Best IFH Podcast Network Podcasts (2025)

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Ep 240: Reel Ambition: How Olivia Deitch Cut Her Way Into the Industry 43:40

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4d ago43:40

43:40

🎧 Guest: Olivia Deitch 🎤 Host: Damien SwabyIn this episode, Damien sits down with the talented Olivia Deitch to explore her inspiring journey through the entertainment industry — from wide-eyed film student to head online editor by the age of 23. 🗂️ Topics Covered: Olivia’s origin story: From Boston University to breaking into Hollywood Discovering…

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Ep 239: Writing small talk, Big Thoughts: Building a Feature Film with an iPhone, a Mic & a Vision 6:15

5d ago6:15

6:15

Episode Description In this episode, Damien Swaby opens up about the script for his upcoming film small talk, Big Thoughts — a powerful, poetic anthology of real conversations exploring identity, faith, legacy, migration, masculinity, feminism, and more. Damien shares how he's preparing to shoot the entire project on an iPhone, why he's using the R…

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Ep 238: From BBC to Bold: Moses Ssebandeke on Crafting New Cinematic Voices 43:05

11d ago43:05

43:05

Episode Summary: In this compelling episode, Damien Swaby sits down with filmmaker Moses Ssebandeke, a bold voice in the UK indie film scene and a member of the Lionstooth Collective. Known for his experimental yet grounded storytelling, Moses shares the journey from his early days as a BBC Academy apprentice to producing content for Radio 1Xtra, I…

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Chattin' with Chuck - Jeff Phungglan 41:48

13d ago41:48

41:48

Writer & Director Jeff Phungglan hops on the show to talk about the crowdfund campaign for "Mei I," a dystopian sci-fi thriller in which immigrants are being kidnapped by the government!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions

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Ep 237: The Art of Color Grading: Alice Abrams on Shaping Emotion Through Color 44:03

19d ago44:03

44:03

Episode Summary: What makes a scene feel cold, nostalgic, or magical—before a single word is spoken? In this illuminating episode, we’re joined by Alice Abrams, a freelance colorist whose work has helped define the visual identity of campaigns for Netflix, Meta, Google, Volvo, and more. Based in Austin, TX, Alice brings a decade of experience in fi…

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Chattin' with Chuck - Filmmakers from "Interaction" 52:08

26d ago52:08

52:08

Dallas Richard Hallam and A.P. Boland from "Interaction" hop on the show to talk about screening at the Atlanta Film Festival, the winding road to coming up with the script, and how the bleak themes of the film reflect our current world!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions

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Ep 236: Narrative Truths: Producing Impactful Documentaries with Nicole Noren 47:36

1M ago47:36

47:36

📘 Episode Summary: In this masterclass episode, Damien Swaby is joined by award-winning journalist and documentary producer Nicole Noren, whose two-decade career at ESPN is a case study in investigative storytelling done right. Nicole breaks down how she balances the demands of narrative structure with journalistic integrity — from sourcing vulnera…

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Ep 235: Art Meets Film: Isabel Riley on Bridging Canvas and Cinema 35:47

1M ago35:47

35:47

Episode Summary: Discover the fascinating intersection of visual art and filmmaking in this insightful conversation with artist Isabel Riley. Host Damien Swaby delves into Isabel's unique role in bringing art to the screen through her work with Art for Film. Explore how her paintings and artistic vision contribute to the atmosphere and storytelling…

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Ep 234: 30 Years at ABC — Executive Director Doug Looney Takes Us Behind the Broadcast 1:01:09

2M ago1:01:09

1:01:09

Episode Summary: Join Damien Swaby as he sits down with a seasoned professional from ABC News with 30 years of experience in the media industry. In this episode, we delve into Doug Looney's fascinating career journey, from early experiments with VHS editing in high school to overseeing technical operations at a major news network. Discover how tech…

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Chattin' with Chuck - Rice & Grits 32:04

2M ago32:04

32:04

Hieu Hunyh comes on the show to talk about her film Rice & Grits, growing up Vietnamese-American in the Deep South, and how her journalism career influenced her filmmaking!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions

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Ep 233: The Audience is the Strategy: Caitlin Boyle on Purpose-Driven Distribution 45:24

2M ago45:24

45:24

Episode Summary: In this episode, Damien Swaby is joined by Caitlin Boyle, a pioneering force in strategic documentary distribution and the founder of Film Sprout. Caitlin discusses how filmmakers can move beyond traditional release models to build meaningful connections with audiences through grassroots campaigns, non-theatrical screenings, and co…

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Chattin' with Chuck - The Games in Black & White 29:40

2M ago29:40

29:40

George HIrthler and Bob Judson discuss their 1996 Atlanta Olympics doc "The Games in Black & White" in advance of their premiere at the Atlanta Film Festival on April 26th!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions

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Ep 232: From Baywatch to Emmy Wins – Karina Michel P.G.A. The Art of Reinvention 34:31

2M ago34:31

34:31

In this inspiring episode, Damien Swaby sits down with multi-hyphenate creative Karina Michel—an actress, model, producer, and Emmy-winning executive producer. Karina shares her fascinating journey from a childhood dream in Northamptonshire to navigating Hollywood auditions and eventually leading impactful storytelling projects as the head of Tallu…

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Chattin' with Chuck - Guacamole Yesterdays 45:45

2M ago45:45

45:45

Hudson Phillips and Jordan Noel hop on the show to talk about their film Guacamole Yesterdays in advance of their screening at The Springs Cinema & Taphouse on May 7th!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions

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Ep 231: The Art of Video Editing with Emmy Winner Cybele Policastro 33:36

2M ago33:36

33:36

The Art of Video Editing with Emmy Winner Cybele Policastro Guest: Cybele Policastro, a highly accomplished and multi-Emmy Award-winning video editor based in New York City. Expertise: Extensive experience in video editing for a wide range of high-profile media, including news and entertainment. Career Highlights: Over 20 years of experience as a d…

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Ep 230: Beyond the Turmoil: Isabelle Mecattaf's Lens on Lebanon 36:05

3M ago36:05

36:05

Welcome to the podcast! Today we have filmmaker Isabelle on the show to discuss her journey from Lebanon to NYU and her experiences crafting compelling films. We'll delve into her creative process, her passion for telling human stories amidst political turmoil, and her advice for emerging filmmakers. Get ready for an inspiring conversation about re…

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Chattin' with Chuck - Amber Nash Returns! 44:42

3M ago44:42

44:42

Amber Nash (Archer, How to Ruin the Holidays) returns to tell us about her new book "Improv for Couples: Fun Games for You and Your Partner," her upcoming Archer rewatch podcast, and more!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions

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Ep 229: Protecting Creativity: Navigating IP & Entertainment Law with Kennington Groff, Esq. 31:35

3M ago31:35

31:35

In this episode, we sit down with Kennington Groff, Esq., an experienced attorney specializing in intellectual property, entertainment, and corporate law. With a career spanning major companies like HBO, NBCUniversal, and Lionsgate, Kennington shares insights into protecting creative work, legal pitfalls businesses should avoid, and how the enterta…

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Ep 228: From I Love Lucy to Ally McBeal: Amy Castle's Path to Stardom and Music 55:29

3M ago55:29

55:29

Join us for an exciting conversation with the multi-talented Amy as she shares her journey from a young performer influenced by iconic shows like I Love Lucy and Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood to landing major roles in TV hits like Ally McBeal. In this episode, we dive deep into Amy’s creative evolution, from memorizing Lucille Ball's famous Vitameataveg…

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Ep 227: From Dentistry to Emmy Gold: The Cinematic Journey of Michael Fitzer 41:52

4M ago41:52

41:52

In this episode, we had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the remarkable Mike, an Emmy Award-winning cinematographer with over 25 years of experience in the film industry. We traversed the fascinating landscape of his career, uncovering the pivotal moments that shaped his unique approach to visual storytelling. Mike's journey is a testamen…

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Chattin' with Chuck - Filmmakers from "And Through the Portal We Go" 43:40

4M ago43:40

43:40

Mike Hayhurst, Sarah Goeke, and Allison Moy Hayhurst hop on the show to talk about their film "And Through the Portal We Go" before their showing at the Broad Street Film Festival on March 8th at 7:40 PM!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions

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Ep 226: The Art of Music Law: Navigating the Industry with Sarah Falzon 24:02

4M ago24:02

24:02

In this episode of The Art of Music Law, we dive into the world of entertainment law with Sarah Falzon, an accomplished associate at Taylor Oballa Murray Leyland LLP. With her expertise in music and entertainment law, Sarah shares her insights on the unique legal challenges artists and music companies face today.Episode Highlights:1. Background & C…

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Ep 261 - Lyndal Simpson on Winning Script Summit & Landing an Option 17:04

4M ago17:04

17:04

Script Summit 2025 is officially open for submissions! If you're looking for industry exposure, this is your chance to get your script read by Hollywood producers and directors. In this episode, we welcome Script Summit winner Lyndal Simpson, whose screenplay Gravedigger won a table read at Script Summit 2022. She shares her journey from winning th…

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Ep 225: Mastering the Art of Cinematography with Quenell Jones, SOC 1:04:55

4M ago1:04:55

1:04:55

Guest: Quenell Jones, SOC (Society of Camera Operators)Episode Overview: In this episode, Damien Swaby sits down with Quenell Jones, an accomplished cinematographer and camera operator, to discuss his journey in the film industry, his passion for cinematography, and the collaborative nature of filmmaking. Quenell shares insights from his experience…

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February McChuck - Come Clarity 16:11

4M ago16:11

16:11

Chuck talks about clarity in your writing and more!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions

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Ep 224: Breaking Barriers in Hollywood with Diane Strand 19:13

4M ago19:13

19:13

Episode Summary: Welcome to another episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby! In this inspiring episode, we sit down with powerhouse producer, entrepreneur, and mentor Diane Strand. From working on legendary TV shows like Friends and General Hospital to founding the JDS Creative Academy, Diane has dedicated her career to both storytell…

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Ep 260 - How a Short Film Went Viral with Fritz Frauendorf 16:25

4M ago16:25

16:25

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, host Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with filmmaker Fritz Frauendorf to discuss the challenges of breaking into the film industry through short films. Fritz shares his journey from film school to directing Manic Man, a short film that went viral, garnering over a million views. He reveals the marketing …

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Coast to Coast - The David Lynch Special with Liz Manashil 44:34

4M ago44:34

44:34

Friend of the show and David Lynch superfan Liz Manashil joins us to discuss Lynch's influence on cinema history!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions

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Ep 223: The DocuStoryteller: Behind the Lens with Ann Rogers 33:11

4M ago33:11

33:11

Ann Rogers A 2021 Impact Partners Documentary Producers Fellow, Ann Rogers is a jack-of-all-trades Documentary Producer who has spent the last decade in the entertainment trenches learning the creative and business nuts and bolts of bringing a nonfiction story to screen. Dedicated to bringing true stories to life with integrity and heart, she thriv…

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EP 259 - Companion – AI Horror, Love, and the Fight for Autonomy 21:29

4M ago21:29

21:29

Episode Description: In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is joined by regular guests Katie Presto and Reece Taylor to analyze and review Companion, the sci-fi horror film that blends psychological tension, AI themes, and unexpected humor. Geoffrey goes in blind, without prior knowledge of the film, leading to fresh r…

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Ep 222: Breaking In: Class, Rejection & Resilience with Helen Tompson 27:38

5M ago27:38

27:38

Episode Summary: In this episode we sit down with screenwriter, script editor, and playwright Helen Tompson to talk about the often-overlooked struggles of working-class creatives in the film and TV industry. From imposter syndrome to industry gatekeeping, Helen shares her personal journey—from leaving school early and working as a young carer to l…

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EP 258 - Subverting the Werewolf Genre with The Wolfman 35:22

5M ago35:22

35:22

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun is joined by guest hosts Katie Presto and Reece Taylor for an in-depth film analysis of The Wolfman (2025). They dissect the film's subversive approach to the werewolf genre, its themes of generational trauma, and how it stacks up against classic horror films. Tune in for a spirite…

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Chattin' with Chuck - Filmmakers from "Clone Cops" 47:19

5M ago47:19

47:19

Chuck chats with filmmakers from "Clone Cops," which is out in theaters and streaming January 31st and has a special screening at the Tara in Atlanta on Feb. 22nd!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions

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EP 257 - Nosferatu: A Gothic Masterpiece or Missed Opportunity? 35:30

5M ago35:30

35:30

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun welcomes guest hosts Katie Presto and Reece Taylor to dive into the remake of Nosferatu. Together, they analyze the gothic tale's visual brilliance, explore its storytelling challenges, and debate its thematic depth. With personal insights and contrasting perspectives, the discussi…

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Ep 221: Cutting Through the Story: Amelia Allwarden’s ACE Journey 31:10

5M ago31:10

31:10

Episode Description: In this episode, we sit down with accomplished editor Amelia, whose journey from a childhood passion for storytelling to editing high-profile projects like Dune, Westworld, and Pen15 is nothing short of extraordinary. Amelia takes us behind the scenes of the editing room, sharing her deep knowledge of tools like Avid Media Comp…

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Coast to Coast with Oz Perkins (Longlegs, The Monkey) 51:24

5M ago51:24

51:24

Writer and director Oz Perkins returns to the show to discuss the success of Longlegs, working with Nicholas Cage, and why David Lynch was so important to him. He also gives us insight into the world of The Monkey which comes out February 21st!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions

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Ep 220: Arkansas Roots, NYC Dreams: Joe Lusby's Journey 44:50

5M ago44:50

44:50

Episode Overview: In this engaging episode, Damien Swaby speaks with Joe Lusby, a seasoned creative video producer whose journey has taken him from small-town Arkansas to the vibrant streets of New York City. Joe shares his insights into the challenges and triumphs of balancing corporate work, nonprofit projects, and creative storytelling. From ear…

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Ep 256 - Telling Stories That Matter: Mark Freiburger on 'Between Borders' 20:22

5M ago20:22

20:22

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey sits down with director Mark Freiburger to discuss his latest feature film, Between Borders. Mark shares the powerful true story that inspired the film, the challenges of shooting in multiple countries, and assembling a stellar cast, including stars from Lost, The Chosen, and more. Get an ins…

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January McChuck - The "Oh Crap I have ADHD LOL" Special 47:29

5M ago47:29

47:29

Chuck dives deep into his recent ADHD diagnosis and how it affects him both on a human level and also as a writer and filmmaker. PLUS, an ADHD Simulator so you can hear what his noisy brain sounds like so you can compare it to your own brain! WARNING: McChuck's are usually SFW, but this one is NSFW because Chuck had to let it all out.…

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Ep 255 - Lead and Copper: Exposing the Flint Water Crisis 22:00

6M ago22:00

22:00

In this insightful episode, host Geoffrey D. Calhoun speaks with documentary filmmaker William Hart about his eight-year journey creating Lead and Copper, a film that exposes the ongoing Flint water crisis and the political and social factors behind it. William breaks down what drew him to Flint, how he navigated filming through a pandemic, and the…

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Ep 254 - Pursuing Your Vision: Writing, Producing, and Raising Funds with William Mikita 17:50

6M ago17:50

17:50

On this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, host Geoffrey D. Calhoun connects with writer and producer William Mikita, the creative force behind Chasing 3000—a heartfelt baseball drama that tapped big-name talent like Ray Liotta. William opens up about his life-altering shift from attorney to filmmaker, sparked by a deeply personal story and a …

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Ep 219: Reinvention, Collaboration, and Storytelling: Diane Lansing 42:25

6M ago42:25

42:25

In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, we dive deep into the world of storytelling with Diane Lansing, a screenwriter, playwright, and filmmaker whose passion for reinvention and collaboration shines through her craft. Diane shares her inspiring journey from studying acting under Larry Moss to writing multidimensional charac…

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Ep 253 - From “Just Friends” to Emmy Nods: Adam Tex Davis on Screenwriting Success and Versatility 26:05

6M ago26:05

26:05

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter, Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with Adam Tex Davis, the Emmy-nominated writer behind Just Friends starring Ryan Reynolds and the groundbreaking show Brain Games. Tex shares his journey from writing Star Wars fan stories as a kid to scripting beloved films and creating educational content that captivate…

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Street Trash (2024) with Ryan Kruger 26:04

6M ago26:04

26:04

Ryan Kruger (Fried Barry) returns to the show to discuss his remake/reboot/sequel to 1987's Street Trash, the future of AI and filmmaking, and more!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions

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Ep 252 - Elevated Horror with David Smallwood on 'Sad Blue Dan' Script Summit Winner (2024) 16:12

6M ago16:12

16:12

In this episode, host Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with David Smallwood, the 2024 Script Summit Best Feature Screenplay winner, to discuss his award-winning script Sad Blue Dan. David reveals the origins of this elevated horror piece—rooted in a vivid, decades-old dream—and shares how he refined it into a contemporary Native American story that se…

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December McChuck - November Observations 14:29

7M ago14:29

14:29

Chuck discusses opening up, Bob's Burgers, and more!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions

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Ep 218: Anna Toomey: Fighting for Dyslexic Students in Left Behind 33:05

7M ago33:05

33:05

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Anna Toomey, an Emmy Award-winning producer with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Anna has worked with major outlets like ABC News, Good Morning America, and Peter Jennings Reporting, creating powerful, character-driven stories with passion and integrity. Her notable credits include The Gun Fight, an …

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Ep 251 - Exploring The Heroine’s Labyrinth with Douglas A. Burton 21:19

7M ago21:19

21:19

In this episode of The Successful Screenwriter podcast, host Geoffrey D. Calhoun sits down with author Douglas A. Burton to discuss his groundbreaking book, The Heroine’s Labyrinth. Douglas offers a fresh perspective on story structure, presenting an alternative to the traditional hero’s journey tailored for heroine-centric stories.They explore how…

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Coast to Coast with James Foye 49:36

7M ago49:36

49:36

Screenwriter James Foye (Revolutionary Spy, Thick as Thieves) talks about breaking into screenwriting, his success in the contest realm including the Nicholl Fellowship, and more!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions

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Filmmakers Roundtable - Film Festival Strategy Failures 1:34:46

7M ago1:34:46

1:34:46

Jeremy Thao (Wokman) joins Chuck in the studio to talk with film festival strategy guru Melissa Simpson about what we did wrong and how to be better in the future!By Zombie Cat Productions and Tranquil Aggression Productions