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]

This week, we're joined by Nate Houghteling — filmmaker and co-founder of Portal A, an award-winning branded and original content company.

Nate walks us through his journey from 24-hour film competitions in college to co-founding Portal A, the creative force behind major brand collaborations and cultural moments like YouTube Rewind.

We dig into:

• His early web series experiments in the wild west of pre-YouTube internet
• A decade of reinventing the YouTube Rewind format
• How spontaneous creative projects opened doors to big-name partnerships with Gap, Benefit Cosmetics, and more.
• The making and self-distribution of Fault Lines, his new documentary on the housing crisis in San Francisco.
• And his latest project: Year 5, a web series starring NBA star Anthony Edwards.

We also dive into his biggest lessons, pivots, and yes—some of his favorite documentaries. If you're into storytelling, internet history, or just love a good creative hustle, this one’s for you.

Links

• Fault Lines | Documentary
• Year 5 | Web Series
• Youtube Rewind

Nate’s Favorite Documentaries

• Hoop Dreams
• Waiting for Superman
• Seven Up! Series
• When We Were Kings

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’re talking to a production company heavy-hitter: Dustin Callif, President of TOOL of North America about the innovation of A.I. integration into filmmaking and advertising - done the right way.

Dustin provides an “open source” approach to the tools he and his team have utilized in their approach to AI-driven campaigns. He touches on the ethical considerations surrounding this technology, and how they're blending traditional and AI-driven creative processes into the work.

He discusses a few of TOOL’s case studies, which you can find on TOOL’s website, including how they created a commercial for Under Armour in just four weeks without the actual talent. He also discusses the evolving legal landscape of AI-generated content, and how TOOL is identifying and connecting top AI talent with leading agencies and brands in a way that benefits artists and creatives. 

A current saying is: The AI train is moving, and you can either hop on or get left behind. 

So, whether you're a filmmaker, marketer, or simply curious about where this train is heading -  I think you’ll enjoy this insightful conversation with Dustin Callif. 

Links:

Ad Age’s Editor Pick: AI Pipeline for Starbust | Case Study

Under Armour - Forever is Made Now | Case Study

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]

Join us for an insightful journey through the world of advertising with Justin Bajan, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Familiar Creatures! 

With nearly two decades of experience at major agencies like The Martin Agency, GSD&M, Arnold Worldwide, and David & Goliath, Justin brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the table.

In this episode, we dive into:

• The Genesis of Familiar Creatures
• Creativity on a Shoestring
• “Challenger Brand” Advocacy
• Outsmarting Brand Behemoths
• Client Relationships & Production Insights
• Staying Ahead of the Curve

Whether you're an aspiring ad professional, a seasoned marketer, or simply curious about the creative process behind successful campaigns, this episode with Justin Bajan provides you with valuable takeaways. He’s got wisdom to share about starting an agency, being creative within limits, building solid client relationships, the ups and downs of production, and staying ahead of the curve.

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbajan/

https://www.familiarcreatures.com/

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]

In this episode, Codey chats with Jessica Zalaznik and Adrien Bindi of GSD&M, the creative minds behind the “Goldilocks and The Three Trucks” Super Bowl commercial, which features Glen Powell for RAM Trucks: . 

They touch on their career paths, the exciting challenges of creating a Super Bowl ad, and their insights on working with celebrities like Glen Powell and directors like David Leitch. 

Some of our favorite topics include: 

• The future of advertising, 
• Their perspectives on creativity
• A little career advice (as always)
  
  

They also chat about some of their other notable work which includes reinventing Fruit of the Loom’s “Fruit People” for a TikTok campaign and a hilarious WWDC intro starring Bill Hader.

So, whether you're an advertising pro, here to learn, or just love talking Super Bowl commercials, this one's for you.

Links:

Jess’s Site
Jess’s Tik Tok @goodboygonehome | Helping dogs find homes in Austin, TX

Adrien’s Site

Ram Trucks | Big Game Spot

Fruit of the Loom | Fruit People

WWDC Intro

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]

Scott Terry | Director of Business Affairs at Forsman & Bodenfors

In this episode, Scott Terry, Director of Business Affairs at Forsman & Bodenfors, provides insights into his multifaceted role in the advertising industry. 

Speaking from his experience handling legal issues, talent management, social media, PR, and more, Scott talks about solving the production problems that few of us see coming.

Some highlights include:

• Solving licensor issues the night before a commercial’s release
• Taking advantage of tax credits
• Remembering to buckle up a Mascot in the driver’s seat

Scott’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottterry/

Scott’s Instagram: @ScottTerry

Resources: 

The Power of the Past in Tomorrow’s Branding | Article on Shots.Net

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]