The MAKE IT Podcast

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, we explore the remarkable journey of writer-director Motke Dapp as he transitioned from rock musician to novelist to filmmaker, ultimately creating his feature film "Another Version of You." The conversation reveals the brutal realities of independent film distribution and the critical difference between intentional filmmaking craft and simple content creation. We dive deep into what Dapp calls the "fourth phase" of filmmaking - distribution and ROI - which often becomes the graveyard for talented indie filmmakers.

We also talk about:

• The "Colorado anomaly" that gave Dapp mandatory film education through weekly movie theater visits during his childhood 

• His intensive "personal film school" period, where he created seven films in one year, including his first feature 

• The concept of "the thing" - that mysterious magnetic quality certain actors possess that draws audiences in 

• Specific strategies for supporting independent films, including the importance of reviews and avoiding engagement with negative trolls 

• The heartfelt tribute to actress Brittany Belland, who appeared in both of Dapp's features before tragically passing away

People, Places, Products, and References Mentioned:

Motke Dapp (filmmaker/director)

Ryan Hartsock (collaborator)

Micah Simms (cinematographer)

Brittany Belland (actress)

"Another Version of You" (film)

48 Hour Film Project

Belmont University

Grand County, Colorado

Sidney Lumet's "Making Movies" (book)

"Parasite" (film)

"Call Me By Your Name" (film)

Ryan Reynolds/"Van Wilder"

Adam Driver/"Girls"

Brad Pitt

motke.net

We are humbled by the 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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Hello, Hello!

Today, we are bringing you a Perfect Pairing. What is a Perfect Pairing? It’s a former guest who pairs perfectly with our latest guest. So today’s perfect pairing is the one and only Actress and Producer Shanti Lowry. We think she is a perfect pairing with Tia A. Smith; they are both women on the move, moving trains, each one of them doing big things in the industry. So, enjoy today’s episode with Shanti Lowry, and we will have a new episode for you this Friday. Talk soon.

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In this episode of The MAKE IT Podcast, we welcome actress and producer Shanti Lowry to discuss her journey in independent filmmaking. Shanti shares insights about her first feature film, "Persona," a thriller that explores the experiences of women of color in challenging circumstances. The conversation delves into the complexities of film production, personal identity, cultural experiences, and the challenges of independent filmmaking.

We also talk about:

• The evolution of dance in popular culture and music videos

• Experiences of mixed-race and biracial individuals navigating cultural identity

• The impact of stereotypes and racism in personal and professional spaces

• The role of creativity and authenticity in artistic pursuits

• Strategies for supporting and uplifting marginalized communities

Products, software, websites, people, or places mentioned:

• Shanti Lowry

• Nicholas Buggs

• Christopher Barkley

• Gravitas (film distributor)

• PERSONA (film)

• Bounce TV

• BET

• Michael Jackson

• Madonna

• Halle Berry

• Tia and Tamera Mowry

• Omar Gooding

• Cuba Gooding Jr.

• Earth, Wind and Fire

• NSYNC

• Bentley Kyle Evans

• Rob Marshall

• Vincent Paterson

• Network of Time (website)

• MAKE IT x Cotton Bureau (merchandise site)

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!

Make It friends and family, Chris here to announce that starting today, with the episode you are about to hear, we’ll be publishing our segments and bonus content on this feed daily. 

Why are we doing this? Because there’s a good chance you’re already listening to our episodes over the span of the week, we decided to publish our segments from each long-form episode to make it easier for you to enjoy the entire thing. 

Also, Nick and I are always looking for new ways to spice things up, meet our audience in the middle, and improve the show for you. There you have it, daily goodness in segments and bonus content from Make It. 

Of course, we’ll still be releasing long-form episodes every two weeks on Friday—that hasn’t changed. Thanks as always for your support, and be sure to let us know what you think on any of our platforms at Beacons.

---

Filmmaker Tia A. Smith shares her powerful definition of "making it" as creating work that heals, uplifts, and liberates audiences while building a communal filmmaking experience. She emphasizes her commitment to telling transformative stories that allow people to see themselves, forgive themselves, and dream again. The conversation concludes with Tia discussing her vision for creating legacy art that outlives herself and her goal of building a global creative footprint with complete creative autonomy.

We also talk about:

• The importance of bringing your community along in the filmmaking journey

• Creating films that transform and change lives rather than just entertain

• Building integrity and freedom into creative work

• The significance of audience ownership in storytelling

• Developing a global creative presence as a filmmaker

Products, software, websites, people, or places mentioned:

• Talented Sol

• "The Heir" short film (currently in film festival circuit)

• Tia's Instagram: @mztiasmith

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!

Make It friends and family, Chris here to announce that starting today, with the episode you are about to hear, we’ll be publishing our segments and bonus content on this feed daily. 

Why are we doing this? Because there’s a good chance you’re already listening to our episodes over the span of the week, we decided to publish our segments from each long-form episode to make it easier for you to enjoy the entire thing. 

Also, Nick and I are always looking for new ways to spice things up, meet our audience in the middle, and improve the show for you. There you have it: daily goodness in segments, plus bonus content from MAKE IT. 

Of course, we’ll still be releasing long-form episodes every two weeks on Friday—that hasn’t changed. Thanks as always for your support, and be sure to let us know what you think on any of our platforms at Beacons.

---

Filmmaker Tia A. Smith joins the Make It Podcast to "clear the set" by sharing her top three films and delving into how cinema has shaped her worldview and career aspirations. She reveals how "Apocalypse Now" helped her understand a Vietnam War veteran in her family, "Cry Freedom" sparked her social activism at age eight, and "Cooley High" inspired her coming-of-age perspective on filmmaking. The conversation showcases Smith's passion for storytelling that creates social change and her unique perspective as a filmmaker who values both artistic integrity and meaningful impact.

We also talk about:

• The embarrassing film confession that even industry professionals have (Rear Window)

• Why Tia believes Baby Driver shouldn't have been produced

• The business psychology behind nostalgia-driven reboots and remakes

• Favorite cheat day meals and regional food preferences

• An incredible shark cage diving experience in South Africa that connects back to Jaws

Products, software, websites, people, or places mentioned:

Apocalypse Now

Cry Freedom

Cooley High

Rear Window

Baby Driver

Running Man

Total Recall

Coming to America

Jaws

New Jack City

Boyz n the Hood

South Central

Francis Ford Coppola

Martin Sheen

Harrison Ford

Laurence Fishburne

Steven Biko

Donald Woods

Edgar Wright

Arnold Schwarzenegger

South Carolina

Wheaton Plaza movie theater

Cabrini Green

South Africa

Shark Alley,

Gansbaai

Boyz II Men's "Cooley High Harmony" album

"It's So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday"

"I'll Be There"

Ledo's Pizza

Maryland crabs

Reebok

Criterion Collection

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!

Make It friends and family, Chris here to announce that starting today, with the episode you are about to hear, we’ll be publishing our segments and bonus content on this feed daily. 

Why are we doing this? Because there’s a good chance you’re already listening to our episodes over the span of the week, we decided to publish our segments from each long-form episode to make it easier for you to enjoy the entire thing. 

Also, Nick and I are always looking for new ways to spice things up, meet our audience in the middle, and improve the show for you. There you have it: daily goodness in segments, plus bonus content from MAKE IT. 

Of course, we’ll still be releasing long-form episodes every two weeks on Friday—that hasn’t changed. Thanks as always for your support, and be sure to let us know what you think on any of our platforms at Beacons.

---

In this Things We Should Know segment, veteran producer and director Tia A. Smith joins Producer Papa Bear as he quizzes Chris, Nick, and Tia about which African American artists have been inducted multiple times, revealing surprising facts about gospel music legends. The conversation includes personal connections to the music industry and celebrates the achievements of gospel music pioneers.

We also talk about:

• The rules of their trivia game (no googling or using AI)

• How artists can be inducted both individually and as group members

• Personal family connections to Bobby Jones' early ministry work

• The African American Music Museum and recent encounters with gospel legends

• Birthday celebrations and shared birth months with gospel artists

Products, software, websites, people, or places mentioned:

Gospel Music Hall of Fame

Shirley Caesar

CeCe Winans

BeBe Winans

Aretha Franklin

Bobby Jones

Kirk Franklin

African American Music Museum

Project Help (Bobby Jones' nonprofit)

Nashville

Mass Choir of Love Train

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!

Make It friends and family, Chris here to announce that starting today, with the episode you are about to hear, we’ll be publishing our segments and bonus content on this feed daily. 

Why are we doing this? Because there’s a good chance you’re already listening to our episodes over the span of the week, we decided to publish our segments from each long-form episode to make it easier for you to enjoy the entire thing. 

Also, Nick and I are always looking for new ways to spice things up, meet our audience in the middle, and improve the show for you. There you have it: daily goodness in segments, plus bonus content from MAKE IT. 

Of course, we’ll still be releasing long-form episodes every two weeks on Friday—that hasn’t changed. Thanks as always for your support, and be sure to let us know what you think on any of our platforms at Beacons.

---

In this Filmmaker Q&A segment, veteran producer and director Tia A. Smith shares her journey from broadcast journalism at Ithaca College to becoming a powerhouse in television and film production, including her leadership roles at BET and Viacom. She discusses the critical importance of pre-production, the balance between creative vision and cultural responsibility, and how her background in sociology and gender studies shaped her approach to storytelling and character development. Tia emphasizes the need for producers to create safe ecosystems on set while protecting the story and managing both artistic and executive demands.

We also talk about:

• The challenges of managing creative teams and handling on-set crises as a producer

• The evolution of Black entertainment and the responsibility that comes with programming decisions

• Building a production company and developing leadership principles for mentoring others

• The importance of finding your authentic voice as a filmmaker rather than chasing trends

• How college experiences in hands-on filmmaking and academic studies create foundations for long-term careers

Products, software, websites, people, or places mentioned:

Ithaca College

Syracuse University

Cornell University

BET (Black Entertainment Television)

Viacom

ET (Entertainment Tonight)

Kiss FM

Producers Guild

Image Awards

Greg Diggs

Donnie Simpson

Kathleen Kennedy

Rasheed Stephens

Gold Morgan

Errol Sadler

Method Man

RZA

Darius Rucker

Hootie and the Blowfish

Frank Ocean

Garth Brooks/Chris Gaines

Raiders of the Lost Ark

Gang Starr's Jazzmatazz album

"Lost in You" by Chris Gaines

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!

Make It friends and family, Chris here to announce that starting today, with the episode you are about to hear, we’ll be publishing our segments and bonus content on this feed daily. 

Why are we doing this? Because there’s a good chance you’re already listening to our episodes over the span of the week, we decided to publish our segments from each long-form episode to make it easier for you to enjoy the entire thing. 

Also, Nick and I are always looking for new ways to spice things up, meet our audience in the middle, and improve the show for you. There you have it: daily goodness in segments, plus bonus content from MAKE IT. 

Of course, we’ll still be releasing long-form episodes every two weeks on Friday—that hasn’t changed. Thanks as always for your support, and be sure to let us know what you think on any of our platforms at Beacons.

---

In this Audience Polls segment, filmmaker and producer Tia A. Smith joins us to discuss audience poll results comparing preferences between being a music producer versus a TV/film producer, with 74% choosing music production despite the show's focus on film. The conversation explores why music producers have achieved celebrity status while film/TV producers remain largely behind the scenes, and examines the perceived accessibility versus actual difficulty of success in each field. Guest Tia Smith joins the discussion to analyze the appeal and challenges of both production paths.

We also talk about:

• The evolution of celebrity music producers from Quincy Jones and LA Reid to modern figures like Pharrell Williams

• The misconception that music production is easier due to accessible technology and tools

• How the "wall of sound" technique and producers like Phil Spector established early producer celebrity

• The vast competition pool in music production versus film/TV production

• The untapped talent in the DC music scene and Recording Academy connections

Products, software, websites, people, or places mentioned:

Pharrell Williams

Timbaland

Quincy Jones

LA Reid

Babyface

Andre Harrell

Puff Daddy

Phil Spector

Trent Reznor

The Beatles

Grammy Awards

Recording Academy DC Chapter

DMV (DC/Maryland/Virginia area)

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!

Make It friends and family, Chris here to announce that starting today, with the episode you are about to hear, we’ll be publishing our segments and bonus content on this feed daily.

Why are we doing this? Because there’s a good chance you’re already listening to our episodes over the span of the week, we decided to publish our segments from each long-form episode to make it easier for you to enjoy the entire thing. 

Also, Nick and I are always looking for new ways to spice things up, meet our audience in the middle, and improve the show for you. There you have it: daily goodness in segments, plus bonus content from MAKE IT. 

Of course, we’ll still be releasing long-form episodes every two weeks on Friday—that hasn’t changed. Thanks as always for your support, and be sure to let us know what you think on any of our platforms at Beacons.

---

In this STORY IS QUEEN segment, filmmaker and producer Tia A. Smith joins the "Story is Queen" segment to discuss her new short film "The Heir," which explores the complex family dynamics surrounding inherited property in gentrifying neighborhoods. Smith shares her journey from being inspired by Oprah and local news anchor Maureen Bunyan to building a successful career in television production, working on shows like Behind the Music at VH1. She opens up about the personal experiences that inspired her film, the challenges of freelancing in the entertainment industry, and how faith helped her navigate the darkest moments of her career.

We also talk about:

• Growing up in the diverse, soulful community of Silver Spring, Maryland

• The transition from wanting to be on camera to finding passion in storytelling and production

• Working with major artists like U2, Hootie and the Blowfish, and Shania Twain during her VH1 days

• The universal nature of family estate disputes across different cultures and backgrounds

• Her mother's inspiring decision to record her first album at age 73

Products, software, websites, people, or places mentioned:

Tia A. Smith - Filmmaker and producer

Talented Soul Productions - Tia's rebooted production company

Heirbloom Entertainment - Tia's new storytelling company

"The Heir" - Short film currently in festival circuit

Ithaca College - Tia's alma mater

VH1 and Behind the Music

Silver Spring, Maryland

Oprah Winfrey

Maureen Bunyan - DC news anchor

Nashville Film Festival

TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival)

South by Southwest

NAS and Damian Marley's collaboration album

23andMe DNA testing service

Fort Greene, Brooklyn

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

This episode is brought to you by The Film Tech Program at Columbia State Community College. ENROLLMENT begins each fall semester. But space is limited to 20 students each year. So, apply now. For more information, reach out to David Smith, FCT Program Director at 615-790-4410 or email him at [email protected]

www.ColumbiaState.edu/FCT

This episode is brought to you by Surfshark VPN. Go to surfshark.com/makeit or use code makeit at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!"

 ---

Hello, Hello! 

In this episode, Producer, Director, and Consultant Tia A. Smith joins us to discuss her journey from Broadcast Journalism at Ithaca College to becoming a powerhouse in television and film production. She shares insights about her new short film "The Heir," which explores the complex family dynamics surrounding inherited property and gentrification in African American communities. Throughout the conversation, Tia emphasizes the importance of authentic storytelling, cultural responsibility in entertainment, and the development of sustainable creative ecosystems.

We also talk about:

• The challenges of freelancing in the entertainment industry and overcoming periods of unemployment
• Her experiences working at BET and VH1, including the cultural responsibility of programming decisions
• The differences between music producers and TV/film producers in terms of celebrity status and career paths
• Her time at Viacom as a showrunner and the transition from content producer to creative leader
• The importance of pre-production in filmmaking and managing both creative and business aspects of production

People, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:

Ithaca College

Syracuse University

Behind the Music (VH1)

BET Network

VH1 networks

TalentedSol Productions

Heir Bloom Entertainment

“The Heir" short film

Silver Spring, Maryland

Oprah Winfrey

Maureen Bunyan

Bobby Jones Gospel

Kathleen Kennedy

Producers Guild Association

Nashville Film Festival

Columbia State Community College

Apocalypse Now

Cry Freedom

Cooley High

Rear Window

Baby Driver

Nas

Quincy Jones

Pharrell Williams

CeCe Winans

Shirley Caesar

Chris Gaines (Garth Brooks alter ego)

Gospel Music Hall of Fame

South Africa

Dubai

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!

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 delves into Paul Thomas Anderson's film 'One Battle After Another,' exploring its emotional depth, character dynamics, and critical reception. The discussion highlights the film's meditative pacing, the performances of Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, and Teyana Taylor, and the importance of quiet storytelling in cinema. The episode emphasizes the significance of small battles in life and creativity, encouraging filmmakers to embrace the discomfort of the creative process.

TAKEAWAYS:

• Paul Thomas Anderson's film explores the scars we carry.
• The narrative is a meditation on personal wars.
• Leonardo DiCaprio's performance is restrained yet powerful.
• Sean Penn brings raw honesty to his role.
• Tiana Taylor's character offers emotional clarity.
• The film's pacing demands patience from viewers.
• Quiet storytelling is valuable in a noisy world.
• Small battles in life are as significant as big ones.
• Creativity involves navigating uncertainty and discomfort.
• Stories need intention and heart to resonate.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Paul Thomas Anderson

Leonardo DiCaprio

Sean Penn

Tiana Taylor

Coastal California

"One Battle After Another"

Ebook: "Mastering Film Marketing"

The MAKE IT Podcast

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