a thing or two about making it big and maintaining popularity on social media platforms. Listen in to learn about their journey and get some great tips and advice about creating content from a Gen Z viral sensation.
To enjoy their entertaining content, including “the English teacher,” you can follow Austin @austin_maguire on the socials.
If you think you need to be in L.A. or New York to have a career as a film producer, think again. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with Sara Elizabeth Timmins, the head of Life Out Loud Films before her trip to the Cannes Film Festival. Sara shares how she has carved out a successful film producer career while living outside of the Hollywood hubs. She also gives tips for fundraising, how to juggle multiple projects at the same time, and shares why she started her company to support women in front of and behind the camera.
To learn more about Sara and Life Out Loud Films, visit: www.lifeoutloudfilm.com and https://www.nofilmschoolnotrustfundnoproblem.com/
In this episode, host Tara Jabbari sits down with actor Shimmy Isaacs on location in Cape Town, South Africa to talk about her Netflix hit crime thriller, Unseen. They discuss the show, Shimmy's acting journey in drama and comedy, her writing process, her time in the USA, and how the arts is a universal language.
You can follow Shimmy for the latest on her work on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shimmyisaacs/
or on Twitter: https://twitter.com/shimmyisaacs/
Watch Unseen on Netflix here.
A good script is the foundation upon which great stories are brought to life on screen. In this episode, host Candice Bloch sits down with award-winning writer, director, and producer, Claudia Myers to discuss screenwriting. Claudia brings her knowledge and experience as a successful writer and longtime communications professor at American University to the conversation. Learn about her active film career amidst a plethora of great advice for crafting stories for the screen.
To learn more about Claudia and her work, visit: http://claudiamyersfilms.com/
Claudia’s American University profile: https://www.american.edu/soc/faculty/myers.cfm
Celebrating Women of Vision honoree, Vonnya Pettigrew! In this episode, host Sandra Abrams has a chat with Vonnya Pettigrew, founder of Baltimore-based Root Branch Media Group, media mogul, and one of WIFV’s 2023 Women of Vision honorees. Listen to hear more about her journey, great advice about building your own studio space, and more!
To learn more about Vonnya and all that Root Branch Media Group has to offer, visit: www.rootbranchmediagroup.com
To learn more about Women in Film & Video (WIFV)’s Women of Vision Awards, visit: https://www.wifv.org/women-of-vision-awards/
The ongoing stories of our planet and universe are vast and often highly visual. In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with Wade Sisler, the executive producer at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, and Lori Perkins, a computer engineer for NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio (SVS). They discuss the exciting process of bringing amazing science stories to the world, collaborating with engineers, explaining complex concepts with animations, and more. Listen to learn about climate-focused content, fascinating discoveries from space, great educational materials about Earth and space science, and the universe of free, high-quality assets and resources available to everyone!
Begin your journey into the media produced by NASA, by checking out the Scientific Visualization Studio at: https://svs.gsfc.nasa.gov/
Find the NASA social media accounts you want to follow at: https://www.nasa.gov/socialmedia
And as always, learn more about NASA and Goddard at: https://www.nasa.gov/ and https://www.nasa.gov/goddard
To reach out specifically, you can email Wade at wade.e.sisler@nasa.gov and Lori at lori.k.perkins@nasa.gov
In this episode, Tara Jabbari speaks with Flora Mendoza, a singer and actor, turned political advisor and nomad. She shares her experience of getting her SAG card, being an extra for “Saturday Night Live,” finding agents, and more.
Some websites that Flora recommends for extra work are:
https://www.weistbarronryan.com/
https://actorsaccess.com/
Learn more about Flora here: http://floramendoza.com/
Whether footage, images, or audio, third-party archival materials are often needed to fill out a story on screen. In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with archival producer Sarah Katz about the rewarding work of sourcing archives for documentaries. Learn more about the process and permissions needed and why it often pays to bring in an expert. You’ll also hear some fun stories from Sarah’s career sleuthing out archival footage for a wide range of clients.
To learn more about Sarah and her work, visit: https://katztale.com
In any film, the music score is very important for setting the tone of the piece and supporting the story. Tara Jabbari speaks with Malakoff Kowalski, a Berlin-based musician and composer who has worked with filmmakers from Germany, Sweden, and the United States, to name a few. He shares his process, advice he has for directors on what they need to communicate with composers, and much more.
Learn more about Malakoff: https://www.malakoffkowalski.de/
His music on Spotify
Script DC is a unique series of panels and classes from Women in Film & Video (WIFV) for anyone who loves filmmaking. It brings Hollywood-level resources to the DMV (District-Maryland-Virginia) for actors, producers, screenwriters, editors, and directors. Whether you are beginning your career or working on your third script, there are speakers and workshops to expand your skills, knowledge, and network. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with Melissa Houghton, WIFV’s amazing executive director. She will share the history of Script DC, and how it can help your career. Plus, hear funny stories from past conferences and why Joan Darling, a director from the Mary Tyler Moore show, is a favorite speaker. This fall 2023, Script DC is expected to be a hybrid of conference and online.
To learn more about Script DC, visit: https://www.wifv.org/professional-development/
The 48 Hour Film Project (48HFP) challenges its participants to create a short film from scratch on a single weekend. In this episode, host Candice Bloch sits down with Lisa Giles, the city producer for the Richmond 48 Hour Film Project. They discuss how the 48HFP came to be and grow to over 100 cities internationally, the fun details and parameters of the challenge, and more. It just may inspire you to want to join in on a memorable weekend of your own!
To learn more about this fantastic filmmaking extravaganza visit 48hourfilm.com.
And click here to learn more about the Richmond Film Network.
In this episode, Tara Jabbari speaks with fellow podcaster and freelance storyboard artist & illustrator, Jim Penola. They talk about his start in his career working in short films, features, commercials, music videos, and documentaries. They also bond over how they got to know each other through his podcast, shared passions over the film, “The Invitation” and more.
You can follow Jim here:
https://www.instagram.com/jimpenola/?hl=en
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-penola-704536178/
https://twitter.com/jimpenola
And his podcast that also featured the filmmakers and stars of the 2015 film, “The Invitation” and currently is about 2018 film “Destroyer”:
https://twitter.com/AnInvitation
https://www.instagram.com/invitation2invitation
Ahead of this year’s Academy Awards (airing on March 12th), host Sandra Abrams chats with WTOP’s entertainment reporter and award-winning movie critic, Jason Fraley, to discuss the front-runners of the Oscars race. Will the multiverse prevail with Everything, Everywhere All at Once or will the beautiful cinematography of All Quiet on the Western Front be the winner? Our guest is considered one of the best at picking winners, so tune in and have fun listening.
Jason’s podcast, “Beyond the Frame with Jason Fraley” is available wherever you get your podcasts, as well as at: https://wtop.com/shows/beyond-the-fame-jason-fraley/
Media directly impacts how people see themselves in the world. In this episode, host Candice Bloch has a conversation with Madeline Di Nonno, the president and CEO of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media. They chat about the Institute’s mission, the valuable research and data they collect, and how that data is used to help reveal bias and create more equality. While it began with a focus on gender - “if she can see it, she can be it” - the Institute now focuses on gender, race/ethnicity, LGBTQIA+, disability, age 50+, and body type. Listen to hear more about the progress that’s been made in representation, and areas that still need to see improvement.
You can learn more about this amazing Institute, their media bias research tools, and more at seejane.org
In our season 3 premiere episode, host Tara Jabbari speaks with Sandi Harding, the General Manager of the very last Blockbuster in the world located in Bend, Oregon. They talk about the history of Blockbuster, its influence, and how the community of Bend as well as fans have helped keep this Blockbuster open. Enjoy listening to the memories, the business side of managing Blockbuster, and Tara geeking out.
You can learn more and order souvenirs from Blockbuster by visiting their website: https://bendblockbuster.com/
Ahead of the 94th Academy Awards on March 27, 2022, board member Sandra Abrams sits down with two amazing women to discuss Oscar’s history on nominations of women in non-actor categories. Our guests are Dr. Rosanne Welch, Executive Director of the MFA in TV and Screenwriting Program at Stephens College, and Leslie Combemale, a syndicated film critic known as Cinema Siren, and the creator and host of WomenRockingHollywood - an annual panel at Comic Con in San Diego which highlights female filmmakers. The women reflect on female representation throughout Hollywood's and the awards show's history, how it has changed, and what they see for the future.
- For more information: https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies
- Dr. Rosanne Welch: https://rosannewelch.com/
- Leslie Combemale: https://cinemasiren.com/ and https://lesliecombemale.com/ and https://womenrockinghollywood.com/
(Episode originally released on 3/20/22)
While so much of the effects we see on screen can be CGI, there will always be a home for the physical, tangible art of special effects. In this episode, host Candice Bloch sits down with Ben Eadie, an experienced special effects designer, prop maker, fabricator, and multi-talented inventor and creator. Ben has worked on such projects as Star Trek Beyond, Arrow, The Predator, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, Prey, and Fraggle Rock. In their conversation, Ben chats about inventing solutions to problems, engineering cool props and effects both big and small, and the importance of making sure everything functions according to plan on set.
To get great tips and tutorials on prop making and more, check out Ben’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/BenEadie
You can also follow him on Instagram @dreadmakerroberts
(Episode originally released on 10/16/22)
C. Marie Taylor is the founder and president of Equity Through Action, a consulting company that helps organizations create equitable practices, policies, and mind shifts. In this episode, host Tara Jabbari talks with C. Marie about inclusion and diversity, films that have caused controversy, and the practice of examining the diversity in your own life. They discuss how people - from behind the scenes to the audience - need to see the humanity of each character, regardless of how they look, in order to understand the universal themes in stories.
Learn more about Equity Through Action and get more resources here: https://equitythroughaction.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/equitythroughaction/
Connect with them and C. Marie, particularly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmarietayloreta/
(Episode originally released on 11/13/22)
Clothes can make or break a scene without a character saying a word. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with Screenwriter and Costume Designer, Alexandra Olivia Engelson. She shares her approach to putting together a wardrobe for independent films with small budgets, and what it means to be a wardrobe coordinate on big budget television shows such as Quantico and The Equalizer.
To learn more about Alexandra and her work, visit https://www.aoengelson.com/
(Episode originally released on 10/23/22)
While simply making a film is a passion project and can take years of work, getting your finished movie into a film festival can be nothing short of a miracle. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams takes a deep dive into film festivals and how to navigate the festival circuit for maximum exposure and a possible ticket to Hollywood. She speaks with Heather Waters, who is the founder and producer of the Richmond International Film Festival (RIFF) and runs the RIFF Arts Institute. In 2022, RIFF runs from June 7 to June 12. She then chats with Jon Gann, considered the guru of film festivals, who runs DC-based festival business, Reel Plan, and is the author of two books on the topic.
For tickets or to volunteer at the Richmond International Film Festival go to www.rvafilmfestival.com and for more information about Heather, visit: https://www.riffartsinstitute.org
You can learn more about Jon Gann's company at www.reelplan.com and his 2021 film, Miss Alma Thomas: A Life in Color here: www.missalmathomas.com.
His books, "Behind the Screens: Programmers Reveal How Film Festivals Really Work" and "So You Want to Start a Film Festival: Conversations with Top Festival Creators" are available on Amazon.
(Episode originally released on 5/8/22)
Ken Zemke is an Emmy-award winning film and television editor whose career spans over 50 years, working all over the world.
In this episode, host Tara Jabbari sits down with him to talk about his career - from his mentor, Michael Kahn (the editor that Steven Spielberg works with), to his work as supervising editor overseeing a young Martin Scorsese’s edit for an Elvis music documentary, to why he left the States for New Zealand. They discuss the differences between editing films versus documentaries, television versus feature films, and much more.
Ken’s most rewarding work is his documentary show, Baha’i on Air, which is now mostly available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/bahaionair
Tara even edited one of their most popular episodes, “Samoa: Yesterday, Today, & Tomorrow” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqvx7ji0Pss&t=6s
(Episode originally released on 9/25/22)
Just inside the Beltway is the historic Avalon Theatre, a rare gem in the movie theater world. Built in 1922 for silent movies, it is still operating today, showcasing hard-to-find independent films and documentaries. Host Sandra Abrams speaks to Executive Director Bill Oberdorfer about its survival, and how film directors and movie goers can support this landmark film center. To learn more, visit www.theavalon.org
(Episode originally released on 10/9/22)
In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with Thomas Verdi, the founder and CEO of The Film Fund, a simple and unique funding platform that grants money to filmmakers based on a single sentence pitch. And beyond the money, The Film Fund is also a community bursting with valuable resources for creators. Learn more at:
https://www.thefilmfund.co/
https://www.instagram.com/thefilmfund/https://www.facebook.com/filmfundcohttps://twitter.com/simplyfilmfundhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/the-film-fund/(Episode originally released on 9/18/22)
Season two wraps up with this Holiday Special, where all three hosts – Candice Bloch, Sandra Abrams, and Tara Jabbari – discuss the mega genre of Christmas and holiday movies. The trio share fun facts, their personal opinions, and go over the results of Media & Monuments’ own holiday survey, which centered on movies related to “the most wonderful time of the year.” Here are a few highlights from the survey to get you into the holiday mood: Love Actually was voted favorite holiday rom-com, Miracle on 34th Street was voted favorite Santa-theme movie, and A Charlie Brown Christmas was the winner in the animated category.
Want to hear more results or find out if you got a shout out? Want to hear a lively debate on why Die Hard is or is not a Christmas movie? Tune in ! While this is the last new episode for 2022, Media & Monuments will play reruns during their winter break, and return with season three in the new year. Happy Holidays from the WIFV podcast committee!
Multi-faceted multi-hyphenate Nasreen Alkhateeb sits down with host Candice Bloch to discuss disability inclusion in media - both in front of and behind the camera. Nasreen pulls from her personal and professional experiences to help shine a light on those that are too often under-represented. As a filmmaker who loves to focus on projects that help shift our culture, Nasreen points out many of the advantages of disability inclusion, the vastness of the disabled community, and talks about some projects she has coming out soon.
To learn more about Nasreen and her work, check out: https://allmediastorytelling.com/ and find her on Instagram @contentdirector
Toolkits that Nasreen recommends:
https://allmediastorytelling.com/toolkit
https://www.fwd-doc.org/toolkit
In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with first time director, Tamana Ayazi, about her film, “In Her Hands.” The film captures Afghanistan at a critical juncture: before, during, and after western forces leave, all through the eyes of the country’s youngest female mayor, the tough-minded Zarfia Ghafari. The documentary won the Audience Award at the Camden International Film Festival in September 2022. It is the first non-fiction release from former secretary of state Hillary Clinton and daughter Chelsea Clinton’s HiddenLight Productions.
Official trailer https://www.netflix.com/title/81521475 or
Trailer from Netflix In Her Hands
@tamanaAyazi
HiddenLight Productions
Saralisa Volm is a German actress and filmmaker. In this episode, host Tara Jabbari speaks with Saralisa about her start in the film industry and how different countries have reacted and could relate to her new film, “The Silent Forest.” They also discuss the importance of diversity in writers rooms and on-sets, as well as how to be respectful of those who wish not to be the focal point. To learn more and connect:
Saralisa’s production company, Poison: https://poison-berlin.com/en/
Connect with Saralisa: https://www.instagram.com/saralisavolm/
Her film “The Silent Forest”: https://www.instagram.com/schweigend.steht.der.wald/
Best Short at The American Pavilion of Emerging Filmmakers at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival was awarded to a sweet ten-minute short called Noisy. In this episode, host Candice Bloch sits down with Cedric Hill, Noisy’s writer and director. They talk about the short film’s journey from concept to Cannes, as well as Cedric’s experience at the renowned festival and what winning there means.
To learn more about Cedric and connect:
https://www.cedrichill.us/
Instagram: @chill2772
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2691995/
Bringing a book to the big screen takes patience. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with WIFV member and film producer, Catherine Hand about her new memoir, “Becoming a Warrior, My Journey to Bring A Wrinkle in Time to the Screen.” In their conversation, Hand discusses highlights from her book and how her personal journey helped her navigate all the twists and turns the film project took to finally become a Disney film in 2018, directed by Ava DuVernay.
To learn more about Catherine and her book go to https://www.catherinehand.com/
To learn more about Becoming a Warrior https://twitter.com/Becmingawarrior
In this special episode, all three of our hosts, Sandra Abrams, Candice Bloch, and Tara Jabbari sit down together to discuss films that are all horror and Halloween!
Listen as they share personal stories of watching horror films, their thoughts on some of the most notable horror films, and results from our survey. At the end of the episode, we give shout-outs to those who took the survey.
These are the lists that we referred to in our discussion:
The Best Horror Movies Of The Last Decade
https://www.looper.com/176791/the-best-horror-movies-of-the-last-decade/
The "31 Nights of Halloween" Schedule
https://www.freeform.com/news/recaps-and-news/31-nights-of-halloween-schedule
The 25 Best Horror Movies of All Time
https://www.ign.com/articles/best-horror-movies-of-all-time
Clothes can make or break a scene without a character saying a word. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with Screenwriter and Costume Designer, Alexandra Olivia Engelson. She shares her approach to putting together a wardrobe for independent films with small budgets, and what it means to be a wardrobe coordinate on big budget television shows such as Quantico and The Equalizer.
To learn more about Alexandra and her work, visit https://www.aoengelson.com/
While so much of the effects we see on screen can be CGI, there will always be a home for the physical, tangible art of special effects. In this episode, host Candice Bloch sits down with Ben Eadie, an experienced special effects designer, prop maker, fabricator, and multi-talented inventor and creator. Ben has worked on such projects as Star Trek Beyond, Arrow, The Predator, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, Prey, and Fraggle Rock. In their conversation, Ben chats about inventing solutions to problems, engineering cool props and effects both big and small, and the importance of making sure everything functions according to plan on set.
To get great tips and tutorials on prop making and more, check out Ben’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/BenEadie
You can also follow him on Instagram @dreadmakerroberts
In this episode, host Candice Bloch sits down with filmmaker Erica Silverman to delve into the world of creating music videos. With many years of experience in short-form media, including directing dozens of music videos in a variety of genres and styles, Erica knows a thing or two about this world. She’s worked with artists such as Lizzo, Leon Bridges, and Avril Lavigne, to name a few, and combined, Erica's work has racked up over 500 million views.
She shares some of her journey, gives great advice, and talks about how she believes that narrative visuals - even music videos - should stand on their own without the audio.
To learn more about Erica and her work, visit www.erica-silverman.com and follow her on Instagram @shesaunicorn
Ken Zemke is an Emmy-award winning film and television editor whose career spans over 50 years, working all over the world.
In this episode, host Tara Jabbari sits down with him to talk about his career - from his mentor, Michael Kahn (the editor that Steven Spielberg works with), to his work as supervising editor overseeing a young Martin Scorsese’s edit for an Elvis music documentary, to why he left the States for New Zealand. They discuss the differences between editing films versus documentaries, television versus feature films, and much more.
Ken’s most rewarding work is his documentary show, Baha’i on Air, which is now mostly available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/bahaionair
Tara even edited one of their most popular episodes, “Samoa: Yesterday, Today, & Tomorrow” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqvx7ji0Pss&t=6s
In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with Thomas Verdi, the founder and CEO of The Film Fund, a simple and unique funding platform that grants money to filmmakers based on a single sentence pitch. And beyond the money, The Film Fund is also a community bursting with valuable resources for creators. Learn more at:
https://www.thefilmfund.co/
https://www.instagram.com/thefilmfund/https://www.facebook.com/filmfundcohttps://twitter.com/simplyfilmfundhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/the-film-fund/
The DC-metro area may be known for politics, so it makes sense that it’s also an intense proving ground for the filmmakers who create political ads. In this episode, host Candice Bloch chats with freelance editor, motion graphics designer, and colorist, Nicole Haddock, who has been in the trenches of the political ad seasons for nearly a decade.
We learn more about the skills and temperament needed to take on this lucrative but exhausting industry that requires more talents and stamina than one might imagine.
To learn more about Nicole’s post-production staffing community, “I Need An Editor - DC, MD & VA,” check out: https://www.facebook.com/groups/INAEDC
In this first episode of season two, host Tara Jabbari speaks with Dylan Graves Barbeta-Comstock, a WIFV Board Member and the Founder and Chair of the WIFV DC Mentorship Program. Dylan and Tara (also a member of the Mentorship Committee) talk about the creation of the program’s curriculum, its application process, how mentors impacted Dylan’s career, the true value of mentorship, and more.
To learn more or apply to WIFV’s Mentorship Program, contact wifvmentorship@gmail.com or mentorship@wifv.org
To learn more about Dylan’s company, visit: https://holadaygraves.com/
And recommended for any mentorship programs: https://www.videoconsortium.org/
In the break between seasons, show producers recommend a past episode to check out. This week, Sandra Abrams recommends Episode #15 all about Film Commissioners of DC, MD, & VA.
Full episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1928222/10617648
Show page: https://www.wifv.org/podcast/
Released on May 15, 2022, the original show notes are:
Film Commissioners in different states and cities play a vital role in helping to get a film made, but who are these mystery people? In this episode, host Sandra Abrams pulls back the curtain and chats with the three film commissioners from the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia). She first speaks to Andy Edmunds, the Director of the Virginia Film Office, then Angie M. Gates, the Director of the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME) in Washington, D.C., and finally Director Jack Gerbes from of the Maryland Film Office. Each one chats about their daily challenges of a job that aims to also promote their region for jobs, tourism, and future repeat business.
For the Virginia office - https://www.film.virginia.org/
For the D.C. office - https://www.entertainment.dc.gov
For the Maryland office - https://marylandfilm.org/
In the break between seasons, show producers recommend a past episode to check out. This week, our audio producer Steve Lack recommends Episode #16 - New to Netflix: Martha, Watergate, and the "G" Word - which highlighted two Netflix projects, including The Martha Mitchell Effect.
Full episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1928222/10854359
Show page: https://www.wifv.org/podcast/
Released on June 26, 2022, the original show notes are:
In this episode, we get the scoop on two new documentaries on Netflix.
In part one, host Sandra Abrams chats with the two filmmakers behind “The Martha Mitchell Effect.” Using archival footage and interviews, it shows how Martha Mitchell paid a personal price for calling the press as her husband helped President Nixon cover-up a political crime, known as the Watergate Scandal.
In part two, host Tara Jabbari speaks with Adam Conover about another Netflix documentary, “The G Word.” His six-part comedic docu-series looks at how the U.S. government actually works, its shortcomings, and why he still has hope for the future of America.
The Martha Mitchell Effect documentary and The G Word with Adam Conover limited series are both currently available on Netflix.
Martha Mitchell trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SYWxQ62AUM
G Word trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zeUq5Duxz1E
In the break between seasons, show producers recommend a past episode to check out. This week, Tara Jabbari recommends Episode #3 which was about Oscar's History with the Ladies.
Full episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1928222/10279682
Show page: https://www.wifv.org/podcast/
Released on March 20, 2022, the original show notes are:
Ahead of the 94th Academy Awards on March 27, 2022, host Sandra Abrams sits down with two amazing women to discuss Oscar’s history on nominations of women in non-actor categories. Our guests are Dr. Rosanne Welch, Executive Director of the MFA in TV and Screenwriting Program at Stephens College, and Leslie Combemale, a syndicated film critic known as Cinema Siren, and the creator and host of WomenRockingHollywood - an annual panel at Comic Con in San Diego which highlights female filmmakers. The women reflect on female representation throughout Hollywood's and the awards show's history, how it has changed, and what they see for the future.
- For more information: https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies
- Dr. Rosanne Welch: https://rosannewelch.com/
- Leslie Combemale: https://cinemasiren.com/ and https://lesliecombemale.com/ and https://womenrockinghollywood.com/
In the break between seasons, show producers recommend a past episode to check out. This week, Candice Bloch recommends Episode #5 all about Remote Production - A Versatile Model for Modern Times.
Full episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1928222/10366413
Show page: https://www.wifv.org/podcast/
Released on April 3, 2022, the original show notes are:
In today's world, remote production is becoming more and more utilized as a tool for creating projects. In this episode, host Candice Bloch focuses on remote production through two engaging interviews with professionals that are highly adept and knowledgeable about the production model. First up, a conversation with Brandon Bloch, founding partner and CEO of the global remote production company, Hometeam. After that, a discussion with Gary Adcock, a workshop instructor and the program manager of the Remote Production Conference.
To learn more about Hometeam, visit: wearehometeam.com
For more about the Remote Production Conference, visit: www.remoteproductionconference.com
For more on Post Production World Conference: https://www.ppw-conference.com/
In the break between seasons, show producers recommend a past episode to check out. This week, Sandra Abrams recommends Episode #10 all about Navigating Film Festivals.
Full episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1928222/10574257
Show page: https://www.wifv.org/podcast/
Released on May 8, 2022, the original show notes are:
While simply making a film is a passion project and can take years of work, getting your finished movie into a film festival can be nothing short of a miracle. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams takes a deep dive into film festivals and how to navigate the festival circuit for maximum exposure and a possible ticket to Hollywood. She speaks with Heather Waters, who is the founder and producer of the Richmond International Film Festival (RIFF) and runs the RIFF Arts Institute. In 2022, RIFF runs from June 7 to June 12. She then chats with Jon Gann, considered the guru of film festivals, who runs DC-based festival business, Reel Plan, and is the author of two books on the topic.
For tickets or to volunteer at the Richmond International Film Festival go to www.rvafilmfestival.com and for more information about Heather, visit: https://www.riffartsinstitute.org
You can learn more about Jon Gann's company at www.reelplan.com and his 2021 film, Miss Alma Thomas: A Life in Color here: www.missalmathomas.com.
His books, "Behind the Screens: Programmers Reveal How Film Festivals Really Work" and "So You Want to Start a Film Festival: Conversations with Top Festival Creators" are available on Amazon.
In this episode, we get the scoop on two new documentaries on Netflix.
In part one, host Sandra Abrams chats with the two filmmakers behind “The Martha Mitchell Effect.” Using archival footage and interviews, it shows how Martha Mitchell paid a personal price for calling the press as her husband helped President Nixon cover-up a political crime, known as the Watergate Scandal.
In part two, host Tara Jabbari speaks with Adam Conover about another Netflix documentary, “The G Word.” His six-part comedic docu-series looks at how the U.S. government actually works, its shortcomings, and why he still has hope for the future of America.
The Martha Mitchell Effect documentary and The G Word with Adam Conover limited series are both currently available on Netflix.
Martha Mitchell trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SYWxQ62AUM
G Word trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zeUq5Duxz1E
In this recurring series, host Candice Bloch takes you inside the world of how a project gets made. Through discussions with creators about their individual journey on a particular completed production, we gain insights about what it takes to bring a vision to fruition. Whether hearing about process or logistics, lessons or advice, these success stories of bringing a project to life can be informative and inspiring.
On this month’s episode, the focus is on impactful documentaries. Maggie Burnette Stogner talks primarily about her documentary Unbreathable: The Fight for Healthy Air. And after that, Laura Seltzer-Duny talks about three of her documentaries, The Last Boat Out, Nobody Wants Us, and Las Abogadas.
Maggie Burnette Stogner is an award-winning veteran of the filmmaking industry, the Executive Director of the Center for Environmental Filmmaking, a professor of film and media arts at American University, and a founder of the independent production company, Blue Bear Films. To learn more about her and her work, including the 2020 documentary Unbreathable: The Fight for Healthy Air, check out:
https://www.unbreathable.org/
https://www.american.edu/soc/environmental-film/
https://maggiebluebear.media/
Laura Seltzer-Duny is an award-winning producer and director and founder of Seltzer Film & Video. To learn more about her and her 2010 PBS documentary The Last Boat Out, her 2020 Emmy-nominated PBS historical documentary Nobody Wants Us, and her upcoming 2022 documentary Las Abogadas, check out:
https://www.seltzerfilmvideo.com/
Thumbs up, thumbs down? Five stars (or are four stars the highest number?)!
In this episode, host Tara Jabbari speaks with film critics to discuss how viewing films has changed over the last few years. When is it worth going to the movie theater? Where should we look to know what’s worth seeing? What’s the difference between Rotten Tomatoes versus Meta Critic? They dive into these topics as well as what goes into being a film critic.
Our guests are:
Ann Hornaday, who has been film critic at The Washington Post since 2002. Learn more about her work here: https://www.washingtonpost.com/people/ann-hornaday/
Bob Mondello, who has been with NPR since 1984. Learn more about his work here: https://www.npr.org/people/3813466/bob-mondello
Leslie Combemale, who is a professional film critic and industry insider.You can learn more about her work on the following sites: https://cinemasiren.com/ and ArtInsights.com and https://womenrockinghollywood.com/ She also discusses being involved with https://awfj.org/
Female representation, in front of and behind the camera, is still disproportionately lower than it should be. However, more and more women are taking control of the entire process of production, making strides in representation. One way that women’s voices and perspectives are gaining ground is with women-run production companies. In this episode, we profile two full-service, mission-driven companies with women at the helm.
Host Candice Bloch gets to know more about FLOWSTATE Films, based in the Washington, DC area, by chatting with all three founders, Rachell Shapiro, Leola Calzolai-Stewart, and Kiley Kraskouskas. To learn more about FLOWSTATE, visit: http://www.flowstatefilms.com/
After that is Root Branch Media Group, a certified African American and woman owned production firm based in Maryland. Candice sits down with founder, Vonnya Pettigrew to discuss the company’s journey and services. For more information about Root Branch, visit: https://rootbranchmediagroup.com/
In this recurring series, host Candice Bloch takes you inside the world of how a project gets made. Through discussions with creators about their individual journey on a particular completed production, we gain insights about what it takes to bring a vision to fruition. Whether hearing about process or logistics, lessons or advice, these success stories of bringing a project to life can be informative and inspiring.
On this month’s episode: Via Bia talks all about her award-winning short, These Colors Don’t Run. After that, Harold Jackson III talks about his film, The Forgettable Life of Liam White.
For more information on Via and her short:
https://www.viabia.com/
http://www.thesecolorsdontrunmovie.com/
For more information on Harold and his films:
https://www.haroldjackson3.com/
Film Commissioners in different states and cities play a vital role in helping to get a film made, but who are these mystery people? In this episode, host Sandra Abrams pulls back the curtain and chats with the three film commissioners from the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia). She first speaks to Andy Edmunds, the Director of the Virginia Film Office, then Angie M. Gates, the Director of the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME) in Washington, D.C., and finally Director Jack Gerbes from of the Maryland Film Office. Each one chats about their daily challenges of a job that aims to also promote their region for jobs, tourism, and future repeat business.
For the Virginia office - https://www.film.virginia.org/
For the D.C. office - https://www.entertainment.dc.gov
For the Maryland office - https://marylandfilm.org/
While simply making a film is a passion project and can take years of work, getting your finished movie into a film festival can be nothing short of a miracle. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams takes a deep dive into film festivals and how to navigate the festival circuit for maximum exposure and a possible ticket to Hollywood. She speaks with Heather Waters, who is the founder and producer of the Richmond International Film Festival (RIFF) and runs the RIFF Arts Institute. In 2022, RIFF runs from June 7 to June 12. She then chats with Jon Gann, considered the guru of film festivals, who runs DC-based festival business, Reel Plan, and is the author of two books on the topic.
For tickets or to volunteer at the Richmond International Film Festival go to www.rvafilmfestival.com and for more information about Heather, visit: https://www.riffartsinstitute.org
You can learn more about Jon Gann's company at www.reelplan.com and his 2021 film, Miss Alma Thomas: A Life in Color here: www.missalmathomas.com.
His books, "Behind the Screens: Programmers Reveal How Film Festivals Really Work" and "So You Want to Start a Film Festival: Conversations with Top Festival Creators" are available on Amazon.
Enjoy an international perspective in this episode as co-producer, Tara Jabbari speaks with filmmaker Alberto Gelpi at a café in Rome, Italy. They talk about his journey from graphic designer to assistant editor to director. Alberto also shares lessons he’s learned from his mentor, his favorite part of filmmaking, thoughts on subtitles versus dubbing, and why he considers himself a “visual emotional storyteller.”
You can learn more about Alberto and his work at: https://www.albertogelpi.com/
In this recurring series, host Candice Bloch takes you inside the world of how a project gets made. Through discussions with creators about their individual journey on a particular completed production, we gain insights about what it takes to bring a vision to fruition. Whether hearing about process or logistics, lessons or advice, these success stories of bringing a project to life can be informative and inspiring.
On this month’s episode: Jane Barbara talks mostly about writing and producing the quirky award-winning short, "Lobster Fra Diavolo” and a bit about producing another short, “Tell Me About Orange.” Following that conversation, sheri ratick stroud talks all about two of her comedic shorts, “Julie Leaves the Nest" and “Heroes’ Honeymoon.”
For more information about ScriptDC: https://www.wifv.org/script-dc/
Jane's website: https://www.testaduramedia.com/
To learn more about sheri and her work:
https://www.wonderpictures.net/
You’re going to want to hear this episode, as it provides listeners with insights and advice on how to get the best sound for your project. Our very own audio engineer and WIFV board member, Steve Lack expands on a presentation that offers guidance on sound equipment, locations, costuming, sound design, music, and more, so that you aren’t left trying to fix issues in post. We benefit from the length and breadth of Steve’s experience as he speaks with Cheryl Ottenritter from Otthouse Audio and Donna Gureckas from Henninger Media about a multitude of sound considerations and giving your project optimal audio.
For more information on Steve’s company, visit: https://stevelackaudio.com/
For more about Cheryl Ottenritter and Otthouse Audio visit: https://otthouseaudio.com
For more about Donna Gureckas: https://donnagureckas.com/
While filmmaking is a creative process, it's also a business. In order to be successful in your productions, it's important to manage those business aspects thoughtfully and properly. In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with CPA and MBA John Aaron about things to consider when it comes to funding and taxes. Following that, she has a conversation with entertainment attorney Paige Gold, who gives advice about insurance, protections, and contracts. Finally, we hear some highlights from a past WIFV seminar on tax and business matters. Without diving too deep into any one subject, the episode’s aim is to provide listeners with an overview of some of the many business aspects of the filmmaking process. You may want to take notes!
To learn more about John Aaron's services for producers, go to www.medialedger.biz
For more information about Paige Gold, visit www.paigegold.com
In today's world, remote production is becoming more and more utilized as a tool for creating projects. In this episode, host Candice Bloch focuses on remote production through two engaging interviews with professionals that are highly adept and knowledgeable about the production model. First up, a conversation with Brandon Bloch, founding partner and executive producer at the global remote production company, Hometeam. After that, a discussion with Gary Adcock, a workshop instructor and the program manager of the Remote Production Conference.
- To learn more about Hometeam, visit: wearehometeam.com
- For more about the Remote Production Conference, visit: www.remoteproductionconference.com
- For more on Post Production World Conference: https://www.ppw-conference.com/
In this recurring series, WIFV member Candice Bloch takes you inside the world of how a project gets made. Through discussions with creators about their individual journey on a particular completed production, we gain insights about what it takes to bring a vision to fruition. Whether hearing about process or logistics, lessons or advice, these success stories of bringing a project to life can be informative and inspiring.
On this episode: Robin Noonan-Price talks about directing the short, "Tell Me About Orange," a coming-of-age story about expressing and navigating young love. And then Mark Maxey first talks about producing the documentary feature, "Up to Snuff," which is a star-studded journey about the incredible life and career of prolific musician and composer W.G. "Snuffy" Walden. And later he discusses a bit about two upcoming narrative features, "As They Made Us" and "Space Oddity."
For more information:
Robin -
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/rnoonanprice/
Mark -
- https://www.maxeymedia.com/
- https://www.rollingpictures.com/
- https://www.uptosnuffmovie.com/
Ahead of the 94th Academy Awards on March 27, 2022, board member Sandra Abrams sits down with two amazing women to discuss Oscar’s history on nominations of women in non-actor categories. Our guests are Dr. Rosanne Welch, Executive Director of the MFA in TV and Screenwriting Program at Stephens College, and Leslie Combemale, a syndicated film critic known as Cinema Siren, and the creator and host of WomenRockingHollywood - an annual panel at Comic Con in San Diego which highlights female filmmakers. The women reflect on female representation throughout Hollywood's and the awards show's history, how it has changed, and what they see for the future.
- For more information: https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies
- Dr. Rosanne Welch: https://rosannewelch.com/
- Leslie Combemale: https://cinemasiren.com/ and https://lesliecombemale.com/ and https://womenrockinghollywood.com/
This episode highlights the best of the “Wednesday One” program from 2021, giving you a taste of the wide-range of offerings WIFV has for its members. We listen in on clips from a couple of these seminars, held on the first Wednesday of each month, that include experiences from local crews involved in filming Wonder Woman 1984, and advice from a panel of seasoned producers on effectively promoting your project.
To find out more about upcoming Weds One programs, check out the WIFV calendar: https://wifv.org/calendar
In our first episode, board member Tara Jabbari interviews WIFV President Sara Barger about how and why she got involved in this amazing organization that serves members of the media community in the DMV – a region rich with creators and historical monuments, alike. Highlights include grants, programs, and members’ list-serve benefits. Part two of the episode is an interview with the Film Club group and how anyone can participate.
You can learn more on the WIFV website at: https://www.wifv.org/
About ScriptDC: https://www.wifv.org/script-dc/
For the latest on events, including Film Club, visit: https://www.wifv.org/calendar/