The Filmmaking Stuff Podcast

Smart indie film budgeting can make or break your shoot. In this quick episode, I share practical spend vs. skip tips to help you use every dollar wisely — from feeding your crew right to avoiding costs that never make it on screen. Listen in and learn how to get maximum production value without breaking the bank.

Ready to crush your next investor pitch meeting? In this episode, you'll learn exactly how to get investors interested in your movie by starting with active listening, crafting an irresistible quick pitch, and mastering strategic silence.

Tune in and transform your pitch skills today!

Ever wondered exactly which indie films distributors are hungry for? In this episode, we dive into the exact movie genres that sell best, why star-power matters more than ever, and the secret to standing out in today's ultra-competitive indie market.

Tune in to find out how to get distributors excited about your next film project!

Thinking about selling your film internationally? In this episode, I break down exactly how to navigate film markets like AFM, EFM, and Cannes, identify ideal distributors, and position your movie to maximize overseas sales.

Tune in and take your indie film global!

In this episode, I talk about how to use AI tools like ChatGPT responsibly in the filmmaking process. From speeding up busywork to breaking creative blocks, you’ll learn what AI can actually do—and where it can’t replace the human touch. Perfect for indie filmmakers looking to boost productivity without sacrificing originality.

In this episode, we dive into how AI is transforming filmmaking—from casting docs to visual effects—and why keeping the “human in the loop” is critical to protecting your creative voice. We cover how to use AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Veo without giving up authorship, and where to draw the line between helpful and harmful. If you’re navigating the changing landscape of indie film, this is a must-listen.

In this episode, I break down the real reasons so many indie films fail to land distribution. From dropping buyer budgets to unrealistic expectations, this is a no-fluff take on today’s film sales market—and what you need to do to stay ahead.

Keywords: why films fail to sell, film sales strategy, indie film distribution, how to sell your movie, sales agent tips

In this episode, I break down everything indie filmmakers need to know from the 2025 Cannes Film Market. From shrinking mid-budget profitability to the rise of micro-budget films and AI tools, I’m covering the shifts that will impact your next project. Don’t raise a dime in private equity until you hear this.

In this episode, we break down the myths around “micro-budget filmmaking” and how to shoot a real, marketable feature that looks like a million bucks—without spending it. We talk production value, tech tools, and why most people are doing it wrong.

Perfect for indie filmmakers, first-timers, and anyone serious about building a career in film.

In this episode, I break down how filmmakers can avoid bad deals with distributors or sales agents—by doing smarter research, knowing what red flags to look for, and understanding what “getting burned” actually means in today’s film market.

Can you break into the movie business if you don’t live in a major city? Absolutely. In this episode, we cover real strategies to stay connected to the industry through film markets, festivals, meetings, and smart networking — no matter where you live.

Listen and find out how showing up (in person or online) can open doors from anywhere.

Not all money is good money. In this episode, learn how to envision the ideal investor for your film and craft your outreach accordingly. Whether it’s a horror fan with money to burn or a philanthropist passionate about your doc topic, this strategy gets results.

First-time feature filmmaker? In this episode, I break down 5 things I wish I knew before shooting my first professional movie. From finding the right team to staying sane through chaos, these tips are gold for anyone stepping into the director’s chair.

🎬 Keywords: indie filmmaking, first feature film, production tips, filmmaking advice, how to make a movie

Not all money is good money. In this episode, learn how to envision the ideal investor for your film and craft your outreach accordingly. Whether it’s a horror fan with money to burn or a philanthropist passionate about your doc topic, this strategy gets results.

In this episode, I’m giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how we set up meetings, pitch films, and close deals. From wrangling 18 buyer meetings a day to figuring out which trailer makes a film sell—this is a real-world guide to the hustle of film sales.

🎬 Keywords: film markets, AFM, EFM, Cannes, sales agents, indie film distribution, film sales strategy, pitching films

Distributors and sales agents often check your IMDb to gauge your experience. In this episode, I break down how to make sure your page works in your favor, what to include, what not to fake, and why professionalism (even in your email address) really matters.