The Hollywood Makers

What's new in the world of film? This week's episode with Claudia Cano-Asbjornsen is bringing you the very important updates you need to know. Claudia takes a detailed look at exciting news from the worlds of Disney and Star Wars, shares the scoop on the Sundance Film Festival's big move, and gives you a sneak peek at some must-see upcoming releases. So, what movies should be on your radar? Well, Claudia's got you covered in her segment, "Ones to Watch," highlighting Marvel's Thunderbolts, The Weeknd's debut film, the return of a horror favorite, and much more. Plus, we're unpacking major takeaways, including news about Ryan Gosling, a Coco sequel, the Beatles, and a whole lot more! Don't miss out, press play, and let's talk movies!

AI is not coming, it’s already here, transforming everything from production pipelines to how we consume content. But as the 2025 NAB Show made clear, this moment in media isn’t just about new tools. It’s about a deeper shift: creators are no longer adapting to the system, they’re redefining it, and as you know, that's what we support here at The Hollywood Makers.

So, in this episode, we take a closer look at what’s going on beyond all the tech hype. Yes, AI is streamlining workflows, personalizing sports broadcasts, and even co-writing stories. But what does that mean for the future of storytelling? and for the people behind the content?

We bring you a grounded perspective from the floor of NAB 2025, where innovation meets intention. From the rise of the Creator Lab and NAB’s first Creator Council to new tools empowering solo producers. This episode is for anyone wondering how to stay relevant and human in an AI-driven industry.

We’ll also keep talking about the ethical questions many prefer to avoid, from ownership of AI-generated content to the future of creative jobs because innovation should support creativity, not replace it.

We are using AI in this episode (on purpose) Can you tell? Of course! It's the same way humans have been using calculators or GPSs to support their capabilities. And by the way, we are very proud to bring you this information created BY humans with AI support.

The entertainment industry is evolving rapidly as AI, gaming, and content creation reshape storytelling. In this episode of The Hollywood Makers, Claudia Cano-Asbjornsen explores the shifting role of voice actors in gaming, the rise of video podcasts, and the growing influence of AI in creativity. As discussed in South by Southwest 2025, these changes bring both challenges and opportunities, from concerns about job security in AI-driven content to new ways creators are monetizing their work. With Disney’s investment in gaming and the rise of interactive storytelling, the industry is entering a new era.

In this episode, we are covering:

- The fight for better contracts and recognition for voice actors

- How AI is reshaping creativity and disrupting content creation

- The rise of video podcasts as a lucrative format

- Disney’s investment in Epic Games and the future of interactive storytelling

- The evolution of entertainment hubs and new industry trends

With technology redefining entertainment, what’s next for studios, creators, and storytellers? Tune in to The Hollywood Makers Podcast to find out!

In this episode of The Hollywood Makers, host Claudia Cano-Asbjornsen breaks down the latest Academy Awards controversy, focusing on Emilia Perez and its Best Actress nominee, Karla Sofía Gascón. From debates over past behavior to the hidden mechanics of Oscar voting, this episode unpacks the complexities of nominations, the role of public scrutiny, and the blurred lines between talent, reputation, and industry politics. Please tune in to our episode for an eye-opening discussion on Hollywood’s most prestigious and contentious, night!

This is what The Hollywood Makers is all about!

Welcome to the new era of The Hollywood Makers! We're shifting away from traditional seasons and episode numbers to bring you continuous coverage of the ever-changing media and entertainment landscape. From tech innovations to industry trends, we'll break down the latest developments shaping the future of the Media and Entertainment industry. 

Join us for insightful conversations with top executives, experts, and innovators as we navigate the intersection of technology, creativity, and business. Stay ahead of the curve with The Hollywood Makers, your go-to source for understanding the dynamic world and changes of media and entertainment.

www.rxmediaproductions.com/the-hollywood-makers-hub

The Hollywood Makers returns with a heartfelt episode exploring the devastating fires still impacting Los Angeles. Host Claudia Cano-Asbjornsen shares her firsthand experiences as an LA resident, highlighting the immense loss, dispelling misconceptions about Hollywood wealth, and emphasizing what truly matters: the resilience of our communities.

Join us as we reflect on the strength, kindness, and compassion that make LA a place of hope, even in its darkest moments. Click, listen, and share the episode, and support those affected in any way you can

This week on The Hollywood Makers, we dive deep into the seismic shifts redefining the entertainment industry. From widespread layoffs to the rise of the creator economy, technological revolutions, and the changing production landscape, Hollywood is at a critical crossroads.
Join Claudia Cano-Asbjornsen as she unpacks:

The financial and employment challenges reshaping traditional media
How platforms like TikTok and YouTube are thriving amidst turmoil
The role of generative AI and virtual production in streamlining creativity
The emerging opportunities for creators to redefine the future
In this special Thanksgiving episode, we also reflect on the power of resilience, innovation, and gratitude in uncertain times. Whether you're a seasoned industry professional or a passionate storyteller, discover how to embrace change and build a path toward success.
Tune in, stay inspired, and let’s shape the future of entertainment—together 

www.rxmediaproductions.com/the-hollywood-makers-hub

In our new episode of The Hollywood Makers, our host Claudia Cano-Asbjornsen, analyzes the current struggles in Hollywood, exploring how the ongoing recession is reshaping the industry.

With major players like Paramount, Disney, and Sony undergoing 'restructuring', layoffs, and leadership changes, the entertainment landscape is more uncertain than ever. Claudia breaks down how this evolving environment is impacting below-the-line workers and mid-management professionals, leaving many people to reconsider their future paths.

As the recession deepens, job cuts, budget reductions, and strategic mergers are becoming common, raising concerns about the future of creativity and innovation in Hollywood. But in the middle of the uncertainty, we share some strategies for staying afloat. Join us on this episode, where we not only examine the challenges but also offer actionable tips for those navigating these changes in the industry.

Plus, don't miss Claudia's signature segment, 'Ones to Watch', where she shares insights about new films and series, highlighting why they stand out!

Subscribe to the podcast, stay connected with The Hollywood Makers hub, and become part of our community where we're supporting film and media entrepreneurs.

In this episode of The Hollywood Makers, we sit down with Helen Sam, the Vice President of Post-Production at Film Finances, a pivotal company that ensures films are completed on time and within budget. With nearly two decades of experience, Helen shares her unique journey from studying sociology to building a career in TV, documentaries, and film, leading to her role as an executive supervising the post-production of many successful films in Hollywood. She discusses her early work with PBS and ITVS, the complexities of post-production, and how Film Finances supports independent filmmakers by offering essential financial guarantees.

In her capacity, Helen oversees many aspects of the completion guarantee process, working closely with both independent filmmakers and major studios to mitigate financial risks and ensure productions can move forward with confidence. Tune in as we explore the challenges of modern filmmaking, the evolution of the industry, and Helen's insights into securing success in independent cinema.