Podcast
Indie Film Hustle® - A Filmmaking Podcast
Hosted by Indie Film Hustle · EN
The Indie Film Hustle Podcast is your #1 source for how to hack the film business and indie film world! The show is here to help as many indie filmmakers as I could. We wanted to bring the best guests, industry leaders, creative legends, and film business friends to you, the IFH Tribe.
Some of the past guests include 3X Oscar® Winning Writer/Director Oliver Stone, Barry Sonnenfeld (Men in Black), Alex Proyas (The Crow, I, Robot), James V. Hart (writer Dracula, Hook), John August (Big Fish, Aladdin), Jim Uhls (writer of Fight Club), Oscar® Winner Russell Carpenter (DP of Avatar, Titanic) Joe Carnahan (Smokin' Aces, The Grey), and David F. Sandberg (Shazam!) to name a few.
We hope this podcast can help you along your journey as an artist, filmtrepreneur, filmmaker, screenwriter, and as a human being.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.
Some of the past guests include 3X Oscar® Winning Writer/Director Oliver Stone, Barry Sonnenfeld (Men in Black), Alex Proyas (The Crow, I, Robot), James V. Hart (writer Dracula, Hook), John August (Big Fish, Aladdin), Jim Uhls (writer of Fight Club), Oscar® Winner Russell Carpenter (DP of Avatar, Titanic) Joe Carnahan (Smokin' Aces, The Grey), and David F. Sandberg (Shazam!) to name a few.
We hope this podcast can help you along your journey as an artist, filmtrepreneur, filmmaker, screenwriter, and as a human being.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.
36episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
IFH 859: What James Gunn Taught Me About Success with Will Keenan
2d ago01:17:49Tap to summarizeWhat does a career look like when it spans cult films, Bollywood productions, Hollywood boardrooms, and ultimately a complete reinvention of purpose?In this episode, Will Keenan shares one of the most unconventional journeys in entertainment. From landing the lead role in Tromeo and Juliet alongside a young James Gunn to producing independent films, working in Bollywood, and eventually becoming an executive at Maker Studios, Endemol, and Streamup, Will offers a rare insider perspective on how the entertainment industry transformed from traditional filmmaking into the digital era.But this conversation goes far beyond career milestones. Will delivers a brutally honest look at why most independent films fail, how online audiences have become the new gatekeepers of success, why creators should stop waiting for permission, and how YouTube has replaced many of Hollywood’s traditional discovery systems. The discussion culminates in his decision to leave Hollywood behind and create St. Babs, a nonprofit foundation honoring his mother’s legacy, proving that sometimes the most meaningful chapter of a creative life begins after professional success.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.
Transcribe →IFH 858: The Cinematographer’s Secret to Making Actors Trust You with Jared Hess
1w ago00:37:45Tap to summarizeWhat separates a good cinematographer from one that directors, producers, and talent repeatedly trust with high-pressure productions?In this episode, cinematographer Jared Hess shares hard-earned lessons from over a decade shooting for ESPN, WWE, Bellator, and major fight promotions. From filming in dangerous neighborhoods and chaotic gyms to working directly with elite athletes and unpredictable environments, Jared explains why technical skill alone is never enough. The real job is managing people, emotions, pressure, and trust while still delivering cinematic images under impossible conditions.But beneath the stories of cameras and production lies a deeper conversation about collaboration, leadership, and surviving the modern filmmaking industry. Jared breaks down how cinematographers can build trust with directors and talent, why ego destroys sets, the importance of preparation, working without enough time or money, and how maintaining calm energy can completely transform an interview or production day. For indie filmmakers and aspiring DPs, this episode becomes a practical masterclass on professionalism, communication, and visual storytelling under pressure.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.
Transcribe →IFH 857: The Untold Story of ECW’s Rise & Fall with John Philapavage
2w ago01:58:09Tap to summarizeWhat happens when a lifelong wrestling fan decides to document one of the most chaotic and misunderstood subcultures in entertainment history?In this episode, filmmaker John Philapavage breaks down the 13-year journey of creating Barbed Wire City, the unauthorized documentary about ECW and the culture surrounding extreme wrestling. From tracking down elusive wrestlers and dealing with conflicting stories to surviving crowdfunding, licensing nightmares, and volatile personalities like New Jack, John reveals the brutal realities of making an independent documentary without studio backing.But beneath the stories of wrestling chaos lies something much deeper: a masterclass in documentary filmmaking. John explains how trust, persistence, and storytelling discipline became more important than fandom itself. The conversation dives into interview psychology, handling unreliable subjects, crowdfunding mistakes, DIY filmmaking, licensing issues, and why documentaries are ultimately about people—not just the subject matter. Whether you're a filmmaker, wrestling fan, or creative entrepreneur, this episode offers a rare look into what it truly takes to finish a passion project against impossible odds.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.
Transcribe →IFH 856: How to Make an Indie Film When You Have NO Money with Bob Woolsey & Darren Borrowman
3w ago01:00:44Tap to summarizeWhat does it really take to make an independent film with almost no money, no studio backing, and no guarantees?In this episode, filmmakers Bob Woolsey and Darren Borrowman break down the entire chaotic journey of making their indie feature film Do Something with Your Life—from crowdfunding disasters and broken cameras to film festivals, self-distribution, and the harsh realities of today’s indie film marketplace. Along the way, they share invaluable lessons about collaboration, creativity, and why waiting for permission is the fastest way to never make your movie.The conversation dives deep into crowdfunding strategy, low-budget filmmaking hacks, horror film distribution, DSLR filmmaking, building long-term creative teams, and the emotional rollercoaster of surviving post-production. Bob and Darren reveal why modern filmmakers must think beyond just making the movie and start planning distribution from day one. This is a masterclass in DIY filmmaking from two creators who learned everything the hard way—and kept going anyway.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.
Transcribe →IFH 855: The Crazy Story Behind Shooting Clerks (The Clerks Biopic) with Christopher Downie
May 1901:21:30Tap to summarizeChristopher Downie’s filmmaking journey began the same way many indie filmmakers start—with VHS tapes, cheap cameras, and a deep obsession with movies. But after discovering Kevin Smith’s Clerks and the View Askewniverse films, filmmaking transformed from a hobby into an identity. In this episode, Christopher shares the unbelievable story behind Shooting Clerks, the ambitious biopic about the making of Clerks, and how years of fan films, persistence, and sheer determination eventually earned the support of Kevin Smith himself.The conversation dives deep into the realities of independent filmmaking: actors not showing up, productions collapsing, hard drives failing days before premieres, crowdfunding chaos, and the constant need to improvise under pressure. But beneath the filmmaking war stories is a larger lesson about creativity itself—that great indie filmmaking often comes from limitations, not resources. Christopher’s story becomes a reminder that the DIY spirit that inspired Clerks decades ago is still alive today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.
Transcribe →IFH 854: Why Most Indie Films Fail Before Production Even Starts with Jenna Edwards
May 1201:12:32Tap to summarizeWhat really stops independent filmmakers from succeeding?According to producer and actress Jenna Edwards, it’s not talent, money, or even connections—it’s the complete lack of a real plan. In this powerful conversation, Jenna shares the hard truths she learned moving from acting on shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Malcolm in the Middle into producing independent films. From networking mistakes to ego-driven productions, she explains why most projects collapse long before the camera ever rolls.But beneath the filmmaking advice is an even deeper story of resilience. After surviving a horrific tragedy that nearly ended her career, Jenna rebuilt her life from the ground up and discovered a new perspective on storytelling, creativity, and collaboration. This episode becomes more than a conversation about filmmaking—it becomes a blueprint for how artists survive the chaos of the industry without losing themselves in the process.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.
Transcribe →IFH 853: The Legal Mistake That Can Destroy Your Film Career with Nellie Akalp
May 500:35:54Tap to summarizeWhat if the biggest threat to your film isn’t your budget… your script… or even your distribution—but something legal you never even thought about?In this episode, Nellie Akalp, CEO of CorpNet, breaks down the essential legal foundations every filmmaker must understand before stepping onto set. From LLCs to liability protection, she reveals why treating your film like a real business isn’t optional—it’s survival.As the conversation unfolds, the deeper truth emerges: filmmaking isn’t just art—it’s structure, protection, and strategy. Nellie explains why each film should be its own entity, how to avoid costly legal mistakes, and what most indie filmmakers get completely wrong when starting out. This isn’t about paperwork—it’s about protecting your vision, your team, and your future in the industry.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.
Transcribe →IFH 852: Why Moving to LA Might Ruin Your Film Career with Will Ball
Apr 2801:23:16Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Will Ball—talent agent and founder of a new agency—breaks down the harsh realities of the film and acting industry that most aspiring filmmakers never hear. From the oversaturated market in Los Angeles to the misconception that talent alone leads to success, Will explains why many creatives struggle after chasing the Hollywood dream. He shares firsthand experiences from working in both Philadelphia and LA, revealing how opportunity often depends on timing, positioning, and understanding the business—not just passion.The conversation also dives into practical strategies for filmmakers and actors trying to build sustainable careers. From avoiding scams and understanding representation to focusing on smaller markets where you can actually stand out, Will emphasizes the importance of taking control of your path. Instead of waiting for opportunity, creators must “greenlight themselves,” build real connections, and develop their craft in environments where they can grow—before stepping into larger, more competitive arenas.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.
Transcribe →IFH 851: Why Your Film Might Never Get Distributed (Brutal Truth) with Liz Manashil
Apr 2101:10:41Tap to summarizeWhat happens after you finish your film? For most filmmakers, that’s where the real struggle begins.In this episode, Liz Manashil—filmmaker and manager at Sundance’s Creative Distribution Initiative—reveals the uncomfortable truth about modern film distribution. From predatory deals to films that never get marketed, she explains why simply getting a distributor is no longer the goal—and why many filmmakers end up losing control of their work in the process.But there’s a shift happening. Liz breaks down how self-distribution, audience-building, and direct marketing are becoming powerful alternatives. She shares real strategies for filmmakers to take ownership of their careers, build sustainable income, and actually reach audiences. This isn’t theory—it’s the new reality of independent filmmaking.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.
Transcribe →IFH 850: Why Most Creators Never Finish Their Film (Hard Truth) with James Altucher
Apr 1401:08:05Tap to summarizeJames Altucher breaks down the real foundation of creativity and why most writers and filmmakers struggle—not because they lack talent, but because they don’t consistently generate ideas. He explains how developing an “idea muscle” through daily practice can completely transform your ability to create stories, solve problems, and build projects. Instead of waiting for inspiration, he reframes creativity as a discipline—something you train every day through repetition and experimentation.The conversation also dives into filmmaking and screenwriting from a practical perspective, including how to start projects without overthinking, why persistence matters more than perfection, and how to use small creative “wins” to build momentum. From pitching shows at HBO to creating content with minimal resources, James emphasizes that execution—not theory—is what separates working creators from those who never finish their ideas.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.
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