Podcast
Suspenders Unbuttoned Media | Hallmark and Beyond Cast and Crew Interviews | Behind-the-Scenes
Hosted by Suspenders Unbuttoned Media · EN
Suspenders Unbuttoned Media is a fan-first entertainment show featuring exclusive interviews with Hallmark (& beyond) stars, When Calls the Heart, When Hope Calls, and the creators behind today’s most beloved feel-good series and movies.
Hosted by Sarah and Julie, each episode delivers behind-the-scenes insights, character deep dives, and authentic, unscripted conversations you won’t hear anywhere else.
If you love Hallmark movies, cast interviews, and the stories behind your favorite show and movies, this is where the conversation continues.
38episodes
Episodes
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Off Campus Director Dawn Wilkinson Breaks Down the Biggest Book-to-Screen Decisions
1w ago00:54:34Tap to summarizeDirector Dawn Wilkinson joins Suspenders Unbuttoned Media for an in-depth conversation about bringing *Off Campus* to life. From honoring fan-favorite moments to creating visually compelling emotional scenes, Dawn shares the creative decisions that shaped the series.We discuss:• Adapting the *Off Campus* books for television• Balancing book accuracy with cinematic storytelling• Directing emotional moments and fast-paced hockey sequences• Why visual storytelling often says more than dialogue• The importance of music in building character and emotion• Storyboarding complex scenes• Creating an authentic college atmosphere• Character growth, pacing, and audience connection• Behind-the-scenes insights from the productionWhether you're a longtime fan of the books or simply love learning how television is made, this conversation offers a fascinating look inside the directing process.👇 What scene from *Off Campus* were you most excited to see on screen? Let us know in the comments!Subscribe for more conversations with the actors, writers, directors, producers, and creators behind your favorite TV shows and movies.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Off Campus and Its Adaptation03:01 Navigating Book to Screen Adaptation05:52 Capturing Iconic Scenes and Character Perspectives08:45 Nostalgic Influences in Filmmaking11:44 The Role of Technology in Storytelling14:50 Challenges and Joys of Filming Hockey Scenes17:37 Directing Techniques and Storyboarding Process20:44 Creating Authentic College Atmosphere26:36 The Power of Music in Storytelling30:40 Crafting Emotional Connections Through Music32:03 The Role of Music in Character Development35:05 Exploring Male Character Growth38:40 The Coming of Age Experience42:52 Balancing Depth and Entertainment48:46 Capturing Mother-Daughter Relationships52:26 The Impact of Emotional StorytellingFollow Dawn Wilkinson:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dawnwilkinsonX: https://twitter.com/dawnwilkinsonListen to Suspenders Unbuttoned Media wherever you get your podcasts.
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Peter Porte on The Love Heist | Hallmark's Fresh Take on Romance, Mystery & Comedy
2w ago00:31:00Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Suspenders Unbuttoned, we sit down with Peter Porte to discuss his starring role in Hallmark's newest romantic mystery, The Love Heist.Peter shares how a ski accident and torn ACL unexpectedly connected him to his character, why The Love Heist breaks away from traditional romantic comedy formulas, and what makes this film feel fresh, fun, and different from anything Hallmark fans have seen before.We also dive into:✨ The unique meet-cute that kicks off the story✨ Romance mixed with mystery and high-stakes adventure✨ Physical comedy, choreography, and stunt work✨ The evolving relationship at the heart of the film✨ How The Love Heist reimagines classic rom-com storytelling✨ Behind-the-scenes insights from filmingIf you're a fan of Hallmark movies, romantic comedies, mystery stories, or Peter Porte, this is an interview you won't want to miss.🎬 Subscribe for more conversations with the actors, writers, directors, and creators behind your favorite TV shows and movies.#PeterPorte #TheLoveHeist #HallmarkChannel #HallmarkMovies #RomCom #RomanticComedy #HallmarkMystery #MovieInterview #SuspendersUnbuttoned #BehindTheScenesI
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The Secret Ingredient Behind Texas Two Step | According to Director Eva Tavares
3w ago00:58:42Tap to summarizeBehind the Scenes of Texas Two Step with Director Eva Tavares.What happens when a director brings a background in dance, opera, acting, and visual storytelling to a Hallmark romance? In this episode of Suspenders Unbuttoned Media, we sit down with director Eva Tavares to explore the creative journey behind Texas Two-Step. Eva shares how her experience in performance and movement shapes the way she approaches directing, from choreography and camera placement to lighting, emotion, and the subtle moments that make a love story feel authentic. We dive into the visual language of the film, the collaborative process of bringing a story to life, and how the smallest details can create some of the most memorable moments on screen. Eva also discusses the importance of mentorship through Hallmark's Make Her Mark program.Whether you're a Hallmark fan, aspiring filmmaker, or simply curious about what happens behind the camera, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the artistry and collaboration that go into making a romantic movie.In This Episode:✨ The making of Texas Two -Step✨ How dance and choreography influence directing✨ Creating authentic chemistry and emotional moments✨ Lighting, mood, and visual storytelling✨ Building layered Hallmark romances✨ Pre-visualization and filmmaking techniques✨ The power of collaboration on set✨ Hallmark's Make Her Mark mentorship program✨ What's next for Eva Tavares📸 Follow Eva Tavares on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eva.l.tavares/#EvaTavares #TexasTwoStep #Hallmark #HallmarkMovies #MakeHerMark #DirectorInterview #Filmmaking #RomanceMovies #BehindTheScenes #SuspendersUnbuttonedMedia
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Inside Hallmark (fan) Experiences with Producers Kevin Duda & Chad Larabee
3w ago00:48:51Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Suspenders Unbuttoned Media, we sit down with producers Kevin Duda and Chad Larabee, the creative team helping bring some of Hallmark's biggest fan events to life, including Hallmark Stars Live, the Hallmark Christmas Experience, and the Hallmark Christmas Cruise.From live stage shows and interactive fan events to immersive holiday celebrations at sea and in Kansas City, Kevin and Chad share how these experiences are designed to create something Hallmark fans crave most: genuine connection.We discuss their careers in producing, the collaborative process behind large-scale entertainment events, and how Hallmark is expanding beyond the screen to create opportunities for fans to engage with the stars, stories, and community they love.You'll also get an inside look at:⭐ How Hallmark Stars Live was developed⭐ What makes each live show unique⭐ The evolution of the Hallmark Christmas Experience⭐ Bringing Hallmark magic from Kansas City to the open sea with the Hallmark Christmas Cruise⭐ Audience participation, storytelling, and unexpected moments⭐ Why connection remains the driving force behind every Hallmark event⭐ The challenges and rewards of producing large fan-focused experiencesWhether you're attending a Hallmark event this year, planning a future trip, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the people helping shape the future of Hallmark Experiences.About Our GuestsKevin Duda, of Kevin Duda Productions, is a producer whose work spans television, film, Broadway, and live entertainment. Known for his collaborative approach to storytelling and audience engagement, he helps create experiences that bring fans closer to the stories they love.Chad Larabee brings a background in directing and producing live entertainment, with a passion for creating meaningful audience experiences through storytelling, community, and connection.Learn more about Kevin and Chad by visiting https://www.kevindudaproductions.com/and follow along on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kevindudagram/🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and wherever you get your podcasts.📺 Subscribe for more conversations with the actors, writers, directors, producers, and creatives behind your favorite Hallmark movies, series, and fan experiences.#HallmarkStarsLive #HallmarkChristmasExperience #HallmarkChristmasCruise #HallmarkChannel #HallmarkFans #KevinDuda #ChadLarabee #HallmarkEvents #HallmarkExperiences #SuspendersUnbuttonedMedia #BehindTheScenes #HallmarkMovies #PodcastInterview #ChristmasCruise #KansasCityChristmasExperience
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Sarah Carson | She Helped Break Barriers at Harvard. Then Became a Private Investigator and Actress
Jun 1000:31:42Tap to summarizeWhat do Harvard Business School, CEO, private investigations, and acting have in common? For actress and former CEO and private investigator Sarah Carson, the answer is people.In this fascinating conversation, Sarah shares her remarkable journey from corporate America to becoming one of the first women to graduate from Harvard Business School, working undercover as a private investigator, and ultimately building a career in front of the camera.We explore how confidence is built through experience, the challenges of changing careers, and how her unique professional background has shaped the way she approaches acting and storytelling today. Sarah also offers insights into human behavior, resilience, and why some of life's most unexpected detours can become our greatest strengths.Whether you're navigating a career change, pursuing a creative dream, or simply love hearing incredible life stories, this conversation is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and unforgettable behind-the-scenes moments.In This Episode:✨ Sarah's journey from corporate America to acting✨ Being among the first women to graduate from Harvard Business School✨ Working undercover as a private investigator✨ Building confidence through life's challenges✨ Lessons on career pivots and reinvention✨ How understanding human behavior enhances acting and storytellingConnect with Sarah Carson:Website: https://www.sarahcarsonactor.com/aboutIG: https://www.instagram.com/castsarahcarson/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcarsonactor/
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How Riley Weston Adapted a Bestselling Novel Into a Great American Family Rom-Com
Jun 901:03:56Tap to summarizeThis week on Suspenders Unbuttoned Media, we sit down with writer and producer Riley Weston to talk about bringing Meet Me in the Margins from page to screen for Great American Family.Riley takes us behind the scenes of the adaptation process, sharing how she balances honoring the source material while creating a story that works on screen. From navigating budget realities and production challenges to crafting memorable characters and heartfelt romance, she offers an inside look at the art of screenwriting.We also dive into her career journey, her love of romantic comedies and holiday films, and the lessons she's learned from working across multiple areas of the entertainment industry.If you've ever wondered how your favorite books become movies, this conversation is for you.Subscribe for more unbuttoned conversations with the creatives behind the stories you love.
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Nikki DeLoach Talks The Greek Isle, Filming in Greece & Hallmark Live Tour
Jun 500:21:55Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we sit down with Nikki DeLoach to talk about filming her newest Hallmark destination romance, The Greek Isle. From breathtaking locations and cultural experiences to the unique challenges of filming abroad, Nikki takes us behind the scenes of one of Hallmark's most scenic productions yet.We also chat about why destination movies continue to resonate with audiences, what makes Greece such a magical backdrop for storytelling, and what fans can look forward to on the upcoming Hallmark Live Tour.If you've ever dreamed of traveling through a Hallmark movie, this conversation is your passport.✨ In this episode:• Behind the scenes of filming The Greek Isle• What it was really like living and working in Greece• The appeal of Hallmark's destination movies• Storytelling through travel and culture• Nikki's upcoming Hallmark Live Tour• Why these fan experiences mean so much🎙️ Subscribe for more unbuttoned conversations with the actors, writers, directors, and creatives behind your favorite TV and film projects.#NikkiDeLoach #TheGreekIsle #HallmarkChannel #HallmarkMovies #HallmarkLive #DestinationMovies #SuspendersUnbuttonedMedia
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Emma Brodie Interview | What Happens When Fandom Becomes Real Life?
Jun 400:48:29Tap to summarizeWhat happens when fandom, friendship, identity, and love collide?NYT Bestselling author Emma Brodie joins Suspenders Unbuttoned Media to dive into her emotionally layered novel, Into the Blue, a story that explores fandom culture, personal growth, family relationships, and the complicated space between who we are and who we're expected to be.In this conversation, Emma shares the inspiration behind AJ and Noah's journey, the role fan communities play in shaping identity, and why Into the Blue is about so much more than romance. From hidden Easter eggs and pop culture references to the emotional realities of chronic illness, family dynamics, and self-discovery, this episode explores the deeper themes that have resonated with readers around the world.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Emma Brodie and 'Into the Blue'02:54 Exploring Fandom and Easter Eggs in 'Into the Blue'06:01 The Depth of 'Into the Blue': More Than a Romance07:59 Character Development: Meeting Noah and AJ11:25 AJ's Journey: Strengths and Obstacles14:49 Layering Family Dynamics and Relationships16:55 The Connection Between AJ and Noah22:07 Health and Its Impact on Character Development25:00 The Bond of Twins: AJ and Emily28:07 Acting and Improv as a Mechanism for Connection30:26 The Emotional Journey of Writing32:33 Balancing Heartbreak and Joy35:24 The Role of Family in Storytelling38:16 Connection to Fandoms and Fan Culture43:25 Visualizing Characters in Writing46:19 Messages of Authenticity and Time Follow Emma Website: https://emmabrodie.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma.c.brodie/
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How Bridgerton Season 4 Brings Benedict & Sophie to Life | Alicia Robbins, ASC Tells All
Jun 200:53:52Tap to summarizeCinematographer Alicia Robbins, ASC joins Sarah and Julie for an in-depth conversation about the creative choices, visual storytelling, and behind-the-scenes collaboration that helped shape one of the most talked-about seasons of Bridgerton. Alicia shares insights into developing the look and feel of Benedict and Sophie's romance, balancing the series' signature elegance with intimate character moments, and working alongside the cast and creative team to bring the world of Bridgerton to the screen.Known for her work on Bridgerton, Grey's Anatomy, and numerous acclaimed television projects, Alicia offers a fascinating look at how cinematography influences storytelling, emotion, and character development.
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Showrunner Alfonso Moreno on Hope Valley: 1874, When Hope Calls & Building Connected Worlds
May 1901:03:43Tap to summarizeWhat if characters started speaking for themselves? Showrunner Alfonso Moreno joins the conversation to break down the creative worlds of Hope Valley 1874 and When Hope Calls.Step behind the scenes with showrunner and executive producer Alfonso Moreno as he shares the creative process behind building the interconnected worlds of When Hope Calls and Hope Valley: 1874. From crafting emotionally layered character arcs to balancing historical grit with heartfelt storytelling, Alfonso dives into what brings these beloved series to life.Discover how characters begin to “speak” during the writing process, how actors influence story development, and why community remains at the heart of both Hope Valley and Brookfield. Alfonso also opens up about creating meaningful journeys for fan-favorite characters while laying the groundwork for future stories across both series.This conversation explores:• The creative inspiration behind Hope Valley 1874• Building connected storytelling worlds between series• Character development and emotional story arcs• The importance of history, resilience, and community• Behind-the-scenes insight into the writing room process• How actors help shape the voices of their charactersIf you love heartfelt television, behind-the-scenes storytelling, and deep dives into the creative process behind series like When Hope Calls and Hope Valley 1874, this episode is packed with insight fans will love.Watch the full episode on YouTube or listen wherever podcasts are available.#HopeValley1874 #WhenHopeCalls #AlfonsoMoreno #Hallmark #TVWriting #CharacterDevelopment #BehindTheScenes #HopeValley #Storytelling #PeriodDrama
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