SHOTLIST

Creative producer and coach Chris Whitten joins Marshal Chupa to share a refreshing approach to outreach, networking, and relationship building that feels authentic instead of salesy. After years working inside agencies, production companies, and global brands, Chris explains what decision makers actually look for when hiring filmmakers and why most outreach fails before it even begins.

Want Industry Resources & Tools Straight into your Inbox? Join the 🟠 SHOTLIST Substack

Key Topics Discussed

• Why most cold outreach emails fail before anyone even looks at your portfolio

• The five principles for building genuine relationships that lead to work

• How agency producers actually discover and hire photographers and filmmakers

• Why curiosity creates stronger connections than pitching yourself

• Practical CRM systems and AI tools that simplify relationship management

• Building resilience through mindset, consistency, and personal health

• Why relationships continue to outperform algorithms in the creative industry

If you're a filmmaker, photographer, or creative entrepreneur looking to build a stronger network and create more opportunities, this episode offers practical strategies you can start using immediately.

Episode Highlights

17:26 – Building authentic relationships Chris explains why genuine curiosity and asking thoughtful questions creates stronger industry relationships than leading with your portfolio.

29:43 – The five outreach principles Breaking down his framework for outreach: See them before you sell them, Lead with perspective, Offer collaboration, Invite don't ask, and Stay present without pushing.

49:17 – Systems that keep opportunities alive How LinkedIn, scheduled content, CRMs, and AI tools help filmmakers consistently nurture relationships without feeling overwhelmed.

59:53 – Finding the right decision makers Chris explains who actually hires photographers and filmmakers inside agencies, and how to use LinkedIn strategically to build connections.

1:04:47 – Building resilience as a creative Why fitness, mindset, and daily habits directly impact confidence, consistency, and long term success in the film industry.

1:17:14 – Overcoming self doubt Chris shares practical advice for filmmakers who feel stuck, discouraged, or believe cold outreach simply doesn't work.

1:20:36 – Where to start today A practical roadmap for creatives looking to improve their outreach, systems, finances, and long term career growth.

CONNECT WITH CHRIS

📰 Newsletter | Get the goods in you inbox

🖥️ Coaching | CWP Coaching

📧 PDF | The Five Stages of Cold Outreach Guide

🔗 LinkedIn | Christopher Whitten 

CONNECT WITH MARSHAL

📸 Instagram |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠@marshalchupa⁠⁠

💻 Website |⁠⁠ www.marshalchupa.com⁠⁠

🔗 LinkedIn |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn⁠⁠

🟠 Substack | ⁠⁠Substack Article⁠⁠

ABOUT THE PODCAST

This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of.

🎧 LISTEN

🟢 ⁠⁠Spotify ⁠⁠

🟣 ⁠⁠Apple Podcast⁠⁠

🖥️ shotlistpodcast.com⁠⁠ 

👊 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEW

Please help me bring you more future episodes by subscribing and leaving a review

📱GET IN TOUCH

You can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email [email protected]

Most creatives dream of building a sustainable career behind the lens, but few understand what it actually takes to turn talent into a real business. As a filmmaker, production company founder, and creator of Financially Free Filmmaker, Timothy Fare-Matthews shares how to move beyond trading time for money and start building systems that create retention, profitability, and long term freedom. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, they break down sales, positioning, financial clarity, and the mindset shifts filmmakers need to survive in a rapidly evolving industry.

🎙️ Episode Sponsor: Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals

⚡️ 20% Off Rentals at Lorne Lapham - ⁠⁠llsr.com/shotlist⁠⁠ 

📞 Coaching Call with Tim - Click HERE

🎬 Free Workshop - 3 Ultimate Steps for Filmmaker Growth HERE

📄Download the LAPS framework + Tutorial HERE

💸Financially Free Filmmaker financiallyfreefilmmaker.com

🟠 SHOTLIST Substack | ⁠Resources & Tools Straight into your Inbox 

Key Topics Discussed

• The difference between having a hobby that pays you and building a scalable filmmaking business

• Tim’s 4P framework and why most filmmakers stop at production instead of thinking about planning, publishing, and promotion

• How to sell without feeling salesy by focusing on serving, discovery, and retention

• Why retention and referrals compound faster than chasing new clients

• The financial metrics filmmakers should track to understand profitability, not just revenue

• If you're a filmmaker or photographer chasing long term creative freedom, this episode offers raw insight, real strategy, and a grounded look at what it takes.

If you’re a filmmaker or photographer chasing long-term creative freedom, this episode offers raw insight, real strategy, and a grounded look at what it takes.

Episode Highlights

07:45 – Hobby that pays vs real business Tim explains the difference between staying busy as a freelancer and building a scalable business with real leverage and longevity.

12:10 – The 4P framework for filmmakers Planning, Producing, Publishing, Promoting. He breaks down why most creatives stop at production and leave revenue and retention on the table.

23:50 – Selling without feeling salesy Sales is reframed as service. Tim shares how discovery calls and asking better questions lead to higher close rates and stronger client relationships.

28:40 – The five client acquisition channels From networking to partnerships, Tim outlines the five ways filmmakers generate work and why word of mouth and retention often outperform content.

39:10 – Why networking still wins Confidence is a skill. Tim shares how learning to work a room transformed his trajectory and why in person relationships still convert the fastest.

51:15 – Structuring proposals strategically Instead of sending one number, Tim explains how offering structured options opens dialogue and improves negotiation outcomes.

01:05:10 – Gear purchases vs real ROI Tim challenges the obsession with cameras and shares how to evaluate investments based on profitability, not ego.

01:14:30 – Measuring profit, not just revenue Why most filmmakers do not truly know their margins, and how tracking profit per project changes everything.

🔗 CONNECT WITH TIMOTHY 

📸 Instagram | @timf.mathews

🖥️ Coaching | www.financiallyfreefilmmaker.com

🖥️ Website | ⁠⁠www.timothyfarematthews.com

🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL

📸 Instagram |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠@marshalchupa⁠⁠

💻 Website |⁠⁠ www.marshalchupa.com⁠⁠

🔗 LinkedIn |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn⁠⁠

🟠 Substack | ⁠⁠Substack Article⁠⁠

🗂️The Contact Sheet - A Simple Client Tracking System for Filmmakers & Photographers - shotlist.substack.com/p/the-contact-sheet 

The filmmaking world is changing fast, budgets are tighter, crews are smaller, and adaptability has never mattered more. As a commercial cinematographer and YouTuber, Keaton Nye shares how staying booked in today’s market comes down to mindset, problem-solving, and understanding the business behind the craft. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, they break down the habits, strategies, and client relationships that keep filmmakers thriving when the industry shifts beneath them.

🎙️ Episode Sponsor: Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals

⚡️ 20% Off Rentals at Lorne Lapham - ⁠⁠llsr.com/shotlist⁠⁠ 

🗂️ Get your copy of The Contact Sheet - A Simple Client Tracking System for Filmmakers & Photographers - shotlist.substack.com/p/the-contact-sheet 

Key Topics Discussed

• The difference between skill and mindset, and why problem solvers stay booked

• Navigating shrinking budgets and crew sizes while maintaining production quality

• Balancing projects “one for the meal, one for the reel”

• Building trust, simplifying business for clients, and thinking like a business owner

• How to think like both an artist and a business owner to build a sustainable long-term career

Episode Highlights

00:25 – Why Problem Solvers Stay BookedReliability, curiosity, and initiative create more opportunity than technical skill alone.

00:27 – Adapting to a Changing IndustrySmaller crews and tighter budgets are reshaping production work and what clients expect.

00:36 – Craft Meets CommerceThinking in terms of ROI helps bridge the gap between artistry and business.

00:42 – One for the Meal, One for the ReelBalancing creative fulfillment with financial sustainability without burning out.

00:46 – The Money GapUnderstanding what separates lower-paid shooters from high-value professionals.

00:54 – Make Business Easy for ClientsClear communication and simple pricing structures lead to repeat bookings and trust.

00:57 – The Power of RelationshipsHigh-value work comes from genuine relationships, not cold outreach.

01:02 – Staying Top of MindPractical ideas for building outreach systems and keeping your network engaged.

🔗 CONNECT WITH KEATON NYE

📸 Instagram | @keatonnye

▶️ Youtube | www.youtube.com/keatonnye

🖥️ Website | ⁠www.keatonnye.com

🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL

📸 Instagram | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@marshalchupa⁠⁠

💻 Website  | ⁠www.marshalchupa.com⁠⁠

🔗 LinkedIn | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn⁠⁠

🟠 Substack | ⁠⁠Substack Article⁠⁠

🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST

This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of.

🎧 LISTEN

🟢| ⁠⁠Spotify ⁠⁠

🟣| ⁠⁠Apple Podcast⁠⁠

🖥️| ⁠⁠shotlistpodcast.com⁠⁠ 

👊 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEW

Please help me bring you more future episode by subscribing and leaving a review

📱GET IN TOUCH

You can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email [email protected]

Most creatives dream of filming in remote places, working with global brands, and living a life of freedom behind the lens, but few understand the risks and protections that come with it. As Associate Vice President at Front Row Insurance, David McLeish shares how filmmakers and photographers can protect their gear, their business, and their livelihood when unexpected events happen. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, they break down the realities of insurance in creative work, from liability waivers to international coverage

🎙️ Episode Sponsor: Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals

⚡️ 20% Off Rentals at Lorne Lapham - ⁠⁠llsr.com/shotlist⁠⁠ 

🗂️ Get your copy of The Contact Sheet - A Simple Client Tracking System for Filmmakers & Photographers - shotlist.substack.com/p/the-contact-sheet 

Key Topics Discussed

• Why most filmmakers misunderstand what insurance actually covers and how to avoid costly assumptions

• How to handle high-risk shoots like underwater filming, climbing, or stunts, and what insurers need to know in advance

• Practical steps for gear rental, deal memos, and certificates of insurance when working with production companies or directly with brands

• The importance of liability waivers when shooting with athletes or in dangerous environments

• What international coverage looks like and how to protect footage and equipment while traveling

Episode Highlights

4:00 – Broker vs Insurer
Why knowing the difference matters when making a claim.

12:00 – High-Risk ShootsUnderwater, vehicles, or extreme sports must be disclosed or risk voiding coverage.

19:00 – Stunts vs AdventureInsurers often treat risky outdoor shoots as stunts, which changes coverage.

26:00 – Liability WaiversSigned waivers reduce your exposure and improve insurability.

29:00 – International CoverageMost policies are Canada/US only unless you add worldwide protection.

33:00 – Reshoot CoverageScripted reshoots may be covered. Portfolio or passion projects are not.

41:00 – Gear RentalYour deal memo should make production responsible for your kit.

1:19:00 – Direct-to-ClientCovering friends’ gear requires written agreements. Without them, it is not insured.

🔗 CONNECT WITH FRONT ROW INSURANCE

🖥️ Website | ⁠⁠www.frontrowinsurance.com

📧 Email: [email protected]

📸 Instagram | @ frontrowinsurance

🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL

📸 Instagram |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠@marshalchupa⁠⁠

🟠 Substack | ⁠⁠Substack Article⁠⁠

💻 Website |⁠⁠ www.marshalchupa.com⁠⁠

🔗 LinkedIn |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn⁠⁠

🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST

This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of.

🎧 LISTEN

🟢| ⁠⁠Spotify ⁠⁠

🟣| ⁠⁠Apple Podcast⁠⁠

🖥️| ⁠⁠shotlistpodcast.com⁠⁠ 

👊 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEW

Please help me bring you more future episodes by subscribing and leaving a review

📱GET IN TOUCH

You can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email [email protected]

Most creatives dream of filming in remote places, working with global brands, and living a life of freedom behind the lens, but few understand the discipline and long game it actually takes to get there. As a director and aerial cinematographer, Zac Moxley shares how his mindset, work ethic, and willingness to take risks helped him turn passion into a career. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, Zach breaks down the realities of momentum, burnout, spec work, and what it really means to bet on yourself

🎙️ Episode Sponsor: Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals

⚡️ 20% Off Rentals at Lorne Lapham - ⁠llsr.com/shotlist⁠ 

Key Topics Discussed

• How saying yes early on created a snowball effect and why treating every job like it matters can change everything

• The real cost of chasing your dream job, including the emotional and financial pressure behind self-funded projects

• The truth about spec work and how Zac uses personal projects to grow, experiment, and land bigger clients

• Buying gear with intention, including how to think about expensive tools, what actually delivers value, and when to pull the trigger

• Navigating the long game of a creative career and why it’s built through grind, self-belief, and patience

Episode Highlights

00:03 A Turning Point in His Teens

How a personal transformation helped Zac develop the grit and drive that sparked his creative journey

00:08 Early Career and Instagram Growth

The story behind his glide-cam days and how his Instagram started gaining traction in 2017

00:13 The Drone Chapter

Zac’s early aerial content and the moment he began shifting toward directing full campaigns

00:21 Every Opportunity Can Change Your Life

Zac’s philosophy on saying yes and how staying open has led to his biggest projects

00:27 Behind the Instagram Highlight Reel

The grind, burnout, and loneliness that people don’t see when they scroll

00:36 Spec Work as a Career Catalyst

Zac’s approach to funding personal projects and the most he’s ever spent out of pocket

00:44 Breaking Down a Spec Project

From idea to post-production, how Zac builds personal pieces with intention and impact

00:51 Undercutting Versus Opportunity

Where he draws the line between strategy and self-sabotage when pricing work

01:01 Buying the Right Gear

How to approach big purchases like the RED Raptor and which tools have earned their keep

01:09 Building Relationships That Lead to Work

Zac’s take on staying top of mind, creating value, and earning trust over time

01:15 Manifestation and Career Alignment

How Zac’s mindset and focus on alignment have helped him call in the kind of projects and lifestyle he once only imagined

🔗 CONNECT WITH ZAC MOXELY

📸 Instagram | @downtofilm

🖥️ Website | ⁠www.zacharymoxley.com⁠

🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL

📸 Instagram |⁠ ⁠⁠@marshalchupa⁠

💻 Website |⁠ www.marshalchupa.com⁠

🔗 LinkedIn |⁠ ⁠⁠Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn⁠

🟠 Substack | ⁠Substack Article⁠

🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST

This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of.

🎧 LISTEN

🟢| ⁠Spotify ⁠

🟣| ⁠Apple Podcast⁠

🖥️| ⁠shotlistpodcast.com⁠ 

👊 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEW

Please help me bring you more future episode by subscribing and leaving a review

📱GET IN TOUCH

You can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email [email protected]

What does it actually look like to build a thriving photography and directing career, not just on paper, but in practice? Hubert Kang has steadily built a respected presence in the industry, known for his soulful personal work, big-hearted leadership style, and high-level commercial campaigns.

🎙️ Episode Sponsor: Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals

⚡️ 20% Off Rentals at Lorne Lapham - llsr.com/shotlist 

⚒️ Tool & Resources to Grow your Career: HERE

Key Topics Discussed

• Why Hubert believes side hustles don’t cut it in a creative career, and what it really takes to go full time

• The essential role of kindness, curiosity, and personal values in business growth

• What personal projects reveal to clients that commercial work never can • Why directing became a natural extension of his photography path

• The real reason to start a production company

• When and why reps will come knocking, and what they actually look for

Episode Highlights

00:06 Starting from Scratch After Business School Why Hubert left a “safe” career path to start photographing houses for $100 a shoot

00:15 The 360 Motel Job That Changed Everything How traveling solo across the U.S. turned into a photography education

00:20 Getting in the Room with the Greats What Hubert learned assisting world-renowned photographers at Santa Fe Workshops

00:31 Why He Was a Terrible Assistant And how getting fired helped him discover his true path in documentary photography

00:37 Building Community One Relationship at a Time How showing up with appreciation and treating crew like friends became Hubert’s secret weapon

00:45 Personal Work That Means Something From Ugandan baseball to global human-animal connections, Hubert shares his why

00:54 Directing as a Natural Progression How curiosity, collaboration, and team leadership drew him behind the monitor

01:00 The Vision Behind Kindred and Scout Why Hubert and his producer Amy started a company rooted in values, not profit

01:08 Do You Need a Rep?

01:14 Staying Resilient Through the Highs and Lows The rituals, mindset, and gratitude that keep Hubert grounded in a roller-coaster career

🔗 CONNECT WITH HUBERT KANG

📸 Instagram | @hubertkang

🖥️ Website | www.hubertkang.com

💼 Production Co. | Kindred and Scout

🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL

🟠 Substack | ⁠Substack Article⁠

📸 Instagram | @marshalchupa

💻 Website | www.marshalchupa.com

🔗 LinkedIn | Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn

🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST

This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of.

🎧 LISTEN

🟢| Spotify

🟣| Apple Podcast

🖥️| shotlistpodcast.com 

👊 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEWPlease help me bring you more future episode by subscribing and leaving a review

📱GET IN TOUCHYou can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email [email protected]

Most creatives struggle to find the balance between doing work they love and building a business that lasts. In this episode, Darren shares the story of how a devastating snowboarding injury launched his career behind the lens and how he went on to build Magnifier, a creative studio producing high-level content for top outdoor brands. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, Darren breaks down his go-to systems for guiding clients, crafting retainers, and generating leads. He also shares the mindset shifts that helped him move from passion projects into a thriving commercial career.

🎙️ Episode Sponsor: Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals

⚡️ 20% Off Rentals at Lorne Lapham - llsr.com/shotlist 

Key Topics Discussed

• How Darren transitioned from passion projects to paid commercial work by aligning with client needs

• The "Ikigai" framework as a tool for sustainable business — balancing what you love with what pays

• Why leading clients through a discovery session is essential to avoid scope creep and unclear expectations

• The content pyramid method — and how capturing additional “shoulder assets” creates more value with less effort

• Darren’s system for generating leads through authentic LinkedIn content, not cold pitches

• How to offer retainers as a solution to the feast-or-famine cycle and bring stability to your freelance career

• Why defining your ideal client profile helps you focus outreach and build trust faster

• How to scale a creative business by hiring based on workload and clearly defined roles

• The importance of giving team members ownership to avoid bottlenecks and burnout

Episode Highlights

00:01 From Injury to InspirationHow breaking his back snowboarding led Darren to pick up a video camera and find a new purpose

00:05 Building Voleurz from Dorm Room to Cult BrandThe DIY roots of a creative crew that mixed action sports, art, and humor before YouTube even existed

00:10 Lessons from Action Sports FilmmakingWhat fast-paced sports shoots taught Darren about storytelling, energy, and creative style

00:17 From Passion Projects to Paid WorkThe scary but pivotal leap Darren made when friends told him to skip sales and go all in on film

00:25 The “Ikigai” Framework for FulfillmentHow aligning passion, skill, market need, and money became Darren’s compass for business decisions

00:31 Retainers and Reverse EngineeringThe method Darren uses to guide clients from messy ideas to clear deliverables and long-term value

00:38 The Content PyramidWhy clients often overlook the highest-performing content, and how to make every shoot more efficient

00:44 Shooting BTS, Making ConnectionsThe strategy that helped Darren grow trust, book bigger projects, and mentor newcomers

00:50 LinkedIn and Lead Gen Without SellingDarren’s low-pressure approach to getting clients by being curious, helpful, and visible

01:00 Growing a Team Without Losing YourselfThe mindset, systems, and reality checks needed to scale a studio while staying creatively fulfilled

🔗 CONNECT WITH DARREN

📸 Instagram | @darren_rayner

🖥️ Website | www.magnafiremedia.com

💼 LinkedIn | Darren Rayner

🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL

📸 Instagram | @marshalchupa

💻 Website | www.marshalchupa.com

🔗 LinkedIn | Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn

🟠Substack | Substack Article

🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST

This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of.

🎧 LISTEN

🟢| Spotify

🟣| Apple Podcast

🖥️| shotlistpodcast.com 

👊 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEWPlease help me bring you more future episode by subscribing and leaving a review
📱GET IN TOUCHYou can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email [email protected]

Many creatives dream of working with iconic brands — but few understand what it actually takes to get there. As a creative director with decades of experience at companies like Roxy, DC Shoes, Hollister, and Eddie Bauer, Chris Vestal shares what makes a portfolio stand out, how to navigate the politics of big-budget shoots, and why the energy you bring to set matters just as much as the work you create.

Alongside host Marshal Chupa, Chris breaks down the unspoken tiers of creative talent, the importance of self-awareness in your growth journey, and the practical ways to get noticed by decision-makers in the industry.

Key Topics Discussed

The power of proximity — how Chris went from pinning surf mag pages on his wall to becoming creative director for the very brands that inspired him.

Climbing the creative ladder — how scrappy, self-driven experience led to high-budget global campaigns.

Creative outreach that lands — what it actually takes to get the attention of high-level creative directors (hint: it's not a mass email blast).

Building trust as a leader — how Chris creates unforgettable shoot energy by curating people, not just portfolios.

If you're a filmmaker or photographer navigating the industry, this episode is full of real talk, career strategy, and powerful reminders about staying aligned with your creative vision.

Episode Highlights

00:06 From Superfan to Creative Director How childhood inspiration and personal passion shaped a career in global brand leadership

00:09 Lessons from Working with Iconic BrandsWhat Chris learned while designing for Roxy, DC Shoes, Eddie Bauer, and more

00:11 Big Budgets, Bigger PoliticsThe creative tradeoffs and team dynamics behind multi-million-dollar productions

00:29 What Gets You Noticed as a CreativeInside a creative director’s inbox — and how to actually stand out

00:30 Authentic Outreach vs. Template PitchesWhy a thoughtful DM or email matters more than a slick portfolio

00:37 Building Set Energy & Why It MattersThe hidden value of vibe, chemistry, and energy when curating a crew

00:52 Creating “White Space” to Make Great WorkHow adding just one extra day can unlock breakthrough creative

01:00 Shooting Beyond the Brief: Portfolio GoldHow personal ideas on set can lead to standout, career-making images

01:04 Manifestation & Career AlignmentThe mindset shift that helped Chris land his dream job at Aspen One

01:15 Leading Through Systems, Vision & VibeWhy good leadership means making space for your team to thrive creatively

🔗 CONNECT WITH CHRIS VESTAL

📸 Instagram | @_vestal

🖥️ Website | www.vestalindustries.com

💼 LinkedIn | Chris Vestal on LinkedIn

🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL

📸 Instagram | @marshalchupa

💻 Website | www.marshalchupa.com

🔗 LinkedIn | Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn

📄 SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT

Visit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation www.shotlistpodcast.com

🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST

This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of.

🎧 LISTEN

🟢| Spotify

🟣| Apple Podcast

👊 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEW

Please help me bring you more future episode by subscribing and leaving a review

📱GET IN TOUCHYou can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email [email protected]

Success in filmmaking isn’t just about the next big gig—it’s about finding fulfillment beyond the hustle. In this episode of Shotlist, I sit down with Jon Bregel, a filmmaker and creative coach who went from directing a Nike commercial with Spike Lee to walking away from his production company in search of something deeper.

Jon’s story is a powerful reminder that chasing external success without internal alignment leads to burnout. We dive into what it really means to build a sustainable creative career, how to recognize when it's time to step back, and why reconnecting with your core values is the key to long-term fulfillment.

Key Topics Discussed:

The moment everything changed—how a self-funded project led to a career-defining call from Nike.

The rise and fall of success—why scaling his production company at full speed led to burnout.

Finding balance in the chaos—how prioritizing personal well-being led Jon to redefine his creative path.

The power of passion projects—why personal work is essential for longevity in the industry.

Breaking the cycle—how Jon now helps filmmakers create careers rooted in purpose, not just hustle.

If you’ve ever felt stuck chasing the next gig without a clear sense of purpose, this episode will give you the tools and mindset shifts to rethink your approach

Episode Highlights

00:00 Guiding Filmmakers Towards Purpose

05:38 The Nike Call That Changed Everything

09:13 Scaling Up & the Challenges of Running a Production Company

13:42 The Wake-Up Call: Realizing Burnout

22:53 Finding a New Path: Self-Discovery & Coaching

35:28 Battling Self-Doubt & Finding Clarity

48:38 The Illusion of Certainty in Freelancing

57:11 The Nourish Community: A New Kind of Support System

🔗 CONNECT WITH Jon Bregel

📸 Instagram | @jbregel

💻 Website | jonathanbregel.com

👥 Nourish Community Website | www.thenourish.community

📸 Nourish Community Instagram | @thenourish.community

🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL

📸 Instagram | www.instagram.com/marshalchupa

💻 Website | www.marshalchupa.com

👥 Linkedin | www.linkedin.com/in/marshal-chupa-99a7921a8

📄 SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT

Visit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation - www.shotlistpodcast.com

🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST

This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of.

🎧 LISTEN FOR FREEApple Podcasts | https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/shotlist/id1645435800

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/3m5203Y5yQ7wNXQhZBOmNV?si=f46bc0e937bf40c1

RSS | https://anchor.fm/s/5cb2e948/podcast/rss

🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW

If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, I’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on the bottom of Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show 👊 https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/shotlist/id1645435800

📱 GET IN TOUCH

You can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email [email protected]

Most creatives struggle with building momentum and finding consistent work. As an executive producer and business mentor, Lisa shares a simple yet powerful three-step strategy to help you stay in demand and take control of your career. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, Lisa dives into essential topics like setting measurable goals, creating systems to predict revenue, and confidently pricing your services.

With her extensive experience as a photographer, producer, and executive producer, Lisa knows firsthand the challenges creatives face—and she delivers practical solutions to stand out in a competitive industry.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Positioning is everything: Your work gets you in the room, but your energy, confidence, and authority seal the deal.
• Marketing that works: Cold outreach shouldn’t just be about sending your portfolio—it’s about adding value, building relationships, and staying top of mind.
• Numbers don’t lie: Track your outreach and financial goals so you know exactly what’s working and where you need to adjust.
• Mindset matters: Detach from outcomes, lean into the value you bring, and trust that consistency will create long-term success.
• Charge what you’re worth: Compete on value, not price. Position yourself for high-paying clients who respect your expertise.

Episode Highlights

02:06 Lisa’s Journey in the Industry

03:50 Balancing Career and Family

06:22 Standing Out in a Competitive Industry

10:12 Effective Client Outreach & Avoiding Ghosting

18:45 Mindset & Self-Worth in the Creative Industry

26:00 Creating Structure in an Unpredictable Career

40:12 Pricing & Competing on Value vs. Price

54:12 Financial Management for Creatives

01:09:49 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Lisa

🔗 CONNECT WITH LISAMARIE SHIRES

📸 Instagram | @lisamarieshires

💻 Website | lisamarieshires.com

🎥 Beyond 6 Figures Training | lisamarieshires.com/beyond

🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL

📸 Instagram | www.instagram.com/marshalchupa

💻 Website | www.marshalchupa.com

👥 Linkedin | www.linkedin.com/in/marshal-chupa

📄 SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT

Visit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation - www.shotlistpodcast.com

🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST

This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of.

🎧 LISTEN FOR FREE

Apple Podcasts | https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/shotlist/id1645435800

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/3m5203Y5yQ7wNXQhZBOmNV?si=f46bc0e937bf40c1

RSS | https://anchor.fm/s/5cb2e948/podcast/rss

🙏 LEAVE A REVIEW

If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, I’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on the bottom of Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show 👊 https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/shotlist/id1645435800

**📱** GET IN TOUCH

You can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email [email protected]