SWFL Fresh Press with Eric Raddatz

Eric Raddatz sits down with filmmakers Emma Watson and Eric Koenig to discuss their powerful new short film A Reason. With backgrounds spanning screenwriting, production, and collaborations with major studios like Netflix and Disney, this creative duo opens up about their shared vision, the art of co-directing, and bringing deeply personal truths to the screen.

In this episode, Emma, Eric, and Eric explore the emotional core behind A Reason, the challenges and rewards of independent filmmaking, and what it takes to turn lived experience into compelling cinematic storytelling. From navigating the industry to building meaningful creative partnerships, this conversation offers insight and inspiration for filmmakers and film lovers alike.

Brought to you in part by:


Fort Myers Film Festival – www.fortmyersfilmfestival.com


Riverside Realty – www.riversidefl.com


Blu Sushi – www.blusushi.com

👉 Watch it now:https://zeam.com/publishers/838/the-eric-raddatz-show#episode:1073796247

Eric Raddatz sits down with Debra Markowitz—filmmaker, director, and founder of the Long Island International Film Expo—for an inspiring conversation about grassroots filmmaking and building a creative community from the ground up. Debra shares her unique journey from serving as a government film commissioner to becoming a prolific indie filmmaker with award-winning shorts.

In this episode, Debra and Eric dive into the evolution of Long Island’s film scene, the realities of independent production, and how her passion for storytelling led to projects like Wait List: A Love-ish Story and the upcoming LGBTQIA+ film Couple of Guys. A must-listen for filmmakers, creatives, and anyone navigating the leap from public service to personal artistic expression.

Brought to you in part by:
Fort Myers Film Festival – www.fortmyersfilmfestival.com
Riverside Realty – www.riversidefl.com
Blu Sushi – www.blusushi.com

👉 Watch it now: https://zeam.com/publishers/838/the-eric-raddatz-show#episode:1073796309

Eric Raddatz sits down with Felicia Greenfield—actress, producer, and self-described “actorvist”—for a powerful conversation about purpose-driven storytelling and using art as a force for change. Felicia shares her unconventional journey from working with MLB and the NHL to impactful roles in Homeland and House of Cards, and her latest film festival success, Friends Not Food.

In this episode, Felicia and Eric dive into what it means to act with intention, how activism shapes her creative choices, and the ways martial arts, drumming, and discipline inform her performances on and off screen. A compelling and thought-provoking episode for creatives, filmmakers, and anyone passionate about storytelling with impact.

Brought to you in part by:
Fort Myers Film Festival – www.fortmyersfilmfestival.com


Riverside Realty – www.riversidefl.com


Blu Sushi – www.blusushi.com

👉 Watch it now: https://zeam.com/publishers/838/the-eric-raddatz-show?fbclid=IwY2xjawPEs45leHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeMB2x4Cl7eTaJfjB4ZMGXde1xNZCOIbGbBfoNJkJabIrVE7F-y1fOT1tQlaI_aem_SOT7R9V-EYRikabRDnwmhg#episode:1073796245

Eric Raddatz sits down with Kristin Weardon, personal development coach and podcast host, for an inspiring conversation about purpose, growth, and stepping into your full potential. Kristin shares her journey from being the face of SU Cosmetics to coaching individuals and entrepreneurs to achieve success in both business and life.

In this episode, Kristin and Eric dive into how passion fuels personal growth, the mindset shifts required to level up, and what it truly takes to empower yourself—and others—to live a more fulfilled, intentional life. A motivating and insightful episode for anyone focused on self-development, entrepreneurship, and meaningful success.

Brought to you in part by:

Fort Myers Film Festival www.fortmyersfilmfestival.com;

Riverside Realty www.riversidefl.com;

Blu Sushi www.blusushi.com

👉 Watch it now: https://zeam.com/publishers/838/the-eric-raddatz-show#episode:1073795222

Eric Raddatz sits down with Dustin Ward, an award-winning cinematographer whose impressive body of work includes Brownsville Bred and Princess Cut. In this episode, Dustin breaks down his creative approach to cinematography, the art of visual storytelling, and how he uses powerful imagery to bring stories to life on screen. A must-watch conversation for filmmakers, creatives, and film lovers alike.

Brought to you in part by:

Fort Myers Film Festival www.fortmyersfilmfestival.com;

Riverside Realty www.riversidefl.com;

Blu Sushi www.blusushi.com

👉 Watch it now: https://zeam.com/publishers/838/the-eric-raddatz-show#episode:1073795221

Join Eric Raddatz for an inspiring and insightful conversation with Alyx Ruibal, an American actress and social media personality known for her engaging TikTok content and her role in the 2024 film Hellbent on Boogie. Alyx opens up about her journey to viral success on TikTok, using her platform to raise autism awareness, and portraying Quinn, a dancer with autism, in a powerful and meaningful film role. This episode highlights creativity, advocacy, and the impact of authentic representation in media.

Brought to you in part by:

Fort Myers Film Festival www.fortmyersfilmfestival.com;

Riverside Realty www.riversidefl.com;

Blu Sushi www.blusushi.com

👉 Watch it now: https://zeam.com/publishers/838/the-eric-raddatz-show#episode:1073794561

Season 4, Episode 9 – Stephanie Ruiz: Crafting Stories, Culture & Cinematic Impact

From a first-generation Latin American actress to an award-winning filmmaker, Stephanie Ruiz sits down with Eric Raddatz to share her remarkable rise through the world of film production.

In this episode, Stephanie opens up about the path from working behind the scenes to creating powerful, culturally resonant narratives and innovative digital campaigns. We explore her evolution as a director, producer, and storyteller—along with the passion and persistence that fuel her work today.

Warm, insightful, and inspiring, this conversation shines a spotlight on a creator who’s redefining what it means to bring authentic stories to the screen.

Brought to you in part by:

🎬 Fort Myers Film Festival – fortmyersfilmfestival.com
🏡 Riverside Realty – riversidefl.com
🍣 Blu Sushi – blusushi.com

👉 Watch it now: https://zeam.com/publishers/838/the-eric-raddatz-show#episode:1073794553

Kick off Season 5 with a funny, heartfelt deep-dive into the creative world of Jonah Bowen—comedian, writer, theater lover, and recent Emerson College graduate who’s already managing Stand Up NY in the heart of Times Square. In this episode, Jonah shares how Jim Henson’s legacy and a lifelong love of puppetry shaped his journey into live entertainment. From comedy stages to felt and foam inspiration, this conversation sets the tone for a warm, imaginative start to the season.

Brought to you in part by:

Fort Myers Film Festival www.fortmyersfilmfestival.com;

Riverside Realty www.riversidefl.com;

Blu Sushi www.blusushi.com

👉 Watch it now: https://zeam.com/publishers/838/the-eric-raddatz-show#episode:1073796241

📺 ON THIS EPISODE of The Eric Raddatz Show...


🌟 Meet Charlie Gillette — award-winning filmmaker, writer, and creative force behind projects that push boundaries and amplify unheard voices.

🗣️ Join host Eric Raddatz and Charlie Gillette for a deeply engaging conversation about her evolution in the industry: from writing for MTV Skins to directing bold, experimental films exploring identity, culture and representation.

🎞️ We dive into the story behind her powerful work TAL, and discover how Charlie’s fearless approach to storytelling is redefining what it means to be an artist in today’s film landscape.

👉 Watch it now: https://zeam.com/publishers/838/the-eric-raddatz-show?fbclid=IwY2xjawNutp5leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHqISbqFiXofNz3hv2xUPikd2IV-EdMRBMAufrEfxNbgKywhuHdw55nOn-P_y_aem_s2hJTtcx-tOvMOKvpCpWzA#episode:1073793246

Meet Ramon Pesante — Emmy-nominated director, Telly Award-winning filmmaker, and creative visionary.

Join Eric Raddatz and Ramon Pesante for a deep, energizing conversation about storytelling, identity, and innovation in the world of film and branded content.

From his powerful short film Playing Sam to shaping bold narratives for major brands, Ramon reveals how culture and creativity fuel his journey — and how he's using film to challenge norms and inspire change.

Brought to you in part by:

Fort Myers Film Festival www.fortmyersfilmfestival.com;

Riverside Realty www.riversidefl.com;

Blu Sushi www.blusushi.com

https://zeam.com/publishers/838/the-eric-raddatz-show