Shawn Quirk is the Executive Director of the Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Festival, where he has played a pivotal role in shaping the festival’s identity over the past decade. Starting as Program Director, Shawn helped expand RIIFF’s global reach by curating bold, diverse, and experimental lineups that highlight emerging voices in independent cinema. Under his leadership, the festival has evolved into a dynamic platform for international storytelling, championing both local filmmakers and global talent. His passion for film and community has made RIIFF a celebrated destination for artists and audiences alike.

Ericka Atwell‑Cardona is the Director of Community Outreach for the Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF), a role she stepped into in 2024. Drawing on more than a decade of experience in Hollywood, as an actress, producer, casting associate, and media coach. She brings a dynamic, “Swiss-army knife” approach to promoting the festival At RIIFF. Ericka has been instrumental in elevating its media presence, securing coverage in outlets like The Hollywood Reporter, and organizing red-carpet premieres and star-studded panel events to raise the festival’s profile on a global stage

This week on the Flickers Podcast, presented by the Rhode Island International Film Festival, we’re joined by acclaimed filmmaker Manya Glassman, a rising voice in independent cinema. With a background in both documentary and narrative storytelling, Manya’s work has screened at festivals across the country, including SXSW, Tribeca, and our very own RIIFF.

Manya shares her journey from directing short films in college to helming award-winning features that tackle identity, memory, and human connection. Her breakout short “Threaded Light” earned critical acclaim for its poetic realism, while her latest feature “After the Silence” continues to spark dialogue on trauma and resilience.

In this episode, we dive into Manya’s creative process, her influences, and the behind-the-scenes grind of building a voice in today’s film landscape. Whether you’re a film buff, aspiring director, or just love a good conversation, you won’t want to miss this.

WELCOME TO THE FIRST EPISODE OF THE FLICKERS PODCAST! Today we are interviewing Chad A Verdi Jr & Paul Luba from Verdi Productions! HOSTED BY ZACK KOEHLER & SCOUT LYONS

Verdi Productions is an independent film production company based in the United States, known for creating and producing feature films, often filmed in Rhode Island. The company was founded by Chad A. Verdi, who is both a producer and entrepreneur. Verdi Productions has been involved in films across various genres, including drama, thriller, biopics & more. Some of their notable projects include Bleed for This (2016), a boxing drama based on the true story of Vinny Pazienza, and The Irishman (2019), which they co-financed alongside larger studios.