In this episode of Inside the Business, Michael, Client Content Director at Rockrose Productions, sits down with writer, director, producer, and actor Ashton Swinford to explore her transformative journey from a PA (production assistant) to creative leadership in Hollywood. Ashton opens up about her experiences working on major shows like New Girl, producing with The Onion, and her new sci-fi film Wizdom. Dive into raw, unfiltered insights on overcoming challenges and building resilience in an industry known for its highs and lows.

Our goal with this episode is to offer a behind-the-scenes look at the filmmaking journey—from breaking into the industry to creating impactful videos that resonate with your audience.

Share your thoughts in the comments

-The Rockrose Team 🤘

Timestamps:

0:00 - Ashton’s defining moment in filmmaking: Creating opportunities
1:00 - Introducing Ashton Swinford: Actor, producer, and writer
2:30 - Recalling early PA days and lessons learned on set
4:00 - The changing culture on film sets and leadership insights
6:30 - Breaking out of the PA role and career advancement tips
12:00 - Ashton’s car accident and pivot into production
15:20 - Passion and persistence: The realities of the film industry
20:00 - Choosing passion projects over celebrity opportunities
23:45 - New voices in film and the shift toward inclusive stories
25:00 - The power of a pitch deck in indie filmmaking
32:00 - Ashton’s experience on New Girl and impact on her career
39:00 - Ashton’s new sci-fi project Wisdom: Concept and inspiration
47:30 - Challenges of independent film financing
56:00 - Ashton’s advice to aspiring filmmakers: Real-world experience over film school

In this episode, Jamison Borden (20) sits down with The Michael (34) who reflects on his career and offers some sage wisdom about the life-affirming meaning of art, the power and pitfalls of youth, and how a little bit of “fxxk you” attitude goes a long way.

Additionally, the topic of AI’s effect on the production industry is discussed, and how we need to destroy it before it destroys us.

Enjoy!

Criminal Interrogator-turned-filmmaker, The Michael, sits down with Ian to discuss how being crippled as a child led him to become a filmmaker... but not before doing time as a criminal investigator and interrogator.

In our third episode, we explore themes of perseverance in the face of life's challenges and finding fulfillment in doing what you love, along with the ways our chosen mindset helps us cope with adversity to come out on top.

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Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockroseproductions/

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In this episode, Matt and Ian discuss a pivotal decision for Rockrose Productions: cutting down more than half of our client base. We explore the reasons behind this move, the impact it has on our business, and how it aligns with our vision for the future. You'll hear about the shift from focusing on real estate photography and videography to prioritizing content management and commercial productions.

In addition, we delve into the upcoming hire of a Client Content Director, a role that will be crucial in driving our content management division forward. Join us as we share insights into our new direction, the value of meaningful client relationships, and the immense opportunities that lie ahead.

We hope you enjoy!

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Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockroseproductions/

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Welcome to the first ever episode of the Inside Rockrose podcast, a podcast hosted by the Rockrose Productions team. Our goal with this podcast is to share our story, as it happens, and leverage this platform to connect with other entrepreneurs and creatives. 

In this debut episode, we dive into the origins of Rockrose Productions, sharing how Matt's simple idea during college turned into a thriving business and reflect on what we have learned in the 4 years since we opened our doors. We hope you enjoy :)

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Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockroseproductions/

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