From directing iconic music videos for Britney Spears and Eminem to working with Taylor Swift on some of the most defining visuals of the last decade, Joseph Kahn has built a legacy few can rival. In this episode, Joseph takes us through his journey, from dropping out of NYU with $25,000 in debt and hustling his way through Texas rap videos, to becoming one of the most sought-after directors in music and commercial filmmaking. We dive into his unconventional start, the art of bullshitting with confidence, and the calculated risks that shaped his style. Joseph gets honest about the industry: how to sell success before you have it, why directing is lying, and how he landed his first big video gigs with Def Jam. We also break down his treatment-writing process in the ’90s, shooting without storyboards, and building unshakable trust with artists like Taylor Swift and Mariah Carey. This conversation is a must-listen for filmmakers, creatives, and anyone navigating the tension between commerce and art in visual storytelling. We end with a deep look at his newest feature ICK: a genre-bending, creature-feature fever dream he’s betting big on. 00:00 Intro03:09 The Journey to Becoming a Director12:06 Overcoming Cultural and Academic Challenges17:43 The Hustle in the Early Career22:26 Breaking into the Industry39:48 Joseph Kahn's Treatment Style in the 90s40:35 Improvisation in Music Video Production42:34 Building Trust with Artists45:09 Managing Production Companies52:42 The Role of Social Media in Filmmaking58:35 Challenges in Music Video Production59:40 Iconic Music Videos and Creative Freedom01:07:06 Biggest Productions and Working with Taylor Swift01:12:10 The Call from Taylor Swift01:12:27 Creating the 'Blank Space' Music Video01:14:23 Collaborating with Taylor Swift01:16:56 Mariah Carey's Sense of Humor01:19:05 AI in Filmmaking01:28:19 Challenges in the Commercial Industry01:37:35 The Reality of Director Jail01:42:59 Making Independent Films01:45:42 Challenges of Promoting an Independent Film01:46:59 Passion for the Movie and Its Unique Elements01:47:55 Blink 182, All American Rejects, Soundtrack Licensing and Its Impact01:49:47 Inspiration Behind the Creature Feature ICK01:56:57 Directing and Casting Insights02:05:49 The Importance of Family in Filmmaking02:12:17 Final Thoughts and Future Plans   Follow ⁠Joseph⁠ Follow ⁠⁠⁠Arrad (podcast host)⁠⁠⁠    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: ⁠⁠⁠SPOTIFY⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠APPLE MUSIC⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠YOUTUBE⁠⁠⁠   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ ⁠⁠⁠Ourselves (production team)⁠⁠⁠:  ✩ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook

At just 23, Josh Smith was choreographing for the biggest names in music: Chris Brown, Usher, BTS, Ciara, and more. But his journey started way outside the industry playbook. In this raw and powerful episode, Josh opens up about being rejected, breaking into the dance world with no agent, and how one last-minute audition changed everything. From crashing a Disney audition to touring the world with Usher, this is the unfiltered truth about what it takes to build a sustainable dance career, including the money, the mindset, and the hustle no one talks about. Whether you're a dancer, creative, or just chasing a dream, this interview will shift your perspective. 00:00 Intro02:06 Childhood and Early Dance Influences03:44 Middle School Dance Beginnings10:01 High School and Developing Skills11:33 Transition to Atlanta13:50 America's Best Dance Crew Experience15:51 First Professional Gigs21:13 Dealing with Rejection and Perseverance29:46 Landing Major Artist Collaborations30:48 Mentorship and Career Growth32:02 Loyalty and Big Break with Usher34:38 Touring with Usher41:29 The Role of Dance Agents46:07 Sustaining a Dance Career52:17 Adapting as You Get Older01:00:34 Transitioning to Choreography01:02:27 Working with Chris Brown01:09:43 The Role of Choreographers in Dance01:10:31 The Challenges of Filming Dance01:10:40 Editing Dance Videos01:12:30 The Impact of TikTok on Dance01:23:45 Finding Inspiration for Choreography01:32:47 Advice for Aspiring Dancers01:36:28 Dream Collaboration with Michael Jackson01:39:30 Meaningful Compliments and Legacy01:42:38 Final thoughts   Follow Josh Follow ⁠⁠Arrad (podcast host)⁠⁠    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: ⁠⁠SPOTIFY⁠⁠ ⁠⁠APPLE MUSIC⁠⁠ ⁠⁠YOUTUBE⁠⁠   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ ⁠⁠Ourselves (production team)⁠⁠:  ✩ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠Facebook

Let's dive into what it takes to make a full-time living as a filmmaker in 2025. We’re in the most accessible era for filmmaking ever, cameras in your pocket, unlimited platforms to share your work, but with that access comes unprecedented competition. I talk about how the landscape has evolved, the importance of building a strong portfolio, and why choosing a niche is crucial for standing out.I also explore multiple income paths for filmmakers today: from commercial work and music videos to editing, stock licensing, content creation, and even selling digital assets. You’ll hear real, unfiltered insights about freelancing, creative burnout, and why long-term stability is just as important as short-term hustle. 00:00 Introduction to Modern Filmmaking02:29 The Evolution of Camera Technology03:39 Building a Career in Filmmaking04:21 Creating a Strong Portfolio05:23 Choosing Your Niche06:12 Diversifying Your Portfolio07:07 Offering Free Services to Build Network08:08 Finding Your Style and Voice08:18 The Importance of Narrative Work08:57 The Role of Specs in Filmmaking10:14 Balancing Freelance Work and Stability12:07 The Rise of Content Creators14:40 Opportunities in Editing16:32 Licensing Footage for Passive Income18:25 Selling Digital Assets18:59 The Saturation of Digital Marketplaces19:16 The Challenges of Selling Digital Products21:21 My Experience in Music Videos22:40 Investing Freelance Earnings23:26 Building Stability for Creative Freedom24:22 The Goal of Freelancing   Follow ⁠⁠⁠Arrad (podcast host)⁠⁠⁠    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: ⁠⁠⁠SPOTIFY⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠APPLE MUSIC⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠YOUTUBE⁠⁠⁠   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ ⁠⁠⁠Ourselves (production team)⁠⁠⁠:  ✩ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook

From producing and marketing for some of today’s biggest artists to making major moves as a crypto investor, Seeno Shahrooz has quietly built an empire behind the scenes. In this episode, we dive deep into Seeno’s origin story, from Persian radio stations in New York to running his own recording studio in Los Angeles. He opens up about navigating hustle culture, pivoting from production to artist management, building a six-figure studio from scratch, and finding peace in a chaotic industry. This one’s full of wisdom for creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone chasing something bigger. 00:00 Intro01:45 Reflecting on Brotherhood and Collaboration03:17 Early Encounters and Industry Connections07:27 Navigating the Music Industry as an Iranian11:42 From Engineering to Production13:43 Building his studio Ohm House16:37 The Importance of Work-Life Balance33:45 Advice for Aspiring Creatives41:25 The Survival of the Fittest in Creative Careers42:37 Director X and the Legacy of Quality Work43:58 Christopher Nolan: A Case Study in Passionate Filmmaking46:15 The Struggles and Rewards of Artistic Creation47:36 The Role of Management in the Music Industry50:59 Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energies55:45 Leading with Compassion in Creative Fields01:01:21 Creating Art for Yourself01:12:00 The Evolution of Music Promotion01:20:03 Advice for New Artists with Limited Resources01:22:03 Building an Audience01:22:42 Curating a Catalog01:23:49 The Importance of Persistence01:24:48 Financial Realities in Creative Industries01:25:52 Attaching to an Artist01:27:38 Starting Out as a Mixer01:28:23 Management and Networking01:29:55 Entrepreneurial Spirit01:35:13 Getting Rich from Cryptocurrency01:36:00 Understanding Blockchain and NFTs01:57:57 Final Thoughts   Follow Seeno Follow ⁠⁠Arrad (podcast host)⁠⁠    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: ⁠⁠SPOTIFY⁠⁠ ⁠⁠APPLE MUSIC⁠⁠ ⁠⁠YOUTUBE⁠⁠   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ ⁠⁠Ourselves (production team)⁠⁠:  ✩ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠Facebook

In this eye-opening solo episode, I dive headfirst into the unsettling reality of AI's rapid takeover, across tech, blue-collar jobs, filmmaking, and creativity itself. From Google’s terrifyingly realistic AI-generated videos to the silent extinction of human-crafted art, this is a brutally honest look at how fast everything is changing. Whether you're an artist, a coder, or just someone trying to make sense of it all, this episode will challenge how you see the future, your job, and your own identity. Buckle up. We're all in this together. 00:00 Intro02:29 The Future of Tech Jobs07:42 AI's Takeover of Blue Collar Jobs09:53 AI in the Film Industry10:19 The Evolution of Filmmaking11:33 The Democratization of Creation12:17 AI's Role in Modern Filmmaking16:02 The Human Element in Creativity18:26 The Reality of Capitalism and AI19:42 AI vs. Human Creativity: A Case Study23:09 The Future of AI in Filmmaking23:23 AI and Screenwriting: A Mixed Bag24:41 AI in Storyboarding: A Game Changer26:07 The Impact on Storyboard Artists26:54 Graphic Designers and AI Controversies27:50 AI in Camera Operations28:35 Humanoid Robots on Film Sets30:07 The Future of Video Editing32:07 AI and the Speed of Movie Production32:31 An Optimistic Take on AI34:34 The Loss of Individuality in the AI Era36:12 Adapting to a Rapidly Changing World37:41 Final Thoughts    Follow ⁠Arrad (podcast host)⁠    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: ⁠SPOTIFY⁠ ⁠APPLE MUSIC⁠ ⁠YOUTUBE⁠   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ ⁠Ourselves (production team)⁠:  ✩ ⁠Instagram⁠ ✩ ⁠Twitter⁠ ✩ ⁠TikTok⁠ ✩ ⁠Facebook

How does a kid from Oakland with a MiniDV camera end up directing for Rihanna, JLo, and Usher? Taj Stansberry’s story is anything but typical. In this intimate, raw, and inspiring interview, Taj breaks down how his earliest videos filmed with no budget, no crew, and sometimes no clue, became stepping stones to iconic pop visuals that shaped a generation. From selling his car to pay for shoots, to crashing the gates of the industry without a film school degree, this is the unfiltered truth about hustle, heartbreak, and the relentless belief in your own vision.   00:00 Intro02:25 The Creative Process Behind Dead Protocol03:34 The Evolution of Sneaker Culture05:14 The Journey of a Creative Visionary12:52 Early Music Video Projects and Lessons Learned35:27 Bay Culture Influence on Jerking Movement36:40 Telling Emotional Stories in Music Videos37:22 Early Career Struggles and Networking40:28 First Music Video Projects and Challenges41:12 Mentorship and Learning from Anthony Mandler49:14 Breakthrough with Rihanna's Music Video57:15 Signing with Box Fresh Pictures01:10:57 Reflecting on the Iconic Video01:14:53 Rihanna's Support and Maturity01:15:46 Facing Nerves and Overcoming Challenges01:25:19 The Big Reveal from his Brother01:30:51 J-Lo's Perfectionism and Professionalism01:44:53 Executing the Vision01:45:48 Auditions and MTV Coverage01:47:20 Impact and Residuals for directors01:47:36 Directors' Rights and Compensation01:54:40 Reflecting on Success and Gratitude01:56:59 AI in Music Videos02:07:26 Sneaker Collaboration02:14:15 Final Thoughts and Farewell   Follow Taj Follow ⁠⁠Arrad (podcast host)⁠⁠    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: ⁠⁠SPOTIFY⁠⁠ ⁠⁠APPLE MUSIC⁠⁠ ⁠⁠YOUTUBE⁠⁠   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ ⁠⁠Ourselves (production team)⁠⁠:  ✩ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠Facebook

In this solo episode, I dive into why Sinners might be the most significant cinematic release of the decade. This isn’t just another box office success, it’s a cultural shift. Ryan Coogler’s groundbreaking deal with Warner Brothers grants him ownership rights after 25 years, setting a new precedent for filmmakers to retain equity in their work. We talk about the power of ownership, the long-term value of creative control, and how final cut privileges are changing the dynamics between studios and directors. I also explore the technical and cultural innovations that make Sinners so impactful, from Autumn Dural Arkapaw becoming the first woman to shoot a theatrical film on IMAX 65mm, to Michael B. Jordan’s jaw-dropping dual role brought to life through advanced motion control techniques. The film’s success is undeniable: nearly $300 million at the box office, a sold-out IMAX re-release, and a growing demand for original, bold storytelling that doesn’t rely on franchise formulas. This is a call to action for indie filmmakers, storytellers, and creatives who want to reclaim power in the filmmaking process. If you care about the future of cinema, this episode is for you.   00:00 Introduction: The Impact of 'Sinners'00:07 Ryan Coogler's Warner Brothers Deal00:34 The Importance of Film Ownership00:42 Long-Term Benefits of Ownership01:12 Empowering Filmmakers01:45 Deep Dive: Ownership in Filmmaking04:31 Final Cut Privileges in Filmmaking05:10 Creative Control in the Studio System06:01 Challenges of Creative Autonomy07:02 New Precedents in Filmmaking07:19 Historic Milestones for Women in Cinematography08:58 The Power of Collaboration09:52 Ryan Coogler and Autumn Durrell's Synergy11:28 Continued Collaborations: Michael B. Jordan11:51 Modern Day Scorsese and De Niro13:30 Technical Innovations in 'Sinners'13:44 The Hype Around IMAX and 70mm Film15:21 Christopher Nolan's Influence16:38 Michael B. Jordan's Dual Role17:19 Motion Control Techniques20:49 Box Office Success of 'Sinners'21:39 Re-release in IMAX22:26 Shoutouts and Acknowledgements23:31 The Future of Indie Cinema24:17 Conclusion and Call to Action   Follow ⁠Arrad (podcast host)⁠    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: ⁠SPOTIFY⁠ ⁠APPLE MUSIC⁠ ⁠YOUTUBE⁠   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ ⁠Ourselves (production team)⁠:  ✩ ⁠Instagram⁠ ✩ ⁠Twitter⁠ ✩ ⁠TikTok⁠ ✩ ⁠Facebook

Trevor Jackson is no stranger to the spotlight — but in this episode, he opens up like never before. From starring in *Grown-ish* and *Superfly* to dropping his most personal album yet, Trevor has seen every side of the industry. He shares how the machine behind music and film is built on money, influence, and perception — and why not having that machine can leave even the most talented artists overlooked. After going through a painful breakup and tearing his Achilles, Trevor found himself at his lowest — and wrote an entire album in just two weeks. He talks about being told he was "too clean" to be marketable, walking away from major labels, building his own company (Born Art), and reclaiming his freedom as an artist. This conversation dives deep into mental health, validation, self-love, creativity, and the hard truth about how things really work behind the scenes in Hollywood. If you’re a creative, an artist, or someone chasing something bigger — this episode will hit home. Trevor Jackson is creating on his own terms now, and he’s not holding back. This is the most honest, unfiltered, and inspiring version of him the world has seen. 00:00 Intro01:39 Creative Collaborations and Directing03:49 The Art of Music Videos04:48 Creating the Greatest Breakup Album07:39 The Creative Process and Challenges19:34 The Shit List24:26 The Journey and Inspirations30:34 The Decline of Traditional Musicianship31:21 The Art of Performance31:40 The Drive for Excellence33:06 Current Acting Projects and Future Plans34:55 The Impact of Technology on Human Interaction39:14 The Role of AI in Creativity42:06 Personal Growth and Self-Reflection54:30 The Importance of Therapy56:51 The Power of Positive Self-Talk01:00:35 The Power of Art and Creativity01:01:19 Learning Through Video Games01:01:36 Navigating the Music Industry01:01:52 Signing with Atlantic Records01:03:46 Challenges in the Music Industry01:08:15 Born Art01:09:55 Financial Realities of Acting and Music01:18:09 Touring and Fan Experiences01:21:17 Personal Goals and Legacy   Follow Trevor Follow ⁠⁠Arrad (podcast host)⁠⁠    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: ⁠⁠SPOTIFY⁠⁠ ⁠⁠APPLE MUSIC⁠⁠ ⁠⁠YOUTUBE⁠⁠   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ ⁠⁠Ourselves (production team)⁠⁠:  ✩ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠Facebook

Starting a podcast sounded like a dream. But three months in, I’ve learned the raw truth: it's a full-time job, it’s humbling, and it’s not for the faint of heart. In this solo episode, I break down the 10 most important lessons I’ve learned so far—from getting hate online to learning how to handle burnout, bad audio, inconsistent platform performance, and the pressure to grow without a return. If you’ve ever thought about launching a podcast (or any creative venture), this episode is for you. Whether you're just starting out or already in the game, these lessons are real, unfiltered, and straight from my experience. 00:00 Introduction01:00 The Reality of Podcasting Workload06:45 Balancing Podcasting with Life08:19 The Financial Aspect of Podcasting11:01 Platform Performance Insights12:18 The Power of Viral Content13:19 Social Media Conversion Rates14:34 Instagram vs. TikTok Performance16:06 Podcast Platform Rankings18:25 Challenges with TikTok Scheduling20:01 Initial Spike and Momentum21:15 Capitalizing on Momentum22:59 Overcoming Fear of Posting24:34 Understanding Non-Linear Growth27:31 Reflecting on the Journey27:57 Call to Action: Support the Show28:26 Gratitude and Future Plans   Follow Arrad (podcast host)    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: SPOTIFY APPLE MUSIC YOUTUBE   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ Ourselves (production team):  ✩ Instagram ✩ Twitter ✩ TikTok ✩ Facebook

He designed a flag to unite the world. Instead, he was accused of working with the Illuminati. In this episode, Oskar Pernefeldt — Creative Director at Oatly and the designer behind the International Flag of Planet Earth — opens up about how a simple graduation project turned into a global movement… and a conspiracy theory nightmare. We talk about fame, fear, purpose, and the insane power of symbolism in a divided world.   Watch if you’re curious about the hidden forces that shape culture — and what happens when one idea captures the whole planet.   00:00 Introduction 03:03 Oscar's Background and Nonprofit Work 05:31 The Design and Symbolism of the Planet Earth Flag 09:49 Public Reception and Conspiracy Theories 20:29 Challenges and Goals for the Planet Earth Flag 22:15 Global Unity and National Identity 32:26 Comparing Sweden and the US 33:51 Reflections on American Society and Governance 36:38 Discussing Taxes and Military Service 37:56 Healthcare Systems: Sweden vs. America 38:23 Insurance Woes in America 39:39 Education in Sweden: Beckman's College of Design 43:20 The Creative Industry and Nepotism 46:25 The Privilege of Being in the Creative Industry 54:58 Childhood Experiences and Their Impact 57:34 The Importance of Forgiveness 01:02:02 The Flag of Planet Earth and NASA Involvement 01:13:45 Creative Ecosystem at Oatly 01:14:18 Trust and Decision-Making 01:17:09 In-House Agency vs. External Agency 01:18:10 Pitching Ideas and Taking Risks 01:19:52 Balancing Boldness and ROI 01:22:52 Competition and Market Strategy 01:25:37 Challenges of Passion Projects 01:39:18 Future of Flags and Identity 01:43:01 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion   Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠the ⁠International Flag of Planet Earth project⁠ Follow ⁠⁠⁠Oskar⁠ Follow ⁠⁠⁠Arrad (podcast host)⁠⁠⁠    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: ⁠⁠⁠SPOTIFY⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠APPLE MUSIC⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠YOUTUBE⁠⁠⁠   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ ⁠⁠⁠Ourselves (production team)⁠⁠⁠:  ✩ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook

In this episode, visionary director Warren Fu shares an inspiring journey through his iconic work in music videos, his creative roots at Lucasfilm, and the delicate balance of creativity and burnout. We dive deep into his collaborations with legendary artists such as Doja Cat, Daft Punk, The Weeknd, and The Strokes. From overcoming immigrant family expectations and cultural differences to navigating the unpredictable worlds of directing music videos and commercials, Warren offers invaluable insights on the multifaceted role of a director, the importance of editing, and the future of filmmaking with AI.   00:00 Intro 02:54 The Importance of Editing in Directing 04:33 Balancing Creativity and Burnout 06:47 The Journey to Delegation and Trust 12:15 From Graffiti to Lucasfilm: A Creative Evolution 39:40 Visiting Skywalker Ranch 40:03 Quitting Lucasfilm to Pursue Directing 40:45 Immigrant Family Guilt 42:04 Cultural Differences Growing Up 50:44 Challenges of Directing 53:25 Pitching and Treatments 01:00:30 The Music Video Industry 01:04:32 Lucasfilm: A Film School Experience 01:16:06 The Strokes' Mystique and Early Career 01:16:55 Freelancing in LA and Breaking into Music Videos 01:18:04 First Big Break with The Strokes 01:19:37 Building Relationships with Artists 01:22:10 Collaborating with Mark Ronson and Daft Punk 01:30:46 Directing Daft Punk's Iconic Videos 01:42:57 Working with Doja Cat on 'Planet Her' 01:52:35 Transitioning to Commercial Work 01:57:35 Personal Connections in the Industry 01:59:18 Pitching Ideas and Working with Reps 02:01:27 The Role of Specs in Commercials 02:02:47 Keys to Successful Pitches 02:08:23 AI in Music Videos 02:16:58 The Future of AI in Filmmaking 02:27:52 Balancing Work and Life   Follow Warren Follow ⁠⁠Arrad (podcast host)⁠⁠    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: ⁠⁠SPOTIFY⁠⁠ ⁠⁠APPLE MUSIC⁠⁠ ⁠⁠YOUTUBE⁠⁠   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ ⁠⁠Ourselves (production team)⁠⁠:  ✩ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ ✩ ⁠⁠Facebook⁠

Shooting rap videos isn’t for the faint of heart. Missed call times, wild pivots, and $75K wardrobes. Here’s the unfiltered truth about working with hip hop artists. 00:00 Introduction01:09 The Evolution of Hip Hop and Music Videos01:55 Creating a Treatment for Music Videos02:52 Expect the Unexpected: Be Ready to Pivot04:23 Dealing with Late Artists05:50 Handling No-Shows and Rescheduling10:08 Importance of Casting10:43 Avoiding Catfishing in Casting13:04 Stripping Your Ego and Developing Thick Skin15:51 Understanding the Culture17:15 Fashion and Trends in Hip Hop Videos18:28 Balancing Production and Wardrobe Budgets19:01 Capturing the Artist's Best Look19:56 Embracing the Process20:33 Don't Take It Personally21:52 Have Fun and Make It Memorable23:30 Conclusion   Follow Arrad (podcast host)    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: SPOTIFY APPLE MUSIC YOUTUBE   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ Ourselves (production team):  ✩ Instagram ✩ Twitter ✩ TikTok ✩ Facebook

What do you do when you lose everything — your father, your home, and your car — all in one month? If you’re MRCL, you turn that pain into purpose… and make some of the most powerful music of your life. In this episode, MRCL shares the raw, unfiltered truth behind his journey from sleeping in his car to producing with TDE and working alongside legends like Terrace Martin, DJ Quik, and more. He talks about the moment that changed everything — when SZA casually said, “Should I call Frank Ocean?” — and ended up in the studio with both of them as Frank serenaded the room on piano. But that’s just the beginning. We get into the come-up, the breakdowns, the breakthroughs, the band he built off Instagram DMs, the hustle of being a full-time creative and a father, and how spiritual alignment shaped his debut project Mantras. This is one of the most inspiring stories we've ever heard — and proof that when your back’s against the wall, greatness is still possible. If you're chasing purpose, passion, or just need a reminder that you’re not alone… this one’s for you. 00:00 Intro02:50 Balancing Creativity and Business04:26 Early Musical Influences06:06 Entrepreneurial Spirit08:27 Meeting West Coast legend Terrace Martin10:35 Internship Experiences13:14 Transition to Videography26:56 Breakthrough in Television35:46 Personal Struggles and Triumphs41:33 Creating a Legacy44:29 Reflections on Parenthood45:48 Skee TV and Early Career50:04 Discovering New Opportunities51:41 Spiritual Awakening55:00 Creating Mantras01:00:26 First TDE Session with SZA01:01:17 Frank Ocean serenading him with the piano01:03:48 Building Relationships in the Industry01:13:16 Working with Aftermath01:14:21 Overcoming Creative Blocks01:23:04 Advice for Aspiring Artists01:30:38 Final Thoughts and Reflections   Follow MRCL Follow Arrad (podcast host)    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: SPOTIFY APPLE MUSIC YOUTUBE   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ Ourselves (production team):  ✩ Instagram ✩ Twitter ✩ TikTok ✩ Facebook  

Filmmaking is changing. The market is oversaturated, and directors are fighting for survival. But niche workers? They’re getting booked and paid. If you want a sustainable creative career, you need to hear this.  00:00 Intro00:27 The Rise of Niche Workers00:55 Oversaturation in the Industry01:26 The Competitive World of Directors02:57 The Value of Niche Roles03:07 Defining Niche Workers03:51 The Demand for Niche Workers04:52 Why Niche Workers Are Winning05:21 Specialization: The Key to Success06:43 The Importance of Mastery07:41 Marketing Yourself as a Specialist08:24 Building Relationships and Collaboration08:58 Embracing the Less Glory, More Work Mindset09:34 The Importance of a Strong Team10:01 Pivoting to Niche Roles10:19 The Rise of Niche Industries10:46 Thriving Niche Industries13:15 Why Specialized Industries Are Thriving13:35 Recap and Key Takeaways14:42 Conclusion and Call to Action   Follow Arrad (podcast host)    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: SPOTIFY APPLE MUSIC YOUTUBE   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ Ourselves (production team):  ✩ Instagram ✩ Twitter ✩ TikTok ✩ Facebook

From Persian family pressure to Shark Tank success! Zoya was expected to follow the traditional Middle Eastern path—become a lawyer, get married, and live the “perfect” Persian life. But she had other plans. As a gay Persian entrepreneur, Zoya had to fight against cultural expectations, family struggles, and self-doubt to build her own empire. In this episode, we dive into:✔️ How Zoya’s parents reacted when she came out as gay✔️ The pressures of being Middle Eastern & breaking tradition✔️ How she built a food empire from scratch (and made $$$ from content!)✔️ The dark truth about raw fish & why she stopped eating sushi✔️ Her insane Shark Tank journey and what happened behind the scenes Watch till the end to hear Zoya’s message to anyone struggling to live their truth!   00:00 Intro02:07 Cultural Expectations and Career Choices16:18 Challenges of Being Gay in a Persian Family34:28 Coming Out to Family44:57 Reflections on Luck and Life46:43 Reflecting on Life's Luck and Fate47:37 The Lottery of Life49:16 The Culinary Journey Begins51:05 From Social Enterprise to Culinary Ventures55:06 The Birth of Fish Foods57:58 Challenges and Triumphs in the Vegan Sushi World01:07:41 Shark Tank Experience and Future Goals01:19:23 Discussing the Deal: Behind the Scenes01:20:22 Shark Tank Experience: Expectations vs Reality01:22:52 Challenges in the Food Industry01:25:44 Restaurant Business: The Real Struggle01:32:44 Content Creation: The New Frontier01:34:16 Collaborations with Gordon Ramsay01:39:13 Future Plans and Advice for Aspiring Creators01:52:50 The Value of Engagement Over Follower Count01:53:34 Earnings and Niche Differences for Content Creators01:54:27 Negotiating Deals and Knowing Your Worth01:55:20 Challenges of Sponsored Content01:55:52 The Importance of Authenticity02:00:02 Advice for Aspiring Content Creators02:17:41 Personal Reflections and Future Plans   Follow Zoya Follow Arrad (podcast host)    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: SPOTIFY APPLE MUSIC YOUTUBE   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ Ourselves (production team):  ✩ Instagram ✩ Twitter ✩ TikTok ✩ Facebook

From Timothée Chalamet to Demi Moore, from Kieran Culkin to Ariana Grande, the 2025 Oscars race is stacked—and I’m calling the shots! These are my official predictions, and trust me, I’m walking into this with full confidence. Best Picture? Best Actor? Best Supporting Actress (Ariana Grande??) and the biggest snubs? I break it ALL down. And yes, I want Ariana to win. Will my picks age like fine wine or completely crash and burn? Either way, I’m locked in—so let’s debate. 00:00 Introduction and Award Season Overview 00:56 Globalization of Film 02:00 Academy Awards Predictions: Actor in a Leading Role 02:49 Actor in a Leading Role: Ralph Fiennes vs. Timothee Chalamet 05:25 Actor in a Leading Role: The Toss-Up 08:18 Academy Awards Predictions: Actor in a Supporting Role 09:34 Academy Awards Predictions: Actress in a Leading Role 09:45 Actress in a Leading Role: Cynthia Erivo and Demi Moore 12:22 Academy Awards Predictions: Actress in a Supporting Role 12:28 Actress in a Supporting Role: Ariana Grande vs. Zoe Saldana 17:27 Academy Awards Predictions: Animated Feature Film 18:23 Academy Awards Predictions: Cinematography 22:29 Academy Awards Predictions: Costume Design and Directing 26:20 Directing Category Predictions 27:04 Documentary Feature and Short 27:31 Film Editing Insights 29:49 International Feature Film 32:05 Makeup and Hairstyling 33:39 Original Score Snubs 34:47 Original Song Predictions 35:12 Production Design 36:08 Sound Category Dilemma 36:59 Visual Effects 37:42 Adapted Screenplay 38:56 Original Screenplay 41:13 Best Picture Predictions   Follow Arrad (podcast host)    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: SPOTIFY APPLE MUSIC YOUTUBE   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ Ourselves (production team):  ✩ Instagram ✩ Twitter ✩ TikTok ✩ Facebook  

Connor Tingley’s art has been embraced by the biggest names in fashion, music, and luxury—A$AP Rocky, Michelle Lamy, Vans, NARS, and Casamigos, just to name a few. But his story isn’t just about success—it’s about why most creatives never make it, how fear can either push you forward or hold you back, and what it really takes to build something lasting.   00:00 Intro01:24 The Essence of Luxury Brands06:09 The Power of Storytelling07:09 Art as a Personal Journey16:01 The Courage to Create43:11 Discovering the World Around Us43:52 Early Memories and Brand Influence47:07 The Impact of Upbringing49:20 Government and Media Skepticism51:18 The Illusion of Freedom55:34 Personalized Reality and AI01:00:14 The Importance of Character01:09:00 Middle School Memories01:18:32 Balancing Art and Brand Work01:21:11 The Courage to Create01:21:42 Balancing Art and Commerce01:22:37 Emotional Connections in Collaborations01:23:25 Identifying and Solving Brand Problems01:25:01 The Evolution of Brand Coolness01:35:11 Coping with Stress and Anxiety01:41:23 The Importance of Being Present01:46:30 Advice for Aspiring Artists01:57:51 Passions Beyond Work   Follow Connor Follow Arrad (podcast host)    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: SPOTIFY APPLE MUSIC YOUTUBE   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ Ourselves (production team):  ✩ Instagram ✩ Twitter ✩ TikTok ✩ Facebook  

They say patience is key—but what if waiting is just wasting your time? The industry isn’t set up for you to win, and signing the wrong deal could trap you in a cycle of stagnation. Before you sign anything, ask yourself: Is this moving me forward or holding me back? In this episode, I break down why bad deals, false promises, and the wrong reps could ruin your career—and how to protect your time like the valuable currency it is. Don’t let them waste another second of your life.  00:00 Introduction: The Harsh Reality00:29 The Value of Time00:42 The Creative Grind00:57 The System is Rigged01:23 The Illusion of Signing Deals01:40 The Role of Agents02:13 The Importance of Momentum02:46 The Trap of Early Signing03:10 The Myth of Patience03:40 Personal Experience: Overcoming Neglect04:40 The Priority of Time04:51 Record Labels: The Cold Truth05:36 The Harsh Truth About Deals07:08 Exploitation in the Industry07:42 Corporate Profit Over Art09:08 Protecting Your Worth09:32 Building Leverage09:59 Think Like a Business Person10:23 Recap: Key Points11:04 Conclusion: Own Your Worth   Follow Arrad (podcast host)    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: SPOTIFY APPLE MUSIC YOUTUBE   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ Ourselves (production team):  ✩ Instagram ✩ Twitter ✩ TikTok ✩ Facebook

In this exclusive interview, rising R&B star RealestK sits down to discuss his meteoric rise from the depths of Toronto’s music scene to TikTok stardom. He reveals how he cracked the TikTok algorithm, turning covers into a dedicated fanbase and leveraging viral momentum to build a real music career. RealestK shares intimate details about his personal struggles, including dealing with an eating disorder, and how his relentless passion for music kept him going. Discover the behind-the-scenes story of his viral hits like 'Wait For Me' and 'Toxic,' created with minimal resources yet resonating with millions. He also opens up about the pressures of sudden fame, touring challenges, and the pivotal advice from his family that fueled his success. This candid conversation offers a raw look into the life of one of music’s most promising young talents. 00:00 Intro01:26 Family and Cultural Influences03:59 Discovering Music Passion07:28 The Birth of Realest K10:40 TikTok Strategy and Success16:09 Building a Core Audience19:00 First Viral Hit: Wait For Me22:23 Navigating Early Success29:50 Balancing Life and Music37:43 The Breakthrough Moment38:05 Discovering the Perfect Beat44:38 Struggles with Social Media45:43 The Viral Chandelier Video46:01 School and Social Media Clash57:55 The Big Break01:04:24 Proving Yourself in the Industry01:05:38 Navigating the Business Side01:07:13 Financial Success and Lessons Learned01:08:28 The Reality of Major Labels01:21:59 Touring with NAV and Overcoming Adversity01:30:23 Lessons from Performing Live01:39:16 Advice for Aspiring Artists   Follow RealestK Follow Arrad (podcast host)    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: SPOTIFY APPLE MUSIC YOUTUBE   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ Ourselves (production team):  ✩ Instagram ✩ Twitter ✩ TikTok ✩ Facebook

Anxiety isn’t just about fear—it’s about survival. As a filmmaker, I was so afraid of losing clients that I would stress over them before I even booked the job. The pressure to stay relevant, to be irreplaceable, to overdeliver just to prove my worth—it consumed me. But is this the price of success, or just a mental trap we fall into? In this episode, I break down the anxiety that haunts creatives, the scarcity mindset that holds us back, and the real strategies I use to tame it. 01:38 Diving into Anxiety02:01 Personal Experiences with Anxiety02:10 Understanding the Feeling of Anxiety03:36 Anxiety in the Creative Industry04:26 Childhood and School Anxiety05:25 Anxiety and Social Validation05:44 Living in the Present06:06 Silent Retreat Experience07:02 College Anxiety and Medication07:46 Entering the Professional World08:14 The Competitive Creative Industry08:50 Client Anxiety and Scarcity Mindset10:53 Strategies to Tame Anxiety11:45 Setting Boundaries and Saying No14:33 Mindfulness and Physical Awareness15:10 Alternative Therapies: Sauna and Meditation16:41 Cold Therapy and Yoga18:59 Supplementation and Medication22:06 Overcoming Fear of Failure23:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Follow Arrad (podcast host)    LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: SPOTIFY APPLE MUSIC YOUTUBE   CONNECT WITH US: ✩ Ourselves (production team):  ✩ Instagram ✩ Twitter ✩ TikTok ✩ Facebook