The MAKE IT Podcast

Learn more about Jefferson White here:

Hello, Hello!

Yellowstone star Jefferson White joins us for an in-depth Filmmaker Q&A about the creative process, independent filmmaking, and building a sustainable career in entertainment. White discusses his production company, Means of Productions, the philosophy behind choosing independent projects over big-budget work, and how constraints often lead to the most creative solutions. The conversation explores the balance between commercial television success and passion projects, emphasizing the importance of long-term collaborations and continuous learning through hands-on experience.

We also talk about:

• The creative freedom found in low-budget independent films versus high-stakes television productions

• How photography serves as both a creative outlet and a practical tool for staying present on set

• The Peter Falk/John Cassavetes model of using commercial success to finance personal artistic projects

• Building a sustainable filmmaking community through long-term partnerships and collaborative learning

• Upcoming projects include a Kennedy assassination film and a Rambo prequel

People, Places, Products & Software Mentioned:

Jefferson White (Yellowstone actor)

Taylor Sheridan (Yellowstone creator/writer)

Peter Falk

John Cassavetes (filmmaker)

Adam Volerich (cinematographer)

Terence Cray (sound engineer/editor/director)

Jeff Rutherford (script writer)

John Kirby (documentary filmmaker)

Libby Handros (documentary filmmaker)

Dick Gregory

Geraldo Rivera

Martin McDonagh (playwright - The Pillowman, Banshees of Inisherin)

Don Watts (theater director)

Means of Productions (Jefferson's production company)

Iowa State University

M Shop theater

Caravan (short film)

Drink and Be Merry

Misprint

November 1963 (Film in Production)

John Rambo prequel

Nikon FM 10

Pentax 6x7

Nikon F

Yellowstone (TV series)

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Four Died Trying (documentary)

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

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Learn more about Jefferson White here:

Hello, Hello!

In this Story Is King, Jefferson White joins the Make It Podcast to discuss his latest film, "Drink and Be Merry," a Christmas movie shot for just $60,000 in a New York dive bar. White shares insights into micro-budget filmmaking, his collaboration with director Adam Volderic, and the creative choices that gave the film its nostalgic, warm visual aesthetic. The conversation explores the challenges of making intimate character-driven stories about ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances.

We also talk about: 

• The smart production strategy of using two locations and ensemble casting with New York character actors

• How the film's color grading and cinematography evoke Christmas nostalgia and childhood memories

• Jefferson's journey from small-town Iowa to professional acting and his formative college experience

• The delicate tonal balance of playing a character who oscillates between high and low status

• Essential audition advice focusing on preparation, authenticity, and the long-term nature of an acting career

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

Drink and Be Merry

The Holdovers (Paul Giamatti)

It's a Wonderful Life

A Christmas Story

The Leftovers

Adam Volerich

Eye of the Duck Show

Leo Winters

The Ale 'N Wich (New York)

Benicio Del Toro

There Will Be Blood

Mount Vernon, Iowa

Iowa State University

Sophie Zucker

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

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This episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at www.shopify.com/makeit

Hello, Hello! 

In this episode, we sit down with actor Jefferson White (Yellowstone, Chicago PD) to discuss his latest indie film "Drink and Be Merry," which he made for just $60,000. White shares insights about balancing big-budget TV work with passion projects, the importance of long-term creative collaborations, and how he uses photography as a creative outlet between acting jobs. The conversation explores the challenges and rewards of independent filmmaking, the art of auditioning, and White's journey from small-town Iowa to Hollywood success.

We also talk about:

• White's collaboration with director Adam Volderic and their production company, Means of Productions 

• The creative constraints and advantages of micro-budget filmmaking versus big-budget productions 

• White's upcoming projects include a Lee Harvey Oswald role and a Rambo prequel 

• The psychology of playing villains and the importance of empathy in character development 

• White's background in Iowa theater and his formative acting teacher, Matt Foss

People, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:

Drink and Be Merry

Yellowstone

Chicago PD

The Matrix Reloaded

In the Mood for Love

It Was Just an Accident

The Secret Agent

No Other Choice

The Last Picture Show

True Grit

From Here to Eternity

The Holdovers

Taxi Driver

East of Eden

One Battle After Another

The Brutalist

Everything Everywhere All at Once

The Substance

Adam Volerich

Leo Winters

Matt Foss

Taylor Sheridan

Heath Ledger

Joaquin Phoenix

Sean Penn

Benicio Del Toro

Cloris Leachman

Donna Reed

John Wayne

Paul Thomas Anderson

Wong Kar Wai

Martin McDonagh

Mount Vernon, Iowa

Iowa State University

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Des Moines

Nikon FM10

Pentax 6x7

Nikon F (1962)

Hattie B's

Prince's Hot Chicken

Bishop's (Nashville Meat & 3 Restaurant)

Eye of the Duck Show

The Ale N Wich Bar

M Shop Theater

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://themakeitpodcast.store

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WHAT IS FILM BRIEF?

Blending journalism with artistry, Film Brief transforms film analysis into an engaging and informative listening experience. The goal is to reveal what makes each movie or series resonate—on screen and behind the scenes. For listeners, it’s not just a review; it’s an exploration of the art of filmmaking.

BRIEF:

In this episode, Nick dives deep into "Iron Lung," the minimalist horror film directed by and starring Mark Fischbach (Markiplier), exploring how the YouTube creator successfully transitioned from digital content to feature filmmaking. The discussion examines how Fischbach strategically designed his production around his resources and constraints, creating a contained thriller about a convict piloting a submarine through an ocean of blood. This film brief analyzes the movie as both a horror experience and a case study in smart independent filmmaking.

TAKEAWAYS:

• The film serves as a case study in designing a production around one's strengths and audience, emphasizing the importance of making a film that maximizes one's skills and resources.

• Fischbach's strategic choice to focus on atmosphere over excess is highlighted as a smart move for independent filmmakers, reflecting the need to survive in the industry.

• The performance and the film's minimalist approach are seen as a poetic representation of a creator descending into darkness with limited air and personal direction, encouraging creative dreamers to design their stories around constraints.

• The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to explore minimalist horror, creator-driven filmmaking, and the potential of transitioning from online platforms to feature storytelling, urging them to ask themselves what they can make that their audience wants to see.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Mark Fischbach (Markiplier)

Iron Lung (film)

Iron Lung (indie horror game)

Nintendo Switch

PlayStation 5

Mastering Film Marketing (ebook)

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

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Hello, Hello!

In this episode, we dive deep into filmmaker Kali Bailey's unconventional path to the director's chair, exploring what she calls the "Swiss Army Knife approach" - mastering every job on set before directing. The conversation reveals both the advantages and dangerous pitfalls of being too competent at jobs you don't actually want, including the psychological challenge of rebranding yourself in an industry that loves to keep you in familiar boxes. From her defining moment watching Lord of the Rings at 14 to her viral Harry Potter fan film, Kali's story illustrates the complex balance between building comprehensive skills and avoiding the "curse of competence."

We also talk about:

• The specific technical language that gives directors credibility with crew members

• Advanced editing techniques, including avoiding "ping pong editing" and focusing on reactions

• Aaron Sorkin's "marble slab" approach to overcoming writer's block

• Strategic decisions about film distribution: festivals versus direct-to-audience platforms

• Navigating identity as a gay filmmaker in conservative markets

People, Places, Products, and References Mentioned: 

Kali Bailey (filmmaker)

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

Sam Gamgee

Frodo

Disney Plus

Nissan

Netflix

"A Week Away" (Netflix musical)

Bill Zahn (Pixar character artist)

Aaron Sorkin

"The Wasp" (short film)

"Neville Longbottom and the Black Witch" (Harry Potter fan film)

Sundance

Tribeca (film festival)

Southern Baptist Church

George Lucas

Star Wars

Marvel

Opal diffusion gel

Source Episode: https://redcircle.com/shows/e5ef7af1-b154-4271-a463-fee78baaca9e/ep/d26a987a-560d-4b72-adac-dd907d9992ef

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://themakeitpodcast.store

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

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

Hello, Hello!

In this segment, we wrap up our conversation with filmmaker Yelena Popovic, writer-director of the upcoming film "Moses: The Black Movie." The discussion concludes with a thoughtful exploration of what it means to "make it" in the film industry and life in general. Yelena shares her perspective on success, defining it as finding peace and contentment while continuing the process of becoming.

We also talk about:

• Yelena's definition of "making it" as an exit strategy versus personal fulfillment

• The concept of arriving at peace and contentment in one's career

• The importance of continuous growth and the process of becoming

• Yelena's approach to social media and personal branding

• The upcoming theatrical release of "Moses The Black."

Mentioned in this episode: 

Yelena Popovic (filmmaker)

"Moses The Black" (film)

Omar Epps (actor)

Wiz Khalifa (executive producer)

Quavo (executive producer)

50 Cent (executive producer)

Yelena's Instagram

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

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Hello, Hello!

In this Clear the Set, filmmaker Yelena Popovic joins us for our "Clear the Set" rapid-fire Q&A segment, sharing her top three films, including "Empty" by Sydney Lumet, "The Asphalt Jungle" by John Huston, and "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest." She discusses films she's embarrassed not to have seen, movies everyone loves that she hates, and her go-to McDonald's cheat meal order. The conversation takes interesting turns as both host and guest bond over their perspectives on film criticism and life philosophy.

We also talk about:

• Classic cinema and the pressure to have seen "canon" films like Tarkovsky's work

• Why "The Wolf of Wall Street" failed as a cautionary tale

• Script quality issues in popular Hollywood films

• The balance between healthy living and enjoying life's pleasures

• Personal anecdotes about late-night fast food binges

Mentioned: 

The Mirror

The Asphalt

Jungle

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

The Wolf of Wall Street

The Aviator

The Departed

Citizen Kane

The Godfather

On Golden Pond

The Princess Bride

Sydney Lumet

John Huston

Tarkovsky

Leonardo DiCaprio

Jordan Belfort

Dom DeLuise

McDonald's

Krystals

White Castle

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

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

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

Hello, Hello!

In this Filmmaker Q&A, filmmaker Yelena Popovic discusses her latest film "Moses the Black," which transforms the ancient story of a 4th-century Egyptian saint into a modern-day Chicago gangster narrative. She shares her journey of working closely with West Side Chicago community members, including former gang leaders, to create an authentic portrayal of urban transformation and redemption. The conversation explores the challenges of adapting religious stories for contemporary audiences while maintaining artistic integrity and avoiding preachy storytelling.

We also talk about:

• The creative breakthrough moment in Greece that led to setting the story in present-day Chicago

• Working with community consultants like Reginald Hakeem Berry Sr., a former gang leader turned community advocate

• The casting process and why she fought to keep Corey Hendrix in his role against industry pressure

• Collaboration with hip-hop artists like Wiz Khalifa, 50 Cent, and Quavo as executive producers and cast members

• The disconnect between authentic storytelling and industry expectations in modern entertainment

Mentioned: 

Moses the Black

Man of God

Yelena Popovic (filmmaker)

Omar Epps (actor)

Corey Hendrix (actor)

Wiz Khalifa

50 Cent

Quavo

Reginald Hakeem Berry Sr.

West Side Chicago

Pulaski Road and Madison

Greece

Egypt

Saint Moses the Black (4th-century saint)

Dostoevsky

Tupac

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony

Miley Cyrus

Vanderbilt Hospital

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

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Hello, Hello!

In this Audience Polls, we talk about faith-based films, revealing surprising results about how audiences perceive movies differently when protagonists versus antagonists have faith-based motivations. Filmmaker Yelena Popovic discusses the challenges of creating authentic faith-based cinema and shares insights from her film about St. Moses the Black. The conversation explores the difference between movies about religion, faith-based films, and art that genuinely uplifts audiences.

We also talk about:

• The poll results show 77% consider films faith-based when protagonists act on faith, but only 26% when antagonists do

• Hollywood's narrow definition of faith-based films requiring divine intervention as a plot device

• Yelena's struggle to get her film accepted by both faith-based and secular studios

• The distinction between authentic spiritual storytelling and propaganda

• How true faith is tested in difficult situations rather than proclaimed in comfort

Mentioned:

Yelena Popovic (filmmaker)

St. Moses the Black (film/historical figure)

Conclave (film)

The Passion of the Christ (film)

Deus ex machina (storytelling concept)

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

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

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

Hello, Hello!

In this Story Is King segment, filmmaker Yelena Popovic shares her incredible journey from war-torn Yugoslavia to Hollywood, discussing her transition from fashion modeling to filmmaking and the miraculous events surrounding her hit film "Man of God." She opens up about overcoming 18 years of immigration struggles, single motherhood, and the dark moments that nearly ended her career before finding success at age 50. Yelena also recounts extraordinary miracles that occurred during production, including a supernatural weather event that saved her film from disaster.

We also talk about: 

• Growing up in Yugoslavia during the Communist era and leaving home at 16½ during wartime

• The challenges of being an immigrant actress with an accent in Hollywood

• Her father's persecution for refusing to join the Communist Party, which inspired her first film

• The transition from modeling to acting to writing and finally directing

• Her philosophy on humility, faith, and loving your enemies as keys to success

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

Yugo automobile

Belgrade, Serbia (formerly Yugoslavia)

Milan, Italy

Los Angeles

New York

Greece

Playhouse West acting school

Canon 7D camera

"Man of God" film

"Moses the Black" (latest project starring Omar Epps)

Saint Nectarios

Archangel Michael

Aegina island

Athens

Peloponnese

Turkey (ancient Chonae)

Elias Potter (producer/husband)

COVID-19

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

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

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