The MAKE IT Podcast

Hello, Hello!

Happy Holidays from Chris, Nick, Papa Bear, Intern Sam, and the team at MAKE IT!

In this episode, the MAKE IT crew discuss their favorite moments from 2024 in a Holiday Season "clip show." Including one showcasing a heated debate between the hosts about the Kendrick Lamar and Drake beef, and another highlighting a discussion about representation in Hollywood.

We also share clips that discuss:

- The importance of authentic representation in media and the need to push Hollywood to better reflect the diversity of the real world

- The challenges independent filmmakers face in securing funding and distribution compared to major studios

- The role of nostalgia and familiarity in driving audiences to sequels and reboots over original content

- The generational differences in attitudes towards sequels and superhero movies

Products, software, websites, people, and places mentioned in the podcast:

- Otter.ai

- Kendrick Lamar

- Drake

- Chasing, Chasing Amy documentary

- Sav Rogers

- Alex Schmider

- GLAAD

- Barbie

- Beetlejuice

- Deadpool & Wolverine

- Inside Out 2

- Toy Story

- Shrek

- Twisters

- Blink Twice

- Humans of New York

- Brandon Stanton

- Winnie the Pooh - Blood and Honey

- Avengers Assemble

- Bambi

- Tinker Bell

- Pinocchio

- Peter Pan

- Sharknado

- Thunder Levin

- Beverly Hills 90210

- Coke Daniels

- Micah Simms

- Nintendo

- Letterboxd

- Chris Blake

- Josh Moody

- Ted Welch

- Motke Dapp

- Eddie Griffin

- Anthony Anderson

- Method Man

- Michael Imperioli

- Bai Ling

- John Amos

- Norman Lear

- Esther Rolle

- Film Riot

- Dexter Strong Buell

- Derek Mindler

- Aaron Irons

- Josh Croft

- Rostam Zafari

- Nicholas Mihm

- LMNT Chocolate Salt

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. 

So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

Subscribe to our newsletter at www.bonsai.film/subscribe

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Hello, Hello!

In this edition of Mistakes In the Making, filmmaker Natalie Ruffino Wilson shares her experience navigating the challenges of a volunteer film project that went awry. Joined by her husband and filmmaking partner, Kyler Wilson, Natalie recounts the lessons she learned about the importance of clear communication, setting boundaries, and protecting one's creative vision, even in the face of unexpected obstacles.

The conversation delves into Natalie's initial excitement about being invited to direct the volunteer project, where filmmakers were paired with artists, and her subsequent decision to co-direct with a close friend, despite her gut instinct that it was a bad idea. As the project progressed, Natalie found herself doing the majority of the work, only to face a negative response from the artist, who felt that Natalie had taken their work and done something with it without proper acknowledgment.

Natalie and Kyler discuss the importance of having contracts in place, even for volunteer projects, to ensure that everyone's roles and expectations are clearly defined. They also share how this experience taught Natalie to focus her energy on people and projects that align with her values and goals, and the importance of setting boundaries to protect her time and creative vision.

Key takeaways from this Mistake In the Making:

- The importance of trusting your instincts and asking questions or saying no if something feels off from the start.

- The value of surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who share your passion and values.

- The necessity of having clear contracts and communication to protect your work and expectations, even in volunteer projects.

- The lessons learned about setting boundaries, protecting your time, and being explicit about expectations.

Products, software, websites, people or places mentioned:

Kyler Wilson - Filmmaker and co-founder of Outsider Means

Natalie Rufino Wilson - Filmmaker and co-founder of Outsider Means

Outside Our Means - Kyler and Natalie's production company

Kyler and Natalie's short films

Best Laid Plans - Kyler and Natalie's feature film made during COVID-19

[email protected] - Natalie's email for filmmaking questions

[email protected] - Kyler's email for filmmaking questions

Check out our full conversation with Kyler and Natalie Ruffino Wilson Here

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

Subscribe to our newsletter at www.bonsai.film/subscribe

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with director, producer, and filmmaker Rich Hull. Rich discusses his 30-year career in media and entertainment, including his work as a film producer and the creation of the largest Spanish-language streaming service, VIX. The conversation delves into Rich's latest project, a documentary film titled Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain's Journey, which he co-produced with Chris Pratt.

We explore the unique role of combat chaplains, the challenges and journey of making the documentary, and the unexpected turn the film took when the story of a famous combat chaplain, Father Emil Kapaon, was uncovered.

Rich shares insights into the filmmaking approach, the parallels between agile development and documentary filmmaking, and the importance of networking and asking for help in the industry.

The episode also features audience polls on the state of teen movies, favorite John Hughes films, and a fact check on the history of the US Army Chaplain School. Rich provides advice on finding financial support and promoting documentaries on a limited budget, as well as discussing the inspiration behind his varied film projects. The conversation culminates in Rich's perspective on defining success and making it in the industry.

We also talk about:

- The impact and reception of the "Fighting Spirit" documentary, including emotional reactions from veterans

- The role of celebrities and influencers in promoting documentary films

- Rich's approach to finding inspiration for his diverse film projects

- The importance of overcoming the fear of asking for help in the industry

- Rich's definition of "making it" and his journey in the entertainment industry

Products, software, websites, people, and places mentioned in the podcast:

- VIX (streaming service)

- "Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain's Journey" (documentary film)

- Columbia State Community College

- Film Crew Technology (FCT) program

- David Smith (FCT program director)

- Nate Boyer (filmmaker)

- "My Octopus Teacher" (documentary film)

- "St. Elmo's Fire" (film)

- "The Breakfast Club" (film)

- "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" (film)

- "Home Alone" (film)

- "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" (film)

- "Sixteen Candles" (film)

- Ronald Reagan (actor)

- Emilio Estevez (actor/director)

- Halle Berry (actress)

- Chris Pratt (actor)

- Matthew McConaughey (actor)

- Darrell Royal (football coach)

- BetterHelp (online therapy platform)

- LinkedIn

- Cotton Bureau (apparel company)

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

Subscribe to our newsletter at www.bonsai.film/subscribe

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!

In this Mistakes In the Making, Kyler Wilson,Director, Writer, and Co-founder of Outside Our Means (Production Company) discuss the importance of having a contract when working with others in the creative industry, even with friends and family, and share a personal experience where not having a contract led to issues on a project.

Summary:

• Kyler emphasizes the importance of having a contract when working with others, even friends and family, to protect your work and relationships
• He shares a personal experience where he developed an entire script based on a vague idea from a collaborator, only to have major changes imposed that he disagreed with, leading to the project stalling
• Kyler and Natalie stress that a simple contract can go a long way in clarifying expectations and protecting all parties involved in a creative project

Topics Covered:

• The dangers of working without a contract, even with trusted collaborators
• Navigating creative differences and changes to a project you've invested significant time in
• Protecting your work and relationships through clear contractual agreements
• Lessons learned from Kyler's experience of having his name removed from a project he co-wrote

Key Learning:

• Research template contracts or seek advice from other filmmakers to protect yourself when collaborating
• Be cautious about taking on projects without a clear, written agreement in place
• Communicate openly with collaborators about creative differences and be willing to walk away if an agreement cannot be reached

Products, software, websites, people or places mentioned:

Kyler Wilson - Filmmaker and co-founder of Outsider Means

Natalie Rufino Wilson - Filmmaker and co-founder of Outsider Means

Kyle Williams - Kyler's best friend, currently working with him on a project without a contract

Outside Our Means - Kyler and Natalie's production company

Kyler and Natalie's short films

Best Laid Plans - Kyler and Natalie's feature film made during COVID-19

[email protected] - Natalie's email for filmmaking questions

[email protected] - Kyler's email for filmmaking questions

Check out our full conversation with Kyler and Natalie Wilson Here

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

Subscribe to our newsletter at www.bonsai.film/subscribe

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!

Welcome to SUMMARIES, Episode #1

Summaries takes some of our best long-form interviews (and even some unpublished ones) and condenses them to down to 10 minutes of pure listening pleasure. 

Summaries are hosted by our digital interns, Alex Ivey and Allison Inverness, and are designed to give you, our valued listeners, just the information you need from each guest. It's a new short-form concept for a fast-paced world. It's the answer to the two-hour podcast you want to listen to but never have the time for.

Each new episode of Summaries will be published right here, on the MAKE IT feed. We think you'll love it as much as we do—now, on to the show.

---

Alex and Allison summarize a previously unreleased MAKE IT episode with Filmmaker Lexie Mosby in this episode. So, who is Lexie Mosby, and what did she make?

Lexie Mosby, a 21-year-old senior in college double majoring in film and psychology, is gaining recognition for her compelling and honest independent filmmaking. Her short film Morning Room tackles the intersection of purity culture and sexual assault, a topic she personally experienced. The film portrays a young woman in a Christian relationship who discovers her boyfriend has been molesting her. Mosby's background in psychology informs her complex character portrayals, including a nuanced depiction of the boyfriend. She is also working on two new films, "Hosts" and "After School," which showcase her range in storytelling. Mosby's work is marked by her bravery, authenticity, and the ability to address difficult and often silenced topics.

Enjoy, and follow Lexie on Instagram here.

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

Subscribe to our newsletter at www.bonsai.film/subscribe

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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with plus-size influencer and NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness) brand ambassador Phaith Montoya. They discuss strategies for overcoming rejection, the importance of building resilience and support systems, misconceptions about plus-size models, and the impact of social media and influencers. Phaith shares her personal experiences navigating challenges and the role of plus-size models in changing beauty standards.

We also talk about:

• Phaith's experience living in a creator house and the differences in work ethic among influencers
• The importance of authenticity and engagement in building a social media following
• Phaith's strategies for navigating dark spaces and maintaining self-esteem
• Phaith's inspiring definition of "making it" and finding success on her own terms
• The promotion of the Make It Podcast merchandise and ways for the audience to connect with the hosts

Enjoy!

Products, Software, Websites, People, and Places Mentioned:

NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness)

Yitty (clothing brand designed by Lizzo)

MAKE IT on Cotton Bureau 

Phaith’s TikTok

Phaith’s Instagram

Phaith’s YouTube

Lena Himmelstein Bryant Malsin (founder of Lane Bryant)

Lizzo

Fifth Avenue, New York (Lane Bryant's original location)

“Last to Leave" creator house

EDC (music festival)

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. 

So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

Subscribe to our newsletter at www.bonsai.film/subscribe

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with Writer, Director, and Producer Coke Daniels. They discuss Daniels' journey into filmmaking, from his early days in the hip-hop industry to his transition into directing independent films. Daniels shares insights on the importance of mentorship, the challenges of urban filmmaking, and the inspiration behind his latest film, The Waterboyz.

We Also Talk About:

• Daniels discusses his start in the music industry as part of the hip-hop group Mad Cap, signed to the iconic Loud Records label.

• He talks about how his friendship with comedian Eddie Griffin led to Daniels' first screenwriting opportunity for the film My Baby's Daddy.

• Daniels shares lessons he learned from industry veterans like John Amos, who encouraged him to pursue directing over just writing.

• He explains the inspiration behind The Waterboyz and his goal to portray the Water Boy culture in Atlanta in a positive, nuanced light.

• Daniels offers advice for aspiring filmmakers, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and developing one's craft, even when facing financial challenges.

• Daniels' experiences with code-switching and navigating different social and professional environments.

• The challenges of maintaining authenticity and avoiding stereotypes in urban filmmaking.

• The evolution of comedy in film and the shift towards more suspenseful and horror-driven genres.

• The importance of storytelling and character development in Daniels' approach to filmmaking.

• The impact of technology and AI on the filmmaking process, and Daniels' exploration of these new tools.

Where to Watch The Waterboyz

• Amazon Prime
• YouTube
• Google Play
• Various cable VOD platforms

Products, Software, Websites, People, and Places Mentioned:

• Loud Records
• "My Baby's Daddy" (film)
• "Who Made the Potato Salad" (film)
• "Karen" (film)
• "The Waterboyz" (film)
• Eddie Griffin
• John Amos
• Jeremy Kramer (Miramax executive)
• Spike Lee
• Barry Jenkins
• Todd Field
• Luca Guadagnino
• Sean Baker
• Todd Haynes
• Safdie brothers
• Kinkos
• Busy Bee Cafe (restaurant in Atlanta)
• Hattie B's (restaurant in Nashville)
• Slutty Vegan (restaurant in Atlanta)
• Vegan Junk Food Bar (restaurant in Barcelona)
• Veggie Grill (restaurant)
• Native Foods (restaurant)
• Morehouse College

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters.

So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

Subscribe to our newsletter at www.bonsai.film/subscribe

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello! 

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with actress Katherine Ro about her journey in the entertainment industry, balancing career and family life, and the challenges of voice acting versus traditional acting. They also discuss the importance of independent film festivals, the skills required for stunt work, and insights from industry professionals. The conversation covers a range of topics related to the creative and practical aspects of pursuing a career in the entertainment industry.

We also talk about:

• Nashville Film Festival Recap and Housekeeping
• Chris and Nick discuss the recent Nashville Film Festival, highlighting standout films and notable attendees.
• They emphasize the importance of subscribing and liking the podcast on YouTube to support their indie film journey.
• Prince George County Film Festival Experience
• Nick shares his experience at the Prince George County Film Festival, where he connected with local talent and former podcast guests.
• The hosts discuss the value of supporting local film festivals and the sense of community they foster.
• Katherine’s experience filming the prequel to "The Terminal List" in Budapest.
• Katherine discusses her early interest in entertainment and her transition to acting after starting with modeling and voiceover work.
• Balancing Career and Family Life
• Katherine shares her experiences balancing her career with family responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of communication and support from her husband.
• Katherine discusses the sacrifices and compromises required to pursue a career in the entertainment industry while maintaining a healthy family life.
• Voice Acting vs. Traditional Acting
• Intern Sam presents a poll comparing the difficulty of voice acting versus traditional acting.
• Katherine and the hosts discuss the technical and creative challenges of voice acting, including projection, inflection, and the need for specific training.
• Poll Results and Audience Engagement
• Intern Sam shares the poll results on the most iconic fashion movie… (you must listen to find the answer!)
• We discuss our favorite fashion movies and the performances of actors like Ben Stiller and Adam Driver.
• Stunt Work and Industry Insights
• Producer Papa Bear introduces a trivia question about a prominent Venezuelan stunt actress, Vanessa Mota.
• Katherine discusses the skills and challenges of stunt work, highlighting the unsung heroes of the film industry.

Enjoy! 

Things You Should Research, Support, and Buy:

• MAKE IT YouTube Channel
• Velvety-Soft Tees & Hoodies. We have incredible hats, too! Find them at Cotton Bureau
• Subscribe to our newsletter, Indie Insights
• Katherine’s IMDb
• Katherine’s Instagram: @thekathrynro
• Burger Fiction’s YouTube channel “Watch this amazing compilation “Every Tom Cruise Run Ever.”
• The Terminal List Trailer
• BET+ Original Movie | Whatever It Takes | Trailer

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

Subscribe to our newsletter at www.bonsai.film/subscribe

www.themakeitpodcast.com

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello! 

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with filmmakers Aaron Irons and Josh Croft about their experiences at the Defy Film Festival, their independent horror films "Chest" and "Jeffrey's Hell," and their overall approach to low-budget, authentic filmmaking. The conversation covers the importance of community, resourcefulness, and staying true to one's creative vision in the independent film industry. The hosts and guests also discuss the horror genre, the challenges of marketing films, and the value of streaming platforms for indie filmmakers.

Enjoy!

The show notes include the following:

Introduction and Music Discussion

Chris Barkley introduces the podcast and guests Aaron Irons and Josh Croft, along with co-host Nick Buggs and discussion of the concept of "sophomore slump" in music.

Defy Film Festival and Chest Movie

• Aaron Irons and Josh Croft discuss the significance of Defy Film Festival and their experience with the premiere of their film "Chest."
• Chris clarifies a previous misunderstanding about the availability of an audio-only episode with Gail Ann Hurd on YouTube.

Defy Festival Highlights and Jeffrey's Hell

• Josh Croft provides details about the Defy festival and the unique experience of attending.
• Aaron Irons talks about the sequel to "Chest," titled "Jeffrey's Hell," and its unconventional production process.

Found Footage Genre and Streaming Platforms

• Discussion of the found footage genre, its popularity, and the financial realities of filmmaking.
• Insights into the found footage community and the importance of streaming platforms like Tubi for independent filmmakers.

Filmmaking Philosophies and Future Plans

• Aaron Irons and Josh Croft talk about their approach to filmmaking, emphasizing resourcefulness and practicality.
• They express a preference for maintaining creative control and not being beholden to external funding.

Polls and Audience Engagement

• Intern Sam introduces polls about the best horror director and the best Tim Burton movie.
• The conversation includes a discussion about the significance of these directors and their contributions to the horror genre.

Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

• Reflections on the poll results and the importance of community support and resourcefulness in filmmaking.
• Guests express gratitude for the support and excitement for their upcoming projects.

Here is a bulleted list of the products, software, websites, and other items mentioned in the conversation:

- Tubi

- Stash Chills and Thrills (YouTube channel)

- Letterboxd

- Full Moon Cineplex (Hermitage, TN)

- Defy Film Festival

- Chest (film)

- Jeffrey's Hell (film)

- Hey, I Made This for You (film)

- Bonsai.film

- Cotton Bureau

- Indie Insights newsletter

- Chris' X Page (social media platform)

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

Subscribe to our newsletter at www.bonsai.film/subscribe

www.themakeitpodcast.com

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk to David "D. Bird" Birdsall, the co-founder of the White Collar Rhymes Discord community. They discuss D. Bird's experience organizing a music project that brought together internet friends from around the world to create The Last Mixtape album and documentary in a mansion in Austin, Texas.

The conversation covers the challenges of filming the project, the distinct qualities of Northwest hip hop, the influence of artists like Atmosphere and Aesop Rock, and D Bird's thoughts on the use of AI in music.

We also talk about:

• The early days of DJing and its evolution as an instrument
• The impact of the recent rap beef between Drake and Kendrick Lamar
• The importance of truth and verifiable claims in diss tracks
• The potential for AI to dominate certain music genres, like mid-level country
• The first hip hop film, "Wild Style," and the preservation of hip hop history

Enjoy!

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

Subscribe to our newsletter at www.bonsai.film/subscribe

www.themakeitpodcast.com

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy