Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Damien Swaby

253 episodes

6 days ago

Discover the world of independent film with Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby!

From industry professionals to the next generation of filmmakers, Damien Swaby brings his unique perspectives on indie filmmaking and the conversations that are taking place across the community.
Listeners will find inspiration and guidance from conversations on the podcast and leave armed with the knowledge to make their own indie films.

Tune in to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby today!

Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network (www.ifhpodcastnetwork.com)

All content for Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby is the property of Damien Swaby and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

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Episodes (20/253)

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 254: The Science Behind the Screen: A NASA Consultant's Hollywood Adventures

Hello and welcome back to the show. Today, I'm joined by Les Johnson, a NASA technologist, science fiction author, and consultant on films like Europa Report and Lost in Space. We'll be diving into what it takes to bring science to the screen, how to balance scientific truth with a good story, and the real-world passion behind space travel. Stick around, you won't want to miss this!Show Notes

What is a Science Consultant? Les explains his role as a science consultant on films and TV shows like Europa Report, Lost in Space, and Beacon 23. He describes the different levels of input he has had, from a deep collaboration on Europa Report to being dismissed from a project for stating a plot point was "totally implausible".
Balancing Science and Storytelling: A major challenge is balancing scientific accuracy with a compelling narrative. Les shares that he and his editors work to avoid "data dumps" and instead provide just enough detail for a lay reader to find the story plausible without getting bogged down in technicalities. He also discusses the common trope of faster-than-light travel and how it's often used to make a story more interesting, even if it's not currently possible according to the laws of physics.
Inspirational Sci-Fi: Les names two TV series he considers the "gold standard" for accuracy and creativity: For All Mankind, which presents an alternate history of the space race, and The Expanse, which he praises for its special effects and technical consulting.
The Passion for Space: Les traces his love for science and storytelling back to his childhood, recalling the pivotal moment of watching the Apollo landing at age seven and later watching reruns of the original Star Trek with his sisters. This led him to pursue a career as a physicist at NASA.
A Personal Imperative: He believes that spreading life from Earth into the universe is an "imperative". He discusses his philosophical belief that life on Earth is special and worth preserving by expanding it to other worlds like Mars and the moons of Jupiter. He also notes that getting to Mars will be a "very, very difficult" process, likely starting with domed cities and self-sufficient colonies

W: https://www.lesjohnsonauthor.com

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6 days ago

48 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 253: From Sixteen Candles to Social Films: A Talk with Blanche Baker

This podcast episode features a conversation with actress and director Blanche Baker, who discusses her career, her notable roles, and her passion for making films that address social issues.Show Notes:

Early Career and the Impact of Holocaust
- Blanche Baker's debut role was in the Emmy-winning miniseries Holocaust.
- This role was deeply personal for her because her father, Jack Garfine, was a Holocaust survivor.
- Before filming, she retraced her father’s journey through the concentration camps, including visiting Bergen-belsen, where he was liberated at age 14.
- She also shares a story about a taxi driver in Vienna making a joke about the Auschwitz ovens, which made her experience "horrifying at times".
- Her father supported her doing the film, believing people would relate to the story better than "just facts and numbers".
- She also recounts how her father would laugh at most films about the Holocaust, saying that in the camps people were singing and dancing, and those who felt sorry for themselves were the ones who died. This was his way of saying you have to "find the joy in life despite the horrors" to survive.
Acting Technique and Education
- Baker believes that an academic background gives actors roots in a tough business with many ups and downs.
- She recommends the books Respect for Acting by Uta Hagen and Intent to Live by Larry Moss for her students.
- She has also taken Stanislavsky’s work and translated it for film to help students achieve the naturalistic performances seen on screen today.
- She notes that the basic acting technique is the same across mediums like film, television, and theater, but it must be modified for each, with film bringing the "audience... right up into your face".
Sixteen Candles and On-Set Stories
- Baker recalls that John Hughes wrote Sixteen Candles in just two weeks and let the cast improvise.
- None of them expected the film to become a cult classic that still resonates with young people today.
- She recounts a story about Anthony Michael Hall hanging from a coat hook in her hotel room and other pranks on set, describing the experience as "like being at camp".
- She also shares a story about trashing a hotel room while shooting a film in Israel when she was younger and how it taught her that pursuing acting as an art is what makes you happy, not acting out.
Moving Behind the Camera
- Blanche Baker is passionate about making films that make people think about social issues.
- Her short films, like Street Right, deal with freedom of speech by contrasting negative advertising with positive graffiti.
- Her other short film, Make America Safe, uses humor and a "backwards" world to highlight the issue of gun violence and school shooter drills. She mentions that she believes there need to be stricter gun laws.
- She is currently working on a film called Girl in a Glass Box, which explores psychological manipulation and shines a light on gaslighting and abuse

LINKS

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6 days ago

41 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 252: A Legal Architect’s Journey Through Hollywood, Integrity, and Innovation

Episode Summary:
Marc's career is anything but ordinary. Before becoming a powerhouse entertainment attorney at Fox Rothschild LLP, he studied film at the University of Pennsylvania and UCL, made three documentaries—including the Sundance Special Jury Award-winning After Innocence—and helped change legislation in multiple states. In this in-depth conversation, Marc opens up about how he navigated the worlds of law and filmmaking, and the lessons he’s learned from representing clients ranging from Hollywood legends like Joe Pesci to first-time filmmakers breaking out at Venice.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

🎥 Breaking In – How a passion project about the wrongfully convicted became a Sundance hit and changed state laws.
⚖ Balancing Careers – Producing films while practicing law at major firms.
✍ Why Contracts Matter – The dangers of handshake deals and how to protect your creative work early.
🎯 Negotiation Tactics – Why respect, clear communication, and calm articulation win deals in a small industry.
🖥 Streaming’s Impact – How Netflix’s early spending spree changed the game, and why Apple’s theatrical push is both exciting and limited.
🌍 Global Deals – How to approach cross-border financing, tax credits, and presales in today’s market.
💡 Advice for Creatives – What young lawyers, filmmakers, and financiers must understand before jumping in.
🔍 Case Studies – Behind-the-scenes legal challenges on The Irishman, The Hunting Ground, The Eagle Huntress, Winter’s Bone, and The Kids Are All Right.

Guest Bio:
Marc is an entertainment attorney in the 40-member Entertainment & Sports Law Department at Fox Rothschild LLP. A filmmaker, his unique career has spanned Sundance premieres, award-winning documentaries, high-profile distribution deals, and complex cross-border financing arrangements. His clients include top-tier talent, rising stars, and independent financiers shaping the future of content.

Key Links & Resources Mentioned:

Fox Rothschild LLP – Entertainment Law
After Innocence (Sundance Special Jury Award)
Unraveled, The Irishman, Winter’s Bone, The Kids Are All Right
The Hunting Ground, The Eagle Huntress, Dead Man’s Wire (Venice 2024)

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1 week ago

51 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 251: Lights, Camera, Climate: Building a Festival for a Warming World

In this episode, we sit down with Alec, co-founder of the New York Climate Film Festival, to explore how cinema is being used to spark conversations around climate change. From building a community of diverse storytellers to rethinking what climate narratives can look like, Alec shares the journey of starting a film festival focused on one of the most urgent issues of our time. Whether you're a filmmaker, climate advocate, or simply a lover of good stories, this episode uncovers the creative intersections where art meets environmental action.📝 Show Notes:In this episode, we discuss:

🎬 The origin story of the New York Climate Film Festival
🌍 Why climate is as much a cultural issue as a scientific one
🧠 How experimental and narrative formats push climate storytelling forward
🤝 Collaborations between artists, scientists, and curators
🎥 What Alec looks for in a festival film submission

🛠️ The real challenges (and joys) of building a niche film festival

🔊 The underrated power of good sound in indie filmmaking
🐝 Highlighting “Keeper,” a touching short film about beekeeping and family in the Bronx
📈 Hopes for the future of media, festivals, and climate narratives

🎬 Mentioned Films & Resources:

One With the Whale – a coming-of-age climate story set in the Aleutian Islands
Keeper by Hannah Rafkin – a short film about a father-daughter beekeeping duo
Climate storytelling resources:
- Good Energy Playbook
- Climate Spring (UK)
- Earth Angel (sustainable production)
- Albert (BAFTA’s sustainability program)

W: https://www.climatefilmfest.com

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1 week ago

43 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 250: Paul Robinson: Blending Story and Image, Empowering New Voices

Welcome to the show. Today, we're joined by Paul Robinson, a self-taught photographer who began his career in Paris shooting fashion and celebrities. Paul's work, which has been described as blending story and image, has evolved from classic single-frame photography to a focus on abstract, narrative-driven visuals. He's a true creative who has photographed cultural icons like B.B. King. Paul's passion for storytelling and empowering new artists led him to found the NEFTI short film competition, a global initiative to support underrepresented filmmakers in emerging economies. We'll be talking to Paul about his journey, his unique approach to visual art and filmmaking, and the inspiring work he's doing with NEFTI. Stay tuned.
In this episode, we sit down with artist and photographer Paul Robinson to discuss his creative journey and work.

From Fashion to Abstract: Paul shares how he transitioned from traditional fashion and celebrity photography to his current focus on abstract, narrative-driven visuals. He explains that he always loved the drama and storytelling in art, and felt limited by a single frame. This led him to experiment with multiple exposures on film, a process he calls "In Camera". This process involves layering several images onto one frame of film, with some images taking up to a year to complete. You can see this series on his website, paulrobinsonart.com.
The Art of Collaboration: Paul discusses his approach to working with famous artists, emphasizing the importance of a collaboration between artists where you are "able to see what that person is about in the final image". He cites his long-standing working relationships with actors like Jennifer Tilly and David Arquette as examples of how these collaborations can lead to ongoing creative partnerships.
Filmmaking and Visual Arts: For Paul, visual arts and filmmaking are very similar, both centered on storytelling. He approaches both by first writing a story to guide his vision. His love for raw, real, and intense drama, often found in French and British films, is a key influence on his storytelling.
NEFTI Short Film Competition: Paul's desire to "give back in the arts" led him to found the NEFTI competition, which provides underrepresented filmmakers in emerging economies with the financing, mentorship, and a platform to share their voices. He's currently in South Africa at the Durban FilmMart for the seventh NEFTI competition. He recounts a story of a past winner who was featured on the cover of The Hollywood Reporter, highlighting the impact NEFTI has on participants. He also explains that a new initiative for the competition is to make a film in just three days with a skeleton crew. Panavision, a company that also donated equipment to Paul's first short film over 30 years ago, has donated all the camera and grip equipment to the NEFTI filmmakers.
Creative Advice: Paul's advice to emerging artists is to "have no fear" and to create something every day. He believes that consistent creativity makes you a more prolific and comfortable artist.

Website Links:

NEFTI

https://nefticompetition.com

Paul Robinson
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-robinson-11311328/

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1 week ago

43 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 249: Lee Romaire: Building Worlds for Disney and Spielberg’s War of the Worlds

🔍 Episode Summary
In this episode, Damien Swaby sits down with the brilliant Lee Romaire, an Emmy-winning creative force behind some of the most iconic animatronic creations in entertainment. From his early fascination with Disney World and miniature train sets to designing immersive experiences for Disney Parks and major TV productions, Lee shares the origin of his creative passion and how he transformed it into a world-class career.

Listeners will discover:

The childhood spark that ignited Lee’s career in animatronics
How growing up in Louisiana and dabbling in taxidermy influenced his artistry
Behind-the-scenes stories from award-winning projects
Insights on blending technology, imagination, and storytelling in theme parks and television

Whether you're a fan of Disney, a creative professional, or just love origin stories that lead to artistic mastery, this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Highlights
00:03 – Introduction and welcome
01:30 – Lee's early influences and love for artificial realism
03:15 – How taxidermy became a surprising creative gateway
05:50 – Journey from hobbyist to professional designer
12:40 – Lee’s work with Disney and his Emmy Award-winning TV contributions
17:10 – Philosophy behind immersive design
22:00 – Advice for aspiring creatives in entertainment design

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2 weeks ago

49 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 248: From Ohio to Netflix: Maria Timonina’s Breakout in “Gringo Hunters”

Episode Overview:
In this masterclass episode of Filmmaking Conversations, host Damien Swaby sits down with Maria Timonina, the magnetic actress behind Alice Wells in Netflix’s international crime thriller, Gringo Hunters. This is not just a conversation about acting—it’s a blueprint for creative resilience, cultural identity, and the realities of breaking into the upper echelons of the film and television industry.About “Gringo Hunters”:

Gringo Hunters is Netflix’s latest high-stakes crime drama, produced by Ron Howard’s Imagine Entertainment and directed by Adrian Grunberg. Set against the backdrop of Mexico’s complex criminal underworld, the series follows a specialized task force dedicated to tracking down American fugitives south of the border. The show is lauded for its gritty realism, nuanced characters, and a narrative that weaves together family, justice, and survival. Maria Timonina’s portrayal of Alice Wells—a young woman caught in the crossfire of personal tragedy and international intrigue—has been singled out by critics as a breakout performance, bringing both vulnerability and strength to a role that anchors the emotional core of the series.In This Episode:

The Making of Alice Wells:
Maria offers an in-depth look at her process for embodying Alice Wells, a character whose journey is marked by trauma, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of justice. She discusses the emotional groundwork required to portray a survivor who channels her pain into advocacy, and how her own background as a first-generation Russian-American informed her performance.
Behind the Scenes of a Netflix Juggernaut:
Go inside the production of Gringo Hunters—from the audition process to working with director Adrian Grunberg and the creative team at Imagine Entertainment and Redrum. Maria shares what it’s like to collaborate with industry legends, the unique energy on set in Mexico City, and the high standards of storytelling and professionalism that define a global Netflix original.
Navigating the New Hollywood:
Maria and Damien discuss the seismic shifts in the industry, including the rise of self-taped auditions, the impact of streaming platforms on international storytelling, and the emergence of vertical micro-dramas. Maria provides actionable advice for actors and filmmakers on adapting to these changes, building a sustainable career, and finding your voice in a crowded marketplace.
Craft, Community, and Career Longevity:
The conversation delves into the importance of training, mentorship, and self-care. Maria opens up about her ongoing work with acting coach Brian Norris, the rituals she uses to decompress after intense scenes, and the value of celebrating every win—no matter how small.
Representation, Diversity, and the Power of Story:
Maria reflects on the significance of bringing authentic, multidimensional characters to the screen, the responsibility of representing survivors and marginalized voices, and her hopes for the future of inclusive storytelling in Hollywood.

About Maria Timonina:
Maria Timonina is a SAG-Eligible actress with a BFA in Acting from Boston University. Her work spans drama, comedy, and voiceover, with a growing reputation for roles that demand both emotional depth and technical precision. In Gringo Hunters, Maria’s performance as Alice Wells has established her as a talent to watch on the international stage.Connect with Maria Timonina:

Website: www.mariatimonina.com
Instagram: @maria_timonina
X (Twitter): @Maria_Timonina
IMDb: Show more...

2 weeks ago

47 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 247: Sunday Nights, Theo Huxtable, and the Legacy of Malcolm-Jamal Warner

Episode Summary:
In this deeply personal solo episode, host Damien Swaby reflects on the life and legacy of Malcolm-Jamal Warner — actor, director, musician, and activist — who passed away tragically at the age of 54.As a Black Londoner from South East London, Damien shares his heartfelt memories of watching The Cosby Show with family every Sunday on Channel 4, and how Warner’s portrayal of Theo Huxtable shaped an entire generation of Black boys across the globe.

The episode explores Warner’s quiet creative brilliance:

His early rise to fame as Theo Huxtable
Directing New Edition’s Heart Break video at Eddie Murphy’s house
His groundbreaking HIV/AIDS public health work
His Grammy-winning music and poetry
His recent podcast on Black mental health, Not All Hood

This is more than a tribute. It’s a meditation on what it means to create with purpose, grow with grace, and leave behind a legacy that transcends television.

🎙 Hosted by: Damien Swaby
🎧 Produced by: Filmmaking Conversations

3 weeks ago

8 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 246: From Tom Cruise’s Inner Circle to Indie Film Powerhouse: Kerry David’s Story

In this powerful episode, Damian sits down with acclaimed filmmaker Kerry David, whose journey spans from temping at Paramount Pictures to working with Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, and ultimately founding her own company, KDC Films.🎬 A multi-award-winning Producer, TEDx Speaker, and Strategic Storyteller, Kerry brings over 20 years of experience creating purpose-driven films that spark global impact. Her work has empowered orphans in Ghana, protected endangered wildlife, and fueled social change across sectors. She’s the founder of:

KDC Films – amplifying mission-driven narratives
Over & Above Africa – protecting wildlife and supporting local communities

Kerry collaborates with filmmakers, NGOs, ethical tech, and philanthropists to craft stories that drive funding, action, and cultural relevance.

Kerry opens up about:

🌍 Her move from England to LA and how a chance temp job kickstarted her career in film
🎬 Working on Eyes Wide Shut with Stanley Kubrick, and sharing a hilarious moment from her first day on set
👩‍💼 What it was really like to be Nicole Kidman’s Executive Assistant—and how it prepared her to produce major films
🚀 Launching her career with Agent Cody Banks and shifting into independent, socially driven documentaries
🐘 Her passion for wildlife and conservation through Over and Above Africa and her award-winning doc Breaking Their Silence
🎥 Why she loves working with emerging filmmakers and how she helps elevate new voices
🧠 The power of emotional storytelling, balanced with integrity in films like Open Secret and The Bill Coors Story
🌱 Building an orphanage in Ghana and her commitment to creating global change
💡 Insightful advice for screenwriters, filmmakers, and anyone trying to break through the noise in a crowded distribution landscape
🎯 Her guiding ethos: “Enlightenment through Entertainment”

This is a must-listen for creatives, dreamers, and disruptors who want to tell meaningful stories and create real impact through film.

🎧 Mentioned in the Episode:

Eyes Wide Shut (Stanley Kubrick)
Agent Cody Banks (MGM)
Breaking Their Silence (Wondrium)
Open Secret (Upcoming documentary)
Over and Above Africa (Nonprofit)
The Bill Coors Story
Regal Cinemas
KDC Films

Website: https://www.overandaboveafrica.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerrydavid/

1 month ago

56 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 245: Vision, Leadership, and Legacy: Ramon Velez on Shaping Stories That Last

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations, Damien sits down with Ramon Velez—a media powerhouse whose career spans from AV tech and live broadcast to executive leadership, screenwriting, and mentoring Emmy-winning talent.

With experience at Google, ABC News, NBC, and Yahoo, Ramon shares invaluable lessons on navigating the evolving media landscape, leading multi-platform teams, and creating impactful stories in the digital age.

Key Takeaways:

How to build a dynamic career across multiple media sectors
The mindset behind mentoring top-tier creative talent
Lessons from working on high-stakes productions like presidential elections
Why technical fluency and creative storytelling go hand-in-hand
Ramon’s thoughts on the future of media and storytelling

Links & Resources:

Connect with Ramon Velez Emmy-Nominated Broadcast Executive | Director of Studio Operations & Broadcast Engineering | Live Production Strategy | SMPTE 2110 | AV-over-IP | Cross-Functional Leadership

Subscribe & Review:
Love what you heard? Subscribe and leave us a 5-star review to help us bring more amazing conversations to your ears.

1 month ago

1 hour 14 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 244: Craft, Clarity & Creativity: A Conversation with Director Rob Spera

Description:
In this episode, Damien Swaby sits down with acclaimed director and author Rob Spera to talk about filmmaking as a craft. They unpack lessons from Rob’s book, practical set strategies, and the deeper philosophy behind being a storyteller. Whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker or just starting out, this conversation is filled with real-world wisdom and inspiration.

What You’ll Learn:

Rob’s journey and insights into directing across film and television
Why remembering names on set matters more than you think
The value of alternative scene endings
How Rob’s book changed Damien’s own approach to shoots
The mindset shift from shooting to storytelling

Guest: Rob Spera – Director, Author, and StorytellerFollow & Connect:
🎥 Rob Spera: Website
🎙️ Damien Swaby: twitter

Rob's Films: MUBI

BUY THE BOOK: FILM/TV DIRECTOR'S FIELD MANUAL: Seventy Maxims to Change Your Filmmaking

1 month ago

1 hour 13 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 243: The Mahne Narrative: From Doctor Who to Corporate Storytelling

In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations, Damien Swaby sits down with Christian Mahne—a seasoned creative director, Oxford graduate, and veteran storyteller whose work has graced the screens of BBC, CNN, Sky, and 7 Network Australia. This conversation is more than a résumé rundown. It’s a journey into the why behind the work.

Christian shares how a childhood gift—Doctor Who: The Making of a Television Series—lit a lifelong creative spark, and how rowing in the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race unexpectedly rekindled his fascination with television production. With over 30 years of experience, Christian reflects on the value of clarity, integrity, and discipline in the art of corporate storytelling.Together, Damien and Christian explore:

🎬 How childhood wonder evolves into professional craft
📺 The hidden philosophies behind visual storytelling
🧭 Why every good story begins with intention, not ego
⚙️ Behind-the-scenes experiences at major broadcasters
💼 What it really means to be a "corporate storytelling gun for hire"

This is an episode for filmmakers, creatives, and anyone interested in how the stories we tell shape the legacies we leave.🗣️ “The best stories,” Christian says, “are not the loudest—they're the most honestly told.”🔗 Connect with Christian Mahne:
🌐 Website: www.mahne.com📣 If you enjoyed this episode:
→ Please rate & review the show
→ Share it with a fellow storyteller
→ Subscribe for more conversations with creative minds

1 month ago

1 hour 17 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 242: Suha Araj on Storytelling, Identity & Representation

📄 Show Notes:In this episode, Damien Swaby sits down with filmmaker Suha Araj, who shares her deeply personal and inspiring journey from a career in advertising to becoming a powerful voice in film. Suha opens up about navigating major life transitions and how creative expression has always been a crucial part of her identity—even when it was sidelined by other life responsibilities.Growing up as a Palestinian in Ohio, Suha talks candidly about the lack of representation and the damaging stereotypes about Arabs and Palestinians in media. These experiences ignited her passion to reclaim narratives and amplify underrepresented voices through the lens of cinema.Listeners will gain insight into:

How personal identity can inspire professional transformation
The role of media in shaping cultural perception
The challenges and triumphs of shifting from corporate to creative life
Why storytelling is a powerful tool for social justice

📚 Educational Insight:Representation matters—not just in front of the camera, but behind it too. When people tell their own stories, it challenges stereotypes, deepens empathy, and broadens the understanding of cultures often misrepresented in mainstream media.

https://www.suhamaria.com

1 month ago

41 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 241: From Courtroom to Camera: Don Worley’s Journey into Independent Film

Summary
From Courtroom to Camera: Don Worley’s Journey into Independent Film In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations, Damien Swaby sits down with the multitalented Don Worley — a nationally recognized personal injury attorney, former stand-up comedian, and now a dynamic force in independent cinema. Don shares his unconventional journey from high-stakes legal battles to red carpets at the Chinese Theatre. As the producer and star of Time for Sunset, a gripping crime thriller, and co-creator of the hit streaming series Power of Attorney, Don opens up about navigating the worlds of justice and storytelling.

🎬 Discover:

How comedy shaped Don’s courtroom presence
What inspired his transition to filmmaking
Behind-the-scenes of Time for Sunset
Building a streaming hit from scratch
The synergy between law and film

This episode is packed with inspiration for creatives, legal minds, and anyone chasing a second act.

McDonald Worley

The Power of Attorney

Don Worley 3rd degree connection 3rd Attorney at McDonald Worley Attorneys at Law and VP at Brand-in Entertainment

Power of Attorney: Don Worley - Season 2 Trailer

Brand In Entertainment

1 month ago

47 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 240: Reel Ambition: How Olivia Deitch Cut Her Way Into the Industry

🎧 Guest: Olivia Deitch

🎤 Host: Damien SwabyIn this episode, Damien sits down with the talented Olivia Deitch to explore her inspiring journey through the entertainment industry — from wide-eyed film student to head online editor by the age of 23.

🗂️ Topics Covered:

Olivia’s origin story: From Boston University to breaking into Hollywood
Discovering her passion for editing during high school
The move to Los Angeles and navigating early career uncertainty
Getting a foot in the door as a PA at a boutique post-production house
Working on major TV shows like The Walking Dead
How early technical training with Avid gave her a crucial edge
Understanding the landscape of post-production: online vs. offline editing
The value of mentorship and learning-by-doing in smaller companies

🌟 Highlights:

Olivia shares how starting out in a small post house gave her a crash course in the industry and opened doors quickly.
Her non-traditional career path shows there's more than one route to success in entertainment.
She explains how understanding the back-end technical workflow helped her stand out as a creative editor later on.

📚 Educational Takeaway:

🎬 What’s the Difference Between Online and Offline Editing?Offline Editing

This is the creative process where editors shape the story, select takes, and build the episode or film. It's typically done with lower-resolution files and without final effects.Online Editing
This phase finalizes everything: high-resolution footage is conformed, effects and color are locked in, and the final delivery is polished and technically perfect.🔑 Why it matters: Many aspiring editors overlook the online side of things.

Olivia’s experience proves that understanding both can accelerate your career and make you an invaluable asset on any post-production team.

📲 Follow Olivia Deitch on https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-deitch-bba9184b/ to stay updated on her latest projects and insights from the editing room.

🎧 Like what you heard? Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to support the podcast and help more creatives break into the film and TV industry

2 months ago

43 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 239: Big Vision, Small Gear: Making a Feature on an iPhone

Episode Description

In this episode, Damien Swaby opens up about the script for his upcoming film small talk, Big Thoughts — a powerful, poetic anthology of real conversations exploring identity, faith, legacy, migration, masculinity, feminism, and more.

Damien shares how he's preparing to shoot the entire project on an iPhone, why he's using the Rode NTG2 and Tascam DR-05X for audio, and how DIY filmmaking is not a limitation — it’s a creative philosophy.

Whether you're a filmmaker, screenwriter, podcaster, or storyteller, this episode is a masterclass in grounding powerful stories in real-world tools and intention.

📚 Educational Benefit / Learning OutcomesListeners will:

Learn how to prep a feature film with minimal gear and maximum intention.
Understand the strengths of using an iPhone + Filmic Pro for cinematic storytelling.
Gain insight into capturing high-quality audio with budget-friendly equipment.
Explore how to write and structure an anthology-style script with social and cultural weight.
Reflect on the value of starting with what you have — and why storytelling doesn’t need to wait for permission.

Perfect for indie filmmakers, students, podcast producers, and anyone building creative projects with limited resources.

Tools Mentioned:

iPhone 13 Pro
FiLMiC Pro app
BeastGrip rig
Rode NTG2 shotgun mic
Tascam DR-05X recorder

2 months ago

6 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 238: From BBC to Bold: Moses Ssebandeke on Crafting New Cinematic Voices

Episode Summary: In this compelling episode, Damien Swaby sits down with filmmaker Moses Ssebandeke, a bold voice in the UK indie film scene and a member of the Lionstooth Collective. Known for his experimental yet grounded storytelling, Moses shares the journey from his early days as a BBC Academy apprentice to producing content for Radio 1Xtra, ITVX, and beyond. Listeners will get an inside look at:

🌱 How Moses got started in media through the BBC apprenticeship scheme
🎧 His behind-the-scenes experience working at BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra, helping grow their YouTube following past 140,000 subscribers — more than any other BBC radio station
🛠️ The technical and emotional rollercoaster of being a freelance filmmaker
🪐 A peek into Panspermia, a cosmic visual project exploring the interconnectedness of existence and storytelling
🎥 The purpose and passion behind the Lionstooth film collective and their commitment to bold, culturally-rich narratives

Moses also talks candidly about the creative droughts and bursts that define the life of an independent artist, what fuels him to keep pushing boundaries, and why telling stories that haven’t been told — or haven’t been told this way — is a lifelong mission. Whether you’re a filmmaker, creative professional, or someone fascinated by how stories are made, this is a must-listen.

Links & Mentions:

Moses Ssebandeke on LinkedIn
Moses work https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEDuRPQm85a9gGxExYL5U_ucTf234ILJE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQs327Kra6U
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEDuRPQm85a8bSFbW6rDUvmzM1XMkstg7

2 months ago

43 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 237: The Art of Color Grading: Alice Abrams on Shaping Emotion Through Color

Episode Summary:

What makes a scene feel cold, nostalgic, or magical—before a single word is spoken? In this illuminating episode, we’re joined by Alice Abrams, a freelance colorist whose work has helped define the visual identity of campaigns for Netflix, Meta, Google, Volvo, and more. Based in Austin, TX, Alice brings a decade of experience in film to her color suite, where she transforms raw footage into emotionally resonant, cinematic experiences.

Alice shares her unique journey from working as a director of photography and editor to discovering that color grading was her true calling. You'll hear how her background behind the camera influences her work in post-production, and why she views color not just as a technical tool—but as a storytelling language in its own right.

Whether you're a filmmaker, editor, aspiring colorist, or just a visual storytelling enthusiast, this deep dive into the world of professional color grading offers both inspiration and practical insights.

Alice Abrams is a seasoned freelance colorist with a background in cinematography, editing, and color grading. After spending years working across California and New York, Alice now resides in Austin, TX, where she operates her own grading suite and works with clients worldwide. Her work spans narrative film, commercials, branded content, and music videos—bringing a distinct visual signature that blends cinematic precision with emotional depth.📬 Contact: hey@alicefilmcolor.com
🌐 Website & Reel: alicefilmcolor.com
📸 Instagram: @alice.filmcolor🎨

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

The evolving role of a colorist in today's film and commercial landscape
How color influences mood, tone, and storytelling
The technical and artistic sides of color grading
Tips for building trust with directors and cinematographers
How to start offering remote grading services
Why building your aesthetic voice matters
How Alice balances professional growth and personal creativity

📢 Call to Action:🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it really helps others find the show!

2 months ago

44 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 236: Narrative Truths: Producing Impactful Documentaries with Nicole Noren

📘 Episode Summary: In this masterclass episode, Damien Swaby is joined by award-winning journalist and documentary producer Nicole Noren, whose two-decade career at ESPN is a case study in investigative storytelling done right. Nicole breaks down how she balances the demands of narrative structure with journalistic integrity — from sourcing vulnerable subjects, to shaping character arcs, to working within the legal and ethical frameworks of a major broadcasting institution. Together, they explore the future of longform investigative media, the creative tension between access and objectivity, and how the democratization of platforms like YouTube is reshaping the business model of high-quality nonfiction.

🧵 Topics Covered:

Nicole’s process for fusing investigative research with narrative filmmaking
Ethics and liability in true-story storytelling
Why subject trust is non-negotiable in stories involving trauma
Building stories that survive legal review without losing emotional weight
Internal dynamics of working inside a network like ESPN
Challenges of time compression, edit lock deadlines, and character consent
How platforming on YouTube increases reach without compromising quality

🎧 Who This Episode Is For:

Investigative journalists and editors
Documentary filmmakers and producers
Media lawyers and compliance editors
Communications strategists in public interest or nonprofit media
Journalism educators and students focused on longform formats

W: https://nicolenoren.com/about
Listen full documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYGkIL70TD4&t=3s

2 months ago

47 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Ep 235: Art Meets Film: Isabel Riley on Bridging Canvas and Cinema

Episode Summary:
Discover the fascinating intersection of visual art and filmmaking in this insightful conversation with artist Isabel Riley. Host Damien Swaby delves into Isabel's unique role in bringing art to the screen through her work with Art for Film. Explore how her paintings and artistic vision contribute to the atmosphere and storytelling of film and television productions. Beyond her cinematic collaborations, Isabel also shares details about her current exhibitions at the Michele Mercaldo Gallery and Ellen Miller Gallery in Boston, offering a glimpse into her broader artistic practice. This episode is a must-listen for filmmakers, art directors, set designers, and anyone intrigued by the power of art to enhance visual narratives.

Key Talking Points:

Isabel Riley's background as an artist and her connection to the film industry.
How art contributes to the mood, period authenticity, and overall aesthetic of film and TV.
Insights into the Boston art scene and its potential collaborations with film productions.

W: https://www.isabelriley.com
IG:https://www.instagram.com/isabelriley.artist/

3 months ago

35 minutes