🎬 “A Conversation With Host Floyd Marshall Jr. & Co-host Okema T. Moore” dives deep into the spirit, vision, and impact behind the Micheaux Film Festival—one of the fastest-growing and most inclusive festivals in the U.S. Founded by Noel Braham and Courtney L. Branch, the festival champions independent filmmakers and celebrates diversity, community, and authentic storytelling.
In this episode, Noel and Courtney share how Micheaux grew from a small screening in 2018 into a powerhouse festival that feels more like family than industry. They reveal the meaning behind this year’s theme, “Warrior,” discuss the challenges of sustaining art in a changing Hollywood, and explore how faith, persistence, and purpose have shaped their journey.
🎧 Tune in for:
Behind-the-scenes insights from Micheaux’s founders
The importance of community-driven filmmaking
Lessons on perseverance, creativity, and building inclusive platforms
How the festival’s spirit of faith and family continues to inspire the next generation of filmmakers
💡 “The Micheaux Film Festival is the People’s Film Festival—and the People’s Film Festival is Micheaux.”
#MicheauxFilmFestival #IndependentFilm #Filmmakers #BlackCreatives #FaithInFilm #FilmCommunity #Podcast #FloydMarshallJr #OkemaTMoore
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In this inspiring episode, Eunice Smith-Shelley — filmmaker, strategist, and industry disruptor — shares how she’s redefining storytelling from concept to production. With over 30 years in corporate leadership and creative entrepreneurship, Eunice blends business strategy with cinematic vision to empower underrepresented voices in film.
As the founder of Word Smith Studios, she’s built a creative hub for emerging filmmakers to learn, produce, and lead. She also created the groundbreaking Flip the Script Film Fellowship, which has trained and launched hundreds of Black filmmakers into the industry.
Host Floyd Marshall Jr. explores Eunice’s path from engineering process design to storytelling mastery — and how she’s proving that the next generation of filmmakers doesn’t have to wait for permission to create.
🎬 What You’ll Learn:
The art of merging business systems with filmmaking creativity
How Flip the Script Film Fellowship reshapes opportunity for Black filmmakers
Why strategic storytelling is the future of film production
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Step into the world of Hollywood storytelling with Kevin Eugee Wilson—Showrunner, Director, Executive Producer, and CEO of Sylver Lining Media. From producing the BET Awards, NAACP Image Awards, and Soul Train Awards to creating hit shows like Laugh Tonight with Damon Williams and Known Cap TV, Kevin’s career spans Netflix, Lionsgate, BET, Nike, and more.
In this candid conversation with hosts Floyd Marshall Jr. and Okema T. Moore, Kevin shares his journey from Chicago to Los Angeles, the hustle of breaking into scripted and unscripted TV, and his lessons on resilience, creativity, and creating opportunities. Listeners will gain insider insight into:
🎬 Breaking into Hollywood as a filmmaker and showrunner
🏆 Producing iconic award shows and live events
💡 How to create your own IP and stay relevant in the industry
🌟 The importance of tough skin, networking, and trusting your gut
If you’re an aspiring filmmaker, creative entrepreneur, or simply curious about the business of entertainment, this masterclass offers invaluable takeaways on success, longevity, and building legacy in media.
📌 Follow Kevin at @prodbyeugee across platforms.
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NAACP Image Award-winning filmmaker, writer, and producer Ericka Nicole Malone joins hosts Floyd Marshall Jr. and Okema T. Moore for an inspiring conversation on creativity, resilience, and representation in film and theater. From writing plays in college to founding Ericka Nicole Malone Entertainment, Ericka shares her journey of self-financing projects, creating opportunities for women of color, and producing the acclaimed biopic Remember Me: The Mahalia Jackson Story.
Discover how Ericka embodies the power of disruption in Hollywood, builds inclusive teams with 85% women of color, and uplifts emerging creators through her Power EN-ME Grant and Sundance initiatives. She also reflects on mentorship, excellence vs. perfection, and the importance of community support in breaking barriers for Black women in the industry
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Award-winning cinematographer, director, screenwriter, and author Steven Bernstein (Monster, White Chicks, SWAT, Like Water for Chocolate) joins host Floyd Marshall Jr. for an in-depth conversation on filmmaking, storytelling, and the creative process. Bernstein shares how he broke into the film industry, why he avoids traditional outlines in screenwriting, and how he builds authentic, emotionally compelling characters.
From the set of Monster with Charlize Theron to directing and writing acclaimed projects, Bernstein opens up about the importance of imperfection in art, the future of filmmaking in the age of AI, and why risk-taking and personal truth lead to the most powerful stories.
🎧 What you’ll learn in this episode:
How Steven Bernstein’s career spans blockbuster hits and indie triumphs
Why character depth matters more than predictable story beats
Behind-the-scenes stories from Monster, SWAT, White Chicks
The reality of Hollywood’s shift toward AI and how to stay relevant
Bernstein’s advice for filmmakers facing rejection or creative fear
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Go behind the scenes with veteran filmmaker Derrick Hammond — a director, producer, writer, cinematographer, and editor with over 20 films under his belt. Hosted by Floyd Marshall Jr. with co-host Okema T. Moore, this conversation dives deep into the realities of independent filmmaking: from learning the craft on big-budget sets, to mastering sound, navigating distribution, building strong crews, and creating a sustainable career in today’s fast-changing film landscape.
Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a seasoned creative, or simply curious about what it takes to turn ideas into finished films, you’ll get candid insights, industry tips, and real-world strategies for making movies that get made, get seen, and get paid.
🎧 Press play and get a masterclass in indie filmmaking — straight from those who live it.
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🎬 In this episode of "A Conversation With," host Floyd Marshall Jr. and co-host Okema T. Moore welcome the dynamic Jalene Mack—renowned entertainment attorney, actress, author, producer, and leader in the Houston film industry. Jalene brings decades of experience in film production, law, and creative business to the table, sharing actionable legal tips for filmmakers, screenwriters, producers, and anyone working in entertainment.
Discover the essential steps for protecting your creative work, from copyrighting scripts and understanding contracts to smart pitching strategies. Jalene explains why indie filmmakers and creative entrepreneurs must know the business side of Hollywood, and how cities like Houston are fast becoming top destinations for film and media production.
Get real-world advice on film funding, team building, and navigating the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry. Learn how to leverage local film incentives, create successful collaborations, and build a creative team that can help you thrive—without needing to move to L.A.
Key Topics:
Legal tips for filmmakers and creatives
Protecting your scripts, projects, and intellectual property
How to build your dream team in the film industry
Funding your film and understanding film finance
Houston’s rise as a film and media hub
Strategies for indie filmmakers to succeed
Why entertainment law matters for every creative entrepreneur
Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, producer, actor, or creative business owner, this episode delivers expert insights, inspiration, and actionable steps for mastering both the creative and business sides of entertainment.
Listen now and take your filmmaking journey to the next level!
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In this powerful episode, hosts Floyd Marshall Jr. and Okema T. Moore welcome multiplatform TV executive and creative force Donna Marie Reid. Go behind the scenes as Donna Marie pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to thrive in today’s unpredictable film and television industry.
Discover candid stories and practical advice about navigating industry shake-ups, pitching your ideas to networks, building meaningful industry relationships, and developing the kind of creative resilience that turns setbacks into opportunities. Donna Marie, known for her work with major networks and her commitment to mentoring the next wave of storytellers, shares wisdom you can’t find in a textbook.
Whether you’re a filmmaker, screenwriter, or aspiring creative, this episode is packed with actionable tips on standing out, embracing flexibility, and building a lasting career. Tune in for inspiration, industry insight, and real talk you won’t hear anywhere else.
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Step into the world of international film with Yolonda Brinkley—global disruptor and founder of the Diversity in Cannes Short Film Showcase. In this powerful episode, Yolonda shares her inspiring journey, from breaking down barriers at the Cannes Film Festival to championing true inclusion for marginalized voices in cinema.
Discover what it takes to build a global movement, empower Black women in film, and create opportunities for independent filmmakers. Yolonda opens up about the challenges of fighting industry gatekeeping, the importance of authentic representation, and the realities of sustaining a creative mission.
Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, advocate for diversity, or simply passionate about the power of storytelling, this episode delivers a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and building your own table—no invitation required.
Key topics:
Diversity in Cannes
Global film markets
Independent filmmaker advice
Film industry inclusion
Creating your own opportunities
Resilience & legacy in the arts
🎬 Listen now and be inspired to disrupt the status quo in film and beyond!
#DiversityInCannes #WomenInFilm #BlackWomenCAN #FilmIndustryDisruptor
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In Episode 147 of A Conversation With Floyd Marshall Jr., hosts Floyd Marshall Jr. and Okema T. Moore sit down with groundbreaking reality TV pioneer Tracy Baker-Simmons—“Master of the Unscripted.” With over 30 years in the industry, Tracy has produced iconic projects like Being Bobby Brown, Welcome to Dreamland, and The Houstons: On Our Own, forever changing the landscape of reality television.
Tracy shares her journey from humble beginnings in Atlanta to becoming a trailblazer for Black representation in unscripted television. She dives deep into the art of authentic storytelling, what it means to “create while grieving,” and how her passion for reading and self-education powered her career. Tracy also reveals the inspiration behind her education platform, TV Decoded, and offers invaluable advice for aspiring producers and filmmakers.
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation packed with wisdom, industry gems, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of TV’s most influential producers.
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In this unfiltered and thought-provoking episode of A Conversation With..., host Floyd Marshall Jr. and co-host Okema T. Moore are joined by industry veterans Patrick Coker and James Moorer for a real talk on the state of Black storytelling in film.
They dive into:
Why original Black stories still matter and how Sinners proved it
The myth of “one script success” and the reality of long-term creative careers
How to build your brand and know your lane as a writer or filmmaker
Budget vs. vision—what to do when you’ve only got $5K but dream in millions
Ego vs. teamwork and knowing when to step back or collaborate
The danger of normalizing mediocrity and chasing quick profit over quality
Why understanding the business side of film is just as critical as the art
Whether you're emerging, indie, or experienced, this episode delivers honest insight and hard-earned lessons for anyone serious about making films that last.
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In this eye-opening episode, Floyd Marshall Jr. and Okema Moore sit down with genre-breaking filmmaker Nace DeSanders. Known for her bold and artistic work in experimental horror, Nace shares how a passion for storytelling and a global perspective—from New York to Madrid to South Africa—inspire her deeply impactful films. The conversation explores her unconventional journey from volunteering at festivals to directing acclaimed shorts like Hello Sickness and The Wounded and the Watcher, and her upcoming feature Dance of the Demon, which centers on endometriosis through a haunting, allegorical lens.
This episode dives into:
How working for free strategically can launch a film career
The importance of building diverse crews and community
Horror as a platform for social impact storytelling
Why filmmakers (and viewers) must "vote with their money"
Nace’s insights on global filmmaking, mentorship, and being a Black woman in horror
Whether you’re a filmmaker, a genre fan, or just someone who loves hearing real, raw creative journeys, this episode is for you.
🎧 Listen now and be inspired by the power of visionary storytelling and bold authenticity.
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In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Emmy-winning filmmaker and former world champion flair bartender Deborah Richards to explore her bold journey from behind the bar to behind the camera.
💥 Topics Include:
How Deborah turned flair bartending into award-winning filmmaking
The making of her documentary Shaken and Stirred
Gender dynamics in male-dominated spaces
The art of pivoting on set
Why filmmakers need a business plan as much as a creative vision
🎬 Whether you're a filmmaker, entrepreneur, or creative visionary, this episode is packed with lessons on grit, resourcefulness, and following your passion with purpose.
#DeborahRichards #PodcastInterview #FilmmakingJourney #DocumentaryFilm #ShakenAndStirred #WomenInFilm #CreativeBusiness #FloydMarshallJr #OkemaMoore
Angela White - Standing on Business in the Film Industry
What does it really take to make it in film? In this powerful conversation, producer Angela White (Silver Lining Entertainment) drops a masterclass on producing, distribution, and why your film is a product—but YOU are the brand. From shooting in Ghana to creating viral Tubi hits, Angela keeps it real about hustle, humility, and standing on business. If you're serious about filmmaking, don’t miss this episode.
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In this insightful episode of A Conversation With, host Floyd Marshall Jr. and co-host Okema T. Moore sit down with the multi-talented filmmaker, producer, and activist Victorious De Costa. Known for his powerful documentaries like Digging for Weldon Irvine and Yusuf Hawkins: Storm Over Brooklyn, Victorious shares his journey from music to film, blending storytelling with social impact.
From his latest short film Exit Interview—a romantic dramedy with a thought-provoking soundtrack—to his upcoming documentary Butterflies Jump Too, which sheds light on racial disparities in youth suicide rates, De Costa opens up about his creative process, the emotional weight of his work, and the importance of telling stories that challenge perspectives.
The discussion also dives into his experiences working with incarcerated individuals at Rikers Island, his passion for using art as a tool for healing, and his approach to balancing multiple creative endeavors. Plus, he shares the inspiration behind his Men Cry apparel line, advocating for emotional expression among men.
This episode is a deep dive into the mind of an artist committed to storytelling with purpose. Whether you're a filmmaker, a music lover, or someone passionate about activism, this conversation will leave you inspired.
Tune in, subscribe, and don’t forget to leave a review! 🎙️✨
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What happens when an independent thriller with no Hollywood budget, no A-list actors, and no major marketing campaign outperforms blockbuster films? Sugar Mama, a Tubi original, has done just that—challenging the dominance of subscription-based platforms like Netflix and proving that ad-supported streaming is a serious competitor.
In this episode, we break down:
Join us as we explore what Sugar Mama’s success means for indie creators, Black representation in thrillers, and the ever-evolving streaming landscape.
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Join us for an inspiring conversation with Kristin Iris Johnson, a queer, autistic Showrunner, Screenwriter, and NAACP Image Award-Nominated Producer. As the writer, creator, and Executive Producer of the hit series Wicked City, Kristin has made a lasting impact in the industry, producing over 20 feature films and shorts.
In this episode, we dive deep into Kristin’s journey—from overcoming personal and professional challenges to becoming a visionary storyteller. She shares her experiences founding the Black Screenwriter Alliance, mentoring emerging Black screenwriters, and advocating for authentic, underrepresented voices in film and television.
Tune in as we discuss:
✅ Her start in the industry and early career struggles
✅ The creative process behind Wicked City
✅ The realities of being a showrunner and producing under tight deadlines
✅ Navigating Hollywood as a Black, queer, and neurodivergent creative
✅ The importance of community, mentorship, and betting on yourself
Whether you're a filmmaker or screenwriter or just love hearing stories of resilience and success, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and inspiration!
📢 Listen now and get ready to be inspired!
#Screenwriter #Showrunner #Filmmaking #WickedCity #KristinIrisJohnson #BlackCreatives #Hollywood #Podcast
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In this week’s podcast episode, we dive into the creative minds behind Color Book, an award-winning film that’s making waves: David Fortune, writer/director, and Kiah Clingman, producer. Both filmmakers have not only delivered an incredible cinematic work but also embodied collaboration and storytelling at its finest.
🎙️ Why This Conversation Matters:
David and Kiah discuss Color Book’s success, from its inception to its world premiere at the Tribeca Festival. They share how the movie became more than just a project—it’s a testament to persistence, vision, and the unbreakable bond between a director and producer. This episode peels back the layers of their unique creative process, offering lessons on what it means to create art that resonates deeply.
🎥 Key Takeaways from the Episode:
“This wasn’t about how fast we could get to the journey—it was about how deeply we could live through it.” — David Fortune
🌟 What Makes This Episode Unique
David and Kiah’s honest discussion isn’t just for filmmakers—it’s for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling, patience, and purpose-driven work. Their reflections highlight the significance of letting characters breathe on screen, the role of emotional connection, and the delicate art of capturing authenticity.
Let us know what you think of the episode—leave a comment or share it with a friend who needs some creative inspiration!
Check us out on: https://podcast.feedspot.com/independent_film_podcasts/ Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:
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In the latest episode of A Conversation With, hosts Floyd Marshall Jr. and Okema C. Moore welcomed the incomparable Stacie Greenwell for an engaging discussion titled “The Art of Stacie Greenwell.” The accomplished actor, known for her work in Alex Cross and other compelling roles, shared invaluable insights into her career journey, character development, and the creative process.
Finding Authenticity in Every Role
Stacie Greenwell, a seasoned actor with a diverse body of work, opened up about her approach to bringing authenticity to every role. Whether portraying a stern detective in Alex Cross or a complex character in other projects, Stacie emphasized the importance of grounding her performances in truth.
"I always aim to represent my characters honestly and authentically," Greenwell explained. "Even when they have flaws or make mistakes, I want audiences to see their humanity."
She revealed that preparation plays a vital role in her craft. From observing real-life interactions to adding nuanced layers of humor and emotion, Stacie ensures that her characters resonate deeply with viewers.
Balancing Light and Darkness in Storytelling
Much of the discussion centered on the tonal balance in her projects. In Alex Cross, where heavy themes like grief and justice dominate, Greenwell’s character served as a source of levity. This balance of dark and light moments is not only a testament to her versatility but also an essential element in creating compelling narratives.
“Even when we’re tackling heavy subjects, it’s important to find those moments of lightness,” Stacie shared. “Audiences need that release, and it makes the darker moments hit harder.”
Collaborating in a Creative Ecosystem
The interview highlighted the collaborative nature of filmmaking, with Greenwell praising directors, writers, and co-stars who embrace creativity. Reflecting on her time on Alex Cross, she noted the intelligence and depth infused into the scripts by showrunner Ben Watkins.
“The characters in Alex Cross were not just one-dimensional,” she said. “They were thinkers, and it was refreshing to see Black creatives portrayed as intelligent, multi-faceted individuals.”
Stacie also shared a behind-the-scenes anecdote about her ability to adapt to directorial feedback, illustrating her commitment to collaboration. "Sometimes the director's vision takes you out of your comfort zone, but that's where the magic happens," she noted.
Inspiration for Filmmakers
For independent filmmakers, the episode offered a treasure trove of advice. Greenwell stressed the importance of storytelling over budgets and encouraged aspiring creatives to focus on scripts that resonate.
“A good script will always shine, no matter the budget,” she said. “As an actor, I’m drawn to stories that challenge me and offer a fresh perspective.”
Looking Ahead
Stacie concluded with her aspirations for 2025, including exploring romantic comedies and projects that allow her to blend acting with singing. Her parting advice? Build authentic relationships in the industry and never stop honing your craft.
Catch the Full Episode
For more insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and laughs, watch The Art of Stacie Greenwell on YouTube. It's a masterclass in storytelling and collaboration designed to inspire filmmakers at every stage of their journey.
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Did you know? No Black female filmmaker has ever won the Oscar for Live Action Short Film. This stark reality highlights a critical gap in recognition despite the powerful stories these creators tell. But the tide is shifting. In 2024, three dynamic Black women filmmakers have not only reached Oscar qualification but are redefining what it means to break barriers in cinema.
Their journey isn’t just inspiring—it’s a roadmap for anyone passionate about storytelling. Listen in to uncover their incredible stories and what Oscar qualification truly means for amplifying diverse voices in film.
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