We're a married couple of filmmakers, supporting our family of seven through doing work we love, together. It's been a long and difficult journey, and we still have a lot to learn, but for us, it's well-worth the effort. We developed this podcast and the Feature Filmmaker Academy for anyone who wants a career making feature films, especially those balancing that pursuit with the responsibility of parenthood and providing for a family. Tune in as we study success patterns of industry professionals, interview other feature filmmakers, share takeaways from our favorite film courses or books, and give behind-the-scenes breakdowns and insights on films you love.
Send us Fan MailWe talk with filmmaker Dan Davis about the ethics of telling other people’s hardest stories and the business decisions that keep story-first work sustainable. Dan shares how Stiry grows from an entrepreneurial background into a documentary “story house” that protects trust, builds a film library, and finds distribution partners who honor the storyteller. • Aligning on a shared agenda with storytellers • Filming painful experiences without exploitation • Moving from business and sports into film production • Leaving commercial work that feels empty • Building Stiry around gut-level inspiration and values • Making story-first branded films people actually watch • Creating a scalable library through licensing and distribution • The long path to distributing Breaking Into Beautiful • Why distributor marketing drives performance • Choosing a brand-first model over director fame Check out Stiry Studios.Watch Breaking into Beautiful. Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
4/22/26 • 45:01
Send us Fan MailBlair Treu shares his four-decade journey from student films to directing Disney Channel hits to documentary filmmaking, revealing the practical realities of building a career in the entertainment industry. His experiences demonstrate how persistence, adaptability, and starting small can lead to sustainable success in filmmaking.• Beginning as Kevin Bacon's stand-in on "Footloose," giving him 58 days of practical film education• Selling his car and motorcycle to fund his first short film that ultimately paid for his college education• Starting at Disney on the executive track but transitioning to directing to follow his passion• Building a portfolio through commercials, promotional videos, and training films before tackling features• Directing Disney Channel movies like "Wish Upon a Star" with Katherine Heigl• Finding success with theatrical releases including "Little Secrets"• Creating documentary "Sharing Aloha" about students at the Polynesian Cultural Center• Balancing filmmaking career with family life by involving children in projects• Recently filming "World's Fastest Grandpa" documentary entirely on iPhone• Emphasizing the value of making mistakes and learning through repeated practiceWhether you're just starting out or looking to pivot in your career, start small, tell stories within your reach, and build your portfolio incrementally to create opportunities for larger projects.Check out Blair's most recent film, Sharing Aloha. Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
4/1/26 • 44:16
Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a decades-long dream project suddenly gains unstoppable momentum? For married filmmakers Lee and Katherine, their baseball-themed feature "Rally Caps" represents both the unpredictable magic and sobering business realities of modern independent filmmaking.After 15 years of development, what began as a passion project during the pandemic transformed when former MLB player Curtis Pride joined with his children as cast members, Major League Baseball provided support, and stars Judd Hirsch and Amy Smart signed on. As Katherine reveals, "The universe was our executive producer" – whenever the production seemed doomed, last-minute miracles kept it alive.The duo generously shares hard-earned wisdom that could save fellow filmmakers thousands of dollars and countless headaches. Katherine's marketing background proves crucial, emphasizing that marketing considerations should influence creative decisions from day one. "Put some kind of marketing budget in there," she urges, highlighting the importance of professional photo shoots, behind-the-scenes documentation, and strategic product placement. Their partnership with Phonak, a hearing aid company, exemplifies how sponsorships can organically enhance storytelling while providing crucial financing.Perhaps their most valuable insight challenges the romantic notion of filmmaking as primarily creative work. "99% of making a film is business and logistics," Lee explains, detailing their harrowing experience navigating SAG requirements that nearly derailed production. They emphasize starting SAG paperwork 6-8 weeks before production and setting aside significant funds for bonds.For directors seeking representation, Lee offers balanced perspective on working with managers: "It's a partnership... their job is not to go out and get stuff for you." Instead, his manager provides script feedback, creative dialogue, and occasional meeting opportunities – a realistic relationship that contrasts with unrealistic expectations many filmmakers hold.Whether you're starting your first film or scaling up your productions, this conversation illuminates the path forward in an industry where traditional routes to success have disappeared. Check out "Rally Caps" on Peacock to see the fruits of their labor, and visit http://www.crystalrockentertainment.com to connect with these generous filmmakers who truly understand what it takes to bring an independent vision to life. Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
6/23/25 • 72:22
Send us Fan MailJosh and Jessica Jordan share their unique cinematic journey where Eastern spirituality meets Texas landscapes in their black and white feature film "El Tonto Por Cristo" - the tale of an Orthodox monastery on the coast of Texas where an unlikely saint emerges.Support El Tonto Por Cristo's theatrical run here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/748841722/el-tonto-por-cristo-a-cinematic-meditation?ref=7zrob8Our conversation dives deep into the art of "transcendental cinema" - a slow deliberate approach inspired by masters like Tarkovsky, Bresson, and Bergman, that invites viewers to lean in rather than be force-fed meaning. As Josh explains, "I think that's the reason we're artists - we should not really fully understand who we are." This philosophy permeates their filmmaking process, where they embrace the unknown while meticulously crafting each frame.What makes this discussion particularly compelling is the behind-the-scenes reality of independent filmmaking. The Jordans reveal how they transformed a 19th century house into both living quarters for the crew and a monastery set, secured SAG approval miraculously a mere hours before filming began during the actors' strike, and completed principal photography in just 14 days. Their emphasis on building community through filmmaking - casting local theater actors and involving family members in production - offers a refreshing counterpoint to Hollywood's star-driven approach.Beyond production details, the conversation explores the spiritual dimensions of cinema and why certain films endure beyond box office numbers. The Jordans articulate a profound vision for making movies that matter - works that may polarize audiences but ultimately speak truth about the human condition. Their journey to Orthodoxy informs their artistic sensibilities while maintaining a focus on storytelling.For aspiring filmmakers, spiritual seekers, or someone who simply appreciates thoughtfully crafted cinema, this episode offers insights into creating art that transcends commercial expectations. Follow El Tonto Pro Cristo on Instagram to discover when this unique film might grace a theater near you or consider donating to their fundraiser (live now!) for its theatrical run, at the link above. Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
6/3/25 • 74:05
Send us Fan MailLegal expertise isn't just a box to check—it's a vital component of successful filmmaking that can make or break your project. Entertainment attorney Pete Salsich III pulls back the curtain on the often intimidating world of film law, revealing how proper legal structuring serves as the foundation for creative freedom rather than an obstacle to it.At the core of film production lies one fundamental principle: copyright law governs everything, and establishing clear ownership is non-negotiable if you hope to secure distribution or funding. Pete walks us through the process of creating a dedicated LLC for your project, executing proper work-for-hire agreements with every contributor, and ensuring that all intellectual property flows to a single owner—crucial steps that many filmmakers overlook until it's too late.Rather than viewing legal services as a drain on limited resources, Pete encourages filmmakers to reframe production legal as an essential line item in their budget—just like camera equipment or insurance. This shift in perspective transforms the attorney-client relationship from a transactional expense into a true creative partnership. Whether you're working with a micro-budget or gunning for seven figures, proper legal structuring signals professionalism to investors, qualifies you for valuable tax incentives, and prevents the heartbreak of "falling in love with footage you can't use."The conversation demystifies everything from investor agreements to music licensing, offering practical guidance for filmmakers at every level. Pete emphasizes that while DIY contracts might suffice for your first project, they create a ceiling that prevents growth into larger budget productions. As you elevate your filmmaking ambitions, having an attorney who understands the entertainment landscape becomes not just helpful but necessary.Ready to transform your approach to film legal? Visit www.thescreenlawyer.com to learn more about Pete's services or to connect with him for your next project. Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
5/15/25 • 60:42
Send us Fan MailNathan and Meghan Leon share their journey as Christian filmmakers who have found creative ways to balance their family life with independent film production while maintaining creative control and authenticity in their storytelling.• Started from creative backgrounds with Nathan in an Act One mentorship program and Meghan with a master's in creative writing• Prioritize family by including their children on set and creating a familial environment for cast and crew• Believe God blesses work when family comes first, even if it means fewer working hours• Focus on creating authentic Christian stories that address real-life struggles rather than sanitized versions of faith• Made "Grace by Night" for under $500,000 while competing with $5-10 million productions at festivals• Hire small groups of talented people rather than overstaffing to maximize budget efficiency• Find creative solutions for expensive-looking shots without breaking the bank• Build relationships with potential investors through smaller projects and networking• Remain independent to maintain creative control over their storytelling• Create positive set environments where cast and crew feel respected and valuedVisionary Film Productions can be found at visionary-filmproductions.com Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
3/20/25 • 69:15
Send us Fan MailCelebrating the 100th episode, we take a look back at our journey from conceptualizing our first low/no-budget feature film, "The Loved & Lost" to making a living as feature filmmakers now. We share a memorable Q&A session captured during our festival run. The discussion highlights the emotional themes, affordances and limitations of indie filmmaking, and the learning experiences that shaped our storytelling and career. This podcast episode includes:• An overview of the Q&A and reflections on the St. Louis Festival • Insights into our first film's origin and production challenges • Exploration of thematic motifs and emotional depth • Audience reactions and questions about the film • Discussion about directing children and capturing authentic moments • Technical details about gear, resourcefulness, and filmmaking techniques • Announcements, including a distribution deal update and our current scholarship opportunity in the Feature Filmmaker Academy• Introduction to our next feature release, the documentary, 'Ride in Paradise' Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
1/16/25 • 26:59
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we chat with Chris Peters, co-founder of Crave Content, about his journey from making backyard films with his brother-in-law David Lawrence to establishing a successful film production brand. Chris shares the creative development process of merging two short films into a feature-length narrative. We discuss the inventive strategies employed to tackle budget constraints, DIY post-production, and shooting an entire feature in 16 days. Chris describes the perseverance required to navigate the world of distribution, emphasizing FilmHub as a viable platform for indie creators. We think you'll enjoy hearing how he managed to turn a profit self-distributing his first feature film.For more information about Chris, check out his website at Chrave.coCheck out his YouTube Video: Never expected our indie film to make this much on TubiYou can watch the film here: https://www.chrave.co/mhr Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
12/13/24 • 68:07
Send us Fan MailJoin us as we chat with independent film producer, author, and creative entrepreneur Daren Smith to uncover the often-overlooked role producers play in bringing a story into existence. Daren discusses his collaborations with director Garrett Batty on indie films "Faith of Angels" and "The Carpenter" and how he navigates the complex world of theatrical releases.Daren shares his journey from sound to screen, explaining how passion for theatrical distribution fuels a desire to create immersive experiences for audiences. The conversation touches on the essence of balancing artistry with commerce, as well as the significance of mentorship. Daren shares unique strategies independent producers employ to thrive in a competitive market while staying true to their creative visions.With a keen eye on the financial success of indie films, Daren discusses innovative investment models, release strategies, and step-by-step career growth. Learn more about Daren's Films and Check out his blog/podcast at: https://www.craftsmanfilms.co/ Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
11/19/24 • 68:30
Send us Fan MailIn this episode as we uncover the powerful impact of time constraints on getting things done. We illustrate how setting tight time limits can drastically reduce procrastination and boost your focus. These principles apply whether you are managing household chores or attempting to finish a film with our 1 year timeline in the Feature Filmmaker Academy. Discover how working within set time frames can lead to more efficient and concentrated work sessions.Successful runners often prioritize the time spent running over distance or pace, emphasizing the importance of consistency. We'll discuss how incorporating short, intense bursts of activity—akin to "speed work" in running—into your daily life can yield significant results. Tune in as we explore balancing endurance and speed work, and learn how limiting yourself can actually help you get the results you want faster. Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
7/25/24 • 11:25
Send us Fan MailDirector of the post-apocalyptic film, Permafrost, Lenni Uitto takes us behind the scenes and shares his experiences making and ultimately self-distributing his first film with Film Hub. Join us as we unravel Lenni's journey from coding to creating post-apocalyptic films. From making camping videos on YouTube to experimenting with After Effects and even taking acting classes, Lenny's story is a testament to how following your passion can lead to unexpected and rewarding paths. We explore how his love for storytelling led him to create short films that have garnered impressive online viewership, followed by his first feature film.Reflecting on his own experiences, Lenni shares the highs and lows of quitting a stable job to chase the dreams of acting and filmmaking. The importance of financial stability became evident as he navigated the challenges of an industry hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. With a touch of serendipity, a friend's intriguing story idea sparked the creation of his post-apocalyptic film, showcasing creativity and resilience to produce meaningful art amidst adversity.Expect an in-depth look at the nitty-gritty of indie filmmaking, from budgeting and resourcefulness to the crucial role of collaboration. We discuss practical tips on managing costs, securing essential equipment, and feeding a cast and crew on a budget. We also dive into film distribution, marketing strategies, the process of audience targeting, and specifically Lenni's experience and results so far partnering with an aggregator, Film Hub, to release his movie. Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
6/5/24 • 74:18
Send us Fan MailIn this episode we explore why thinking like a hobbyist filmmaker may be the fastest way to eventually transition into a professional career. Learn how starting with passion projects and investing in your hobby can lead to professional growth and financial sustainability. We delve into the concept of building filmmaking assets, illustrating how every project, no matter its immediate success, contributes to a lucrative portfolio over time.It's not just about the career milestones. We also explore the intrinsic joy of creative pursuits, drawing a parallel with our son's newfound passion for baseball. His love for the game, regardless of professional equipment or formal training, serves as a poignant reminder of why we started filmmaking in the first place. Drawing inspiration from industry legends, we invite you to embrace a fearless, joyful approach to filmmaking. Whether you consider yourself a seasoned filmmaker or a passionate hobbyist, we hope this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration to fuel your creative journey. Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
5/30/24 • 28:23
Send us Fan MailJoin the conversation as filmmaker Matthew Taggart pulls back the curtain on the life of an indie filmmaker, from his first leap into directing with "The Counterfeit Kid" to managing the delicate balance of family and film. Matthew's journey offers a relatable peek into the highs and lows of bringing a vision to the big screen, navigating through the world of independent cinema with a blend of passion and pragmatism. His unique perspective as a father and husband infuses our chat with anecdotes that resonate, whether you're a film buff or a curious listener enchanted by the art of storytelling.Ever wondered how indie films come to life against the odds of tight budgets and logistical hurdles? Our episode peels back layers of the production process, from scriptwriting collaborations to a barter system that keeps the wheels turning. Matthew shares tales of community generosity and the creative solutions that define indie projects, painting a vivid portrait of the camaraderie and resourcefulness that fuels the film industry's underdogs. The discussion also ventures into the nuanced arena of directing young talent, especially when the actors are from your own family tree, offering a heartfelt glimpse into the intersection of personal and professional worlds on set.As we wrap up, Matthew ushers us through the maze of indie film distribution, highlighting his positive experiences with Porter Craig and the importance of aligning with partners who champion the film's essence. This episode is a testament to the shared dedication that courses through the veins of filmmakers and the impact of a supportive community. By the end, you'll not only have a deeper appreciation for the art of cinema but also be inspired by the determination and inventiveness that bring indie films from script to screen. Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
4/18/24 • 87:17
Send us Fan MailWhere do I distribute the funds that I have procured for my film? How much will each facet of making a movie cost me so that I know how to lay out the budget?Once you have finished your film, you can receive laurels from festivals; even the small film festivals. These laurels help promote trailers and posters that are used to market your film to the masses.Join us today as we dive into the subject of four walling and what it takes to do it.Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
4/17/24 • 28:21
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4/4/24 • 19:12
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1/13/23 • 63:57
Send us Fan MailHow do you add value to your film? What does that mean? What determines value and why would people pay money to watch what you make?It's impossible to amplify the and sell the value of your film to the world if you don't understand why it matters to your audience on a deep level early on.Tune in to this episode to explore the most intrinsic deep value films can offer their audiences and how you can tap into and amplify that value to make a radical ROI with your first feature film.Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
11/16/22 • 35:20
Send us Fan MailDo you think that you need to give up everything in your life to get your feature film off of the ground? The opposite may actually be true. Sacrificing your lifestyle will only deplete your store of creativity and contacts that can lead to the very connections and resources you need. Keeping your day job can provide a safety net that allows you more creative freedom.Tune into this episode to learn about why a practical self-paced approach can lead to a better feature film career.Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
11/4/22 • 37:16
Send us Fan MailHow well do you know your characters? Can you anticipate how a person would act in a variety of situations? In art, if you're drawing a person, you have to understand how bone structure works to be able to draw the figure accurately, but you're not going to actually see the bones necessarily in the finished product. The same is true for character development. The benefits of knowing each character well will help you to write and/or direct more confidently. Tune into this episode to learn some practical techniques that you can use today to create rich, relatable characters.Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
10/27/22 • 39:17
Send us Fan MailAre you feeling overwhelmed with all that you need to accomplish? In this episode, we talk about the importance of self care and how to prioritize your time in order to feel better.Free "Make Your Feature Film" ChecklistSchedule my Greenlight CallCheck Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
10/12/22 • 14:58
Send us Fan Mail Thinking that there isn't an interesting enough story in your life worth telling? This episode will help you discover what you can share with the world. In this episode, Kent and Anna discuss how to make a story personal, how to use your resources, and share some of their own personal perspectives on the subject. Free "Make Your Feature Film" ChecklistSchedule my Greenlight CallCheck Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
9/24/22 • 60:16
Send us Fan MailWhich crew members are most essential for your film, and which ones can you do without for your first feature? Who can manage multiple roles without being overwhelmed? If you're creating a film with a low/no budget range, then this podcast episode is for you. Free "Make Your Feature Film" ChecklistSchedule my Greenlight CallCheck Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
9/19/22 • 23:24
Send us Fan MailIf you work with someone you love or are have family roles to play whilst also working on a film production, this episode is for you.Free "Make Your Feature Film" ChecklistSchedule my Greenlight CallCheck Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
9/1/22 • 41:05
Send us Fan MailAn exclusive interview with Adam Bova, professor at Columbus State University and Producer on the Indie Feature, A Place Called Home. We talk about:Balancing film and family How distribution is changing Why passion projects pay Advantages of making a low-budget first film Approaching distribution without a sales agent What Adam wishes he had known before making his debut featureTrailer for the FilmAwards PageFree "Make Your Feature Film" ChecklistCheck Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
8/29/22 • 53:28
Send us Fan MailPeter Jackson is the 3rd highest grossing film director of all time. He is an absolute legend, but he got his start following the same pattern that all best filmmakers do. He made movies for fun with his friends. They wore all the hats and played all the roles. They DIY-ed their own gear/props/costumes as they went. They broke all the "rules." They kept their day jobs. They made their first feature film in their spare time. They had no formal training, but lots of fun. And the rest is history.Documentary about the making of Bad TasteFree "Make Your Feature Film" ChecklistCheck Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
8/12/22 • 28:00
Send us Fan MailThis week on the podcast, we break down the exciting new film, "Top Gun 2 - Maverick" by filmmaker Joseph Kosinski. You can watch behind the scenes footage and interviews about the making of the film here.Once a month, as part of our Movie Club series of the podcast, we share a noteworthy film and discuss it in depth. In this episode, we talk about how Top Gun 2 demonstrates leadership, why the filmmakers decided to use more expensive practical effects instead of digital, and what the film's popular reception teaches us about audiences today. Make Your Feature Film (Free Step-by-Step Guide):www.InvisibleMansion.com/FreeChecklistSchedule a Free Consultation CallCheck Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
7/25/22 • 23:25
Send us Fan MailThis week on the podcast, we interview award-winning commercial director and founder of Variable, Jon Bregel. This one is a treat. Jon is humble, personable, and open.I can't wait for you to hear his incredible story and learn about the wellness community he created after struggling with the pressure of explosive success and difficulty in maintaining a healthy work/life balance.He shares insights about the power of stillness, prioritizing health and wellness, and how personal relationships with his wife and mom helped him get through. Check it out!Check Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
7/15/22 • 64:10
Send us Fan MailThis week on the podcast, we interview Barrett Burgin about the recent theatrical release of his debut feature film, Cryo. Join us as we discuss the process he went through to get this film made and sold while also finishing school, working a day job, and providing for his young family.Barrett shares his biggest takeaways from his experience making and selling this film. He is a great example of the success that you can achieve, too, by following the process we teach in the Feature Filmmaker Academy. Learn more about Cryo on IMDBSchedule a Free Consultation CallCheck Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
7/8/22 • 62:56
Send us Fan MailSchedule a Free Consultation CallWatch the Movie HereWatch the Clip of them running through a FieldCheck Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
6/14/22 • 49:07
Send us Fan MailThis week on the podcast we discuss some filmmakers who are exceptions to the typical success patterns or career trajectory that we teach.Make Your Feature Film (Free Step-by-Step Guide):www.InvisibleMansion.com/FreeChecklistCheck Out Our Most Recent FilmFree "Make Your Feature Film" Checklist
5/21/22 • 35:00
