Sista Brunch

What would you tell your younger self if you could sit down together for a real Sista Brunch? 🥂

From trusting your journey, to embracing your light, to building your dreams without fear — this compilation is packed with the wisdom, love, and encouragement we ALL need to hear.

✨ Guest Timecodes:

💥 Don’t miss our most listened-to episode every season! Hit that play button, listen to these gems, and share this love letter to the next generation of Black women and gender expansive storytellers.

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At Sista Brunch, we keep it real — and this bonus episode is no different! 🎤💸 Season 6 guests open up about salaries, budgets, residuals, and multiple income streams across film, television, theater, digital content, and production. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or an industry pro, this is the financial wisdom you NEED to hear! 🙌🏾

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👉🏾 Full Timecodes:

• [00:00:00] Alyson Fouse: Executive Producer salaries, saving tips, and residuals reality

🔥 Key Topics:

• Salaries for TV writers, showrunners, directors, editors, actors, producers, and execs

🖤 Hosted by Fanshen Cox and Shawn Pipkin-West

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In this episode of Sista Brunch, hosts Fanshen Cox and Shawn Pipkin-West, along with Black Girls Film Camp alumni co-host Jaida Cox, delve into the journey of seasoned screenwriter/producer Erika Green Swafford. They discuss her career path from hotel management to writing for hit TV shows like 'How to Get Away with Murder' and 'The Mentalist,' her experiences with the Warner Brothers Writers Workshop, and her current deal to develop TV shows with Disney’s Onyx Collective. The episode also covers technical aspects of filmmaking, financial insights into the industry, and the importance of community and representation in media. Swafford shares personal anecdotes, professional advice, and her vision for the future, making this an inspiring and informative conversation for anyone interested in the entertainment industry.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement

00:53 Meet Jaida Cox: Black Girls Film Camp Alum

01:20 Jaida's Film Camp Experience

03:28 Welcoming Erika Green Swafford

04:22 Erika's Early Life and Career Beginnings

10:08 Transition to Entertainment Industry

20:51 Warner Brothers Writers Workshop and The Mentalist

26:06 Understanding the Hierarchy in TV Production

26:36 Challenges of Moving Up the Ranks

27:19 Promotions and Career Milestones

27:35 Supporting Our Podcast

28:05 Discussing Financial Aspects of TV Writing

29:12 Residuals and Script Fees

33:27 Overall Deals and Industry Insights

36:32 Technical Aspects of Production

38:41 Personal Touches in Storytelling

42:39 Signature Sista Brunch Question

45:02 Closing Remarks and Credits

00:00 Welcome to Season Six of Sista Brunch

00:31 Introducing Today's Guest: Noelle Green

01:53 Noelle Green's Journey to the Industry

03:14 From Freelance to In-House: Noelle's Career Path

05:43 The Impact of Cinema and Early Influences

08:35 The Role of a Production Coordinator

14:43 Insights into Production Supervision

17:39 The Importance of Inclusion in the Industry

18:58 Budgeting in Film and Series Production

21:27 Executive Salaries at Major Studios

23:12 Shondaland Producers Inclusion Initiative

25:34 Training Programs for Aspiring Producers

28:51 The Rise of LED Screens in Filmmaking

35:40 Signature Sista Brunch Question

40:44 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of Sista Brunch, host Fanshen Cox interviews Tayanna Todd, Head of Inclusive Content at Lionsgate. Tayanna shares her inspiring career journey, from her early love of storytelling to her current role in promoting inclusive film content. She discusses the importance of representation in media, the challenges of breaking into the industry, and the value of mentorship and personal growth. The conversation touches on key experiences, including her time at Showtime, navigating imposter syndrome, and the role of DEI in shaping equitable storytelling.

00:00 Welcome to Season Six of Sista Brunch

00:31 Introducing Our Fabulous Guest: Tayanna Todd

01:50 Tayanna's Journey: From Childhood to Filmmaking

05:07 Creating Beats of the Soul: A Family Affair

14:21 Discovering Development: A New Passion

17:44 Navigating the Industry: From Intern to Assistant

25:08 Temping at Showtime: Building Relationships

26:08 Navigating New Opportunities

26:30 Embracing Unexpected Blessings

28:09 Finding Passion and Purpose

30:00 Pandemic-Induced Reflections

31:50 The Lionsgate Opportunity

34:51 Financial Sacrifices and Rewards

41:50 Inclusive Content and Business Strategy

46:03 Words of Wisdom and Reflection

49:18 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

In this episode of Sista Brunch, hosts Fanshen Cox and Shawn Pipkin-West interview the award-winning writer and director, Nandi Bowe. Nandi shares her unique journey in the television and film industry, highlighting her experiences from attending Howard University to working on significant projects such as 'Do The Right Thing' and 'Daughters of the Dust.' Amidst the challenges of living with MS and her advocacy for disability representation, Bowe discusses the triumphs and tribulations of her career, especially once she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, including her time working in Africa and India. The episode is a compelling exploration of resilience, relationships, and the importance of authentic connections in the industry.

00:00 Welcome to Season Six of Sista Brunch

00:29 Introducing Our Phenomenal Guest: Nandi Bowe

02:01 Nandi Bowe's Journey from Howard University to Hollywood

09:21 Adventures in Africa: From Malawi to Zimbabwe

11:55 The Challenges and Triumphs of Working in Film

13:58 The Evolution of Technology in Filmmaking

15:09 The Role of Black Women as Storytellers and Midwives

15:55 Support Sista Brunch: How You Can Help

16:35 Nandi Bowe's Experience on 'Do the Right Thing'

18:52 From Assistant Director to Director: Nandi's Career Path

22:29 Living with MS: Nandi's Personal Journey

25:05 Writing a Book and Screenplay in India

25:41 Returning to LA and Facing MS

25:57 Creating Directing Opportunities

27:03 Collaborations and Networking

28:38 Current Projects and Disability Advocacy

31:07 Challenges in Hollywood

31:26 Advice from Sidney Poitier

32:01 Reflecting on a Diverse Career

34:09 Discussing Industry Salaries

38:17 Technology in Filmmaking

41:09 Sista Brunch Signature Question

47:53 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of Sista Brunch, host Fanshen Cox connects with Marley Jones, winner of the Black Girls Film Camp most original story award, and Meagan, a seasoned film critic and content creator. They discuss their journeys in media and entertainment. Marley talks about her award-winning horror short film 'Stank Face' and her experiences at Howard University, while Meagan shares insights on her path to becoming a film critic, her podcast 'Tea and Popcorn', and her approach to content creation. The conversation covers topics from the technical aspects of filmmaking to overcoming societal challenges in the industry.

00:00 Welcome to Season Six of Sista Brunch

00:49 Meet Marley Jones: Black Girls Film Camp Director and Award Winner

01:48 The Inspiration Behind 'Stank Face'

05:23 Introducing Meagan: Content Creator and Film Critic

08:10 Meagan's Journey into Content Creation

18:57 Tech Talk: Tools of the Trade

22:26 Perfect Camera and Mic Setup

23:15 Exploring Different Mics and Audio Equipment

23:59 Appreciation for the Audience

24:32 Diving into Content Creation and Funding

25:58 Tips for Aspiring Content Creators

31:25 Favorite Films Discussion

35:13 Underrated Black Movies

38:51 Signature Sista Brunch Questions

41:52 Closing Remarks and Credits

In this Sista Brunch episode, hosts Fanshen Cox and Shawn Pipkin-West interview Emmy-winning producer Shirlyn A. Cesar. Highlighting her journey from a theater enthusiast in New Jersey to working on critically acclaimed shows like 'Mad Men' and award-winning documentaries, Shirlyn shares invaluable insights for emerging and seasoned filmmakers alike. She talks about her experiences navigating the industry, the importance of networking, and advocating for oneself. Shirlyn also introduces her initiative, The Hivemind Unified, aimed at supporting emerging talent in the film, TV and media industries. Join the conversation to get an in-depth look at Shirlyn's career, the challenges she overcame, and the advice she offers to aspiring creatives.

00:00 Welcome to Season Six of Sista Brunch

00:19 Introducing Our Special Guest

01:43 Showcasing the Awards

03:11 The Gracie and Telly Awards

05:17 The Emmy Award and Paul R. Williams Documentary

07:53 A Journey from Theater to Film School

11:42 From College to Career Challenges

12:48 Breaking into the Industry

14:53 Creating Limelight and Winning Student Emmys

18:07 Interning on Mad Men

22:08 Working on Being Mary Jane

26:03 Transitioning to Documentary Filmmaking

26:20 Journey Through Various Assistant Roles

26:56 The PBS Documentary Opportunity

28:23 From Intern to Associate Producer

29:01 The Impact of 2020 on Projects

30:42 Discussing Documentary Budgets

38:54 The Paper Edit Process

42:23 Advice to My Younger Self

46:00 The Hivemind Unified Initiative

49:50 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of Sista Brunch, host Fanshen Cox interviews Daysha Broadway, an acclaimed film and television editor. Daysha shares her experiences and achievements, including her Peabody Award-winning work on 'Surviving R. Kelly' and her Emmy Award-winning editing on 'A Black Lady Sketch Show.' The discussion covers her journey from growing up in Compton to thriving in the entertainment industry, her career transitions, financial aspects of being an editor, and the importance of mentorship and self-trust in her success.

00:00 Welcome to Season Six!

01:36 Introducing Daysha Broadway

02:05 Growing Up in Compton

03:57 Discovering a Passion for Editing

06:12 The Journey to Becoming an Editor

12:11 First Steps in the Industry

21:36 Navigating Frame Rates in Editing Software

22:29 First Editing Project and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

25:27 Encouragement and Representation in the Workplace

28:12 Financials and Negotiating Pay as an Editor

33:57 Reflecting on Career Choices and Personal Growth

36:08 Advice to Younger Self and Final Thoughts

39:50 Conclusion and Credits

In this episode of Sista Brunch, hosts Fanshen Cox and Shawn Pipkin-West dive deep into the inspiring journey of critically acclaimed actor Khalilah Joi. The conversation covers Joi's transition from broadcast journalism to acting, her impactful role on Grey's Anatomy, and the emotional and rigorous preparations for her roles. Listeners will also learn about the different tiers of television roles, salary negotiations, and the technology that aids actors in their auditions. Joi emphasizes the importance of faith, resilience, and recognizing one's worth in her career. Tune in for valuable industry insights and an empowering narrative of perseverance and success.

00:00 Welcome to Sista Brunch Season Six

00:25 Introducing Our Talented Guest: Khalilah Joi

01:57 Khalilah's Journey to Acting

03:30 The Conservatory Experience

06:15 Challenges and Perseverance in Acting

08:38 Landing the Role on Grey's Anatomy

10:39 Preparing for Intense Roles

13:00 The Impact of Portraying Abby

17:43 Navigating the Industry as a Black Woman

19:13 Understanding Actor Salaries and Negotiations

22:24 Understanding Series Regular Contracts

23:27 The Importance of Knowing Your Worth

25:03 Navigating the Industry

26:28 Tech Talk: Tools for Self-Taping

29:37 Spotlight on Upcoming Projects

31:26 Advice to My Younger Self

38:16 Closing Remarks and Credits