Podcast
In Love with the Process Podcast
Hosted by Mike Pecci · EN
Join the thrilling journey of film director Mike Pecci as he fearlessly dives into the realm of chasing his dreams. Buckle up and get ready for the exhilarating ride as he embarks on the adventure of preparing for his very first Hollywood feature film! Grab those noise-cancelling headphones and immerse yourself in the pulsating beats of the hottest new synth-wave music. Picture yourself sipping on a cold beer and savoring home-smoked BBQ while engaging in candid conversations with Pecci and a diverse cast of unexpected guests, including filmmakers, artists, technicians, chefs, and musicians. They're all here to unveil their most intimate stories and demystify the path to success. Get ready to learn, laugh, and be inspired like never before with the IN LOVE WITH THE PROCESS PODCAST!
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33episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
EP405 | They Like the Dark: Welcome to Pre Production (w/ Mike Pecci)
3d ago01:38:03Tap to summarizeFor over nine years, In Love with the Process host and director Mike Pecci has promised listeners that when he finally got the opportunity to direct his first feature film, he would bring them along for the entire ride.Well, here we go.Welcome to the They Like the Dark journey.As Mike moves deeper into pre production on his first feature, he takes you inside the actual process of building a movie from the ground up. No polished behind the scenes package after the movie is finished. You're hearing it while it's happening.This week, Mike talks about traveling to New Jersey to hunt for the perfect location for his horror film, walking through old industrial spaces and imagining how the world of They Like the Dark can come alive inside them.But finding a location is only part of the job.Mike also dives into one of the most important parts of pre production, finding your heads of department. He talks about meeting potential collaborators, figuring out who understands the movie, and why a director's job isn't simply to hire talented people. You have to communicate the vision, get them excited, and inspire them to join you on the insane journey of highs, lows, compromises, discoveries, and problem solving that comes with making an independent film.How do you know when someone is right for your movie?How do you communicate what's inside your head?How do you inspire great artists while still giving them room to bring something unexpected to the film?This is where filmmaking actually happens.If you're trying to become a better director, this series gives you real lessons you can use. And if you're simply a movie nerd who wants to understand how Hollywood actually works, you're getting a front row seat.The movie is getting real.Come along for the ride.► Mike's IG ► ILWP's IG Music: Code Elektro, Mitch Murder, Ron Cannon——SPONSORS——► Freenote Cloth► FujiFilm 10% off Accessories (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/accessories/) and Merch (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/brand-merch/) Promo code PROCESS10► Puget Systems► Blackmagic Design Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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EP404 | Shooting Underwater, Horror, and Fighting for Your Vision (w/ James Kniest)
2w ago02:18:52Tap to summarizeThis week on In Love with the Process, Mike Pecci sits down with cinematographer James Kniest (The Haunting of Bly Manor, American Horror Stories) and Annabelle)James joins Mike to celebrate the release of his latest film, The Devil's Mouth, arriving on Amazon this week. But this conversation goes far beyond the new movie.Mike and James dive deep into the preparation that happens long before a camera ever rolls. They discuss how years of experience teach you to anticipate problems before they happen, why confidence comes from preparation, and how cinematographers learn to fight for the tools, time, and support they need to execute a vision.James also shares incredible stories from shooting The Devil's Mouth, explaining the unique challenges of filming in and under water, how lighting behaves beneath the surface, and the technical and creative problem-solving required to capture performances in one of the most demanding environments imaginable. Drawing on his background in underwater cinematography, he offers practical insights that every filmmaker can learn from. Whether you're a director, cinematographer, or creative trying to level up your craft, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom about preparation, leadership, confidence, and learning to execute your vision on bigger and bigger stages.This is what In Love with the Process is all about.► James IG► Mike's IG ► ILWP's IG Music: Code Elektro, Mitch Murder——SPONSORS——► FujiFilm 10% off Accessories (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/accessories/) and Merch (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/brand-merch/) Promo code PROCESS10► Puget Systems► Blackmagic Design Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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EP403 | Turning 48: Celebrating the Human Experience (w/ Mike Pecci)
3w ago01:34:14Tap to summarizeOn this special solo episode of In Love with the Process, Mike Pecci celebrates his 48th birthday with an honest reflection on getting older, friendship, creativity, and what it really means to live a meaningful life.Fresh off an incredible birthday weekend spent surrounded by close friends, Mike shares why this birthday felt different than any before. From seeing The Odyssey and Backrooms, to conversations that stretched late into the night, he reflects on the moments that remind us why we create, why we tell stories, and why human connection is still the greatest gift we have.Mike also talks about embracing life as an older filmmaker, finding gratitude instead of fear, and learning to celebrate experiences instead of chasing milestones. It's a conversation about slowing down, appreciating the people around you, and recognizing that the best parts of life often happen between the big moments.This is one of those classic In Love with the Process solo episodes...honest, heartfelt, funny, and deeply personal.If you've ever wondered whether you're behind, questioned where your life is headed, or simply needed a reminder to appreciate the people around you, this episode is for you.► Mike's IG ► ILWP's IG Music: Code Elektro, Mitch Murder——SPONSORS——► FujiFilm 10% off Accessories (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/accessories/) and Merch (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/brand-merch/) Promo code PROCESS10► Puget Systems► Blackmagic Design Inlovewiththeprocess.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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DPREP01 | Mike Pecci's Director's Prep Series Is Here
Jul 1400:04:16Tap to summarizeThis week on In Love with the Process, we're sharing a special preview from Mike Pecci's new Director's Prep video series.Created in partnership with Tongal, this ongoing series follows Mike as he prepares his first feature film, They Like the Dark. Each episode explores a different part of the directing process, from storyboards and character design to camera language, blocking, production design, and everything that happens before cameras roll.Think of this episode as a preview of what's to come over the next few months.Watch the full video now on the In Love with the Process Podcast YouTube channel or on Instagram @mikepecci. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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EP402 | Burnout, and Letting Go of Impossible Expectations (w/ Mike Pecci)
Jul 701:47:01Tap to summarizeOn today's solo episode of In Love with the Process, Mike Pecci gets personal.As he approaches his 48th birthday and prepares to direct his first feature film, Mike reflects on the journey that brought him here. He talks honestly about the bad habits he's developed over the years, the unrealistic expectations creatives put on themselves, and why so many of us are trying to succeed in a world that has completely changed.Mike shares why he believes becoming an older director has actually been one of the greatest advantages of his career, and how years of experience have given him a perspective he never could have had in his twenties.The conversation also explores burnout—how to recognize it before it's too late, the habits that quietly lead us there, and the difficult process of finding your way back.Along the way, Mike talks about Disclosure Day, the growing stack of Criterion Blu-rays he's studying as he prepares for his upcoming feature film, and why slowing down to learn has become more important than chasing the next thing.This isn't an episode about having all the answers.It's about being honest.For nearly a decade, these solo episodes have become some of the most beloved conversations on In Love with the Process because they're real, vulnerable, and filled with the lessons Mike is learning in real time.If you've ever felt behind...If you've ever questioned your path...Or if you're simply trying to build a creative life without losing yourself in the process...This episode is for you.► Mike's IG ► ILWP's IG Music: Code Elektro, Mitch Murder——SPONSORS——► FujiFilm 10% off Accessories (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/accessories/) and Merch (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/brand-merch/) Promo code PROCESS10► Puget Systems► Blackmagic Design Inlovewiththeprocess.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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EP401 | This Is What Creative Leadership Looks Like (w/ Eric Canete)
Jun 3001:55:48Tap to summarizeOn this inspiring episode of In Love with the Process, Mike Pecci sits down with legendary concept artist, storyboard artist, and comic book powerhouse Eric Canete.Known for his incredible work on Absolute Batman, Skinbreaker, Chrononauts, and decades of influential work across comics, animation, and entertainment, Eric joins Mike for an unforgettable conversation about what it really takes to become a great artist.The discussion begins with the phenomenal success of Absolute Batman and why the series has taken the comic book world by storm. Eric shares his thoughts on what makes the book resonate with readers and why bold visual storytelling still has the power to surprise audiences.From there, Mike and Eric dive deep into the creative process.Eric reflects on his years working in animation, how presenting artwork in boardrooms unexpectedly taught him leadership and communication, and why the best artists aren't just skilled draftsmen—they're great collaborators.Together they explore:Why Absolute Batman has become one of the hottest books in comicsEric Canete's journey through animation, storyboarding, and comicsHow to inspire artists to do the best work of their careersFinding emotion in every drawing, shot, and compositionWhy building relationships can completely change your creative careerConvincing talented people to join your projectsSetting an uncompromising standard for creative excellenceWhat filmmakers can learn from comic books and visual storytellingWhether you're a filmmaker, illustrator, storyboard artist, comic creator, or simply someone passionate about making great art, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and genuine inspiration.This is exactly what In Love with the Process is all about—honest conversations with world-class artists who love the craft and aren't afraid to share everything they've learned along the way.If you need a creative spark...This episode delivers.► Eric's IG► Mike's IG ► ILWP's IG Music: Code Elektro, Mitch Murder——SPONSORS——► FujiFilm 10% off Accessories (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/accessories/) and Merch (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/brand-merch/) Promo code PROCESS10► Puget Systems► Blackmagic Design Inlovewiththeprocess.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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EP400 | Celebrating 400 Episodes of In Love with the Process 9w/ Lance A. Williams)
Jun 2302:10:02Tap to summarizeFour hundred episodes.When Mike Pecci first launched In Love with the Process, he never imagined the journey it would take him on. What began as a simple conversation about creativity grew into one of the most beloved filmmaking podcasts in the world, introducing listeners to directors, cinematographers, musicians, actors, artists, chefs, entrepreneurs, and dreamers from every corner of the creative universeFor this very special 400th episode, Mike is joined by longtime friend, collaborator, and co-host of Right Place Right Time, Lance A. Williams, for a heartfelt look back at the incredible journey that brought them here.The two revisit some of their favorite guests, unforgettable conversations, and behind-the-scenes adventures that only happened because of the podcast.From broadcasting out of a luxury penthouse overlooking Las Vegas during NAB, to recording from a house packed wall-to-wall with horror filmmakers during one of the greatest film festival experiences on earth, Mike and Lance share stories from the road, lessons learned, and moments that changed the course of their careers forever.They also reflect on the amazing sponsors who believed in the show, the friendships that were built along the way, and the community of listeners who made it all possible.Most importantly, they discuss how In Love with the Process transformed their lives, helped shape their creative journeys, and ultimately led Mike to the biggest chapter of his career yet.This episode is a celebration.A celebration of creativity.A celebration of persistence.A celebration of community.And most importantly, a celebration of you.If you're new to the show, there has never been a better place to jump in.If you've been here since the beginning, this episode is for you.Thank you for 400 incredible episodes.► Lance IG► Mike's IG ► ILWP's IG Music: Code Elektro, Mitch Murder——SPONSORS——► FujiFilm 10% off Accessories (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/accessories/) and Merch (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/brand-merch/) Promo code PROCESS10► Puget Systems► Blackmagic Design Inlovewiththeprocess.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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RPRT33 | We got to watch Gladiator 2 with director Ridly Scott!
Jun 201:14:17Tap to summarizeOn this classic episode of Right Place Right Time, hosts Mike Pecci and Lance A. Williams recount an unforgettable Hollywood story: attending a private screening of Gladiator 2 with none other than Ridley Scott himself. Invited by Scott Free to a close-knit screening for friends and collaborators, the experience was nothing short of life-changing for two filmmakers chasing their dreams. From the awe of being in the room with a cinema legend to the unexpected twists of the night, this story is one for the ages. Join Mike and Lance as they share the magic of being at the right place at the right time in their quest to make it in the film industry.---------------------------------Music by Mitch Murder►Mike Pecci's IG: instagram.com/mikepecci►Lance's Instagram: www.instagram.com/golancego/►ILWP's IG: instagram.com/inlovewiththeprocesspod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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EP300.5 | Mike Pecci and Paul Angeli Break Down the Art of Storyboarding
May 2602:10:49Tap to summarizeOn this brand new episode of In Love with the Process, filmmaker Mike Pecci sits down with professional storyboard artist Paul Angeli for a deep dive into the art of visual storytelling.As Mike gears up for his first feature film, listeners get a rare fly on the wall experience as he meets with potential collaborators and explores one of the most important tools in filmmaking, storyboards.Mike and Paul get into the nitty gritty of previsualizing a film, designing efficient and expressive storyboards, communicating emotion through framing, and how visual language can elevate a movie beyond dialogue.The two also discuss their influences from classic cinema and comic books, the importance of cinematic grammar, and why films that truly understand visual storytelling remain timeless for generations.This is an inspiring and incredibly practical conversation for filmmakers, artists, cinematographers, directors, comic fans, and anyone obsessed with the craft of cinema.► Paul's IG► Mike's IG ► ILWP's IG Music: Code Elektro, Magic Sword & Mitch Murder——SPONSORS——► FujiFilm 10% off Accessories (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/accessories/) and Merch (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/brand-merch/) Promo code PROCESS10► Puget Systems► Blackmagic Design Inlovewiththeprocess.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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EP399 | Inside the Mind of an EOD Bomb Tech (w/ Chris Wealey)
May 1902:06:50Tap to summarizeIt’s a huge moment for filmmaker and host Mike Pecci.After years of talking openly on In Love with the Process about chasing the dream of directing a feature film, the press release for Mike’s first feature has officially hit, and now the real process begins.As promised for nearly a decade on this show, Mike is taking listeners deep behind the curtain and documenting every step of bringing a movie to life.On today’s special episode, Mike sits down with military consultant and former EOD bomb technician Chris Weakly for a fascinating, emotional, and intense conversation about the realities of bomb disposal, trauma, fear, survival, and the emotional weight carried by the people who put their lives on the line to protect others.One of the most important tools a director, writer, or actor can use while preparing a film is talking directly with people who have actually lived the life being portrayed on screen. Not just to gather technical details, but to understand the emotional truth behind the job.Chris opens up about life as an EOD tech, the psychology of disarming explosives, how trauma reshapes identity, and how art and storytelling can help people process difficult experiences.This is a powerful conversation about filmmaking, humanity, preparation, fear, survival, and why authentic voices matter in storytelling.Strap in for one of the most unique and intense episodes of In Love with the Process yet.► Chris's IG► Mike's IG ► ILWP's IG Music: Code Elektro, Magic Sword & Mitch Murder——SPONSORS——► FujiFilm 10% off Accessories (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/accessories/) and Merch (https://shopusa.fujifilm-x.com/brand-merch/) Promo code PROCESS10► Puget Systems► Blackmagic Design Inlovewiththeprocess.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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