Mental and Physical Health as a Freelancer with Melissa Doman

In this episode of REEL WISDOM WITH NK, host NK sits down with organizational psychologist and author Melissa Doman to tackle one of the most pressing and often overlooked topics in the film industry: protecting your mental and physical health as a freelancer.

With a career advising global companies and a deep understanding of workplace dynamics, Melissa brings actionable, realistic strategies tailored to the unpredictable world of creative work. She shares how to set boundaries in an industry that often tests them, why your self-care needs to fit the life you actually have, and how to avoid using “mental health” as a shield in ways that can harm others’ genuine experiences.

From quick, on-set stress relief techniques, to reframing challenges through your circle of control, Melissa equips listeners with tools they can use immediately. She also underscores the value of caring for your body and points to accessible resources on platforms to help you reset in minutes.

Whether you’re navigating long shoot days, juggling multiple gigs, or trying to prevent burnout before it starts, this conversation is a grounded reminder that your health: mental and physical health is your most valuable asset.

Credits:

NK Gutiérrez - Host & Producer
Katelyn Henslin - Head Producer & Director
Emily Seddon - Co-Producer
Henri' Byrd - Hair and Makeup Artist & Coordinator
Alyssa Neyland - Production Designer
Kelsey Denvir - Costume Designer
Estefania Mena - Writer and Committee Member
Netta Harper - Artwork Hair Artist
Faith Hart - Social Media Manager

Cory Coken - Audio Mixer & Executive Producer
Bryen Hensley - Technical Director
Ashton Johnson - Video Editor & Graphics
Jake Hensley - Audio Mixer
Kimberly Knudsen - Production Manager
Devin Delaney - Composer
Jamie Vanadia - Re-Recording Mixer

Production Facility - Noisefloor LTD
Post Production Provided by - Noisefloor LTD

The Art of Post Production with Ana Christian & C. Ryan Stemple

In this episode of REEL WISDOM WITH NK, host NK sits down with Ana Christian and C. Ryan Stemple, co-owners of Journeywork Entertainment, to demystify one of the most overlooked yet essential stages of filmmaking: post-production.

More than just cutting footage, post is where the story truly takes shape and it starts long before the cameras roll. Ana and Ryan break down the filmmaking journey as a three-part creation: once in pre-production, again on set, and finally in the edit. They share hard-earned insights on why involving post-production early can save time, elevate quality, and unlock the full emotional potential of your film.

From daily edits during production to establishing strong communication pipelines between editors and producers, this episode is a masterclass in strategic collaboration. You’ll also hear candid takes on the most common post pitfalls, how to set realistic expectations, and why honoring your “why” is key to finishing strong.

Whether you're deep in the editing bay or prepping your next shoot, this conversation is a reminder that the final product is only as strong as the intention and preparation behind it.

Credits:

NK Gutiérrez - Host & Producer
Katelyn Henslin - Head Producer & Director
Emily Seddon - Co-Producer
Henri' Byrd - Hair and Makeup Artist & Coordinator
Alyssa Neyland - Production Designer
Kelsey Denvir - Costume Designer
Estefania Mena - Writer and Committee Member
Netta Harper - Artwork Hair Artist

Cory Coken - Audio Mixer & Executive Producer
Bryen Hensley - Technical Director
Ashton Johnson - Video Editor & Graphics
Jake Hensley - Audio Mixer
Kimberly Knudsen - Production Manager
Devin Delaney - Composer
Jamie Vanadia - Re-Recording Mixer

Production Facility - Noisefloor LTD
Post Production Provided by - Noisefloor LTD

Dear Actors with Brittani Ward and Susan Farlik Carlson

In the second episode of REEL WISDOM WITH NK, host NK turns the spotlight onto the actors, the heartbeat of any story. Joined by two powerhouse industry professionals, Brittani Ward and Susan Farlik Carlson, this episode is an open letter to performers everywhere: You are enough.

Drawing from decades of experience in casting, coaching, producing, and voiceover direction, Brittani and Susan dive into the emotional and practical realities of life as an actor. From embracing the nonlinear journey to redefining what success looks like, they unpack the myths, pressures, and internal battles actors face daily and offer powerful tools to navigate them.

Together, they share hard-earned wisdom: why confidence comes from self-acceptance, how to approach auditions like they're your last take, and why your voice, literally and metaphorically, is your most valuable instrument. They demystify what casting directors are really looking for, how to build a sustainable career, and what it means to show up with sincerity on-camera and behind the mic.

Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your artistic journey, this episode is a grounding reminder to trust your craft, honor your individuality, and keep doing the work with heart, with consistency, and with courage.

🎙️ Host: NK
🎧 Produced by Midwest Film Festival
📍 Recorded in Noisefloor Chicago

The Art of Producing with Angie Gaffney

In the premiere episode of REEL WISDOM WITH NK, host NK sits down with Angie Gaffney, a powerhouse Chicago-based producer, to unpack the often misunderstood world of independent film producing. With years of experience and a sharp entrepreneurial mindset, Angie shares her journey from passionate theater kid to CEO-level film facilitator, offering an unfiltered look into the leadership, grit, and strategic finesse it takes to bring a story from script to screen.

Together, they explore what it really means to be a producer, balancing creative collaboration with business insight, navigating union complexities in local productions, and building inclusive teams that reflect diverse perspectives. Angie shares stories from the set, explains her multifaceted approach to fundraising, and reflects on how lessons from competitive sports helped shape her leadership style.

Whether you’re an emerging producer or a curious creative, this episode is packed with actionable insights about resilience, relationship-building, and the hidden power of producing behind the scenes.

Credits:

NK Gutiérrez - Host & Producer
Katelyn Henslin - Head Producer & Director
Emily Seddon - Co-Producer
Henri' Byrd - Hair and Makeup Artist & Coordinator
Alyssa Neyland - Production Designer
Kelsey Denvir - Costume Designer
Estefania Mena - Writer and Committee Member
Netta Harper - Artwork Hair Artist

Cory Coken - Audio Mixer & Executive Producer
Bryen Hensley - Technical Director
Ashton Johnson - Video Editor & Graphics
Jake Hensley - Audio Mixer
Kimberly Knudsen - Production Manager
Devin Delaney - Composer
Jamie Vanadia - Re-Recording Mixer

Production Facility - Noisefloor LTD
Post Production Provided by - Noisefloor LTD