Episodios

  • 285: Inside White With Fear: Emmy-Winning Producer Andrew Goldberg on Media and Politics

    285: Inside White With Fear: Emmy-Winning Producer Andrew Goldberg on Media and Politics
    Mar 26 2026
    What role does fear play in shaping political narratives—and who benefits from it?In this episode, Emmy Award–winning investigative producer Andrew Goldberg joins the podcast to discuss his documentary White With Fear, a powerful examination of how racial anxiety has been strategically used in American political messaging over the past half-century.We explore how documentary storytelling can unpack complex national myths, why public television still matters in today’s media landscape, and what it takes to build projects supported by hundreds of institutions and partners worldwide.Along the way, Andrew reflects on:the research process behind White With Fearhow political messaging around race evolved from the late 20th century to todaywhy documentary filmmaking remains a critical civic toolthe responsibility of public-interest storytellingthe challenges of making investigative work accessible to broad audienceswhat global audiences misunderstand—and do understand—about American politicslessons from producing long-form journalism for PBS and major broadcast outletsThis conversation looks beyond headlines to examine how narratives are constructed, circulated, and remembered—and why understanding them matters now more than ever.https://www.whitewithfear.comCall to Action. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast.Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling.Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swabyhttps://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en
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    1 h
  • Ep 284: From Imagination to Screen: Michael Kellman’s Path to Say Less

    Ep 284: From Imagination to Screen: Michael Kellman’s Path to Say Less
    Mar 10 2026
    Episode Guest: Michael KellmanHost: Damien SwabyBorn in Los Angeles, Michael Kellman has been passionate about storytelling and performance from an early age. With interests spanning film, television, theatre, comedy, and live performance, Michael has spent years developing his voice as a creative storyteller.In this episode, Michael shares insights into his creative journey as a writer, director, and performer, and discusses the making of “Say Less,” his debut feature film.We explore:Michael Kellman’s early passion for film and performanceThe path to becoming a writer and directorLessons learned while making a debut feature filmThe creative and logistical challenges of independent filmmakingThe vision and inspiration behind Say LessAdvice for aspiring filmmakers pursuing their first projectAbout the Film – Say LessSay Less marks Michael Kellman’s debut feature film, representing years of creative work and dedication to storytelling.WATCH THE FILM: https://deref-mail.com/mail/client/oXGiw0646Lc/dereferrer/?redirectUrl=http%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0GK2LN25CCall to Action. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast.Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling.Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en
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    57 m
  • Ep 283: Shirley Billigmeier on Food, Creativity, and the Body’s Natural Signals

    Ep 283: Shirley Billigmeier on Food, Creativity, and the Body’s Natural Signals
    Mar 9 2026
    Show NotesCreative careers often demand everything from us—long hours, emotional investment, and intense focus. But how often do we consider how our relationship with food affects our creativity, energy, and wellbeing?In this episode, we speak with Shirley Billigmeier, founder of the Innergetics Process, about transforming our relationship with eating.With more than 50 years of experience in holistic wellness, Shirley shares how tuning into genuine hunger and respecting the body’s signals can lead to lasting change—without dieting, guilt, or restriction.This conversation is especially relevant for filmmakers, artists, and creatives who often struggle with irregular schedules and stress around health and food.What We DiscussWhy many creatives struggle with eating patterns and energyThe difference between dieting and conscious eatingHow to recognize genuine hunger signalsWhy willpower and restriction often failThe philosophy behind the Innergetics ProcessReconnecting with the body’s innate wisdomFinding balance between creativity, work, and wellbeingHow a healthy relationship with food can support creative longevityAbout the Guest:Shirley Billigmeier is a holistic wellness coach, author, speaker, and body image specialist with more than five decades of experience helping individuals transform their relationship with food. She is the author of Inner Eating and the founder of the Innergetics Process, a program designed to help people reconnect with their body’s natural signals and develop a sustainable, healthy approach to eating.Her work has been featured in numerous publications and she continues to guide individuals through courses and coaching focused on mindful eating and holistic wellness.Learn more:www.innergetics.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/innergeticsmethod/Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en
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    52 m
  • Ep 282: The Emotional Language of Film: Rachel Deutsch in Conversation

    Ep 282: The Emotional Language of Film: Rachel Deutsch in Conversation
    Feb 24 2026
    Show NotesRachel Deutsch is a filmmaker whose work explores relationships, identity and memory through emotionally grounded storytelling. After studying acting at New York University, she transitioned into directing and went on to train at the American Film Institute, where she developed a body of short films defined by careful performances and a strong sense of visual atmosphere.In this episode, Rachel discusses the evolution of her creative voice — from performance training and experimental theatre to narrative filmmaking — and reflects on how her background as an actor informs the way she directs.She describes her approach to working with performers, building scenes through emotional intention rather than rigid instruction, and collaborating closely with cinematographers to translate feeling into images. Rachel also reflects on the practical side of filmmaking — rehearsal methods, planning visual language, and developing projects independently — offering insight into the realities of building a career as a director.At the centre of the discussion is her AFI thesis project, a film rooted in personal experience and family history. The project draws on her mother’s confrontation with illness and civic life in Oklahoma, blending intimate storytelling with broader social themes.Topics CoveredTransitioning from acting to directingTraining at NYU and AFIClowning and performance techniqueDirecting actorsEmotional realism in filmIndependent filmmakingVisual storytellingCollaboration with cinematographersPersonal storytelling in cinemaDeveloping a first feature filmW: https://www.racheldeutsch.comFilm Links Carelessly There (Short Film)Until I Met You - Short Film by Rachel DeutschUse Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en JEWFACE is a bold, dark comedy about a Jewish-American bisexual woman who believes re-breaking her teenage rhinoplasty might restore her lost identity—now crowdfunding to bring this provocative, funny, and urgently human story to life.Check out the link: JEWFACE
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    57 m
  • Ep 281: Lauren Hansson of Sheppard on Navigating Entertainment Law

    Ep 281: Lauren Hansson of Sheppard on Navigating Entertainment Law
    Feb 18 2026
    In this episode, Damien sits down with entertainment attorney Lauren Hansson to explore her journey into the legal side of film and television.Lauren shares:How she discovered her passion for lawWhy internships were key to finding her nicheHer experience at Warner Bros. AnimationWhat it’s like working with independent film producers and financiersThe realities of entertainment law beyond the glamorAdvice for aspiring lawyers interested in media and entertainmentLauren also breaks down the importance of relationship-building in the entertainment industry, how negotiation strategy differs in creative spaces, and why adaptability is essential in a field that’s constantly evolving. She offers practical insight into protecting intellectual property while still supporting the creative vision — a balance every entertainment lawyer must master.This episode offers an inside look at the intersection of creativity and contracts—and what it truly takes to protect stories behind the scenes.🎧 Whether you’re a law student, creative professional, or film enthusiast, this conversation provides valuable insight into the legal engine that powers the entertainment industry.Website: https://www.sheppard.com/people/lauren-hanssonUse Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en JEWFACE is a bold, dark comedy about a Jewish-American bisexual woman who believes re-breaking her teenage rhinoplasty might restore her lost identity—now crowdfunding to bring this provocative, funny, and urgently human story to life.Check out the link: JEWFACE
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    51 m
  • Ep 280: Stepping Into the Frame: Ashlie Burgun's Journey to Acting

    Ep 280: Stepping Into the Frame: Ashlie Burgun's Journey to Acting
    Feb 17 2026
    🎙 Episode Show NotesIn this episode, we explore Ashlie’s unconventional path into acting — one that didn’t begin in theatre classrooms or on school stages.She didn’t grow up as a “theatre kid.” Instead, Ashlie spent much of her childhood and teenage years behind the scenes as a visual artist and writer, engaging in storytelling from the creative side rather than as a performer.Though she was generally shy growing up, she did step onto the stage occasionally, performing in bands throughout middle and high school.While pursuing a Fine Arts degree, an unexpected opportunity shifted her trajectory. She began modeling for friends who were photography students, which gradually led to more modeling work.Over time, the line between modeling and acting began to blur, and she realized she felt drawn toward acting more seriously. Ashlie started acting part-time, taking classes whenever she could and steadily building experience. What began as a gradual exploration eventually became a full-time pursuit. Today, she actively seeks commercial and film opportunities while also creating her own original content whenever possible. In addition to acting, Ashlie writes and performs music for her own projects and collaborates with other artists.She is currently involved in multiple ongoing web series and indie films — some of which incorporate musical elements — allowing her to merge her artistic disciplines.She thrives on unique and challenging projects, especially those that allow her to use multiple creative skill sets and push beyond traditional boundaries.In this episode, we discuss:Taking a non-traditional route into actingTransitioning from visual art to modeling to performanceOvercoming shyness and stepping into visibilityMoving from part-time to full-time creative workBalancing acting, music, and independent content creationEmbracing a multidisciplinary artistic identityThis conversation is for anyone building a creative career outside the traditional blueprint — and making it fully their own.Call to Action. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling.Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en
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    45 m
  • Ep 279: Xan Aranda on Taste, Opinion, and Creative Decision-Making

    Ep 279: Xan Aranda on Taste, Opinion, and Creative Decision-Making
    Jan 19 2026
    In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, Damien is joined by Emmy-nominated filmmaker and showrunner Xan Aranda for a wide-ranging discussion on taste, creative authority, and decision-making in filmmaking. Drawing on her experience across film and television — including work with Netflix, HBO, and Amazon — Xan talks about why strong opinions are not optional in creative work, particularly in editing and directing.

    She reflects on collaboration, trust, and the dangers of consensus-driven filmmaking, where too many voices dilute responsibility.The conversation touches on her work on Blue Jay, produced with Mark Duplass, her role as Co-Executive Producer on Netflix’s My Love, and her experience navigating creative leadership across independent film and global television productions.

    This episode is a grounded, unsentimental look at how films and series are actually made — through taste, confidence, and the willingness to choose.

    https://www.xanaranda.com
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    1 h y 3 m
  • Ep 278: Inside Rebel Safety with Richard Bradshaw: Creativity Without Compromise

    Ep 278: Inside Rebel Safety with Richard Bradshaw: Creativity Without Compromise
    Jan 3 2026
    🎙️ Show NotesIn this episode, host Damien Swaby speaks with Richard Bradshaw, Director of Rebel Safety, about the often-misunderstood role of safety in film, television, and live events. Far from being a barrier to creativity, Richard explains how safety, when approached differently, can actually fuel imagination, innovation, and bold storytelling.As the head of Rebel Safety, he has seen firsthand how productions can thrive when safety isn’t treated as a box-ticking exercise, but as a culture of care, collaboration, and trust.Throughout the conversation, Damien and Richard explore:The role of Rebel Safety: what the company does, who it supports, and why its mission matters to creatives.Changing perceptions of safety: breaking free from the stereotype of “bubble wrap and hard hats” and embracing safety as a foundation for innovation.Culture over compliance: how mindset, leadership, and trust often make a bigger difference than regulations alone.Practical insights for creatives: from film directors to event producers, Richard offers guidance on how to manage risk while keeping creative energy alive.The future of safety in creative industries: how embracing new approaches can help productions stay ambitious, resilient, and safe.Richard’s perspective is both refreshing and empowering. He argues that safety doesn’t kill creativity—it protects it, supports it, and allows it to shine brighter. By the end of this episode, you’ll see how risk management and artistry are not opposites, but allies.Whether you’re a filmmaker, producer, crew member, or creative professional in any industry, this conversation is packed with insights to help you push your projects further—without compromising the well-being of your team.https://rebelsafety.co.ukUse Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en
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    35 m