Becki Hayes is a Texas-born SAG-AFTRA actress known for both deaf and hearing roles. Born with a hereditary, progressive hearing loss, Becki's hearing rapidly declined, rendering her profoundly deaf by age 12.Becki made her network TV debut in ABC's "Gideons Crossing" opposite Academy Award winner Marlee Matlin, portraying a deaf teen at odds with her parents over cochlear implants. Life imitated art for Becki, as shortly after the show aired, she underwent bilateral cochlear implant surgery.She considers her former deafness a gift to her craft. "When one sense is absent, the other senses are heightened immensely. I had to become such an intense listener by necessity. In conversation, I was hyper focused on facial cues and body language to kind of fill in the gaps when words were unclear and provide context clues in order to react appropriately. My superpower is "hearing" beyond the spoken. It's authentic acting gold. I'm very lucky!"Becki is currently developing a dramedy (2020) based on her own adventures as a formerly deaf wife and mother adjusting to life changes after cochlear implants.If you liked this podcast, shoot me an e-mail at filmmakingconversations@mail.comAlso, you can check out my documentary The People of Brixton, on Kwelitv here: www.kweli.tv/programs/the-peopl…xton?autoplay=trueDamien Swaby Social Media Links:Instagram www.instagram.com/damien_swaby_video_producer/Twittertwitter.com/DamienSwaby?ref_src…erp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Ep 70: Defeating The Odds! Actress Becki Hayes, making it happen!

Discover the world of independent film with Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby!From industry professionals to the next generation of filmmakers, Damien Swaby brings his unique perspectives on indie filmmaking and the conversations that are taking place across the community.Listeners will find inspiration and guidance from conversations on the podcast and leave armed with the knowledge to make their own indie films.Tune in to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby today!Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network (www.ifhpodcastnetwork.com)

TV & Film

Film Interviews

Film History

Empowering Change Through Film with Jennifer Fischer, Executive Director of Journeys in Film.In today's enlightening episode of Filmmaking Conversations we're honored to host Jennifer Fischer, the visionary at the helm of Journeys in Film. A beacon for integrating cinema into educational paradigms, Journeys in Film is leading the charge in using the emotive power of film to educate and inspire.About Jennifer Fischer and Journeys in Film:Discover the origins of Journeys in Film and the passion that fueled its inception.Dive into the educational philosophy that guides Journeys in Film in choosing cinematic pieces that resonate with today's visually literate generation.Core Discussions:Film Selection Process: Uncover how Journeys in Film curates films and documentaries, and the critical criteria these works must fulfill.Lesson Plan Development: Learn about the meticulous process behind creating multidisciplinary lesson plans designed to broaden young minds on global issues.Interdisciplinary Teaching: Jen sheds light on the challenge of interdisciplinary teaching and the innovative ways Journeys in Film supports educators in this endeavor.Promoting Empathy: Explore the profound impact of teaching through film in fostering global competency and empathy among students.Looking Ahead:Vision and Goals: What’s next for Journeys in Film? Discover the long-term aspirations and potential new explorations.Impact Stories: Hear heartwarming feedback from teachers and students touched by the organization's work.Expanding Reach: Delve into the organization's efforts to extend its educational resources beyond the traditional classroom setting.Special Focus:"Matter of Mind: My Parkinson's": An inside look at the collaboration behind the discussion guide for this impactful film and how it will be utilized to initiate meaningful conversations.For Creators & Educators:Pathways to Contribution: Advice for filmmakers and educators eager to make a difference through educational media.Personal Insights: Jenn shares memorable reflections from working on "Matter of Mind: My Parkinson's" and insights from her own journey in film and education.W: https://journeysinfilm.org/Also, you can check out my documentary The People of Brixton, on Kwelitv here: The People of Brixton Damien Swaby Social Media Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker_damien_swaby/Twitter: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FDamienSwabyWebsite: https://www.swabyfilms.co.ukIf you enjoy listening to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, I would love a coffee. Podcasting is thirsty work: Buy me a coffee!

Ep 197: Films for Thought: Jennifer Fischer’s Educational Crusade

Guests: Dave Merlino and Dustin Sweet, Writers/DirectorsPodcast Notes:In this compelling episode, we sit down with Dave Merlino and Dustin Sweet, the creative powerhouses behind the thought-provoking documentary "APACHE BLUES: Welcome Home." Merlino, a former federal law enforcement officer turned filmmaker, and Sweet, an animation artist with a rich background in film, television, and music, share their journey making this significant film.Background: Dave and Dustin embarked on a multi-year odyssey, traveling over 30,000 miles across the continental US to delve into the hearts and memories of Vietnam War veterans. Their mission: to uncover the true essence of the war and the silent, enduring bravery of those who fought.Kregg Jorgenson's Story: A poignant part of the film, and our conversation, revolves around Kregg Jorgenson, an Army Ranger whose harrowing experiences in Vietnam showcase the sacrifice and valor overshadowed by the war’s controversial legacy.The Making of APACHE BLUES: Delving deeper, our guests reveal their motivations for pursuing this project, shedding light on the disparaging portrayal of Vietnam Veterans in media and society, and their quest to bring honor to these unsung heroes.Premiere Details: "APACHE BLUES: Welcome Home" is set for a theatrical release from November 10th to November 16th at Laemmle Theatres in Encino, with dreams of qualifying for the 2023 Academy Awards in the Best Documentary category.Conclusion: Join us as Dave and Dustin share their insights, challenges, and hopes for changing narratives and healing wounds through the power of storytelling and cinema.Listen & Share: Engage with the enduring stories of bravery, resilience, and redemption in “APACHE BLUES: Welcome Home.” Discover why it’s not just a film, but a journey to reframe our understanding of heroism and acknowledge those who've been forgotten.W: https://apachebluesfilm.com/story/#google_vignetteF: https://www.facebook.com/apachebluesfilm/Also, you can check out my documentary The People of Brixton, on Kwelitv here: The People of Brixton Damien Swaby Social Media Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker_damien_swaby/Twitter: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FDamienSwabyWebsite: https://www.swabyfilms.co.ukIf you enjoy listening to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, I would love a coffee. Podcasting is thirsty work: Buy me a coffee!

Ep 196: Heroes Unseen: The Journey of APACHE BLUES: Welcome Home

Welcome to another compelling episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, where today we have the honor of hosting Pamela Uzzell, an esteemed documentary producer, director, and editor. Her feature-length documentary, "Unearthing the Dream," not only graced Arkansas Public Television as a highlight of their independent producer series but also clinched Best Documentary at the Arkansas Black Independent Film Festival and garnered an Indie Award of Merit.Pamela's academic journey is as illustrious as her career—she's a proud alumna of Brown University, holding an MFA in Cinema from San Francisco State University. Her incredible depth of experience spans over twenty feature films in post-production, including major blockbusters like "Godfather III," "Terminator 2," and the critically acclaimed "Dead Poets’ Society."Beyond her impressive body of work, Uzzell is an active member of both the Bay Area Video Coalition and The San Francisco Film Society, championing the art of filmmaking and its transformative power.In this episode, we delve into Pamela's latest directorial venture that puts the spotlight on the Bay Area housing crisis—a poignant narrative that not only showcases individual resilience but also casts a critical eye on the pressing issue of gentrification.The documentary, "Welcome To The Neighborhood," follows artist Mildred Howard, the daughter of the legendary Berkeley activist Mable Howard, as she faces the loss of her South Berkeley home due to escalating rental prices—a personal tragedy that represents a much larger communal loss of heritage and diversity.We'll explore the journey of the Howard family and how they symbolize both the strength found in adversity and the collective fight against a housing crisis that poses a significant threat to community diversity and inclusivity.Don't miss this episode's visual companion, the trailer for "Welcome To The Neighborhood," available for viewing now. Join us in this intimate conversation with Pamela Uzzell as we uncover the stories behind the statistics and the human impact of urban transformation.Remember to subscribe to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby to never miss an episode that dives deep into the world of film and those who make it possible.Links:Watch the Trailer: https://www.welcometotheneighborhoodfilm.com/trailerDVD Purchase: https://www.welcometotheneighborhoodfilm.com/packages/dvdLearn More about Pamela Uzzell: https://www.welcometotheneighborhoodfilm.com/teamStay tuned for more insightful discussions on the next Filmmaking Conversations with Damien SwabyAlso, you can check out my documentary The People of Brixton, on Kwelitv here: The People of Brixton Damien Swaby Social Media Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker_damien_swaby/Twitter: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FDamienSwabyWebsite: https://www.swabyfilms.co.ukIf you enjoy listening to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, I would love a coffee. Podcasting is thirsty work: <a...

Ep 195: Pamela Uzzell: 'Welcome To The Neighborhood' – A Bay Area Battle

Episode Overview: Welcome to "Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby," where we explore the inner workings of the film industry and the intricacies of cinema through insightful discussions with professionals from all facets of the movie-making process. I'm your host, Damien Swaby, and in today's episode, we delve into the nuanced world of entertainment law with special guest Katherine Imp.Katherine comes with a wealth of knowledge, having juggled the dual hats of a film producer and a legal expert. Her formidable tenure at DLA Piper LLP, one of the most distinguished law firms globally, provides her with a unique perspective on the convergence of law and film production.Podcast Highlights:Transitioning from Filmmaking to Law:Katherine discusses her significant shift from producing documentaries to pursuing a career in entertainment law.She reflects on how her filmmaking background influences her current legal practice by bringing a creative storytelling perspective to the table.Understanding Production Counsel:An inside look at the daily responsibilities of a production counsel, including negotiating contracts for film and TV.Katherine explains how she uses legal frameworks to support and protect a film's vision and storyline.Protecting Intellectual Property in the Digital Era:The current challenges of protecting intellectual property in an age of streaming services and digital content.Strategies that content creators can use to secure their creative works.Legal Aspects of Film Finance and Distribution:Understanding the complexities of legal processes as films move from funding stages to reaching audiences.The role of law in maintaining the financial stability and economics of a film project.Educating New Legal Minds in Film:Insights from Katherine's experience as a guest lecturer at top institutions like USC's Gould School of Law and Marshall School of Business.Useful knowledge she imparts to students, blending her industry experience with academic learning.Foreseeing Changes in Entertainment Finance and Law:Predictions on how the financial and legal sides of entertainment will evolve to keep up with industry changes.Exploring Legal Implications of NFTs in Film:A discussion on the emerging roles of NFTs in the entertainment industry and the legal considerations surrounding them.Merging Film Passion with Legal Expertise:Katherine shares her personal journey of combining her love for film with her legal career.Analyzing a Documentary Case:A look into a complex legal scenario in documentary production and how it was resolved.Due Diligence in Acquiring Rights:Katherine spotlights the importance and process of due diligence when obtaining rights for film projects.IP Protection for Filmmakers Amidst Digital Shifts:Tips and strategies on securing intellectual property for films in a quickly changing digital landscape.Demystifying Film Finance Law:An explanation of the legal structures involved in film financing and their importance for filmmakers.Connecting Education with Real-World Legal Experience:How Katherine's practical industry experience enhances her teaching and provides value to her students' education.Impact of Blockchain on Film Financing:<br...

Ep 194: Navigating Filmmaking Through the Law with Katherine Imp

Join us in an expansive conversation with the immensely talented guest who has made waves in the worlds of photography, acting, and music. Dive deep into a journey of creative expression, technical mastery, and the entrepreneurial spirit.Melinda Dahl is a photographer, actress and musician living in Los Angeles. Raised in an artistic family in Toronto, Melinda began acting professionally at age 16. It was through photographing fellow performers in music and film that she began a lifelong fascination with documenting the arts. She concentrated in theatre at Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts and studied photography at Ryerson University and the Ontario College of Art and Design.Melinda was drawn to Los Angeles by the city’s singular ability to cultivate artists and cross-pollenate among its vibrant film, theatre, music, and visual arts scenes. For more than ten years, her commercial and editorial work has captured the creative processes of both emerging and established acts. In 2008, Melinda co-founded the production company Dahlhouse Productions with her twin sister Caitlin, specializing in creating cohesive visual content for arts, beauty and fashion clients.Her work has been featured in Launchpad Magazine, Guitar Magazine, 944 Magazine, and Campus Circle. Corporate clients include GUESS, SexyHair, Bosley Professional Strength, Oceana, Colorproof, Pharmagel and Kareco.Melinda’s fine art photography draws from her experience as a performer and songwriter and often serves as the visual accompaniment for the music of The Dahls. It has been featured in the POV Evolving Gallery in Los Angeles.Acting credits include Recurring Guest Starring roles on Loudermilk – Peter Farrelly, Casual, CSI New York, Bones, Nip Tuck, Cold Case, House alongside twin sister Caitlin, and most recently Netflix's original series Virgin River. The work she feels most proud of are the two short films "Grown Ups" and "The Get Together" written and directed by Caitlin Dahl that she starred in.https://www.melindadahl.com/aboutSynergy of Creativity: Our guest shares how being a photographer, actress, and musician allows for a cross-pollination of skills and ideas, creating a unique composite of artistic vision.Roots of Artistry: We explore the rich cultural tapestry of Toronto that nurtured our guest's artistic flair and investigate the catalyst behind her big move to the heart of the entertainment industry in Los Angeles.Capturing the Creative Spirit: Gain a rare insight into the intimate process of photographing fellow artists and the reciprocal influence this has on understanding the nexus between music and film.Harmony of Technique and Expression: Delve into how a strong foundation in theatre and photography education helps balance the technical aspects with artistic freedom in our guest's varied projects.Vision of Dahlhouse Productions: Learn about the aspirations and dreams fueling the creation of compelling visual content designed to engage and inspire within the realms of arts, beauty, and fashion.The Visual Soundscape: Listen to the behind-the-scenes magic of marrying fine art photography with the melodic stories of The Dahls, crafting an immersive experience for the audience.Embodying Diverse Characters: Hear about the methods and prep work that go into bringing to life the variety of characters on screen, including the most demanding roles our guest has encountered.Sisterhood in Art: Witness the special bond of working with a twin sibling and how this unique relationship shapes the creative process and performance...

Ep 70: Defeating The Odds! Actress Becki Hayes, making it happen!

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