This episode dives into one of the most essential tools in advertising production: the schedule. Learn what a timeline really is, how to build one starting from delivery and working backwards and the key milestones to include. From buffers and weather holds to version control and locking stakeholder time, this practical guide will help ensure your next campaign runs smoothly from brief to delivery.
Ever wondered how a director convinces an agency or brand that their vision is the one to trust? In advertising production, it often comes down to a single document - the treatment.
In this episode, we break down what a treatment really is. A director’s visual and written pitch that sells the idea, builds trust and makes the creative feel inevitable. From the opening paragraph that hooks a client, to the mood boards, casting choices, locations, wardrobe, production approach and post-production style - we unpack what separates an average treatment from one that wins the job.
Featuring insights from industry heavyweights like Heath George, Nat Taylor, Wilf Sweetland and Nigel Camilleri, we explore how treatments are used in competitive bidding, what makes them unforgettable and the evolving role of AI in creating them.
If you’ve ever wanted to understand the secret weapon behind getting a director greenlit, this episode will take you inside the process.
Tim Potter is a director who started out on the other side of the camera, working as an actor before taking the self-taught path into directing.
In this episode, Tim shares how he made the shift - building a reel from scratch, pitching unpaid spec spots to real clients and writing his first treatment in Word without even knowing what a treatment was.
He talks about early insecurities - faking it, second-guessing and holding back from asking too much. Then realising that the right questions are part of the job - a sign you’re engaged, not unsure.
We talk about Justin Riordan, a US comedy director whose approach to treatments and PPMs reframed what a pitch could be. Big energy, personal connection, storytelling with intent. Lessons that stuck and reshaped how Tim thinks about presenting the work.
We also talk about timelines, pressure, and why it’s less about having all the answers and more about having the right people around you.
A good brief doesn’t just kick off a job - it shapes how well that job runs.
In this episode we unpack what makes a clear, complete and production-ready brief. From job numbers and deliverables to usage, scripts, moodboards, approvals and more - this is the foundational doc that every project flows from.
Whether you’re briefing a director, production company or editor, this one’s for agency, brand and production teams alike.
Tools mentioned: Briefing templates and creative reference checklists available now at adproacademy.com.au
In this episode, we dive into one of the most important (and misunderstood) parts of production - the budget. It’s not just a number. It’s the invisible brief that quietly defines what’s possible and how creative ideas take shape.
We talk through when budgets arrive, how to ballpark early, and what it means to scale a concept into reality. From contingency planning and value conversations to building trust with teams and clients, we unpack how producers can use money as a tool - not a roadblock.
Plus, we share practical advice, personal lessons and some smart thinking from past guests including Victoria Connors and Kat Cooke.
If you’ve ever wondered whether the idea comes first or the budget does… this one’s for you.
JH Walker is a storyteller who doesn’t just direct, he conducts.
JH joins us for a raw, honest chat about what it means to hold onto humanity in a world driven by deadlines, deliverables and now AI.
He talks about why writing your vision down - distilling it into words and pictures - isn’t just about selling a treatment. It’s about testing your thinking. Making it legible. Making it real.
We dive into what happens on set when chaos strikes and the director becomes the ringmaster and why a good producer isn’t just a project manager but a shield, a translator and an ally.
JH also opens up about his love/hate relationship with AI - a tool that can now mimic his visual style with eerie accuracy.
Which leads to the big questions:
What is creativity when everyone can make it?
And what’s the meaning of something being unique if nothing we see feels unique anymore?
This episode is about more than making commercials. It’s about fighting to bring truth to the frame and reminding ourselves why we got into this in the first place.
Victoria Connors is a producer and business owner with over 30 years in advertising production.
Vic has had front row seats to how the industry has truly changed from the shift to digital to the rise of flexible hybrid creatives. We talk about how production roles have evolved, why no but is often the right answer and how Eric, Tom and Bruce builds jobs with a good, better, best model.
There's insight into the questions worth asking upfront. The value of collaboration over ego and why good producers don't just take direction, they ask why, clarify intention and spot the gaps before they become problems.
Victoria also discusses the pressure of high stakes shoots, the gaps she sees in today's producers and what it really means to have your crews back when things go wrong.
Pat Langton has been a Creative Director, an ECD, run his own agency, sold it, started a new creative studio and somewhere along the way picked up producing too. It’s rare to find someone who’s navigated the agency world, client expectations, the creative process and production with such hands on experience.
Pat’s story is one of evolution. From his early days at RMIT to working at big shops like Ogilvy and McCann and then taking the leap into business ownership -twice - he’s gathered a ton of lessons along the way.
We get into all of it: what it’s like selling your “baby,” how he’s challenging the traditional agency model, and why he thinks it’s time for a serious shake-up in the way we work.
Matt McCaughey is a a seasoned and well established director whose journey into filmmaking began as a teenager, sparked by an ad he saw in the cinema. A serendipitous moment that planted the seed for a career behind the camera.
From humble beginnings, sweeping floors and puppeteering on the iconic ABC political satire, Rubbery Figures, Matt's path took him from aspiring cinematographer to directing music videos and co-founding Dogboy Films and The Pound.
Matt is renowned for bringing creativity, humour and a pragmatic problem solving to his commercials, including the much loved Toyota Legendary Moments campaign, which captured audiences at AFL Grand Finals but then also became iconic Australian TV moments.
In the chat Matt shares invaluable lessons for up and coming directors from the importance of having an insatiable drive and hands on experience to the art of balancing creativity with budget constraints.
He talks about why editing is an essential skill for new directors, how working across different aspects of production sharpens storytelling instincts and the subtle nuances that separate great actors from good ones.
Jon Paul-Jacques (JPJ) is an advertising veteran whose journey from web design to Executive Creative Director has spanned some of the biggest agencies and brands in the world.
For the past nine years JPJ has been the Executive Creative Director on the Ford account, leading large scale campaigns that have shaped the brand’s creative direction across the region.
Starting out in the early days of digital, JPJ cut his teeth at TBWA Sydney before moving through the WPP network, leading creative teams across Australia and Asia. Over the years, he’s seen how the creative process in advertising has become more templated and structured. Not just in digital but across large scale campaigns where efficiency and production constraints now play a bigger role than ever.
In this episode we break down his career trajectory, how creative thinking has evolved in an era of automation and data, and what it takes to bring ideas to life beyond the page. We talk about the differences between markets like Sydney, Melbourne, and Shanghai, the balance between art and commerce and why choosing the right producer is just as crucial as selecting the right director.
Yes, we are diving back into the production trenches with one of our former guests, executive producer, Nat Taylor. As many people know, Nat is a powerhouse in the production world, known for her ability to navigate the chaos and keep projects on track, no matter how wild, mad or crazy things get.
What is it? "Consolidate The Feedback" is those dinner party worthy tales of production nightmares, creative egos and unexpected crisis that somehow turn into valuable lessons.
From wrangling high maintenance directors on multi-million dollar Campari shoots to navigating near disasters on set, Nat has seen it all.
Nat shares the lessons learned, the moments that shaped her approach and why she no longer works with difficult people.
We talk about fostering new talent in the industry and why safety always comes first. It's an episode packed with insight, humour a few battle scars and hopefully, a few laughs.
Emma Scott is a seasoned producer with over 20 years of experience working on tourism, automotive, adventure and large scale events. Em's journey into production started with a passion for creativity, dabbling in theatre, photography and the arts before finding her true calling behind the scenes, orchestrating shoots and making the impossible happen.
From managing high profile tourism campaigns to coordinating complex automotive productions, Emma's built a career in problem solving, logistics and above all else, her relationships.
In the episode, we dive into her early career working in government institutions, how she transitioned into producing and the key lessons learned from those small jobs where every hat was worn. Em shares insights on working with directors, the importance of understanding every role on set and the delicate balance between keeping clients happy and ensuring the creative vision is met.
Matt Stoddart is the Executive Creative Director at TBWA Melbourne.
He has spent over two decades challenging the conventions of his profession. From humble beginnings as a graphic designer in Christchurch, New Zealand, to his current role as ECD, Matt’s career has been determined by his commitment to craft, innovation, and an unrelenting 'hunger'.
His accolades, including Cannes Lions, Spikes & a Yellow Pencil, speak to the impact of his work but it’s his philosophy and approach is what sets him apart.
In the episode, Matt shares how he navigates the delicate balance between creative chaos and structure, why staying hungry is essential for young creatives and how to spot the magic in an idea, even when it's scribble on a scrap of paper. He delves into the role of producers as creative partners, the art of collaboration with directors and the lessons he’s learned from crafting campaigns like the award-winning ‘VLine Guilt Trips.’
You’ll also hear his perspective on how to lead team members, the importance of being relentless in your work ethic, and how to build a career that’s not just successful but hopefully deeply satisfying.
Martin Box is the current Co-chair of the Commercial Producers Council (CPC) and former Executive Producer @ Airbag.
Martin’s career path is anything but ordinary. Starting out with a fine arts degree, he initially found himself working at a bookstore until a friend offered him a chance to be a runner on a television show. That small opportunity sparked a journey through TV production, live TV floor management and the bustling music video scene, eventually leading him into the world of advertising.
Throughout his career Martin has exemplified a zen like attitude, ingenuity, and an unwavering commitment to making anything happen. Known for his eloquence, good nature and collaborative spirit, he has successfully navigated high-pressure, high-budget shoots while thriving on today's inevitable tight schedules.
His hands-on approach has made him a trusted problem solver on set and helped him forge strong, lasting relationships with directors, agencies, and clients alike.
As co-chair of the CPC Martin champions best practices, inclusivity, and the development of the next generation of production people. For him, producing is more than logistics, it’s about the vision, the culture and creativity.
Martin brings a wealth of experience, compelling anecdotes and a grounded perspective on what it really means to produce.
Glenn Dalton is the former ECD at Hardhat & Akkomplice agencies in Melbourne.
With a career spanning almost 25 years, Glenn has seen it all. From his early days as a copywriter at CHE (now CHEP) to joining AJF in its early years, Glenn has always believed that great work requires more than just clever ideas - it needs story and soul.
Throughout his journey Glenn has championed the power of authentic storytelling, helping brands create campaigns that resonate on a meaningful level. At AJF, he contributed to the agency’s growth and creative direction. Later, at Hardhat, he brought a brand-focused approach to digital advertising. Over the years he’s crafted memorable campaigns for clients like 40 Winks, Sorbent and Dare Iced Coffee, always ensuring that his work makes an impact.
In the episode Glenn discusses the evolution of the industry and how he brings story and soul into each of his projects. We also touch on the importance of strong production partnerships, his advice for newcomers, and his perspective on what it takes to make work that truly connects.
Nick Jamieson is the former Executive Creative Director at Taboo Group and most recently at Scooter in Melbourne.
While Nick’s path didn’t follow the traditional route through Australia’s big agencies, his journey is never the less marked by creativity, resilience, individuality and a fearless approach to new challenges.
From comedy and acting to creative writing, Nick’s diverse background has given him a unique edge in the advertising world. His leadership at both Taboo and Scooter has shaped campaigns that push boundaries by blending creativity with practical problem solving.
Throughout his career, Nick has shared valuable insights on the importance of collaboration, the need for fearlessness in the creative process and how great ideas often emerge from unexpected places. He emphasises the role of mentorship, learning from every interaction and the importance of staying open to new perspectives.
Karlene Van Opdorp is an accomplished producer and current Head of Post Production at Bastion whose career spans both agency and client-side roles across New Zealand, the UK, and Australia. Originally from New Zealand, Karlene started her journey in the world of brand and design before quickly transitioning into advertising, where she cut her teeth working on Kmart commercials and car campaigns for Mazda. Karlene has built her expertise across a wide spectrum of creative production, from live-action shoots to post-production and animation.
In the episode, Karlene opens up about the successes and failures she’s experienced throughout her career, and the important lessons she’s learned along the way. We discuss how crucial communication is to her process, the importance of asking the right questions and why Karlene believes being curious is key to success.
Stephen Digby is the owner of Digby Law and a highly respected intellectual property lawyer with over 30 years of experience working closely with producers, freelancers, ad agencies, and production companies. As the legal advisor to the Commercial Producers Council, Stephen knows the ins and outs of what it takes to protect your business and your IP in the production world.
We discuss the critical importance of having an exit strategy in business, handling tough business conversations early, and why clear contracts are a must from day one. Stephen also offers a crash course in avoiding common legal pitfalls in production, but remember, while this conversation is full of useful advice, it’s not legal advice! If you find yourself in a bind, definitely consult with your own lawyer.
Caleb De Leon and Haley McDonald, the dynamic duo leading 3P Studio, a full-service content and post-production powerhouse.
Caleb’s career began unexpectedly in live events, where he gradually discovered his passion for VFX and post-production, ultimately becoming a creative director and VFX supervisor. Meanwhile, Haley’s journey followed a more traditional route, fuelled by an early love for film and television. Her career spans roles such as editor, motion designer, and compositor, evolving from small company gigs to a thriving freelance career.
In the episode, we uncover the diverse paths that led them to where they are today, explore the complexities of the post-production process, and discuss what it takes to thrive in this demanding industry. Caleb and Haley offer their perspectives on various aspects, including the significance of mastering different roles within post-production, the balancing act required to meet tight deadlines, and how the industry is adapting to the digital age. Additionally, we break down key post-production terminology, providing valuable insights for production professionals who may not frequently engage with this side of the industry.
Heath George is the Founder and Executive Producer at Clockwork Films.
Heath's journey is nothing short of inspirational, marked by perseverance, humility, and an unwavering commitment to his craft. From growing up on dirt floors in Broken Hill to pursuing engineering at ANU, Heath’s path took a significant turn when financial challenges led him to follow his passion for film at Charles Sturt University.
In our conversation, Heath opens up about the core values that have driven Clockwork Films to success. He shares his belief that emotional intelligence, resilience, and strong communication skills are essential qualities for any producer. Heath also offers a unique perspective on trust—arguing that it should be something you lose rather than something you have to earn. With remarkable honesty, he reveals the financial costs of not measuring performance accurately, estimating significant losses over the years.
Heath's honesty, vulnerability, and candour during our chat are truly admirable. They not only reflect the character of the man but also offer a blueprint for a leadership style that many aspire to but few actually practice.
