Best Phil Svitek Podcasts (2025)

1
Why Referring Someone Else Can Be Your Power Move 9:03

3d ago9:03

9:03

Saying “no” doesn’t have to be the end of the conversation—it can be the beginning of a deeper connection.In this episode, I explore how referring someone else (when you're not the right fit) can actually elevate your reputation, expand your network, and leave everyone involved better off. Whether you're a freelancer, creative, or job seeker, this …

1
It’s Not You vs. Them—It’s You and Them vs. the Problem 4:57

4d ago4:57

4:57

What if we stopped treating people like the problem—and instead teamed up with them to solve it?In this episode, I share a recent mindset shift that redefined how I handle conflict, frustration, and communication breakdowns. The core idea? Reframing problems as shared challenges, not personal battles.Whether you're in a relationship, managing a tea…

1
1984 by George Orwell – How a Dystopian Classic Still Hits Hard Today 1:03:03

5d ago1:03:03

1:03:03

Welcome to our monthly book discussion series hosted by Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) and me, Phil Svitek! This month, we dive into 1984 by George Orwell—a haunting dystopian novel that remains startlingly relevant more than 75 years after its release.We follow Winston Smith, a quiet rebel in a world where the Party controls truth, history, languag…

1
Why Wong Kar Wai Is One of the Most Influential Directors of Our Time (And Where to Start Watching) 10:09

11d ago10:09

10:09

Few filmmakers have redefined cinematic mood, longing, and visual poetry the way Wong Kar Wai has. In this episode, I dive into why Wong’s work continues to influence generations of filmmakers, cinematographers, and romantics alike. Known for his nonlinear storytelling, emotionally charged characters, and dreamlike visual style, Wong Kar Wai crafts…

1
Launch a Video Podcast for Cheap (Without Burning Out or Going Broke) 13:19

12d ago13:19

13:19

Video podcasting is booming—but let’s be honest: most people are overspending. Between expensive gear, post-production burnout, and trying to emulate studio-level shows, many creators discover the cost just isn’t sustainable.In this episode, I break down how to launch a high-quality video podcast as cheaply as possible, especially with a remote-fir…

1
The Underrated Power Tool in Your Podcasting Toolbox 10:11

13d ago10:11

10:11

Every podcaster needs a reliable set of tools—and Descript is one that deserves a permanent spot in your workflow (official website: https://www.descript.com/). In this episode, I highlight why Descript isn’t just for beginner editing, but a powerful utility tool that can streamline your production process. From transcription to rough cuts to sound…

1
The Eulogy Exercise That Can Redefine Your Life 3:45

19d ago3:45

3:45

When someone asks, “Who are you?”, do you struggle to answer? In this episode, I share a powerful life exercise given to me by director Jude Weng (Only Murders in the Building, Black-ish) that goes far beyond job titles or hobbies. It’s called the three eulogies exercise—writing your own eulogy from the perspective of a loved one, a colleague, and …

1
The Screenwriting Trick That Changed How I Write Scenes 4:06

20d ago4:06

4:06

Screenwriting isn’t about stuffing your script with detail—it’s about clarity, rhythm, and impact. In this episode, I share an eye-opening writing exercise passed down from director Jude Weng (Only Murders in the Building, Black-ish), where students compare what they think a scene looks like in a script versus how it was actually written. Spoiler: …

1
My Travel Packing Method (That Keeps Me Sane Every Time) 2:41

24d ago2:41

2:41

Packing for a trip doesn’t have to be a stress fest. In this episode, I share my simple, low-stress travel packing strategy: I start tossing things into a suitcase a week before the trip — no pressure, just instinct. Then, the night before I leave, I review everything, cut what I don’t need, fill in any gaps, and lock it down. It’s flexible, mindfu…

1
Patreon Now Lets You Sell Individual Posts — Here's Why That’s a Game Changer 3:55

25d ago3:55

3:55

Patreon just rolled out a powerful new feature: creators can now sell individual posts without requiring a monthly subscription. In this episode, I break down exactly how it works, who it's for, and why this opens up a new stream of income for artists, podcasters, filmmakers, writers, and beyond. Whether you're trying to earn more from your content…

1
How I'm Navigating the Annecy Animation Festival (and Why You Might Want to Go) 9:20

26d ago9:20

9:20

The Annecy Animation Festival is massive, exciting, and—honestly—a bit overwhelming in the best way (https://programme.annecyfestival.com/programme). In this episode, I break down how I’m choosing what to attend, from must-see pitch sessions to market meetings and creative conversations. With so much happening at once, I’m prioritizing events that …

1
Muscle Testing, Core Beliefs & Psycho Energetic Transformation with Charles McCaughan 1:16:16

27d ago1:16:16

1:16:16

What if your body could reveal the truth behind your deepest emotional wounds? In this illuminating episode, Charles McCaughan shares how he developed Psycho Energetic Transformation—a healing modality that uses muscle testing to uncover and eliminate subconscious beliefs driving your pain, patterns, and self-sabotage. Charles opens up about his pa…

1
How Tech "Innovation" Broke Sustainable Industries | The Hidden Cost We’re All Paying 17:41

1M ago17:41

17:41

I explore a growing tension: How did innovation, once hailed as progress, end up dismantling industries that were built for long-term sustainability?Together, we’ll unpack how tech platforms—like Uber, Airbnb, Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube—shifted costs and risks away from companies and onto everyday people. We'll examine the trade-offs: from risin…

1
Discovering Freedom, Legacy, and Identity | Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison | Book Club Deep Dive 1:11:28

1M ago1:11:28

1:11:28

Welcome to our monthly book discussion series hosted by Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) and me, Phil Svitek! This month, we dive into Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison — a sweeping, lyrical novel about family, memory, freedom, and finding one's true self.We follow Milkman Dead, a young man born into privilege but alienated from his roots, as he embark…

1
Manifesting Wins by Doing the Work – Arbiters Prep & Annecy Plans - 4/25/2025: Vlog 36:14

1M ago36:14

36:14

In this vlog, I take you behind the scenes as we gear up for big meetings in May for The Arbiters. From refining the script to building out detailed storyboards and concept art, we’re practicing daily to ensure everything is sharp for the pitch. I also talk through our planning for the Annecy Film Festival—including travel logistics—and why I’ve pa…

1
From Kolkata to Hollywood: Pramita Mukherjee on Surviving AND Thriving in Animation 48:25

1M ago48:25

48:25

In this inspiring deep-dive, I sit down with Pramita Mukherjee—featured in Animation Magazine’s 2025 Rising Stars of Animation (https://www.animationmagazine.net/2025/03/rising-stars-of-animation-2025/)—to explore her global journey from growing up in Kolkata to working on major animated films in Los Angeles. Pramita shares how early cartoons like …

1
True and False Magic by Phil Stutz Came at the Perfect Time – My Go-To Book Recommendation Lately 5:47

2M ago5:47

5:47

Some books don’t just land—they arrive exactly when you need them. True and False Magic by Phil Stutz and Elise Loehnen has been that book for me. It’s more than just a workbook—it’s a guide for facing life’s unavoidable challenges: uncertainty, hard work, and pain. If you’ve read The Tools, this one goes deeper, stitching together familiar ideas l…

1
The Big Ideas from Robert McKee’s STORY: What Every Writer Must Know 13:55

2M ago13:55

13:55

Want to elevate your storytelling? In this episode, we break down the most essential insights from Robert McKee’s legendary book STORY. From mastering structure to crafting scenes that turn, you’ll learn why writing is a craft, not a mystery—and how to wield that craft with intention. We cover the five essential story beats, the role of genre, the …

1
Manifestation, Consciousness & Staying Aligned with Susan K. Wehrley 1:03:36

2M ago1:03:36

1:03:36

In this continuation of our conversation on manifestation, I’m joined again by Susan K. Wehrley to explore the deeper practices that keep us aligned when our goals feel just out of reach. We talk about the real work behind manifestation—clearing fear, tuning into intuition, believing beyond your timeline, and staying open to receive. Susan shares h…

1
A Year of Transition: Deadlines, Burnout, and the Process - 4/7/2025: Vlog 31:43

2M ago31:43

31:43

This year feels like a major transition—for all of us. In this vlog, I reflect on how I’m navigating change through creative work, personal rituals, and a few powerful tools that have grounded me lately: therapy, yoga, journaling for manifestation, and Phil Stutz’s True and False Magic. I open up about the big deadlines ahead for The Arbiters, revi…

1
What Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Taught Me About Filmmaking 3:32

2M ago3:32

3:32

I recently saw Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at LA’s Pantages Theatre — and while this isn’t a review, I have to say: it blew my mind. Watching it felt like witnessing real magic. The lighting, the practical effects, the precision — it all made me rethink how we approach live-action filmmaking. In this episode, I reflect on the lessons filmmake…

1
The Artist’s Real Job: Show Up Consistently or Stay an Amateur 6:05

2M ago6:05

6:05

What separates professionals from amateurs? It’s not talent. It’s not even opportunity. It’s consistency. In this episode, I break down why showing up week after week, month after month, year after year is the true mark of a real artist. Drawing inspiration from Steven Pressfield’s The War of Art, I explore how professionals commit to their work as…

1
Quick Tip: The Easiest Way to Share Tons of Data Remotely 2:26

2M ago2:26

2:26

Need to send a large amount of footage to someone in another city? Skip the upload wait times and ditch the heavy hard drives. In this quick tip episode, I share a simple, efficient method: SD cards. They're compact, lightweight, and can hold a surprising amount of data—perfect for small to medium-sized projects. I recently sent 250GB of footage to…

1
Bud Rebel on Filmmaking Hustle, Creative Discipline, and Building a Personal Brand 50:51

2M ago50:51

50:51

In this episode, we sit down with Bud Rebel—filmmaker, actor, podcaster, and content creator—whose career spans indie feature films (The Undead, All Screwed Up), over 200 YouTube videos, and a podcast that’s welcomed major Hollywood guests. Bud shares how he built his creative empire from the ground up, the mindset shifts that kept him going, and h…

1
Confessions of a Forty-Something F**k Up – A Hilarious & Heartfelt Book Club Chat 52:33

2M ago52:33

52:33

Welcome to our monthly book discussion series hosted by Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) and me, Phil Svitek! This month, we dive into Confessions of a Forty-Something F**k Up by Alexandra Potter — a witty, honest, and relatable novel about starting over when life doesn’t go to plan. We follow Nell, a woman whose business fails, engagement crumbles, a…

1
Build Buzz Before Your Project Drops – Using Public Events to Engage Early 3:55

2M ago3:55

3:55

What if you could start building hype for your project before it’s even finished? Here, I talk about how creators across all disciplines—writers, filmmakers, musicians, visual artists—can use public events like Comic-Cons, book festivals, art fairs, and music expos to generate excitement and gather early fans before the final product is out. These …

1
Stop Comparing Yourself to a Myth: You're Not Falling Behind 3:30

2M ago3:30

3:30

I break down a subtle trap many of us fall into—we compare ourselves not to one person, but to a collage of people, mistakenly treating their combined successes as if they belong to a single superhuman. No wonder we feel like we're not doing enough. But when we separate these individuals and actually study their journeys, we find the challenges, se…

1
How to Make Job Platforms Like Upwork and Fiverr Fairer for Everyone (Clients & Freelancers) 5:04

2M ago5:04

5:04

I dive into a simple yet powerful idea that could improve job platforms like Fiverr and Upwork: what if the freelancer who gets hired is paid the average of all submitted quotes? This small shift could reduce underbidding, encourage fair pricing, and promote higher-quality work across the board. I break down how this model benefits freelancers, cli…

1
Hollywood's Failing Filmmakers—Here’s How Robert Rodriguez & The Duplass Bros Are Beating the System 14:55

2M ago14:55

14:55

The old Hollywood system is crumbling, and two legendary filmmakers—Robert Rodriguez and Mark Duplass—aren’t waiting around. Rodriguez is launching Brass Knuckle Films, letting fans invest in his movies, while Duplass is bypassing streamers to self-release his latest show.This isn’t just a trend—it’s a blueprint for survival. If you’re a filmmaker …

1
How Animation Can Change Lives: Toby Cochran on LUKi & the Lights & Indie Filmmaking 56:10

2M ago56:10

56:10

In this inspiring conversation, I sit down with animator and storyteller Toby Cochran, the creative force behind LUKi & the Lights, a deeply moving animated short film about ALS. We discuss his journey in animation, the challenges of indie filmmaking, and the importance of authentic storytelling. Toby shares insights from his years in the industry,…

1
The Long Game of Art: Why Slow and Steady Wins the Race - 3/17/2025: Vlog 50:53

3M ago50:53

50:53

I share major updates on The Arbiters, including progress on the script, our writer’s room sessions, and the latest developments with our new trailer and proof of concept. I also discuss the investor deck, the filmmaking digital school project, and the strides I’ve made in my novel writing.Beyond that, I explore key topics like the real struggles o…

1
The Hidden Costs of Layoffs: Why Cutting Jobs Hurts Companies in the Long Run 19:41

3M ago19:41

19:41

Layoffs may seem like an easy way for companies to cut costs, but the data tells a different story. In this episode, we dive deep into the financial, operational, and cultural consequences of layoffs, showing how they often backfire by increasing expenses, tanking stock prices, and damaging long-term growth. 💡 Key Topics: Why 30% of companies that …

1
A Quick Guide to Film Markets: When, Why & How to Attend 16:12

3M ago16:12

16:12

I break down the basics that filmmakers need to know about film markets—when to attend (and when to skip), how to plan effectively, the major markets worth considering, and the real costs (including the hidden ones no one talks about). I also share my personal experiences navigating these markets, tips for staying organized, and how to maximize you…

1
Unlocking the Power of Manifestation with Susan K. Wehrley 1:05:02

3M ago1:05:02

1:05:02

In this insightful interview, I sit down with Susan K. Wehrley, a consciousness coach with 35 years of experience helping leaders and individuals manifest their goals and create a life they love. As the owner of BIZremedies and the author of 13 books, including her recent bestseller SHIFT, Susan shares how personal experiences shaped her understand…

1
The Greatest Gift: Presence in the Age of Distraction 5:33

3M ago5:33

5:33

In a world dominated by social media and AI, our attention is constantly being pulled in a thousand directions. But the greatest gift we can give someone is our presence—real, undivided attention. While the world demands our focus, we have the power to be the change we want to see. Let’s talk about the value of being present, how it shapes our rela…

1
Reviving Apprenticeships: Passing the Torch in the Arts 3:53

3M ago3:53

3:53

The arts have long been built on mentorship, yet today, too many creatives are left to fend for themselves, struggling to learn the craft without guidance. It’s time to bring back apprenticeships—real hands-on learning from experienced artists to the next generation. This isn’t just about tradition; it’s about sustainability, preserving knowledge, …

1
Embracing the Indie Film Lifer Mentality: Knowing Our Worth and Shaping the Industry 8:03

3M ago8:03

8:03

Sean Baker’s impassioned speech at the 2025 Film Independent Spirit Awards (watch it here: https://youtu.be/yIxtMGRlx0k?si=0_QCG3cLpvqFDWKd) resonated deeply with me. Like him, I’m an indie film lifer—and that’s okay. We get to define success on our terms, and we must demand what we’re worth. The money is out there, and while we’re not asking for a…

1
Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones (Monthly Book Club Discussion) 1:03:30

3M ago1:03:30

1:03:30

Welcome to our monthly book discussion series hosted by Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) and me, Phil Svitek! This month, we dive into Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones, a whimsical and subversive fantasy novel that blends fairy tale magic with witty character dynamics.Follow Sophie Hatter’s journey as she’s transformed into an old woman by th…

1
You Never Master Art—You Master the Process of Discovery (Insight From Gene Wolfe) 5:49

3M ago5:49

5:49

Gene Wolfe once said, “You never learn how to write a novel. You just learn how to write the novel that you're writing.” And the more I create, the more I realize how true this is—not just for writing, but for filmmaking, painting, music, and every other art form.Each project is its own unique puzzle, demanding fresh solutions. You never fully “arr…

1
Ditch KPIs—Real Impact Can’t Be Measured 11:03

3M ago11:03

11:03

We’ve been conditioned to think that if we can’t measure it, it doesn’t matter. But what if the opposite is true? What if the most meaningful things—art, kindness, justice, human connection—can never be captured in numbers?In this episode, I argue that we need to do away with KPIs entirely because they’ll never truly measure real impact. I referenc…

1
Ne Zha 2 Smashes Records! What Filmmakers Must Learn About Global Markets 9:11

3M ago9:11

9:11

Ne Zha 2 just made nearly $1 billion in China alone, proving that Hollywood isn’t the only game in town. As filmmakers, we need to think beyond Hollywood and understand where the real opportunities lie. In this episode, I break down:🎬 Why knowing your market is just as important as making a great film🌎 How the entertainment industry is truly global…

1
Should You Ever Work for Free? The Truth About Unpaid Work in the Creative Industry 8:41

3M ago8:41

8:41

"Unfortunately, I can't take on any unpaid work to help you make money at this time." You've probably seen this phrase floating around—and while I get the sentiment, the reality is more nuanced.🎭 Yes, you should have a circle of creatives you collaborate with and uplift.📜 If you’re doing unpaid work, everyone should know their role and what they st…

1
Stop Writing Weak Emails! 10 Pro Tips for Clearer, More Effective Communication 11:44

3M ago11:44

11:44

If your emails aren’t getting responses or feel ignored, it’s probably because they’re too long, too vague, or filled with weak phrases. Let’s fix that! 🚀In this episode, I share 10 powerful email tips that will help you:📧 Get faster replies and clearer responses💼 Sound more confident and professional🚀 Avoid common mistakes that make emails ineffec…

1
Being Bold, Reviving Projects & Truths on Sponsorships & Boundaries - 2/17/2025: Vlog 39:30

3M ago39:30

39:30

I’ve committed to being truly bold in my outreach for my big animated feature. Now, with more time opening up, I’m returning to past projects: updating my novel outline and starting to write this week, wrapping up my digital film school video and 20-year doc with a new editor I’ve gotten to know. As I close out the vlog, I share some observations—l…

1
Indie Filmmakers: Stop Thinking Small! Here’s How to Go Big on a Budget 9:33

4M ago9:33

9:33

Indie filmmakers are always told to keep it small—one location, minimal cast, limited scope. But what if you flipped that thinking on its head? Instead of shrinking your vision, expand it. More locations. A bigger cast. A film that feels massive without breaking the bank.The truth is, playing big doesn’t have to mean spending big. Strategic plannin…

1
Stop Playing the Gatekeepers’ Game – How Artists Can Thrive on Their Own 7:17

4M ago7:17

7:17

Many artists feel trapped by traditional industry models—musicians relying on streaming, painters chasing galleries, filmmakers hoping for big studio deals. But what if you changed the game? Greg Holden’s post about ditching Spotify for physical album sales is just one example of how artists can take control. (Original post:https://www.threads.net/…

1
Working the Grammys, Recutting Our Trailer, and a Dream Actor?! - 2/9/2025: Vlog 26:00

4M ago26:00

26:00

This week has been a whirlwind! I worked at the Grammys, which was an amazing experience, I’ve been continuing on with The Arbiters—recutting our proof-of-concept trailer to better reflect the updated script, continuing outreach, and… an actor I’d love to have in the film has shown interest!On top of that, I’m submitting to Anime Expo and planning …

1
My Mobile Work Setup: Going Beyond the Laptop Life 9:53

4M ago9:53

9:53

Digital nomads and influencers might get by with a laptop, ring light, and hard drive—but my work demands so much more. In this episode, I showcase my mobile setup designed for filmmakers, podcasters, and creatives who need full functionality on the go. From hard drives and monitors to power backups, I’ll show you how I’ve built a workspace that tr…

1
Define Your Dream Job: A Simple Exercise to Get You Started 3:11

4M ago3:11

3:11

If you could do anything for work, what would it be? In this episode, I challenge you to write down your ideal job—no judgment, no limits. Whether it’s reading books while gardening or something that doesn’t even exist yet, the first step is to get it all on paper. From there, you can begin shaping a realistic path toward your dream. Once you defin…

1
What You Don’t Give to Love, You Give to Fear: A Life-Changing Perspective 6:31

4M ago6:31

6:31

Inspired by A Course in Miracles, this episode explores the profound idea that what you withhold from love is ultimately given to fear. I discuss why this concept matters and how embracing love over fear can reshape your relationships, decisions, and mindset. Learn how to identify when fear is holding you back and how choosing love can lead to a mo…

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Phil Svitek Podcasts

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