Hello, Hello! 

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with documentary filmmakers John Kirby and Libby Handros. They discuss their 25-year partnership and their upcoming documentary film cycle "Four Died Trying," which explores the major assassinations of the 1960s. The conversation covers topics such as state involvement in these assassinations, the lack of transparency around the investigations, and the importance of understanding history and promoting positive social change.

Show Notes:

• John Kirby and Libby Handros discuss their 25-year partnership in documentary filmmaking, including their work on the festival favorite "The American Ruling Class" and their current project, "Four Died Trying."
• The guests share details about their interviews with over 130 people, including Bob Groden and the late Dick Gregory, for their "Four Died Trying" documentary series, which explores the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Bobby Kennedy, Malcolm X, and Martin Luther King Jr.
• The group discusses the lack of transparency and documentation around the JFK and RFK assassinations, in contrast to the civil trials and FBI documents that have emerged for the Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. assassinations.
• They explore the international implications of Malcolm X's work and the Kennedys' connections to Africa, as well as the role of the Warren Commission and Operation Gladio in obscuring the truth about these events.
• The conversation touches on the challenges of researching and discussing conspiracy theories, the importance of critical thinking and independent research, and the preference for conflict-driven narratives in documentaries.
• The guests share their insights on the power of nonviolent resistance, the legacy of Dick Gregory, and the need for more positive and uplifting stories in filmmaking.

We also talk about:

• The attempted assassination of Donald Trump and the timing of the release of a documentary about the event
• The importance of the Warren Commission and its handling of the JFK assassination investigation
• The concept of "patsies" in high-profile assassinations, such as Sirhan Sirhan in the RFK case and James Earl Ray in the MLK case
• The lack of a Truth and Reconciliation committee to address the assassinations of the 1960s
• The influence of the military-industrial complex and big oil interests on the presidency, particularly in the case of Lyndon B. Johnson

Bodega Artist of the Week

Amy Jay - Joke

New York based singer/songwriter Amy Jay harnesses the power of vulnerability and introspection with euphonious indie-folk music that captures the afflictions of humanity and explores the depths of emotionality. “Joke” asks if life is just one big joke when things don’t go as planned or when crazy events happen in the world. While its lyrics are moody, they are tinged with hope that there might be an explanation.The drums establish a pounding rhythm from the opening notes, giving the song an urgent, restless feel. The insistent beat seems to represent the endless march of days where nothing makes sense. The guitar melody echoes the anxiety expressed throughout.

Instagram

TikTok

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

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris Barkley and writer Jason McConnell revisit MAKE IT episode #248, "Indie Film Investment From A to Z - EVERYTHING You Need To Know Before You Wire Funds." They discuss the popularity of the original episode, the chemistry between the hosts, and the unique perspective it provided on investing in indie films from a producer's point of view. The conversation covers topics such as filmmaking, investing, pimp culture, originality in creative work, and the importance of long-term commitment and reputation in the industry.

We Talk About:

- Podcast popularity and chemistry between hosts

- Investing in indie films from a producer's perspective

- Filmmaking, investing, and pimp culture

- Originality in filmmaking, avoiding cliches, and the importance of honesty in creative work

- Crazy, including John Wayne Gacy, and a possible "crazy line" in film

- Being a long-term player in filmmaking, with insights on risks and trust

- The importance of commitment and dedication in filmmaking and investing

- Technology's impact on creativity and society

- Film industry contracts and their impact on filmmakers

- Film investing, importance of understanding filmmaker's perspective

- Filmmaking and why certain projects are better suited for certain mediums

- Filmmaking, budgets, and executive producers

- Acting, filmmaking, and the importance of personal brand

- Filmmaking, reputation, and transactional relationships

- Chickens, prepping, and homesteading

- Podcasting, filmmaking, and e-book promotion

Enjoy! 

Bodega Artist of the Week

Jake Simon - Dream Of You

Originally from New Haven, CT, Jake Simon is a classically trained guitarist who started releasing music in 2018. His production style features soulful guitars, analog synthesizers, and classic drum machines to produce chilled out indie R&B tracks with elements of Rap and Pop. "Dream Of You" is smooth as silk. This feel-good, laid back R&B track takes listeners through a dreamy journey of desire, fate and love. His song “Lay Low” was synced in Season 5 of the hit CW series “All American.”

Instagram

TikTok

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

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Producer Chris Barkley and Writer Jason McConnell discuss the ins and outs of investing in independent films. They cover topics such as the importance of good judgment, risk management, and negotiation strategies for investors. They also dive into the key factors to consider when evaluating film investment opportunities, including understanding the filmmakers' vision and motivations, building a "moat" around the business, and navigating the complexities of film distribution.

Show Notes:

• The importance of good judgment and risk management in film investment
• Negotiating for creative and business control as an investor
• Evaluating film investment opportunities based on the filmmakers' "why" and ability to execute
• Building a "moat" around a film business through branding and networking
• The challenges of finding profitable film investment opportunities and avoiding short-term players
• The role of contracts, lawyers, and due diligence in film investment
• Strategies for increasing deal flow and building trust with filmmakers
• The impact of tax incentives and debt financing on film investment
• The importance of prioritizing personal brand and impactful projects in indie film investing

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

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with producer, author, entrepreneur, and activist Dr. Christian Gregory. They discuss Gregory's work building sustainable consumer brands through his company 3E and continuing the legacy of his father, comedian and activist Dick Gregory. Christian shares stories from his childhood and lessons learned from his father about health, the environment, and using one's platform to inspire change.

We also talk about:

- Christian's experience growing up on his family's organic farm and the values instilled in him by his parents around health, environment, and community

- The work Christian did in his Chiropractic practice and how it informed his views on health, wellness, and the impact of lifestyle choices

- 3E's mission to build sustainable consumer brands and roll up existing brands to help them tell their stories through an environmental, social, and governance lens

- The importance of understanding new technologies like AI and remaining engaged to help guide their development and impact 

- Tips for taking care of one's mind, body, and soul through lifestyle choices and maintaining a balanced relationship with technology

And an all-new Things We Should Know and Culture Check —

Enjoy!

Bodega Artist of the Week

b3cca - Pictures

Rebecca Seatle, professionally known as b3cca, is a talented singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist hailing from NYC. Drawing inspiration from diverse genres, including pop, R&B, and electronic music, b3cca's music captivates audiences with its catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and soulful vocals. "Pictures" is one of b3cca's standout tracks, showcasing her emotive songwriting and soulful vocals. The song delves into themes of nostalgia, longing, and the passage of time as b3cca reflects on memories captured in photographs.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b3ccaofficial/

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

Chris & Nick's All-Time Must-Read Books:

https://bookshop.org/lists/chris-nick-s-all-time-can-t-miss-reads

YouTube: https://link.chtbl.com/makeitonyoutube?at=1406156285

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with entertainment lawyer Joshua Lastine. They discuss the current state of the film industry and how private equity investment has impacted storytelling. Joshua provides insight into his work representing indie filmmakers and navigating contracts in Hollywood. He emphasizes the importance of proper legal protections for independent creators.

We also talk about:

- The upcoming Silver Surfer movie and casting a female lead in the role

- How strikes and increased costs have impacted opportunities for writers, actors, and other creatives 

- The roles of agents, managers, and lawyers in negotiating deals and protecting clients' interests

- Examples of celebrities insuring their body parts for commercial value

- Cultural heritage and representation in films, including Hawaiian and Lao influences

Enjoy!

Bodega Artist of the Week

Royalty Statements - FOCUSED (feat. Tifa)

Producer duo Royalty Statements are known for their dynamic and eclectic music, heavily rooted in their Caribbean cultures. The combination of DUMI’s Haitian background and SOIGNÉ’s Dominican Republic culture, along with a core group of collaborators from all around Latin America, has helped the two build a signature sound that encompasses a variety of genres like Hip Hop, Konpa, Dancehall, Soca and Dembow. "FOCUSED" is a fun and Caribbean-inspired track highlighting the hard work, determination, and sacrifice it takes to excel. The song features vocals from Jamaican artist Tifa, one of the top female deejays in the Reggae and Dancehall space.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/royaltystatements/

TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@royaltystatements

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. 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

YouTube: https://link.chtbl.com/makeitonyoutube?at=1406156285

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with documentary filmmaker Sav Rogers and producer Alex Schmider about identity, trauma, and inclusion in filmmaking. They discuss Sav's documentary "Chasing Chasing Amy" and the challenges of representation in Hollywood. Sav and Alex also share their perspectives on building communities outside of traditional systems.

We also talk about:

• Sav's journey making 'Chasing Chasing Amy' and the personal story it tells
• The importance of authentic representation and avoiding monolithic stories
• The financial challenges independent filmmakers face and lack of sustainable careers
• Problems with traditional distribution models and the importance of education resources
• Building communities and support systems outside of Hollywood

Enjoy!

Bodega Artist of the Week

JEMS - Bury It

Through rich three-part harmonies, JEMS weaves stories, sounds, and raw emotion with a shimmering fervor. Listeners of all kinds can’t seem to resist the songwriting prowess and vocal alchemy of the trio made up of Singer/Songwriters Emily Colombier, Jessica Rotter and Sarah Margaret Huff. “Bury It” combines a lot of their own experiences and those of people in their lives who have had to hide who they are to fit in or be comfortable existing in their surroundings – it’s a reflection on being true to oneself and the consequence of repressing pain and ignoring inner truth.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jemstheband/

TikTok: http://tiktok.com/jemstheband

We are humbled to have a community of creatives that care so deeply about what we’re doing. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

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

Apple Podcasts: https://link.chtbl.com/makeit

Spotify: https://link.chtbl.com/makeitonspotify

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

YouTube: https://link.chtbl.com/makeitonyoutube?at=1406156285

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with documentary filmmaker Sav Rogers and producer Alex Schmider about identity, trauma, and inclusion in filmmaking. They discuss Sav's documentary "Chasing Chasing Amy" and the challenges of representation in Hollywood. Sav and Alex also share their perspectives on building communities outside of traditional systems.

We also talk about:

• Sav's journey making 'Chasing Chasing Amy' and the personal story it tells
• The importance of authentic representation and avoiding monolithic stories
• The financial challenges independent filmmakers face and lack of sustainable careers
• Problems with traditional distribution models and the importance of education resources
• Building communities and support systems outside of Hollywood

Enjoy!

Bodega Artist of the Week

JEMS - Bury It

Through rich three-part harmonies, JEMS weaves stories, sounds, and raw emotion with a shimmering fervor. Listeners of all kinds can’t seem to resist the songwriting prowess and vocal alchemy of the  trio made up of Singer/Songwriters Emily Colombier, Jessica Rotter and Sarah Margaret Huff. “Bury It” combines a lot of their own experiences and those of people in their lives who have had to hide who they are to fit in or be comfortable existing in their surroundings – it’s a reflection on being true to oneself and the consequence of repressing pain and ignoring inner truth.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jemstheband/

TikTok: http://tiktok.com/jemstheband

We are humbled to have a community of creatives that care so deeply about what we’re doing. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

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

Apple Podcasts: https://link.chtbl.com/makeit

Spotify: https://link.chtbl.com/makeitonspotify

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

YouTube: https://link.chtbl.com/makeitonyoutube?at=1406156285

Hello, Hello!

In this special bonus episode, Chris and Nick host a webinar with filmmaker and educator John Fitzgerald. Jon Fitzgerald shared his expertise on advancing your filmmaking career through festivals, pitches, and working with gatekeepers. Chris and Nick provided additional insights from their experiences in the film industry.

We also talk about:

• Strategies for networking and following up with contacts at film festivals
• Setting clear goals for your film and festival process
• Properly preparing pitch materials like budgets, schedules, and pitch decks
• Understanding the roles of different types of industry representation like agents, managers, and producers reps
• Advice for pitching feature films and television shows

Enjoy!

If you like what we’re doing, please consider supporting our work - every subscriber, rating, and review matters! #MAKEIT

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

Apple Podcasts: https://link.chtbl.com/makeit

Spotify: https://link.chtbl.com/makeitonspotify

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

YouTube: https://link.chtbl.com/makeitonyoutube?at=1406156285

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with filmmaker and festival director Jon Fitzgerald. They discuss Jon's career path from filmmaker to festival director, his advocacy work helping other filmmakers, and his efforts to leverage film for social change. Jon shares insights from his experiences running festivals, making documentaries, and advising other creatives.

We also talk about:

• Jon's experience being rejected from Sundance and subsequently founding the Slamdance Film Festival
• Tips for running a successful film festival, including budgeting, sponsorship, and engaging the local community
• The value of film education versus hands-on experience in the industry
• Resources Jon provides for filmmakers, including his book, courses, and podcast
• Upcoming projects like Jon's narrative film "Impressions" and a new platform called Fest Source

Indie Artist Spotlight

Artist: The Thing With Feathers

Track: Can You See Me

Socials: TikTok & Instagram

The Thing With Feathers is an alt-rock, indie pop, and dance powerhouse. The crew’s natural, quirky swagger and stellar musicianship have resulted in a catalog of equally introspective and uncomplicated tunes dedicated to booty-shakers everywhere. “Can You See Me” is an exciting and dynamic alt-rock and indie-pop track full of contrasting textures and gritty, raw tones.

If you like what we’re doing, please consider supporting our work - every subscriber, rating, and review matters! #MAKEIT

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

Apple Podcasts: https://link.chtbl.com/makeit

Spotify: https://link.chtbl.com/makeitonspotify

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

YouTube: https://link.chtbl.com/makeitonyoutube?at=1406156285

Hello, Hello!

On this episode of the MAKE IT podcast, Chris and Nick discuss their passion for filmmaking and creativity. They explore questions of love and doubt, barriers to creative expression, and industry insights. The hosts also analyze characters from GI Joe, power dynamics in Hollywood, and the appreciation of artists at film festivals.

We also talk about:

- Political views expressed at comedy shows and how audiences prioritize their interests

- The Netflix show “Baby Reindeer” and its exploration of susceptibility to abuse in the entertainment industry

- The impact of the Internet on personal lives and relationships

- Industry relationships, “ghosting,” and the importance of being good to one another

- Drinking a local vodka brand and supporting local businesses

Enjoy!

Indie Artist Spotlight

Artist: Bryce Green

Track: Boom (feat. 81m)

Bryce Green is a rapper, singer, and one of the most exhilarating hip-hop artists to emerge on the scene, whose fierce lyricism, electrifying charisma, and melodic singing set fire to any scene. These guys are capable of anything, paired with a production duo of 81m. His hard-hitting rap anthem “Boom” has been used in the series “Rookie: Feds” and “Bel-Air” and has had two other songs used in national commercials for Pizza Hut. 

Support our work - every subscriber, rating, and review matters! #MAKEIT

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

Apple Podcasts: https://link.chtbl.com/makeit

Spotify: https://link.chtbl.com/makeitonspotify

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

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