Working in entertainment can sometimes feel like a minefield. Whether you’re an actor, producer, director, editor or cameraman, it’s hard to know where to start or who to talk to. And even if you do, it’s practically impossible to get past the gatekeepers.
Undertow Content’s Amanda Browne and Nell Nakkan want to change that. They’re on a mission to build a supportive community that shares information, and have found experts from all areas of the industry keen to share their experiences and knowledge. Together they've uncovered insights that can help you navigate a rapidly-changing landscape and create a sustainable career.
Join Amanda and Nell and their expert guests from all around the world as they bring you industry insights and engaging discussions to keep you thriving and surviving in the business of film and TV.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Working in entertainment can sometimes feel like a minefield. Whether you’re an actor, producer, director, editor or cameraman, it’s hard to know where to start or who to talk to. And even if you do, it’s practically impossible to get past the gatekeepers.
Undertow Content’s Amanda Browne and Nell Nakkan want to change that. They’re on a mission to build a supportive community that shares information, and have found experts from all areas of the industry keen to share their experiences and knowledge. Together they've uncovered insights that can help you navigate a rapidly-changing landscape and create a sustainable career.
Join Amanda and Nell and their expert guests from all around the world as they bring you industry insights and engaging discussions to keep you thriving and surviving in the business of film and TV.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join us for a fascinating conversation with Elaine Beckett, General Manager of Trackdown Studios - the largest scoring stage in the Southern Hemisphere. Elaine shares her 21-year journey from work experience student to industry leader, and what it takes to manage one of Australia’s most iconic creative spaces.
In this episode, Elaine talks about wearing many hats - score coordinator, producer, problem-solver—and what it’s like to support projects from Happy Feet to major Hollywood films. She reveals how Trackdown evolved from a 1970s rehearsal room to a world-class facility used by global productions, and why collaboration is at the heart of every great soundtrack.
We dive into the human side of film scoring - the orchestras, composers, and behind-the-scenes teams that bring stories to life - and how music shapes emotion and memory on screen. Elaine also opens up about balancing career and family in a 24/7 industry, finding calm in chaos, and the importance of grit and teamwork.
A must-listen for filmmakers, music lovers, and anyone curious about the real magic that happens after the cameras stop rolling.
But wait, there’s more:
Keep the conversation going:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Web - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ashlee Russell
Edit by Snappy Street Creative
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
From the surprising end of long-standing Australian programs like "The Project" and "Q&A" to the abrupt halts of international streaming hits, let's explore the intricate balance between viewership metrics, production costs, and creative dynamics. Are the data-driven decisions to axe shows premature? We share personal reflections on beloved shows that met an untimely end. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on the shows you miss the most!
Keep the conversation going:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Web - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ashlee Russell
Edit by Snappy Street Creative
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this Launchpad episode of the Undertow Content podcast, we meet filmmaker Ray Taylor, a passionate director dedicated to authentic, character-driven stories that normalise LGBTQ+ and disabled communities without centring trauma.
Ray shares his journey from theatre to film, creating 12 short films in 12 months during COVID, and becoming the only Academy Gold Rising intern to complete both the partner and production tracks. He talks about resilience, networking through genuine connection, and how his fresh autism diagnosis shapes his creative process.
Now developing his first feature Vox Raptor with his wife Paige, Ray is determined to bring original, inclusive stories to screen - and prove that representation can be joyful, powerful and deeply human.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, we delve into the vibrant world of the Australian film and TV ecosystem through the lens of festival making.
Discover how SXSW Sydney’s Screen Festival is cultivating fresh voices, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and smarter festival strategies - fuelling creative careers, audiences, and industry momentum.
Join us as Screen Festival Director Jordan Bastian lifts the curtain on curation, operations, and the very human magic that happens when film, music, games, and ideas share the same streets.
But wait, there’s more:
Keep the conversation going:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Web - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ashlee Russell
Edit by Snappy Street Creative
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Keep the conversation going:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Web - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ashlee Russell
Edit by Snappy Street Creative
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dive into the captivating world of costume design in film and television with Vanessa Loh! A brilliant character designer working across film and television in both Australia and the UK.
Vanessa is a first-generation Chinese Australian whose work is grounded in authenticity, collaboration, and a deep respect for story. She’s passionate about projects that explore identity, race, gender and sexuality — particularly narratives centring BIPOC, Queer and marginalised voices.
Join us as we unravel the threads of creativity, craft, psychology of fashion and the many job within the costume department that shape iconic screen moments.
But wait, there’s more:
Follow Vanessa - @vanessalohcostume, IMDB
Keep the conversation going:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Web - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ashlee Russell
Edit by Snappy Street Creative
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, we dive into the world of filmmaking with award-winning producer Stephanie Troost.
Discover how a little bit of delusion and grit fuel the creative process, as Stephanie shares her journey from childhood performer to co-founder of Spectacle.
Learn about the many no's and triumphs of producing debut feature Birdeater, and the importance of perseverance in the ever-evolving film industry. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of collaboration in filmmaking, current trends in the industry, and offers valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers.
But wait, there’s more:
Follow Steph - @Steph.Troost @birdeatermovie
Keep the conversation going:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Web - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ashlee Russell
Edit by Snappy Street Creative
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join us as we ask if free to air still has the stronghold over streaming? A question triggered by a report that was released at the time of recording this episode from a company called Oztam and the consistent conversations around the projections that free to air TV is dying. Amanda and Nell explore the report and their own viewing habits making a little more sense of it all or coming to the conclusion the answer is still unpredictable.
In The News full article - https://www.thenewdaily.com.au/life/entertainment/tv/2025/06/30/oztam-tv-streamscape
Shout Out
@nat_cinch_media @cinch.media for her insights
Keep the conversation going:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Web - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ashlee Russell
Edit by Snappy Street Creative
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tune in to hear our take on the future of movie stardom and what it means for the next generation of actors. Join us as we delve into the fascinating career journey of James Barnes, a dynamic actor and freelance director from the UK. James' work seamlessly blends classical and contemporary performance. With international experience at prestigious venues like Shakespeare's Globe and London's Young Vic, James shares how his career has evolved beyond his expectations. Discover the inspirations that drive him and the striking physiological moments he chases on stage. Tune in for an insightful conversation that explores the art of performance and the passion behind it.
But wait, there’s more:
Follow James - IMDB
Keep the conversation going:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Web - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ashlee Russell
Edit by Snappy Street Creative
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this huge episode, Amanda Browne and Nell Nakkan sit down with their first guest for the season! They introduce Warner Bailey, the creator of Assistants VS Agents (AVA), a database of thousands of professionals working in entertainment. Warner shares his insights from the challenges and rewards of going independant, the role of community and engagement in building a brand and on supporting entry-level workers in entertainment.
THE MEMES ARE FAMOUS AND OH SO REAL!
But wait, there’s more
Follow Warner - @warnerhbailey @assistantsvsagents
Keep the conversation going:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Web - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ashlee Russell
Edit by Snappy Street Creative
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Amanda and Nell dive into parenthood, discussing the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry, the impact of parenthood on careers, and the challenges faced by parents in the industry.
The hosts explore the gender divide in parenting responsibilities and the societal pressures surrounding career and family life, emphasizing the need for supportive work environments and realistic expectations about work-life balance in the next episode of CUT!
In The News full article - https://fortune.com/2024/03/14/whoopi-goldberg-popstar-lily-allen-children-ruined-her-career-you-cant-have-it-all/
Keep the conversation going:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Web - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ashlee Russell
Edit by Snappy Street Creative
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hi CUT! fam, we're back!
New guests, new stories, and a sharper lens on how this wild industry actually works.
This season, we’re talking to incredible guests across film, TV, digital and more – all sharing honest stories about their journeys, their careers, and what’s really happening in the trenches of the industry.
One thing we learned from Season 1 is that this show isn’t just for people in the entertainment industry – it’s for anyone who loves film and TV and wants to understand how the hell it all works.
So welcome back and stuff us in your ears. More episodes rolling out from this Thursday 7th July!
Keep the conversation going:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Web - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ashlee Russell
Edit by Snappy Street Creative
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to CUT! The Podcast’s Launchpad series - where we shine a spotlight on emerging practitioners from around the world.
This episode’s rising star is Charles Olsen, a writer, director, and producer based in Sydney. Charles is a rising filmmaker who recently completed a director’s attachment on Good Cop/Bad Cop for Stan, The CW, and Roku. In 2024, his crime thriller Guardian Angel premiered at the Oscar- and BAFTA-qualifying Foyle Film Festival. Currently assisting at Jungle Entertainment, Charles has produced, written, directed, and edited 12 short films showcased at top festivals including SXSW Sydney, LA Shorts, and Flickerfest. His feature screenplay Pill Mill ranked in the Black List’s trending Top Ten.
Follow Charles - @olsencharles, website, IMDB
Follow us:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Are you an emerging practitioner? We want to hear from you - https://undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ali Aitken
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to CUT! The Podcast’s Launchpad series - where we shine a spotlight on emerging practitioners from around the world.
Twin powerhouses Taryn and Shae Beadman are shaking up the entertainment industry with their dynamic mix of acting, writing, producing, and even stunt work! With a career spanning commercials, series and digital platforms, they’ve built a strong on-screen presence, both individually and as a duo.
Their hit comedy web series, Risk or Benefit, has earned a dedicated Instagram following with its sharp humour, while their latest sci-fi action short, FUSE, has captivated audiences on DUST, amassing over 80,000 views. But beyond the screen, Taryn and Shae are also entrepreneurs, running their own performing arts business, Future Stars Media, helping the next generation of talent shine.
The twins open up about their journey, from their dance roots to mastering stunts, their creative process behind action-packed storytelling, and carving your own path in the industry.
ENTER TO WIN! Comment PITCH PLEASE on the pinned post on the @undertowcontent instagram page. Entries close 11 April.
Follow the twins - @thebeadmantwins, @beadmantwins, website
Follow us:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Are you an emerging practitioner? We want to hear from you - https://undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ali Aitken
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It’s the final episode of Season 1! How did that happen?
Amanda and Nell dive into the state of the screen industry, from LA to Australia, and reflect on the Undertow journey so far. They explore the shifting landscape of film and television - what’s working, what’s broken, and where the future is headed.
Joining CUT! Is Julie Eckersley, an award-winning producer, screen executive, and creative disruptor. After transforming SBS Scripted, Julie has now launched Freestyle TV, a game-changing blueprint for high-quality, low-cost television in the digital age. She shares why the traditional TV model is no longer sustainable, how new financing and production strategies can make storytelling more accessible, and why now is the time for bold, innovative approaches to scripted content.
A champion of transformative storytelling, Julie is at the forefront of redefining what’s possible in Australian and global screen production.
Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation about the future of film and television, the power of creative innovation, and the industry’s next evolution.
This episode is BTYB our friends at unitedcinemas.com.au and the affrenchfilmfestival.org
But wait, there’s more:
Follow Julie - LinkedIn, Freestyle TV Manifesto
Follow us:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Keep the conversation going - email us via our website - https://undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Meg Hipwell and Ali Aitken
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Digital Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How do we get butts back in seats?
Cinema attendance has taken a hit, so how do we bring audiences back to the big screen? Amanda and Nell kick off this episode by exploring the changing landscape of moviegoing, from shifting audience habits to the impact of streaming and digital entertainment. What will it take to revive the cinema experience and make movie theatres irresistible again?
Then, CUT! sits down with Andrew Shaw, a Director of Digital and an Aussie making big moves in the US. With over 15 years of experience in broadcast and digital entertainment, Andrew is a powerhouse creative producer and storyteller. From branded content to talent production, he shares insights into the evolution of digital media, the future of content creation, and the art of storytelling in a rapidly changing industry.
Here’s the full article from our In The News segment: https://variety.com/2024/film/columns/where-have-all-the-cinema-lovers-gone-deadpool-wolverine-tar-1236108202/
But wait, there’s more:
Follow Andrew - @andyshawpants LinkedIn
Follow us:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Keep the conversation going - email us via our website - https://undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Meg Hipwell and Ali Aitken
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Digital Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Amanda and Nell deep dive into the explosion of online series and the rise of YouTube. What’s driving this shift, and what does it mean for the future of content creation?
Then, they are joined by brilliant entertainment lawyer Janine Lapworth, who unpacks the legal side of the industry. With experience at the ABC, ESPN Star Sports and major studios, Janine shares expert insights on intellectual property, rights management, and the evolving digital landscape.
Whether you're a filmmaker, YouTuber, or just fascinated by the industry, get ready to take some notes!
Here’s the full article from our In The News segment: https://deadline.com/2024/02/youtube-tv-million-subscribers-viewing-neal-mohan-1235815665/
But wait, there’s more:
Follow Janine - LinkedIn
Follow us:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Keep the conversation going - email us via our website - https://undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Meg Hipwell and Ali Aitken
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Digital Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Is AI going to replace us?
This week, Amanda and Nell dive into a topic that’s sparking debate across the creative industries - AI: Is it going to replace us? What does the rise of AI mean for actors and creatives alike?
Joining us is acclaimed Australian actress Alison McGirr, who shares her journey in the entertainment industry, the power of adaptability, and how diversifying her skill set has shaped her career. From starring in Ladies in Black to her roles in Vikings, Penny Dreadful, and Year Of, Alison has built an impressive resume - one that continues to evolve both on-screen and behind the scenes.
Ali is currently developing a feature film with Undertow’s Amanda Browne, and recently produced and starred in a short film with award-winning writer/director Amy Joyce Hastings. Up next? Reuniting with Bruce Beresford for his latest film, Overture.
Here’s the full article from our In The News segment: https://variety.com/2024/film/news/ben-affleck-slams-ai-wont-replace-movies-1236213287/
But wait, there’s more:
Follow Ali - @ali_mcgirr IMDB
Follow us:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Keep the conversation going - email us via our website - https://undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ali Aitken
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Digital Artwork by Fifth Studio Design Co
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to CUT! The Podcast’s Launchpad series—where we shine a spotlight on emerging filmmakers and industry talent from around the world.
This episode we’re celebrating a major win for Lily Drummond, who just screened With Love, Lottie at the Mardi Gras Film Festival in Sydney and took home the award for Best Emerging Filmmaker! To mark the occasion, we’re releasing our recent insightful chat with Lily about their career, creative journey, and passion for storytelling.
Lily is an Adelaide-based writer and director whose work has been recognised on both national and international stages. Their recent films include: With Love, Lottie (2024 World Premiere: Frame Shift, presented by Sydney Opera House & Accessible Arts NSW); Illustrating Sam Newton (Mardi Gras Film Festival 2022 - Audience Award Winner); Points of Sail (Sony Catchlight Film Festival 2024, Sydney Women’s International Film Festival 2023); Watch Me Fly (Focus On Ability Film Festival 2023 - Best Director Winner).
Lily’s films have screened at Academy Award-qualifying festivals, and they have spoken on LGBTQ+ and disability-specific film festival panels around the world. As a proud advocate for disabled and queer storytelling, Lily is committed to crafting meaningful narratives that spark change and elevate under-represented voices.
Follow Lily - @lilsdrummond, IMDB, website
Follow us:
Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontent
TikTok - @cut.the.pod
YouTube - @UndertowContent
Are you a rising star? We'd love to hear from you. Get in touch via our website - https://undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/
Credits:
Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowne and Nell Nakkan @nell.nakkan
Produced by Ali Aitken
Music by Genevieve Patrick
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
