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In this episode of the Ways to Wealth Podcast, Charlie is joined by Tom Hern!
Tom Hern is a New Zealand film and television producer, writer, and director who began his career as a junior TV reporter at just 13. After leaving school at 15, he moved from acting into producing and went on to found Four Nights Film in 2010. He has since produced major projects including The Dark Horse and the TV series Madam starring Rachel Griffiths and Martin Henderson.
The conversation explores Tom’s entrepreneurial journey in the screen industry, comparing film production to property development and start-up models. They discuss the unique challenges of independent filmmaking in New Zealand, international financing strategies, and the balance between creative integrity and commercial realities.
Key themes include the importance of personal brand as a storyteller, the role of data versus human curation, the industry’s shift toward AI, and why name actors remain pivotal for financing. Tom also unpacks counterculture storytelling, negotiation strategies, and the goodwill factor in deal-making.
He shares insights on his upcoming projects, including a skateboarding film with Tony Hawk and Steve-O as executive producers, and offers advice for aspiring filmmakers on blending timeless storytelling craft with modern technology.
Find out about Tom’s company TAVAKE here: www.tavake.tv
Watch all episodes of the Ways to Wealth Podcast here: www.eccuity.com/podcasts