The No Film School Podcast

By No Film School

A podcast about how to build a career in filmmaking. No Film School shares the latest opportunities and trends for anyone working in film and TV. We break news on cameras, lighting, and apps. We inter... more

· TV & Film

4.5

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How many episodes does The No Film School Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 922 episodes available.

The No Film School Podcast episodes:

January 15, 2025 How Filmmakers Are Coming Together Amidst the LA Fires
In this episode of the No Film School podcast, hosts GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman discuss the devastating fires in Los Angeles and their impact on the film industry. They share personal experiences of evacuation and the emotional toll of the crisis, emphasizing the importance of community support and resilience. The conversation highlights the need for filmmakers to prioritize their safety and mental health while navigating the uncertain future of the industry. They also explore the power of storytelling as a means of processing trauma and fostering empathy in challenging times.

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20min
January 10, 2025How Leaving LA Led to a 40 Theater Release With a First Script
In this episode of No Film School, GG Hawkins speaks with the filmmakers behind two impactful films, Hazard and Studio One Forever. Writer-director Eddie Mensore shares the journey of creating Hazard, an indie drama about the opioid crisis in Appalachia, and how leaving LA led to the film's 40-theater release. Later, Marc Saltarelli discusses the acclaimed LGBTQ+ documentary Studio One Forever, exploring its historical significance and enduring legacy.
In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Eddie Mensore, and Marc Saltarelli discuss:
How Eddie’s move away from LA revitalized his career and allowed him to focus on meaningful indie films
The challenges and triumphs of making Hazard, a deeply personal story about the opioid crisis
Marc’s experience documenting LGBTQ+ history through Studio One Forever and the film’s resonance in today’s political climate
Advice for filmmakers navigating the industry outside of traditional Hollywood structures
Memorable Quotes:
“As an independent filmmaker, it’s not about what’s the most passionate project you want to make. It’s about which one can you physically make.”
“I hope that the younger generation will take a little bit of time out from TikTok and watch these 90 minutes and realize what we went through—and what’s at stake.”
“I had to take a few steps backward, I believe that I’m ultimately taking 10 steps forward.”
Resources:
Hazard Official Website
Hazard Theatrical Release
Studio One Forever Official Trailer
STUDIO ONE FOREVER is the untold story of America’s first gay disco, a kaleidoscopic excursion into LGBTQ+ history through the lens of this groundbreaking club. Directed by Marc Saltarelli, the film features interviews with Chita Rivera, Bruce Vilanch, Lance Bass, and others.
Eddie Mensore on IMDb
Marc Saltarelli on IMDb
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1h 7min
January 02, 2025John August Wants to Make Your (Screenwriting) Life Easier
In this episode of No Film School, GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman chat with John August, an acclaimed screenwriter, podcaster, and software developer. Known for films like Big Fish and Aladdin, as well as co-hosting Scriptnotes with Craig Mazin, John August discusses his career, the evolution of screenwriting tools, and how he's simplifying life for writers with his app, Highland.

In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and John August discuss:
John’s journey from journalism major to one of Hollywood’s most recognized screenwriters
How working across different mediums—from novels to musicals—has shaped his storytelling
The philosophy behind creating Highland, a screenwriting app designed to keep writers in the flow
Practical advice for writers starting out in today’s industry
Memorable Quotes:
“Your ability to have an idea but then actually articulate the idea… to yourself, to your team, and to the audience is so fundamental and so important.”
“When I see something in the world that bothers me, I try to fix it. My instinct is to get involved and figure it out.”
“A screenplay is a luxury. You know you have about 120 pages. There are constraints, and those constraints help you figure out what’s important.”
Resources:
John August on IMDb
Highland App
Scriptnotes Podcast
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Twitter: No Film School on Twitter
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52min
December 25, 2024James Mangold Unwraps the Craft of "A Complete Unknown"
In this episode of No Film School, GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman sit down with acclaimed director James Mangold to dive into the making of his latest film, A Complete Unknown. Known for iconic works like Logan and Ford v Ferrari, Mangold shares deep insights into his creative process, the importance of preparation, and how he navigates the complexities of storytelling. This holiday special offers invaluable lessons for filmmakers at every level.
In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and James Mangold discuss:
How Mangold approached depicting Bob Dylan’s relationships with iconic figures like Woody Guthrie and Johnny Cash
The value of mentorship in filmmaking and how Alexander Mackendrick influenced Mangold’s career
Finding the balance between preparation and flexibility when directing
Mangold’s advice for capturing subtext and the unspoken dynamics between characters
The art of juxtaposition and how to craft impactful scene transitions
Memorable Quotes:
“You come to the set with a plan, but your actors are gonna add a lot, and you don’t want to be so slavish, so enslaved by your plan that you feel lost if an idea comes up with one of the actors that undermines the plan you came with.”
“The point for the director is to make everything look like you planned it—even if you didn’t.”
“What is the scene about, and what are the beats I must make sure the audience sees? Not lines, but what’s unsaid—the subtext, the human thought behind the eyes.”
Resources:
James Mangold on IMDb
Microbudget Workshop with GG Hawkins
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Twitter: No Film School on Twitter
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Instagram: No Film School on Instagram

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45min
December 24, 2024How The ‘Los Frikis’ Directors Injected Dark Humor, History, and HIV into Their Film
In this episode of No Film School, Jason Hellerman interviews Tyler Nielsen and Michael Schwartz, the dynamic directing duo behind the bold and provocative film Los Frikis. Known for their previous success with Peanut Butter Falcon, Tyler and Michael take listeners on a journey into the making of their latest project—a darkly comedic and deeply human tale about the Los Frikis generation in 1990s Cuba. The film explores themes of rebellion, freedom, and survival, centering on punks who willfully injected HIV to escape oppression.
In this episode, No Film School’s Jason Hellerman, Tyler Nielsen, and Michael Schwartz discuss:
How Tyler and Michael transitioned from Peanut Butter Falcon to Los Frikis
The challenge of balancing dark humor with historical and cultural authenticity
Why the directors learned Spanish to ensure authenticity in directing Cuban actors
Their approach to punk rock aesthetics, both musically and visually, in the film
Practical advice for filmmakers tackling deeply unconventional and emotional stories
Memorable Quotes:
“Punk rock is choosing freedom and choosing, like, your reality, regardless of the authorities or the powers that be.”
“If you task the audience with remembering 10 things, they might remember the wrong five. So we focused on the five things that mattered most.”
“We really just try to set a vibe. The vibe matches the story. And then we invite people to bring themselves to it.”
Resources:
Microbudget Workshop with GG Hawkins
Tyler Nielsen IMDb
Michael Schwartz IMDb
Find No Film School everywhere:
On the Web: No Film School
Facebook: No Film School on Facebook
Twitter: No Film School on Twitter
YouTube: No Film School on YouTube
Instagram: No Film School on Instagram

Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]

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39min
December 19, 2024Invisible Work of Producers Plus Sundance Slate 2025
In this special episode of No Film School, GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman delve into the often-overlooked role of producers and the essential work they perform behind the scenes. They are joined by Emmy-nominated producer Carolina Groppa, who shares insights from her remarkable career. The episode also highlights key films from the newly announced Sundance 2025 slate, offering reflections on the festival’s evolving influence.
Meet Carolina Groppa: Carolina is an Emmy-nominated producer who was previously the Executive in Charge of Production at Issa Rae’s HOORAE Media and ColorCreative. Born in São Paulo, Brazil, Carolina moved to the US as a child, and her immigrant upbringing inspired her to work hard to build the career of her dreams.
Carolina produced the 2017 Emmy-nominated feature documentary AUTISM IN LOVE, which explores how adults with autism find and navigate romantic relationships. Passionate about supporting female filmmakers, she was a co-producer on Netflix’s MISS VIRGINIA, starring Uzo Aduba, and IFC’s THE FEMALE BRAIN, Whitney Cummings’ directorial debut. She was a physical producer on Amazon’s SYLVIE'S LOVE, starring Tessa Thompson and Nnamdi Asomugha, and the UPM/EP on Adamma Ebo’s 2022 Sundance hit HONK FOR JESUS. SAVE YOUR SOUL, starring Regina Hall and Sterling K. Brown.
She also produced the documentaries HYSTERICAL (2020) for FX and THE HONORABLE: SHYNE (2024) for Hulu. Additionally, she is the creator, host, and producer of ANGLE ON PRODUCERS, a podcast spotlighting producers across entertainment. A love letter to the creative community, the show boasts over 95 episodes and has featured notable guests such as Eva Longoria, Stephanie Allain, Lynette Howell Taylor, and Cynthia Erivo.

In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and Carolina Groppa discuss:
Carolina Groppa’s career journey, from her early days as an actor to becoming a producer and podcast host
The invisible yet critical role of producers and why their contributions are often misunderstood
Practical advice for emerging producers, including navigating challenges and building strong collaborations
Reflections on the 2025 Sundance slate, including standout films like Sorry Baby and Dead Lover
How trust and leadership shape successful filmmaking partnerships
Memorable Quotes:
“Producing is about choices. It’s never just about saying no; it’s about saying, ‘Here’s what we can do with what we have.’”
“The only thing people remember is how you made them feel on set. If you can lead with kindness and clarity, that’s what sticks.”
“Sundance is where you see the future of storytelling take shape, and this year’s slate is no exception.”
Resources:
Carolina Groppa’s Podcast: Angle on Producers
Carolina’s IMDb: Carolina Groppa
Carolina on Instagram: @carolinagroppa
Learn more about the Sundance Film Festival: Sundance 2025
Highlighted Sundance Films:
Sorry Baby: A heartfelt indie produced by Pastel, Barry Jenkins’ company
Dead Lover: Directed and written by Grace Glowicki, featuring Ben Petrie, and described as “genre-bending and unforgettable”
Lose: A poignant drama set in Hong Kong about a man searching for his daughter
Find No Film School everywhere:
On the Web: No Film School
Facebook: No Film School on Facebook
Twitter: No Film School on Twitter
YouTube: No Film School on YouTube
Instagram: No Film School on Instagram

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1h 19min
December 12, 2024Lie Your Way to the Top, FYC, Festival Purgatory & the Indies
In this episode of No Film School, host GG Hawkins and tech editor Jordan Aldridge are joined by two incredible guests: filmmaker Leah Saint Marie and award-winning director Lizzy Born. The discussion delves into the challenges of navigating the indie film world, the stress of festival notification season, and creative approaches to career-building in a competitive industry. Both guests share personal stories, practical advice, and insights on how to push boundaries in filmmaking.

In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Jordan Aldridge, Leah Saint Marie, and Lizzy Born discuss:
Leah Saint Marie’s journey from projectionist to filmmaker and her strategies for staying resilient in “festival purgatory”
The challenges of navigating FYC campaigns as an indie filmmaker
Lizzy Born’s approach to directing, from Ziwe to branded content, and how she balances dark humor with social commentary
Practical advice for emerging filmmakers, including the importance of collaboration and creating your own opportunities
The inaugural Indies Awards, celebrating independent films outside of mainstream festival circuits
Memorable Quotes:
“No one else is telling you no, except yourself. If you haven’t made a movie or written a script and you’re afraid to do it, do it anyway.” (39:44)
“This job is about community. Finding your community of people who feel like they are in the same space as you is so essential.” (1:16:32)
“Sometimes I wish I didn’t know as much... You’re going to do it in a fresh way because you don’t know what you’re referencing.” (1:19:50)
Resources:
Leah’s Podcast: Pitch! A Screenwriting Podcast
Leah on X (formerly Twitter): @leahwelch19
Leah’s IMDb:Leah Saint Marie
Lizzy’s Website: Lizzy Born
Lizzy’s Instagram: @LizzyB0rn
Read reviews of Ziwe: Variety on Ziwe

Find No Film School everywhere:
On the Web: No Film School
Facebook: No Film School on Facebook
Twitter: No Film School on Twitter
YouTube: No Film School on YouTube
Instagram: No Film School on Instagram

Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]

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1h 31min
December 05, 2024Programmers & Filmmakers on the State of Shorts
In this episode of No Film School, hosts GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman are joined by filmmakers and programmers Erin Brown Thomas, Jillian Corsie, and Rafael Leyva to discuss the current state of short films. They dive into the challenges, creativity, and evolving landscape of the medium, exploring how short films serve as a crucial platform for experimentation and storytelling.

In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman discuss:
The current climate for short films in the industry, including programming and distribution challenges
How filmmakers like Erin, Jillian, and Rafael are innovating within the short film format
The role of short films as both creative playgrounds and stepping stones for larger projects
Programming insights from festivals like Salute Your Shorts and Slamdance
Personal experiences creating impactful shorts, including Tooth and The Foster Ranch
Memorable Quotes:
“Short films are such a cool outlet. If there’s any upcoming filmmakers out there, it’s such a great way to tell a story in a little time, and people have no idea how difficult that is.” (10:31)
“Shorts are this wonderful playground for creativity and trying new things.” (32:11)
“There’s a certain level of experimentation in shorts, and that’s why I think, even if I’m four features into my career, there might still be room for me to make shorts.” (32:11)
Resources:
Tooth Short Film
Erin Brown Thomas on Instagram: @erinbrownthomas_filmmaker
Erin on TikTok: @erinbrownthomas_film
Jillian Corsie on Instagram: @jcorsie
Salute Your Shorts on TikTok: @salute_your_shorts
The Foster Ranch Trailer: The Foster Ranch
Rafael Leyva's Website: RLEYVADP.COM
Versatile Assassins Films
Find No Film School everywhere:
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Twitter: No Film School on Twitter
YouTube: No Film School on YouTube
Instagram: No Film School on Instagram

Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]

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1h 7min
November 29, 2024How Director David Gordon Green Reverse-Engineered ‘Nutcrackers' Plus Major Movie Monologues
In this episode of No Film School, hosts GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman explore the craft of cinematic monologues and discuss how these powerful moments can elevate films. They also sit down with director David Gordon Green, whose latest holiday family film, Nutcrackers, debuts on Hulu. David shares his process of crafting a heartfelt and improvisational movie built around four real-life brothers, discussing how his indie roots continue to shape his creative approach.
In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman discuss:
The craft of writing and performing memorable movie monologues
Iconic monologues from The Godfather, Network, Cabin in the Woods, Scent of a Woman, and more
David Gordon Green’s process of reverse-engineering Nutcrackers around its young, untrained stars
Why David values improvisation and naturalism in his filmmaking
Advice for indie filmmakers about creating economically viable films while staying true to their creative vision
Memorable Quotes:
“When you’re writing a great monologue, you’re giving actors a reason to want to say those words and embody that character.” (4:21)
“The movie became just a sculpture of things I want to see.” (22:54)
“There’s only one you, and you have to be that as loud as you can.” (45:00)
Resources:
The 25 Best Movie Monologues
Watch Nutcrackers on Hulu
GG Hawkins' Instagram: @LostinGraceland
Jason Hellerman’s Twitter: @JasonHellerman
David Gordon Green’s IMDb: David Gordon Green
Find No Film School everywhere:
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Twitter: No Film School on Twitter
YouTube: No Film School on YouTube
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Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]

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54min
November 21, 2024WWII Recap & 'Best Man’s Ghostwriter' Creator Matthew Starr
In this episode of No Film School, host GG Hawkins sits down with Jason Hellerman and special guest Matthew Starr, the creator of the Audible original series The Best Man's Ghostwriter. They delve into the creative process behind the audio series, which is described as an American version of Love Actually for audio, starring Glenn Powell and Nicholas Braun. Matthew shares how he transformed his experience as a ghostwriter for best man speeches into a compelling and humorous narrative.
The discussion also explores the genre of World War II films. Jason, Matthew, and GG each discuss their favorite WWII movies, sparking a conversation about the role these films play in culture and history.
In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and Matthew Starr discuss:
Matthew Starr's journey creating The Best Man’s Ghostwriter, from its early concept to Audible production
Adapting personal experiences into a scripted audio series
Challenges and advantages of creating an episodic narrative in the audio format
A discussion on their favorite World War II movies, including The Longest Day, Band of Brothers, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Jojo Rabbit
How WWII movies have shaped film culture and continue to resonate with audiences
Memorable Quotes:
“Narrative audio is such a vibrant medium—it's about figuring out how to make it fun and engaging to listen to.” (15:18)
“Band of Brothers really captures the experience of fighting and surviving in WWII, unlike anything else.” (07:04)
“If you just want to see Nazis getting killed, go watch Sisu. One grizzled old man takes on a team of Nazis, and it’s incredible.” (11:15)
Resources:
Top World War II Movies
Matthew Starr’s Website: MatthewSStarr.com
Follow Matthew on Instagram: @matthewsstarr
Listen to The Best Man’s Ghostwriter on Audible
Find No Film School everywhere:
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Twitter: No Film School on Twitter
YouTube: No Film School on YouTube
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Send us an email with questions or feedback: [email protected]

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49min

FAQs about The No Film School Podcast:

How many episodes does The No Film School Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 922 episodes available.

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