Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with filmmaker and festival director Jon Fitzgerald. They discuss Jon's career path from filmmaker to festival director, his advocacy work helping other filmmakers, and his efforts to leverage film for social change. Jon shares insights from his experiences running festivals, making documentaries, and advising other creatives.

We also talk about:

• Jon's experience being rejected from Sundance and subsequently founding the Slamdance Film Festival
• Tips for running a successful film festival, including budgeting, sponsorship, and engaging the local community
• The value of film education versus hands-on experience in the industry
• Resources Jon provides for filmmakers, including his book, courses, and podcast
• Upcoming projects like Jon's narrative film "Impressions" and a new platform called Fest Source

Indie Artist Spotlight

Artist: The Thing With Feathers

Track: Can You See Me

Socials: TikTok & Instagram

The Thing With Feathers is an alt-rock, indie pop, and dance powerhouse. The crew’s natural, quirky swagger and stellar musicianship have resulted in a catalog of equally introspective and uncomplicated tunes dedicated to booty-shakers everywhere. “Can You See Me” is an exciting and dynamic alt-rock and indie-pop track full of contrasting textures and gritty, raw tones.

If you like what we’re doing, please consider supporting our work - every subscriber, rating, and review matters! #MAKEIT

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Hello, Hello!

On this episode of the MAKE IT podcast, Chris and Nick discuss their passion for filmmaking and creativity. They explore questions of love and doubt, barriers to creative expression, and industry insights. The hosts also analyze characters from GI Joe, power dynamics in Hollywood, and the appreciation of artists at film festivals.

We also talk about:

- Political views expressed at comedy shows and how audiences prioritize their interests

- The Netflix show “Baby Reindeer” and its exploration of susceptibility to abuse in the entertainment industry

- The impact of the Internet on personal lives and relationships

- Industry relationships, “ghosting,” and the importance of being good to one another

- Drinking a local vodka brand and supporting local businesses

Enjoy!

Indie Artist Spotlight

Artist: Bryce Green

Track: Boom (feat. 81m)

Bryce Green is a rapper, singer, and one of the most exhilarating hip-hop artists to emerge on the scene, whose fierce lyricism, electrifying charisma, and melodic singing set fire to any scene. These guys are capable of anything, paired with a production duo of 81m. His hard-hitting rap anthem “Boom” has been used in the series “Rookie: Feds” and “Bel-Air” and has had two other songs used in national commercials for Pizza Hut. 

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Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris talks with Actor Sara Antonio. They discuss her acting journey and experiences in television and film, sharing insights into scene study techniques, audition strategies, and mental wellness in the industry. Sara also reflects on memorable roles and working alongside icons like Louis Gossett Jr., offering advice he imparted to younger performers.

We also talk about:

• Sara's role on the ABC/Hulu series Will Trent and her approach to character development 
• Inspiration drawn from performances of Tatiana Maslany and Alison Brie
• Working with icons like Dolly Parton and upcoming projects
• Tactics for dealing with rejection in the industry and maintaining confidence
• Tips for fostering empathy in storytelling and audiences

Enjoy!

Indie Artist Spotlight

Artist: Goodvibes Sound

Track: I've Been Here Before

Goodvibes Sound are Alex and Angus, two friends who live in London and record out of their basement studio in a former corner shop. They make disco-infused indie pop, with lyrical themes touching on love, mindfulness, and modern life in the city. "I’ve Been Here Before" explores this back-and-forth that we all experience throughout life. While the lyrics discuss feelings of isolation and loneliness, the contrast between mellow verses and catchy high-energy choruses evokes this repetitive cycle.

https://www.thegoodvibesinstitute.com/

https://www.instagram.com/goodvibesinstitute/

https://www.tiktok.com/@goodvibesinstitute

Support our work - every subscriber, rating, and review matters! #MAKEIT

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Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with filmmaker Nathan Rigaud. Nathan shares his background and experience in filmmaking, including working on sets and creating his own animated content. They discuss challenges in the indie film industry and the importance of proper planning, collaboration, and starting small. The group also explores early underwater filmmaking and personal experiences with sharks.

We also talk about:

• Nathan discusses the structure of his animation company, Whale Animation Studios, and his leadership style.
• The speakers debate the benefits of roles like production assistant for learning filmmaking skills.  
• The group shares differing opinions on movies and the personal nature of storytelling.
• Payment challenges in the film industry are explored, including options for protection.
• Papa Bear shares details of the 1914 experimental underwater film "30 Leagues Under the Sea" and its controversial shark attack scene
• Nick shares an all-new CULTURE CHECK

Enjoy!

Indie Artist Spotlight

Artist: Call Me Ace

Track:  FIRST GEN ANTHEM

This highly gifted, multi-faceted artist lives a double life. By day, he works in Silicon Valley; by night, he transforms into the prolific Bay Area rapper Call Me Ace. In both roles, he’s a total boss, working diligently to uplift disenfranchised communities, spread positive vibes, and celebrate culture. If your parents are not from the country you live in now, “FIRST GEN ANTHEM” is your theme song. When your home is a second nation, there’s a certain way you have to navigate life: one where every step you take is the epitome of “innovation.”

https://callmeace.com

https://www.instagram.com/callmeacelegit/

https://tiktok.com/@callmeacelegit

Hello, Hello!

In this episode of The MAKE IT Podcast, Chris and Nick discuss the current state of film, television, and streaming content. They delve into topics around content overload, authenticity, influencer personas, and actors' early roles. The hosts also play a trivia game, guessing actors' first feature films and providing film recommendations.

We also talk about:

• The impact of too much content on meaningful conversations and shared experiences around entertainment
• Maintaining personas as influencers and the challenges of breaking persona 
• Mike Tyson's boxing style and persona shift compared to a child throwing a tantrum
• Representation and authenticity in films, discussing the movie "Monkey Man"
• Playing a trivia game where Nicholas guesses the first feature films of various actors

Enjoy!

Housekeeping: The show Chris called the 3 Body Project is actually titled, 3 Body Problem. Guy Ritchie’s new series is called The Gentleman, and the YouTuber Chris can’t remember is Mrwhosetheboss. Finally, Mike Tyson is fighting Jake Paul (not Logan). 

Indie Artist Spotlight

Since their inception, California-based duo PRXZM (pronounced “prism”) has been enthralling global audiences with their distinct fusion of '80s-infused synth-pop. Emma and Nick have consistently transformed their craft, blending mesmerizing vocal performances with ethereal synths across four EPs and an upcoming album. “In A Way” paints a sparkly, ethereal dreamscape that almost hypnotizes you out of feeling the emotions the lyrics invoke, is an ode to a healthy breakup, or a healthy end to something that never was, or never could be.

Artist: PRXZM 

Track:  In A Way

https://prxzm.com/

https://www.instagram.com/prxzmusic/

https://tiktok.com/@prxzm_

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In this episode, we have a conversation with Cinematographer Micah Simms. Chris interviews Micah about his career journey and experiences working in commercials and films. They discuss Micah's passion for the craft of Cinematography and his collaborative work with Directors like Motke Dapp.

We also talk about:

- Techniques for lighting and shooting scenes effectively 
- Challenges of the film industry and finding work-life balance
- Maintaining integrity through difficult content decisions 
- Advice for aspiring cinematographers starting out

Enjoy!

Indie Artist Spotlight

Morning Silk is a New York-based alternative indie rock/pop recording project led by Frank Corr. Signature drums, synth sounds, and a wall of screaming guitars can be recognized as Morning Silk's production style. So Fun is a made-up story written in Italy about a time-traveling being from the 1700s who follows someone he found outside in his estate's garden into a portal and is transported into a dance club in the future.

Artist: Morning Silk

Track: So Fun (Remix)

https://www.instagram.com/morning_silk/

https://www.tiktok.com/@morningsilk

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Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with filmmakers Dexter Strong Buell and Derek Mindler about their experiences in the indie film space, including Dexter's recent short film "The South Shore" and Derek's work as a cinematographer. They also discuss challenges in filmmaking and education, using new technology like 360 videos for location scouting, and an upcoming film school in New York City focused on below-the-line skills.

We also talk about:

- The differences between working on indie film sets versus studio sets

- Finding success through creative solutions in the indie film world

- Bridging the gap between film education and the current film industry

- A student-made feature film that was widely distributed on Amazon Prime after starting as a high school short

- The cultural impact of low-budget films that are financially successful but not necessarily well-received critically

Enjoy!

Indie Artist Spotlight

Artist: Steve Lewis 

Track: Get You

Recording artist Steve Lewis is a writer and performer who can take a listener to a special place, one where the music transports you and time slips away. While straddling the line between riff rock and melodic lyricism, his material evokes stylists like Kurt Vile and Mac DeMarco while luxuriating in steady grooves and high energy. “Get You” is a high-energy rock tune with a celebratory and conversational lyric about the excitement and optimism of finding a new love.

https://www.stevelewismusic.com/

https://www.instagram.com/stevelewismusic/

https://www.tiktok.com/@stevelewismusic

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Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris has a conversation with Jason Padgitt, Executive Director of the Nashville Film Festival. They discuss Jason's role and responsibilities at NaFF, the film selection process, balancing industry and artistic interests, and the future of AI in filmmaking. Enjoy this insightful conversation about the inner workings of a major independent film festival.

We also talk about:

- Importance of music and music-based films to NaFF
- Balancing industry influence with artistic integrity in programming
- Role of technical quality versus storytelling in film selections

- Managing filmmaker expectations for a music-focused regional festival
- Trends in annual programming "points of view"
- Role of opening credits in assessing a film
- Potential for new "Best AI Film" categories in the future

Enjoy!

Indie Artist Spotlight

Artist: The Familiar

Track: Starry Eyes

Above the Arctic Circle during Norway’s season of darkness, a chance encounter between an American and a Norwegian spawned a transatlantic musical partnership called The Familiar. The duo of native New Yorker Ruth Mirsky and Tromsø-born producer Mads Martinsen is the northern lights meeting the skyscrapers of New York. "Starry Eyes" tells the story of a woman that knows the odds are stacked against her, but remains optimistic that if she follows her best instincts, satisfaction will arrive. A pebble starts a landslide right?

https://www.instagram.com/thefamiliarmusic/

https://www.tiktok.com/@thefamiliarmusic

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with Angus Benfield about his career as an Actor, Producer, Writer and Director and his upcoming film "The Keeper" which tackles the important issue of veteran suicide. They discuss Angus' process for bringing real stories to the screen, finding financing for independent films, and keeping creative energy as a filmmaker. Chris and Nick also have a thoughtful conversation with Angus about the role of artificial intelligence in the film industry and whether it could replace human storytelling.

We also talk about:

• Angus' experience living in New Zealand for 9 years and dealing with earthquakes
• Sharing stories about transforming physiques and perceptions from high school 
• Comparing strategies for raising film funds like crowdfunding vs finding investors  
• Debating the importance of spelling and handwriting in the digital age
• Pitching ideas like a standalone movie theater candy store

Enjoy!

Indie Artist Spotlight - Mom Rock

Featured Track: Bullseye

Originally formed at Berklee, this Nashville-based Power-pop trio is tearing up the indie scene with a sound that evokes iconic 90’s rock bands like Weezer and Cake. Since their 2017 debut, they’ve racked up millions of streams, rocked packed houses, and cut catchy anthems that landed them a feature in Rolling Stone Magazine. The song is about everyone having a soft underbelly – insecurities, anxieties, shortcomings. Being an artist and putting art into the world is one of the most vulnerable undertakings there is, and we wanted to examine that vulnerability in a fun, campy way.

https://www.instagram.com/momrockofficial/

https://www.tiktok.com/@momrocktiktok

https://twitter.com/MomRockOfficial

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with Daril Fannin and Austin Worrell from Kino Studios. They discuss challenges in the film industry and opportunities for new models to empower creators through technology. Daril and Austin share their experiences and explain their mission to build efficient tools through Kino Studios to help filmmakers launch globally and connect with audiences.

We also talk about:

- The meaning of "making it" in the film industry and how technology can empower creators
- Challenges in the current entertainment system, including unfair contracts and lack of transparency 
- The mission and features of Kino Studios' digital premiere app to help filmmakers launch globally
- Inefficiencies in film marketing and distribution that new models could improve
- The potential for education and training programs to develop emerging storytellers

Enjoy!

Indie Artist Spotlight

niko! 

niko! Is the moniker of Colombian-American musician and songwriter Nick Maxwell, a gifted young bedroom producer cooking up some really cool Alternative R&B.

He has garnered over 400,000 streams and was featured on Apple Music’s Editorial Playlist, “Brown Sugar."

Taking inspiration from Childish Gambino’s “Redbone", niko! taps into a sultry and raw side of R&B that’s filled with lo-fi synths and off-beat drums, which help deliver an experimental indie aesthetic. As the second single off of his upcoming project, ‘Love Fi’, this track specifically deals with themes of desire, doubt, and the way a person makes another feel.

niko! on social media 

https://www.instagram.com/niko.wav/

https://www.facebook.com/niko.artist.music

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with Actor, Writer, and Producer Jordan Charles about his film project "Brothers in Arms," which explores themes of family, redemption, and the impact of war through two brothers separated at a young age. Jordan shares how his own family history influenced the film and informed his perspective as an artist.

Chris and Nick provide insights into navigating the creative and business sides of independent filmmaking, as well as using art as a platform for activism.

We also talk about:

- Podcasting, filmmaking, and communication
- Creativity, hobbies, and sharing interests
- Activism, art, and environmentalism
- Filmmaking and the importance of understanding both creative and business sides
- Independent vs. studio films' emotional impact

Enjoy!

Indie Artist Spotlight

Helen Kebede

Helen is an independent Pop and R&B artist from the DMV, like my co-host Nick and Producer Joe. She has been writing songs for over a decade and gained notable recognition when her track "Bitter Bitch" was featured in the Netflix movie 'Do Revenge.' A broad spectrum of artists, from Michael Jackson to Britney Spears and ABBA, influenced Helen's music.

Helen aims to provide an escape for listeners, crafting songs that resonate with their emotions and experiences. She's deeply involved in the creative process of songwriting and producing and making music videos, showcasing her multifaceted talent. Helen's journey reflects a passionate commitment to her artistry, combining nostalgic elements with a contemporary twist to create a unique sound that stands out in today's music scene. 

Follow Her Socials: 

https://helenmusic.info/

https://www.instagram.com/helenkebede/

https://www.tiktok.com/@helenmusiicc

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The MAKE IT podcast amplifies the voice of the filmmaker by exploring the filmmaking journeys of actors, writers, directors, producers, and a host of other creatives from across the film industry.

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with Adam Schartoff, the host of the long-running podcast Film Wax Radio. They discuss Adam's experience maintaining a podcast for over 790 episodes and the challenges of keeping enthusiasm and motivation over many years. They also debate strategies for film festival juries and screeners, the importance of festivals for filmmakers, and whether certain mainstream films deserve criticism.

We also talked about:

- Adam's experience reviewing films for online publications and conducting interviews for the Tribeca Film website

- Favorite film critics like Peter Travers and Roger Ebert and their different reviewing styles  

- The movie recommendation platform Letterboxd and film review aggregator Metacritic

- Netflix's challenges in promoting diverse and award-worthy films to audiences

- Films mentioned like Maestro, Killers of the Flower Moon, The Zone of Interest, and American Fiction

- Visiting the Auschwitz concentration camp and the impact it left

- The controversial Sundance film "Jihad Rehab"

- Adam's potential for future film projects drawing from personal experiences

Enjoy!

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The MAKE IT podcast amplifies the voice of the filmmaker by exploring the filmmaking journeys of actors, writers, directors, producers, and a host of other creatives from across the film industry.

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, we are joined by filmmaking partners Nicholas Mihm and Rostam Zafari. They discuss their filmmaking partnership, their new documentary 'Bubjan,' their nonprofit work promoting Iranian culture, and future projects exploring physician burnout through animation and entrepreneurship through documentary storytelling.

We also talk about: 

• Nicholas Mihm shares his background in independent filmmaking based in Los Angeles with features like In the Dark Valley and Helen Believe.

• Rostam discusses meeting Brandon Stanton of Humans of New York and collaborating on a 54-part series about his grandfather Parviz, which inspired the short film 'Bubjan'.

• We delve into Stanton's unique interviewing style that helps subjects feel vulnerable and gain deeper self-understanding, as well as the challenges of editing down hours of footage into a short film.

• Rostam explains the nonprofit Nimruz's work using art and education to promote Iranian cultural values of equality, freedom, and justice in the face of oppression.

• Future projects discussed include an animated documentary on physician/nurse burnout and an episodic series following entrepreneurs making a positive global impact.

• And, an all-new Things We Should Know from Producer Papa Bear.

Enjoy! 

*How you can continue to enjoy MAKE IT content:*

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The MAKE IT podcast amplifies the voice of the filmmaker by exploring the filmmaking journeys of actors, writers, directors, producers, and a host of other creatives from across the film industry.

**Warning: Early in this episode, Chris says that Charlton Heston was not in a lead role in the iconic film Ben-Hur. This is obviously insane and a short-term hallucination because Ben-Hur is one of Charlton's most iconic roles.** Apologies!

Hello, Hello! 

In this episode, Chris and Nick speak with Acting Teacher and Co-Founder of JDS Actors Studio, Diane Strand. Diane shares her extensive background working in the entertainment industry, where she has taken on many roles including actor, author, speaker, and nonprofit founder. She discusses her philosophy of bringing authenticity to acting through thoroughly developing characters and understanding their motivations. Diane also provides details about her annual DigiFest event, a multi-day film festival and workshop that brings together emerging creators with top industry professionals. 

We also talk about… 

• Acting techniques: Diane emphasizes bringing authenticity to characters by developing their backstories and finding truth in their motivations and behaviors.
• The role of artificial intelligence in content creation
• The difference between auditioning and actual performance as an actor. 
• When performing a role, why actors are expected to say the lines as written in plays and stick closely to the script in films.
• Why she believes Television is harder and better than feature film. 
• And, an all-new Things We Should Know.

Enjoy! 

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The MAKE IT podcast amplifies the voice of the filmmaker by exploring the filmmaking journeys of actors, writers, directors, producers, and a host of other creatives from across the film industry.

Hello, Hello! 

A few corrections from episode 364:

• Charlton Heston was in Ben Hur - but not as a primary actor. He was in a scene in which he rode a horse. 
• Our social media handle on Instagram and X are @_makeitpodcast (not @themakeitpodcast). However, you can find us at www.themakeitpodcast.com

In this episode, Chris and Nick discuss blockchain technology and its potential applications in the film industry with Chris J. Davis, Co-Founder and CTO of Film.io.

We also talk about… 

• Chris J. Davis explains his vision for using blockchain to democratize film financing and distribution by bringing fans, creators, and investors together on one platform.
• The conversation explores the history of blockchain in film, including the first movie released and purchased with cryptocurrency.
• Potential future applications of NFTs and smart contracts for additional content, rewards programs, and independent verification of project support are discussed.
• Challenges of regaining public trust after past blockchain hype and issues are addressed.
• Possibilities that major studios like Disney may adopt blockchain-based models to enhance fan engagement and monetization of ancillary content are considered. 
• And, an all-new Things We Should Know from Producer Papa Bear.

Enjoy! 

*How you can continue to enjoy MAKE IT content:*

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The MAKE IT podcast amplifies the voice of the filmmaker by exploring the filmmaking journeys of actors, writers, directors, producers, and a host of other creatives from across the film industry.

Hello, Hello! 

In this episode of The Make It Podcast Chris & Nick recapped 2023 and looked ahead to 2024. They reflected on their favorite films of the year, including BlackBerry and American Symphony, and the best guests of the year including Linda Nelson (and more). They also analyzed the implications of the New York Times lawsuit against OpenAI for copyright infringement and how it could change the industry. 

They also... 

• Debate over musical styles of 90s R&B groups
• Consideration of how to give and receive notes to improve as filmmakers
• Importance of maintaining one's artistic voice when receiving feedback
• Exploration of themes in films like Leave the World Behind produced by the Obamas
• A brand new 'Things We Should Know.'

Enjoy! 

*How you can continue to enjoy MAKE IT content:*

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The MAKE IT podcast amplifies the voice of the filmmaker by exploring the filmmaking journeys of actors, writers, directors, producers, and a host of other creatives from across the film industry.

Hello, Hello!

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! Chris provides a short update on episodes and content for this month and a hint at 2024.

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The MAKE IT podcast amplifies the voice of the filmmaker by exploring the filmmaking journeys of actors, writers, directors, producers, and a host of other creatives from across the film industry. We provide a platform for filmmakers to provide advice, lessons learned, personal reflections, and insights through our _Filmmaker Conversations_, _Mistakes in the Making_, _Industry Insights_, _Indie Talks_, and _Film Investment Series_ playlists. We are the go-to film podcast for independent creatives!

#film #interview #podcast

Hello, Hello! 

In this episode of the MAKE IT Podcast we are joined by Brian Owens, Artistic Director Calgary International Film Festival. He provides his film festival tips, advice, and insights on the MAKE IT podcast. Brian has been at the helm of some of North America's top film festivals, helping launch countless careers along the way.

In this interview, Brian shares stories from his unlikely path from small town kid to festival kingpin, offering invaluable advice to aspiring programmers and filmmakers. He also pulls back the curtain on what it takes to run major festivals while maintaining a passion for cinema, treating listeners to insightful perspectives on curation and what makes certain films resonate.

*Originally released September 13, 2022*

Follow Brian https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-owens-06648577

Calgary International Film Festival https://www.ciffcalgary.ca/

• Introduction. (0:00)
• Handling film festivals during COVID-19 pandemic. (1:11)
• Movies, childhood memories, and film appreciation. (6:22)
• Film festival creation and growth. (12:02)
• Filmmaking production skills and sound quality. (19:47)
• Film festival growth and local talent. (23:36)
• Film programming and fostering a film community. (28:57)
• Film grants and industry support in Canada vs. U.S. (34:44)
• Film industry, inclusivity, and career advice. (40:34)
• Creativity and inspiration. (49:37)
• Starting a film festival with a focus on marketing and networking. (54:39)
• Filmmaking and storytelling insights. (1:00:23)
• Creativity and career goals. (1:05:50)
• Networking and Al Gore's involvement in a documentary. (1:10:19)

Questions answered in this conversation:

• What are the minimum production skills festivals look for when accepting a film?
• How does grant funding differ between Canada and the US? - How do you start your own film festival?
•  When a film is close to being good or great but not quite, what is it typically missing?
• Who are some of the creatives Brian most admires and wants to emulate from a technical or skill standpoint? 

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The MAKE IT podcast amplifies the voice of the filmmaker by exploring the filmmaking journeys of actors, writers, directors, producers, and a host of other creatives from across the film industry.

Hello, Hello! 

In this episode of the Make It Podcast, independent filmmaker Frank Monteleone joins Chris and Nick to talk about his company, Full Armor Films, his career, and the film industry in New Orleans and beyond.

We also talk about:

- Frank discusses starting Full Armor Films in New Orleans and how the city's film tax incentives have helped grow the local industry.
- The group talks about acting techniques, pitching projects to studios vs. independently, and how recent strikes have impacted the business. 
- Frank shares his experience getting an exception during the WGA strike to continue production.
- Acting exercises like being assigned random characters at parties are discussed as ways to improve skills.
- And a brand new Things You Should Know — inspired by Frank! 

Enjoy!

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Hello, Hello! 

In this edition of the MAKE IT Podcast, Chris and Nick discuss artist Jelly Roll's inspirational acceptance speech for Best New Artist at the CMA Awards. They contemplate the ability to pivot genres throughout a career, using Darius Rucker's transition from rock to country, the SAG Strike is over (right?), Coyote Vs. Acme drama, and an all-new Things We Should Know and Culture Check. 

We also talk about:

• Chris shares the secret of why his hair and skin glisten
• Jelly Roll’s Hip-Hop career before pivoting to Country
• SAG-AFTRA Strike - Did the actors win? 
• Why studios aren’t concerned with taking a budget loss when shelving a film
• Advocating understanding of complex issues before making judgments

Enjoy!

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How you can continue to enjoy MAKE IT content:

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