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Filmmaker Shal Ngo on Creativity, Culture, and 'Control Freak'

Welcome to FAM, where we celebrate creative minds shaping culture today in Brooklyn. In this episode, filmmaker Shal Ngo, known for his genre-bending work from Tribeca to Sundance, discusses his journey from winning film contests at NYU to directing his latest psychological horror film 'Control Freak.' Hosted by FAM, Shal delves into his multicultural upbringing, balancing commercial work with passion projects, and his unique storytelling approach. He also offers advice for aspiring filmmakers and shares behind-the-scenes insights into making 'Control Freak,' now streaming on Hulu. Join us for an inspiring conversation about creativity, culture, and the courage to take risks.

03:05 Early Filmmaking Journey
04:51 First Feature Film Experience
05:53 Supportive Family Background
07:01 College and Career Beginnings
07:59 Starting a Production Company
12:07 Balancing Commercial Work and Passion
13:18 Taking the Leap to Vietnam
15:39 Exploring Cultural Duality
18:23 Control Freak: Concept and Creation
21:53 Generational Trauma and Body Horror
22:38 Behind the Scenes: Filming with Real Ants
23:39 Kelly Marie Tran's Performance and Cultural Connection
25:29 Collaborative Filmmaking and Actor Dynamics
28:13 Future Projects and Genre Preferences
29:22 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
31:36 Q&A Session: Budget Constraints and AI in Filmmaking
38:01 Designing the Monster: Concept and Practicality
40:54 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

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Exploring the Creative Journey with Gregory Matthews

Welcome to the Fan Podcast, where we dive into the artistic processes of contemporary creators. In this episode, we chat with Gregory Matthews, a Philadelphia-born multi-instrumentalist and producer known as Yela Shoots. Gregory discusses his journey from jazz guitar to pop music production, his experience with synesthesia, and creating his unique hybrid sound of R&B, rock, psychedelia, and alternative soul. He also reflects on his personal growth, the importance of creative spaces, and the role of new technologies in music production. A must-watch for anyone interested in the creative process and musical evolution!

00:11 Meet Gregory Matthews
01:06 Gregory's Unique Musical Journey
02:16 Early Musical Influences
05:55 The Importance of Creative Spaces
09:37 Evolution of Gregory's Sound
14:59 Exploring New Technologies in Music
18:30 Advice for Young Musicians
19:06 Conclusion and Farewell

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Journey of DJ Duo oba+flip: From Dance Floor to Decks

In this episode of the Fan Podcast, we sit down with the dynamic New York City DJ duo oba+flip, comprised of Idris and Stella. They share their unique journey from meeting at a techno party to becoming prominent figures in the electronic music scene. As resident DJs for Zero and Armin Mirren's Reborn project, they've played at iconic venues like House of Yes and Knockdown Center. 

Explore their experiences of balancing a romantic relationship with professional collaboration, their creative process, and their transition from party attendees to DJs and event producers.

Full of insights and personal anecdotes, this episode is a deep dive into their artistic evolution and future aspirations.

00:28 Meet oba+flip: The DJ Duo
01:27 The Origin Story: How They Met
02:21 Balancing Romance and Professionalism
05:18 From Partygoers to DJs
11:27 First Big Break and Lessons Learned
14:49 Creative Process and Evolution
17:06 Looking Ahead: Goals for 2025
18:55 Advice for Aspiring DJs
20:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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From Emo Band to TikTok Star: Navigating Dating in NYC with Matt Tamasi

In this candid and engaging conversation, Matt shares his unique journey from being in an emo band to becoming a popular dating content creator on social media. He opens up about how Lyme disease and the COVID-19 pandemic led him to re-evaluate his life and embrace his creative passion, ultimately finding success on TikTok. Matt discusses the reality of modern dating in New York City, the impact of social media on relationships, and offers valuable insights and advice for aspiring content creators. From personal anecdotes to tips on managing creativity and maintaining mental health, this episode is full of relatable experiences and practical wisdom.

00:13 From Emo Band to Dating Content Creator
02:58 The Worst Date Ever
05:28 Finding a Niche in Dating Content
07:29 The Importance of Self-Love
10:52 Navigating Modern Dating Apps
13:33 Creative Process and Content Creation
16:08 Creating Relatable Dating Content
17:18 Advice for Aspiring Content Creators
19:22 Navigating Social Media Platforms
21:32 Maintaining Mental Health as a Creator
23:06 Lightning Round: Rapid Fire Questions
25:51 Audience Q&A

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In this episode of the FAM podcast, we delve into the remarkable journey of Ryan Cooper, an actor, producer, entrepreneur, and advocate. Born in Papua New Guinea and raised in a nomadic lifestyle across Brisbane, Vanuatu, and New Zealand, Ryan's diverse background led him from carpentry to international modeling and then to Hollywood. He shares how a chance encounter on a construction site launched his modeling career, working with top brands and photographers, and later transitioned into acting with roles in MTV's Eye Candy and opposite Scarlett Johansson in Rough Night. Beyond the screen, Ryan discusses his role as a mental health advocate, his hands-on involvement in the short film Left Behind, and his entrepreneurial venture, Cooper Fit. Join us as Ryan reflects on his unconventional path, the impact of his childhood, and his multifaceted career in this inspiring interview.


00:55 From Carpentry to Modeling: Ryan's Unconventional Path
01:18 Acting and Advocacy: Ryan's Multifaceted Career
03:01 The Impact of a Nomadic Childhood
04:42 Finding His Voice in a Large Family
06:04 Rebelling Through Rock and Roll
09:06 From Construction to Modeling: A Chance Encounter
11:55 First Impressions of New York
15:35 The Drive to Act: Beyond Modeling
18:05 Audition Fails and Lessons Learned
19:45 Finding Your Voice in Acting
20:27 First Big Break and Early Roles
22:14 Working with Scarlett Johansson
24:09 Best Actor Nomination and Producing Debut
26:35 Journey into Producing and Entrepreneurship
32:35 Balancing Multiple Creative Ventures
34:17 Upcoming Projects and Collaborations
37:13 Advice for Aspiring Creators

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Join host Johnny HWIN on the Fam Podcast as he dives into the musical journey of DJ Tigrr, a New York City-based artist known for his genre-blending and nostalgic sets. Discover Tigrr's unique upbringing, his start in music with marching bands and jazz, and his eventual transition into DJing during the pandemic. Tigrr discusses the challenges and rewards of genre-bending, the importance of adapting to the crowd, and his multi-faceted art pursuits including photography and painting. Listen in on how Tigrr connects deeply with audiences and the art of crafting the perfect set.

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Join us as we sit down with Emmy Award-winning content creator, Ferris Wheel Jay. Known for his viral nostalgia-infused New York stories on TikTok, Instagram, and even in yellow cabs, Ferris shares his journey from making comedy skits with friends to producing platinum records with French Montana, and securing a spot in Snapchat's exclusive 523 Creator Program. Learn about his humble beginnings in Brooklyn, his battle with anxiety, and his pivot from being a musician and celebrity stylist to one of the top digital creators. Discover the values that guide his career, the importance of authenticity in content creation, and his commitment to community through initiatives like Dreamers House and speaking engagements at Bronx schools. Gain insights into his strategies for creating evergreen content, cross-platform promotion, and maintaining creative integrity. A must-watch for aspiring content creators!

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Journey of a DJ: From Venezuela to New York's Dance Floors - Featuring Ilitch Mujica

In this episode of the Fam Podcast, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Ilitch Mujica, a Venezuelan-born, New York City-bred DJ, producer, and musical curator. Ilitch shares his transition from a professional baseball career to architecture, and finally to mastering the art of DJing. He discusses his passion for music, starting from his heavy metal roots to discovering electronic dance music in Berlin. Ilitch explains how communities like Burning Man and the 57 community have influenced his art and shares his unique DJing philosophy. Tune in to learn about the evolution of his sound, his creative process, and the emotional connectivity he strives to achieve in every set.

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The FAM Podcast

In this episode of the FAM podcast, we sit down with Nick Kohler, aka N2N, to explore his incredible journey from a childhood surrounded by music in Nashville to becoming a renowned DJ known for his marathon sets. 

Nick shares the transformative power of music in his life, his early influences, and the pivotal moment at Bonnaroo that inspired him to pursue DJing. We discuss the challenges and rewards of turning a passion into a career, including the emotional highs and lows that come with it. Nick also reflects on maintaining the joy of music amidst career pressures and the significance of playing for an engaged crowd at a memorable Halloween party in New York City. Join us for an inspiring conversation about pursuing dreams, staying true to one's passion, and navigating the music industry.


00:00 Introduction to the FAM Podcast
00:08 Meet Nick Kohler aka N2N
01:45 N2N's Musical Journey and Early Influences
03:13 Discovering DJing and Moving to New York
06:35 The Challenges and Rewards of a Passion-Driven Career
08:47 Balancing Passion and Career Pressures
10:08 Performing for the Love of Music
10:42 Reflecting on a Memorable Halloween Party
12:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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The Evolution of Art in the Digital Age: Insights from Pioneers and Innovators

Join us in this fascinating episode as we explore the dynamic intersection of technology and creativity in the art world. We begin with Stephen Sachs, founder of Bitforms Gallery, discussing his journey from a tech-focused marketing agency to pioneering digital and new media art. We delve into the challenges and successes of establishing a cutting-edge gallery in New York and highlight notable projects, including a groundbreaking AI installation at MoMA. The conversation broadens to cover the impact of AI and NFTs on the art industry, how social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok are reshaping art promotion and valuation, and the democratization of creativity through technological advancements. Featuring insights from seasoned artists and innovators, this episode captures the evolving landscape of digital art, including the rise of immersive, ticketed art installations, and offers strategies for managing burnout in creative fields. Don't miss this deep dive into the future of art and technology!

00:00 Introduction to Stephen Sachs and Bitforms Gallery
01:57 Stephen's Early Life and Artistic Influences
03:38 The Antique Store and Family Business
06:38 Transition to Technology and Digital Pulp
10:40 Founding Bitforms Gallery
13:14 Challenges and Resilience Post 9/11
15:08 Breakthroughs and Career Highlights
19:05 Generative Art and Technological Evolution
21:38 AI in Art: Current Trends and Future Prospects
25:00 Balancing Tradition and Technology in Art
29:55 The Impact of NFTs on the Art World
35:38 Navigating Social Media and Digital Art
36:56 Advice for Aspiring Artists
39:16 Q&A Session with Steven

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