Join us for the third in our series of director interviews from the roster of Cry, the creative and post studio behind this podcast. This week Justin chats with director & editor, Ryan Vera about his creative process, finding the flow state, and maintaining authenticity in a noisy world.

In this discussion, Ryan touches on his early days at Cry (formerly Abandon Films), and how he found his voice as a creative force, both directing and editing. 

He discusses the musicality of editing in a flow state, doing his own sound design, and creating a space that’s conducive to deep work. Ryan touches on project case studies, executing a creative vision, and bringing a genuine, human perspective.

Ryan even explores the philosophical and existential challenges faced in the cluttered world of digital content creation and the impact of AI on the industry. He gives valuable insight about finding joy in real relationships and the value that brings in a media-filled world. Overall, Ryan’s thoughts & reflections offer grounded wisdom & practical tools you won’t want to miss.

Links:

• Ryan’s Work
• Limbitless | Bionic Kids
• Atlanta Hawks | We Are Atlanta

If you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. 

From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City.

Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com 

Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - [email protected] 

This week, Justin chats with Darren Foldes, Partner and Head of Films at Sibling Rivalry, an integrated creative company based in New York and Los Angeles.

Darren discusses his path to Sibling Rivalry, all the way from growing up around New York City with a father who worked as a cameraman for ABC Channel 7 News, to taking a paid internship in Los Angeles, co-writing and producing kids films for MGM, and then leaving the feature/TV world to make the switch to advertising and working as an Executive Producer. 

A major theme that Darren shares  is how great work emerges from collective spontaneity, happy accidents, and creating an egalitarian, psychologically safe environment where the best idea wins. Some of our favorite topics include:

• Advertising’s broader value through brands’ positive impact, economic contribution, and “edutainment”
• The case for increased California advertising tax credits to support local crews and the wider economy. 
• Leading with clarity, patience, and appreciation rather than fear
• Darren’s DJ background, including being asked to play a late-night event for a famous musician. (listen in to find out who)

Darren’s interview provides seasoned insight, fun stories, & a reminder of the power of kindness in our creative field. He speaks to so much of what resonates with us at Cry, and we think it will speak to you too.

Links:

Sibling Rivalry’s Site

Darren’s LinkedIn

Darren’s DJ Playlist

Projects Darren is especially proud of:

• Apple "Bounce" spot
• Nike “You Can’t Stop Us” spot

If you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. 

From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City.

Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com 

Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - [email protected] 

Join us for our first video episode, now available to watch on Youtube! This week, Justin chats with Dan Blaney, an accomplished head of production, now working as Executive Director of Production at Fig. 

Dan has an impressive resume that includes roles at Wieden+Kennedy, BBDO, Apple, and more. The discussion explores various subjects including what it really means to be a great producer in advertising, not just as a manager of budgets and schedules, but as a creative partner, mentor, and problem-solver.

Dan shares personal stories from his career working on major campaigns for brands like Bud Light, AT&T, Apple, and the Jordan Brand, including behind-the-scenes insights from large-scale productions, Super Bowl activations, and high-pressure shoots where there’s only one chance to get it right. He emphasizes the significance of viewing roles beyond transactions, encouraging creative voices, and maintaining passion and dedication in the advertising field.

Dan also discusses what makes creative collaboration succeed: from choosing the right directors and production partners, to creating space for ideas to come from anywhere, and knowing when to speak up to make the work better. Throughout the episode, Dan emphasizes a simple but powerful philosophy: there’s always a way to make it happen, regardless of budget or scale.

This episode offers practical insight, hard-earned perspective, and a refreshing reminder that great work comes from curiosity, empathy, and collaboration. You don’t want to miss Dan’s insights here.

Links:

• Dan’s Site - https://www.danblaneyproducer.com/
• Bud Light: Up For Whatever - https://www.danblaneyproducer.com/#/bud-light-up-for-whatever/
• The Talk: P&G - https://www.danblaneyproducer.com/#/new-page/

If you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. 

From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City.

Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com 

Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - [email protected] 

Join us for the second in a series of director interviews from the roster of Cry, the creative and post studio behind this podcast. Next up on the list is none other than Mwita Chacha, an expert at documentary storytelling.

Mwita’s work has been featured on HBO Max, Discovery+, CNN, Vox, PBS, and yes, even a Vimeo staff pick. He’s even had the opportunity to do a project for CNN with Wolf Blitzer on the Holocaust Museum. His latest feature documentary, To The Ends, explores real-time storytelling in one of the world’s most challenging mission fields. Needless to say, his work has touched the hearts of many, and we think you should check it out if you're not already familiar. 

Mwita’s conversation with Justin explores Mwita’s journey into filmmaking, inspired by his father’s nonprofit work in Tanzania, organically developing into a career. They discuss Mwita’s approach to creating authentic interviews, which is a game-changing system. They also discuss ethical considerations in documentary storytelling and how Mwita’s diverse experiences shape his perspective on filmmaking. 

If you are curious on how you can level-up your documentary storytelling techniques, you’ll want to make sure you listen to this one.

Links:

• Mwita’s Work
• Mwita’s Site
• Mwita’s Instagram
• To The Ends Film

Resources:

• Uncover Your Story Guide & Handbook
• The Dignified Storytelling Handbook - Free Resource for Storytellers

If you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. 

From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City.

Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com 

Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - [email protected] 

In this episode, Monica chats with Kat Urban, SVP & Head of Production at R&R Partners, about her journey from starting as an aspiring copywriter to becoming an award-winning producer with over 15 years global production experience.

Kat discusses her transitions within the industry, including her work on notable campaigns for brands like Adidas, Airbnb, and QuickBooks, and shares her insights into the importance of collaboration, understanding audience engagement, & the role of non-traditional advertising. She also discusses valuable strategies for working with incredible celebrity talent, (names like Ryan Reynolds, Danny Devito, & Serene Williams, to name just a few).

Kat stresses the value of persistence, collaboration, and not being afraid to voice one's insights and opinions, making this episode a treasure trove of wisdom for both new and experienced professionals in the advertising and film industries. 

Links:

• Kat's Site
• LVCVA Campaign - Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas
• Adidas World Cup 2022
• Quickbooks: Get Yours with Danny DeVito

If you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. 

From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City.

Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com 

Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - [email protected] 

Join us for the first in a series of director interviews from the roster of Cry, the creative and post studio behind this podcast. First on the list is none other than Michela Maria, a self-described “Slice of Cake” filmmaker.

Michela’s work spans comedy shorts for Adult Swim, Above Average, and Funny or Die, along with commercials for brands like Netflix, HBO, Amazon, Google, and more. She’s also collaborated with Isabella Rossellini on a project exploring her Italian-American family. Needless to say, her work speaks for itself, and we think you should check it out if you're not already familiar.

In this conversation, Michela shares behind-the-scenes insights on her path into directing, the struggles and joys of production, and the importance of trusting your gut. She also gives us a glimpse into her upcoming feature film, The Eel, which follows a mysterious New Year’s Eve death rooted in Italian-American superstition.

If you value the craft of directing and hearing creative insights, you don’t want to miss this one.

Links:

• Michela’s Work
• Michela’s Site
• Michela’s Instagram

If you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. 

From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City.

Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com 

Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - [email protected] 

Tune in for an insightful discussion with Tessa Banks, Group Executive Producer at GALE, about her journey producing within the highly evolving advertising industry.

Tessa shares her journey from Los Angeles to becoming a key figure in various major advertising campaigns including her work with brands like Buzzfeed, Beats by Dre, and the hilarious 'Wood Milk' campaign featuring Aubrey Plaza. 

Tessa also discusses the unique aspects of GALE, and their integrated approach to production and creative development as a business agency. She also shares about the challenges and joys of being a creative producer, the importance of in-person collaboration in the creative industry, and offers valuable advice for up-and-comers looking to break into the field. 

Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the industry, Tessa’s insights on creative production & advertising trends will provide you with practical knowledge and inspiration. Trust us, you’ll want to take notes on this one.

Links:

• Wood Milk
• “Mom’s Show Must Go On"
• “Hey Mama"

Episode Edited by Jake Petsch
jakepetsch.com | [email protected]

If you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. 

From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City.

Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com 

Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - [email protected] 

Join us for a captivating episode as we welcome Luke Atencio, a seasoned composer with two decades of experience in film, TV, and advertising music. 

This deep dive into the world of music composition explores Luke's creative process, the challenges of temp music, and the critical importance of early composer involvement in film projects.

Luke shares compelling stories behind his celebrated works, including his collaborations with director Dan DiFelice on the impactful short film 'Carved in Mayhem,' Ubisoft Starlink, and more. 

For filmmakers, Luke offers invaluable advice on effective communication and collaboration with composers with practical examples. Tune in to explore the intricate world of composing and enjoy some cinematic tracks from the brilliant Luke Atencio!

For more on Luke Atencio's work, check out these links:

• Luke Atencio Official Website
• Musicbed
• Apple Music
• Instagram - @lukeatenciomusic
• Notes to a Young Composer featuring Luke Atencio

If you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. 

From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City.

Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com 

Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - [email protected] 

Today, we chat with Win Bates, seasoned commercial director currently at Tool of North America about navigating the world of humor and storytelling.

Do you ever wonder what it takes to land a major ad campaign with your ability to make people laugh? Do you wanna learn a little bit about the art of casting, working with celebrities and the elusive rug pull of comedy? If so, you're in luck.

Win shares behind the scenes stories working on major campaigns, including but not limited to his recent Doritos Super Bowl teaser featuring Patrick Mahomes, Chris Jones, and Xavier Worthy. We explore how he gets athletes game ready for commercials, the art of injecting personal comedic sensibilities into preexisting scripts, as well as his perspective on spec content. 

So, whether you're an industry veteran looking for some insight, tips, or just curious to hear about your peers getting it done, this episode is for you. 

Links:

Win’s Site

Doritos -  NFL Focus Group | Super Bowl Teaser

Kind Bar - Less Sugar Spot

Samuel Adams - Oktoberfest Spot

Episode Edited by Dylan Giovanetto

www.dylangio.com | [email protected]

If you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. 

From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City.

Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com 

Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - [email protected] 

Today, we chat with Matt Johnson - Founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Haymaker - the independent, Emmy-winning, full-service advertising agency.

Matt takes us through Haymaker’s origin story: from launching with no clients or office to growing into a respected agency over the past eight years. With a background at industry heavyweights like 180LA and 72andSunny, Matt brings a wealth of experience and insight into what it takes to see ideas through towards proven results. 

We discuss standout projects like Pluto TV’s Proud to be a Potato, 23andMe’s Despicable Me crossover: Genetically Me, and the promotion of the digital release for John Wick 2 as one of their first jobs as a new agency. He unpacks how bold ideas, collaboration, and risk-taking played pivotal roles along the way - also sharing the value of failure, stressing the importance of taking a learner’s stance rather than an expert’s stance.

Matt also gives practical examples on how he navigates the rapid pace of agency work, the impact of having supportive partners, and the importance of a collaborative culture that iterates ideas into the best product possible.

Trust us, this is one you don’t want to miss.

Links:

Pluto TV | Proud to be a Potato

23andMe | Genetically Me - with Illumination Entertainment

John Wick 2 | Digital Release

Seattle’s Best Coffee | Smoother Days with Joel McHale

Episode Edited by Jake Petsch
jakepetsch.com | [email protected]

If you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. 

From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City.

Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com 

Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - [email protected]