Did Hollywood script the biggest awards night of the year? 🤯 From shocking wins to unexpected snubs, the 2025 Oscars had fans questioning everything. Was it all just a carefully orchestrated spectacle? Join our hosts Maryna and Eugeniia Gul as they break down the biggest controversies, industry secrets, and behind-the-scenes whispers from the Oscars 2025. Are the winners truly deserving, or was this another case of Hollywood pulling the strings?
🔥In this episode, we discuss:
✅ Did Anora really deserve the best picture of the year?
✅ Was Demi Moore robed?
✅ Theory, Why Brad Pitt set up Angelina Jolie
✅ Is the Oscars losing credibility?
Join Nora and Maryna as we sit down with the renowned adult film star Richelle Ryan. We go into Richelle's fascinating journey from her start in the industry on her 21st birthday to her successful career spanning nearly 19 years. Learn about her transition to LA, challenges faced in the adult industry, and her thoughts on the evolving nature of adult content creation with OnlyFans. Richelle shares personal insights into maintaining a disciplined and drug-free lifestyle, navigating the competitive landscape, and her passion for supporting US military veterans.
Don't miss this candid conversation!
00:00 Intro
00:29 Welcome Richelle Ryan
01:05 Richelle's Journey into the Adult Industry
02:56 Life in LA and Moving to Vegas
06:15 The Rise of OnlyFans
09:22 Navigating the Adult Industry
13:11 Challenges and Rewards of the Industry
16:43 The Evolution of Adult Content
23:40 The Pressure on Male Performers
24:54 Dealing with Negative Comments
26:52 Gifts from Devoted Fans
29:05 Financial Savvy in the Industry
33:21 Supporting the Military
39:43 Future Goals and Aspirations
43:43 Closing Thoughts
Just fake it until you make it! ⭐️💫🎬
Instagram: @Justfakeitpodcast
Join us in our special podcast episode with Violet Myers, a top adult industry star. Violet's journey from her beginnings in 2018 to achieving fame as one of the top adult entertainers worldwide. Violet shares insights on her YouTube channel, her experiences with webcamming, and the pivotal moments that boosted her career. They also discuss the importance of authenticity in the industry, Violet's future ambitions, and her approach to investments and business ventures. The episode is filled with personal anecdotes, professional advice, and a peek into Violet's life beyond the camera.
Join Nora and Violet in this insightful and candid conversation about the adult industry on Just Fake It: Coming to LA podcast!
00:00 Introduction
00:17 Meeting Violet Meyers
01:35 Sushi and Small Talk
02:29 Violet's Career Beginnings
05:48 Transition to LA and Growth
08:11 The Rise of OnlyFans
09:34 Navigating the Adult Industry
13:41 Achieving Stardom
16:11 Collaborations and Industry Insights
20:22 Reflections on Success
22:10 Exploring OnlyFans for Men
22:52 Working with Johnny Sins
23:39 Favorite Categories and Crazy Custom Requests
27:36 Dealing with Misconceptions and Criticism
38:29 Future Goals and Business Ventures
42:48 Giving Back and Helping Others
46:07 Wrapping Up the Conversation
Just fake it until you make it! ⭐️💫🎬
Instagram: @JustFakeItPodcast
In this episode of Just Fake It podcast, Nora discuss film financing with guests Jon Gosier and Mickey Vetter, co-founders of FilmHedge. They dive into the challenges and opportunities in movie financing, how Film Hedge bridges the gap between filmmakers and investors, and the innovative tech-driven approach they use to ensure high returns. Learn about their journey, notable projects, and how FilmHedge is making film investments accessible to a broader audience.
00:00 Intro
00:22 Our Guests: Jon and Mickey
00:59 Journey into Film Finance
02:49 Background and FilmHedge Start
05:33 Bridging the Gap in Film Financing
15:07 Navigating the Pandemic: A Blessing in Disguise
17:11 FilmHedge's Success and Investment Opportunities
23:38 Investors, Filmmakers, and Consumers
24:00 The Tech Behind Film Hedge: Data-Driven Decisions
28:23 Competitors and Market Position
31:33 Financing Films: Criteria and Process
38:56 Success Stories and Future Projects
42:56 Conclusion and Future Prospects
Links:
https://filmhedge.com/
#FilmHedge #FilmFinancing #InvestingInMovies #MovieInvestmentFirm #HollywoodInvestment #FinancingMovies
Maryna and Nora sit down with actor Neil Wachs, who stumbled into the world of Hollywood after retiring from a long career in the beauty salon industry. Neil shares his unexpected journey of becoming a typecast actor specializing in playing homeless characters—a niche he never anticipated but has embraced wholeheartedly. He opens up about staying positive in a challenging industry and the surprising opportunities that Los Angeles offers, even when starting anew later in life.
Join them for an honest, laughter-filled chat about chasing dreams, navigating the entertainment scene, and why they all love calling Los Angeles home. Whether you're curious about the acting life, fascinated by Hollywood culture, or just in need of a good story, this episode offers a genuine glimpse into the highs and lows of making it in the City of Angels.
00:00 Intro
03:11 Neil's Journey from Beauty Industry to Acting
12:24 Experiences on Big Sets and Typecasting
17:57 Unique Roles and Reinventing Life
25:32 Behind the Scenes Stories
38:27 First In-Person Audition Experience
45:44 Regrets and Missed Opportunities
47:13 Never Have I Ever: Los Angeles Edition
01:03:50 Reflecting on Experiences
01:07:25 Wrapping Up
In this birthday special episode, Maryna and Nora engage in a fun game of sushi roulette, where some pieces are loaded with wasabi, making for hilarious reactions. The duo discusses the often unseen realities of social media, including how influencers and everyday people curate their online personas. They share personal anecdotes, including faking luxury lifestyles and dealing with the pressures of maintaining a perfect online image. The conversation also delves into how social media acts as a modern business card and its significance in today's digital age. Alongside playful and spicy moments, the friends offer tips on being authentic and unique online. Join them in this entertaining and insightful discussion infused with birthday cheer and raw sushi fun!
00:00 Intro
00:40 Birthday Week
02:13 Sushi Roulette
03:09 The Reality of Social Media
06:20 Losing Social Media Accounts
11:02 Photoshop and Social Media
15:41 The Illusion of Social Media
21:22 Authenticity vs. Fakeness
24:53 Tips for Social Media
29:46 Final Thoughts
Nora and Maryna talk about the unsettling realities of life in Los Angeles amid a surge in crime rates. Sharing personal stories of near kidnappings, thefts, and daily encounters with danger, they shed light on how areas like Skid Row have transformed Los Angeles.
Nora and Maryna discuss the risks associated with wearing expensive luxury items in California, offering essential safety tips for residents and visitors alike. They explore the socio-economic factors contributing to the escalating crime, including the impact of economic disparities and the widening wealth gap in the state.
The conversation also touches on the obsession with iPhones and how it fuels thefts.
Tune in as they debate crime in LA, share creepy encounters, and provide practical advice on staying safe. Their candid dialogue offers valuable insights into the challenges facing California's urban centers and underscores the importance of safety and awareness.
00:00 Intro
01:20 Personal Stories
04:26 Skid Row and Staying Safe
10:59 Crime in San Francisco
14:04 Economic Factors on Crime Rates
22:10 iPhone Theft
28:48 Crime and Punishment
33:09 Reality of Living in America
35:48 Creepy Encounters and Safety Tips
42:46 Final Thoughts and Safety Reminders
Crazy Week: Burning Man, Flying Spirit Airlines, and Surviving Blackmail
This week on 'Just Fake It,' we dive into some wild and unexpected adventures. Nora takes us through her spontaneous trip to Burning Man, where she somehow managed to work from the desert with no gear. Meanwhile, Maryna heads to Washington for a job, only to end up modeling at a Chinese embassy event organized by a VR company. If that wasn’t enough, we share our struggles as immigrants dealing with endless paperwork in the U.S., and Nora tells a hilarious but shocking story of getting blackmailed and how she turned it into something funny.
Join us for a rollercoaster of crazy stories, frustrating experiences, and tips on how to laugh through life’s most chaotic moments.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
01:14 - VR & Modeling Gig
04:26 - Spirit Airlines Experience
07:55 - Maryna’s Flight Attendant Dream
10:18 - Burning Man Adventure
18:42 - Delayed Departure & Partying
19:55 - U.S. Paperwork Struggles
32:26 - Blackmail Incident
38:42 - Wrapping Up
Nora and Maryna host Alice Wang and Celine Lee, movie professionals from Taiwan. The discussion covers various interesting facets of filmmaking in Taiwan and their experiences working in the industry. Alice shares her passion for directing action films and elaborates on their latest project 'Sword of Honor,' which uniquely combines modern action with AI and new tech. Celine, despite being new to acting, had to learn to take on a lead action role.
We explore the evolution of the film industry with modern technology and AI, reminiscing about their times at the Cannes Film Festival. The conversation also delves into cultural impressions of Los Angeles, personal experiences, and their future projects, promising more innovation and excitement in the movie world.
00:00 Intro
01:26 Alice and Celine's Background
02:37 Cannes Film Festival Connections
03:28 Alice's Movie Career
04:43 Innovative 3D Technology in Films
08:26 Celine's Acting Journey
14:28 New Projects and Desert Filming
20:23 First Impressions of LA
25:36 Navigating LA
27:31 Alice's Journey in Filmmaking
31:17 The Evolution of the Film Industry
34:26 Mulan Angels: East Meets West
39:25 The Future of Action and CGI
41:55 Dream Projects and Inspirations
48:41 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
In this episode of the Just Fake It podcast, Nora and Maryna take you deep into the heart of Burning Man, the extraordinary week-long event held in the Black Rock Desert that draws over 80,000 people from all corners of the globe.
I share my past and future journey at Burning Man, reflecting on the challenges and rewards of living in the harsh desert environment, and the profound sense of community that makes this event truly unique. We cover everything from the breathtaking art installations and immersive themed camps to the practicalities of surviving in such an extreme environment. Whether you're curious about what to pack, how to stay safe, or just want to understand what makes Burning Man so special, we've got you covered.
We also discuss the festival’s ethos of radical self-reliance and communal effort, offering insights on how to embrace the spirit of Burning Man while navigating its more demanding aspects. We talk about the importance of proper gear, how to customize your bike for both functionality and flair, and the necessity of lighting yourself up at night to stay safe. We even touch on some of the myths about Burning Man, exploring why it's more than just a massive party, but an experience that can truly change your perspective on life.
Whether you're a first-time attendee or a seasoned burner, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to making the most of your time at Burning Man, including tips on building connections, participating in activities day and night, and understanding the festival's deeper meaning. Join us as we break down the cost, the preparation, and the unforgettable moments that make Burning Man more than just an event—it’s a life-changing adventure.
00:00 Introduction to Burning Man
01:01 Discussing Festivals
02:32 Burning Man: A Unique Experience
04:10 Preparing for Burning Man
07:43 Life at Burning Man
12:46 Challenges and Tips for Burning Man
15:25 Surviving the Desert
19:28 Essential Gear & Safety for Burning Man
20:30 Bikes
21:06 Surviving the Desert Environment
23:14 More Than Just a Party
28:25 Unique Experiences
32:16 Final Thoughts
Nora and Maryna share their funny and eye-opening experiences with American food after moving to the United States. From their first encounters with tacos and Starbucks to the overwhelming size of supermarkets and portion sizes, they break down the biggest cultural shocks they faced when it came to American dining.
The conversation covers everything from unique dishes like fried chicken and waffles to their struggles with weight gain and adjusting to healthier eating habits. They discuss the cultural differences between the U.S. and Ukraine when it comes to food, and offer some tips for maintaining balance in a land where everything is abundant.
Along the way, Nora and Maryna reveal their favorite food spots in Los Angeles and dive into topics like portion control, weird food combinations, and the organic food debate. With humor and honesty, they recount their foodie adventures and share valuable tips on how to navigate the vast and sometimes strange world of American cuisine.
Join us for a lighthearted and insightful look into adapting to a new food culture in America!
00:00 Intro
00:58 First Impressions
02:50 Struggling with Weight
08:11 Adapting to Healthier Eating Habits
12:06 Cultural Differences in Food
22:12 Healthy Eating in LA
25:05 Weird American Foods
27:20 Soup
29:08 American Food Habits
34:11 Favorite Food Spots in LA
37:19 Conclusion
Nora and Maryna discuss various side hustles that can help you make extra money in the expensive city of Los Angeles. We dive into options such as working as an extra on film sets, becoming an atmosphere model, and taking up jobs like dog walking and personal assisting. We also share personal examples about our experiences with these gigs and the importance of networking and leveraging your assets to thrive in this city. Whether you're new to LA or looking to supplement your income, we offer practical tips and insights on making the most of your time and skills.
00:00 Intro
00:49 Welcome to Just Fake It
02:17 The Hustle Culture in Major Cities
04:30 Exploring Side Hustles
06:59 Being an Extra on Film Sets
11:42 Audience Participation and Dog Walking
12:47 Social Media and Influencer Opportunities
16:20 Modeling and BeautyPass App
18:20 Atmosphere Modeling
21:55 Finding Promoters and Getting Paid to Party
24:25 Exploring Various Side Hustles
27:27 Leveraging Your Assets for Success
30:57 Final Thoughts
Also check out Maryna's jewelry store:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/AlderStudioUS
We're sharing our favorite secret spots in Los Angeles to catch a glimpse of celebrities! Join us, Nora and Maryna, as we chat about our personal experiences seeing celebrity stars in Los Angeles like Mel Gibson, Mila Kunis, and Leonardo DiCaprio. We'll let you in on our top 5 list of best cafés, iconic hotels, secret beaches, and other places where you're most likely to spot Hollywood's elite.
Whether you're an LA local or just visiting, we've got the insider info you need for a fun celebrity-spotting adventure. Tune in for some great stories, practical advice, and a few laughs along the way!
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to Celebrity Encounters
01:40 Nora's Celebrity Stories
04:43 Maryna's Celebrity Stories
07:28 Top Places to Meet Celebrities in LA
08:20 Cafes and Hotels
12:22 Beaches and Museums
14:32 A Chance Encounter at LACMA
17:09 Respecting Celebrity Privacy
19:50 Movie Screenings
22:49 Unexpected Celebrity Encounters
28:30 Summarizing the Top Spots to Meet Celebrities
30:54 Final Thoughts
Nora and Maryna discuss the challenges of overcoming self-doubt and the journey towards confidence. They share personal stories about struggling with negative internal voices and the steps they are taking to break free from these limiting beliefs. Maryna talks about her efforts to improve her social skills by reading Dale Carnegie's book on making friends and influencing people, and participating in confidence-boosting activities like dance classes. Nora explains her strategies for engaging with influential people and succeeding in the competitive city of Los Angeles. The episode emphasizes the importance of perseverance, growth, and maintaining a positive mindset in the face of fear and rejection. Join Nora and Maryna as they offer practical advice and inspire listeners to pursue their goals, despite the inevitable challenges along the way.
00:00 Struggling with Inner Voices
01:45 Creative Work and Inspirations
04:21 Overcoming Self-Doubt
08:02 The Importance of Sales Skills
13:14 Personal Growth and Confidence
19:51 Sales: It's About Who You Are
29:37 Power of Creativity
32:37 Embracing Fear and Rejection
34:01 Conclusion: Just Fake It
In this episode of the Just Fake It Podcast, hosts Nora and Maryna welcome the talented Fady Jeanbart, a full-time director, editor, and producer who has carved out a successful career in the tough and unpredictable film industry. Fady shares his journey from graduating from the New York Film Academy to working on acclaimed projects like the Emmy Award-winning TV show 'Studio City.'
We discuss the challenges of balancing family life with a demanding career, the importance of perseverance and reliability in the industry, and the unique aspects of storytelling that fuel their passion for filmmaking.
Fady provides insights into the creative process behind his recent short film project offering valuable advice to aspiring filmmakers about staying dedicated, embracing opportunities, and continually creating and improving their craft.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
01:24 Welcome to Just Fake It
02:10 Balancing Family and Film Industry
04:59 Journey from Egypt to LA
06:24 Breaking into the Industry
07:39 The Reality of Film School
10:37 The Power of Saying Yes
16:51 The Creative Process
22:54 Human Trafficking Awareness
34:07 The Role of Filmmakers in Social Issues
36:39 Passion Projects and Filmmaking Challenges
39:16 Directing and Overcoming Nervousness
42:40 The Creative Process and Audience Reactions
47:38 Masterclass: Creating a Character
57:59 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
Join us for an inspiring and educational episode filled with behind-the-scenes stories, practical tips, and a look at the power of filmmaking to address social issues and inspire change. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights and stories!
Hosts Maryna and Nora are back from their European escapades, each with incredible stories to share. Maryna takes us on a heartfelt journey to Ukraine, where she navigated through a war zone to visit her family, witnessing firsthand the resilience and adaptability of the Ukrainian people.
On the flip side, Nora shares her whirlwind adventure across six countries in under a month, with a special highlight on her glamorous experience at the Cannes Film Festival. From mingling with celebrities to attending exclusive events, Nora gives us the inside scoop on the glitz and glamour of Cannes.
Join us as we dive into the contrasts of their travels, exploring the deep themes of survival and joy, the juxtaposition of war and glamour, and the emotional complexity of their experiences. This episode is packed with captivating stories, from the heart-wrenching to the dazzling, reminding us of the importance of embracing life.
00:00 Intro
01:45 Ukraine Challenges and Family Reunion
04:37 Daily Life Amidst Conflict
09:12 Beauty and Normalcy in a War Zone
14:49 Nora First Time at Cannes Film Festival
16:51 Behind the Scenes at Cannes
21:26 Unexpected Encounters and Networking
31:36 Exploring Europe: From Cannes to Paris
34:33 Exploring Europe: Six Countries in 25 Days
36:53 The Reality of Being an Immigrant in Europe
41:45 The Vibrant Nightlife of Cannes
43:42 Navigating the Cannes Film Festival
45:45 Reflections on the Journey
53:25 Unexpected Adventures in Ukraine
58:18 Gratitude and Realizations
01:02:07 Closing Thoughts
We welcome a very special guest, Eugeniia Gul, an inspiring woman who immigrated from Ukraine to LA. She shares her diverse journey from being a model and beauty pageant host to an accomplished author and aspiring political figure. The conversation dives into her experiences, motivations, and the challenges she faced along the way. We discuss the significance of self-belief, the hurdles of participating and producing beauty pageants, and her thoughts on the power of female empowerment. The episode is filled with personal anecdotes, sincere insights, and a candid discussion on the realities behind the glamour of LA. Eugeniia also touches upon her work with the homeless, her aspirations to become the mayor of LA, and the profound impact of her 12 step book on self-discovery and healing. The trio also shares humorous and heartfelt moments for anyone looking to understand the intricate journey of reinventing oneself in a new country.
00:00 Intro
01:13 Girl Power and Collaborations
04:45 Early Life and Ambitions
07:14 Challenges and Aspirations in the US
08:08 Homelessness and Social Issues
10:51 Writing a Book and Personal Growth
21:41 From Politics to Red Carpets
32:53 The Competitive World of Beauty Contests
34:37 The Reality Behind Beauty Contests
37:40 The Myth of Being Self-Made
41:06 The Importance of Authenticity
48:51 Recharging and Self-Care
50:49 Truth or Dare: Beauty Pageant Edition
01:00:51 Final Thoughts
We had the absolute pleasure of chatting with the incredibly talented screenwriter David Barbeschi. Join us as we delve deep into the world of screenwriting and filmmaking, covering everything from the importance of creative limits to the challenges of writing for clients with differing visions. We share some laughs while reminiscing about our favorite characters and even some fun improvisational storytelling moments.
David offers profound insights into the intricacies of screenwriting, lessons learned from the industry, and the emotional journey of crafting compelling stories. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at the Hollywood landscape.
00:00 Intro
01:18 Welcome Again!
02:56 David's Journey into Screenwriting
05:20 Art of Screenwriting and Client Expectations
09:26 Game of Thrones & Audience Expectations
12:28 Structure & Breaking the Rules
13:45 The Perfect Script
17:23 The Role of a Screenwriter in Film Production
21:37 The Writing Process
32:11 Struggles and Script Rewrites
37:36 Favorite Dialogue and Script Challenges
39:00 The Collaborative Process in Filmmaking
40:23 The Importance of Theme in Screenwriting
41:47 Creating Characters and Worlds
43:46 Truth and Dare: Movie Critiques
46:35 Truth and Dare: Industry Insights
53:51 Truth and Dare: Genre Preferences
57:12 Improvised Movie Plot
01:01:19 Conclusion
A heartfelt thank you to David and everyone who helped make this episode possible. Don't forget to tune in with Nora and Maryna on Just Fake It: Coming to LA podcast for more exciting content.
In this episode with Maryna and Gene, we share our harrowing escape from war-torn Ukraine. Join us as we recount our journey from military invasions to refugee camps, culminating in our reunion in Slovakia. The trials we faced—fatigue, hunger, and the difficult navigation through Europe to reach safety—tested our endurance and spirit. We delve into how we managed to expedite Maryna's visa, the incredible support from friends and organizations, and our volunteer efforts in Poland.
From nerve-wracking moments at the embassy, a tense border crossing, to a heartfelt wedding during wartime, each step brought us closer to each other. Our path, fraught with challenges, was also filled with hope, love, and resilience. This episode is a heart-wrenching yet hopeful testament to survival and the human spirit.
00:00 Intro
02:10 Hotel Struggles and Unexpected Guests
03:21 Journey to Krakow
04:35 Family Challenges and Military Draft
17:39 Grandparents' Resilience and Village Defense
33:08 Volunteering and Support Efforts in Krakow
42:43 Japanese TV Feature and Financial Relief
46:36 Documentarian
47:34 Worries and War Frontlines
51:45 Life in Poland: Constantly Moving
55:36 Visa Process and Medical Exams
01:04:46 Returning to Ukraine for Family
01:26:26 A Wedding Amidst War
01:31:40 Final Farewells and New Beginnings
01:34:11 Conclusion and Reflections
Join host Maryna and her husband, Gene, as they share their extraordinary journey from meeting at film school in Los Angeles to surviving the Ukrainian invasion. This compelling episode of Just Fake It details their long-distance love story, creative endeavors, and the harrowing escape from Ukraine amidst missile strikes and military checkpoints. They talk about resilience, fear, and ultimate reunion in Slovakia, the power of love and human connection amidst chaos.
00:00 Intro
00:41 Welcome to a Special Episode
01:16 Meeting Gene
02:16 First Encounters and Film School
05:03 Creative Collaborations and Growing Closer
08:31 Long Distance Challenges and Reunions
18:32 Navigating the Pandemic and Reconnecting
29:52 A Night at the Opera
30:46 The Proposal Surprise
33:28 Planning the Wedding
35:26 Visa Challenges
38:02 Rising Tensions in Ukraine
48:49 The Invasion Begins
01:01:33 Escaping the War Zone
01:09:56 Shin Shirley's Big Moment
01:10:09 Escape from the City
01:13:14 Fuel Shortages and Air Raids
01:15:48 Forest Road and Checkpoints
01:21:37 Border Crossing Challenges
01:28:03 Lost in Slovakia
01:34:05 Reunion and Refugee Camp
01:46:14 Finding Each Other
This episode is more than just a recount of our escape; it's about the human spirit and the power of love. Join us as we share personal experiences of navigating a war-torn country and the emotional toll it took on us. Our story is a reminder of the importance of hope, courage, and the connections that keep us going.
We hope you enjoyed Part 1 of our story. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we'll continue sharing our experiences and our new life in Los Angeles.