In this episode of Gatecrashers, we sit down with actor, filmmaker, and creative entrepreneur Ryan James Metcalf, the founder of Crop Shoppe, a cutting-edge production space designed for creators. Ryan shares his fascinating journey — from signing with one of the biggest talent agencies in the industry to discovering how making demo reels for fellow actors opened unexpected doors in his career and ignited his passion for filmmaking.

We dive deep into how technology and AI are transforming the creative landscape, why there’s no longer any excuse notto make and share your art, and how accessibility has become the great equalizer for modern storytellers.

It’s an inspiring, energizing conversation about self-starting, evolving with the industry, and redefining what it means to be a multi-hyphenate creator in 2025.

🎧 Tune in and get ready to crash the gates of creativity with Ryan James Metcalf.

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Connect with Ryan & Crop Shoppe:

• Ryan on Instagram: @ryanjamesmetcalf 

• Crop Shoppe on Instagram: @cropshoppe 

• Ryan on IMDb: Ryan Metcalf (nm3122215) 

• Crop Shoppe website: cropshoppe.com

  
  

  GateCrashers Podcast theme by Derek Graham Sound
  Website: http://Dgsound.net
  Instagram: http://instagram.com/dgrahamsound

In this episode of Gatecrashers, we sit down with Courtney Romano — filmmaker, writer, and founder of Queens Bird Films — to talk about the Non-De Film Movement, her rebellion against Hollywood’s outdated hierarchy. Courtney’s building a blueprint for filmmakers who refuse to wait for permission — creators who are done chasing studio validation, film festival approval, or anyone else’s green light.

We dive into what it means to operate as your own movie studio, how to survive (and thrive) outside the system, and why the next wave of indie film won’t look like anything we’ve seen before.

Follow Courtney and join the movement:
📩 letsgoagain.substack.com
🎬 queensbirdfilms.com

🌐 Connect

• 🎬 Production: @foxandsiren.productions

• 📸 Makayla: @iammakaylamcintosh

• 📸 Cat: @catyudain

• 📰 Makayla’s Substack: Rebel Waves

• 📰 Cat’s Substack: catyudain.substack.com

• 📩 Email: [email protected]

GateCrashers Podcast theme by Derek Graham Sound
Website: http://Dgsound.net
Instagram: http://instagram.com/dgrahamsound

Welcome to GateCrashers!

No gatekeepers. Just creators.

A Fox & Siren Production

Hosted by Makayla McIntosh & Cat Yudain

In this episode, Makayla and Cat take you on a journey through the dynamic world of entertainment, exploring the art of gatecrashing and carving out your own path. They share personal stories and insights about the challenges and triumphs of producing content, the evolving landscape of the industry, and the power of storytelling. Discover how they navigate the complexities of parasocial relationships and the intimate connections formed through podcasting. Whether you're an aspiring creator or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable lessons on resilience, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of passion in the entertainment world.

🎤 About the Hosts

Makayla McIntosh

Filmmaker, writer, and producer behind Shredded and Siren of the Pacific Productions, Makayla is passionate about authentic, rebellious storytelling that amplifies women’s voices. Known for her raw, cinematic perspective and creative fearlessness, she’s building a new space for creators who make art that matters — without waiting for permission.

📸 Instagram: @iammakaylamcintosh
✍️ Substack: siren.substack.com

Cat Yudain

Actor, writer, and multi-hyphenate creative, Cat Yudain brings a fearless wit and emotional intelligence to every conversation. With a background spanning performance, production, and storytelling strategy, Cat has a deep understanding of the evolving creative landscape — and how to break through it with heart, humor, and hustle.

📸 Instagram: @catyudain
✍️ Substack: catyudain.substack.com

🦊🧜‍♀️ Produced By

Fox & Siren Productions
A storytelling collective founded by Makayla McIntosh and Cat Yudain, dedicated to amplifying bold, female-led narratives across film, podcasts, and digital media.

📸 Instagram: @foxandsiren.productions
📧 Email: [email protected]

GateCrashers Podcast theme by Derek Graham Sound
Website: http://Dgsound.net
Instagram: http://instagram.com/dgrahamsound