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Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Damien Swaby
276 episodes
1 week ago
Step into the world of independent film with Filmmaking Conversations with Damien SwabyFrom established industry voices to the filmmakers of tomorrow, Damien Swaby opens up conversations that spark ideas, share experiences, and celebrate creativity in all its forms.

Each episode offers listeners both inspiration and practical takeaways, leaving them better equipped to bring their own stories to life.With a loyal and growing audience of passionate filmmakers and film lovers, Filmmaking Conversations has become a trusted space for authentic dialogue and fresh perspectives on the art of storytelling.

Join us—and discover why this podcast is resonating with the community shaping the future of film.

Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network 
Show more...
Film Interviews
TV & Film,
Film History
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All content for Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby is the property of Damien Swaby and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Step into the world of independent film with Filmmaking Conversations with Damien SwabyFrom established industry voices to the filmmakers of tomorrow, Damien Swaby opens up conversations that spark ideas, share experiences, and celebrate creativity in all its forms.

Each episode offers listeners both inspiration and practical takeaways, leaving them better equipped to bring their own stories to life.With a loyal and growing audience of passionate filmmakers and film lovers, Filmmaking Conversations has become a trusted space for authentic dialogue and fresh perspectives on the art of storytelling.

Join us—and discover why this podcast is resonating with the community shaping the future of film.

Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network 
Show more...
Film Interviews
TV & Film,
Film History
Episodes (20/276)
Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 277: Itunu Olowo: The Editor Who Rebuilt Her Creative Life from the Ground Up
Episode Summary

In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, Damien is joined by the talented and driven, a promo producer, editor, and filmmaker whose determination, discipline, and creative resilience have shaped a truly distinctive career in post-production. From her early beginnings as a theatre actor in Ireland to becoming a multi-skilled editor and producer across some of the UK’s most recognisable broadcasters — including Channel 5, MTV, Discovery, Warner Bros., and CNBC — Itunu shares a journey built on hard choices, constant upskilling, and an unwavering commitment to craft. 

She opens up about the reality behind her pivot away from acting, explaining why stability mattered, how she rebuilt her creative identity from the ground up, and how storytelling eventually led her to fall in love with the edit suite. Her career path includes assisting on A Place in the Sun, creating fast-turnaround promos for global networks, and navigating high-pressure workflows with precision and clarity. She also discusses what it takes to produce compelling short-form content in a world where audiences may never turn the sound on — and how music, rhythm, editorial choices, and graphic design all work together to deliver powerful messaging in under 30 seconds. 

A highlight of the conversation is her work on CNBC’s digital-first franchise Built for Billions, and how collaboration, trust, and editorial instinct helped elevate the promos beyond expectation. She also shares her experiences with software like Avid, Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Baselight, and her philosophy on clean, organised projects that support entire teams.

Outside her broadcast work, she speaks candidly about her award-supported short film Give Me Your Phone — a story born from a deeply personal and frightening moment. She reveals how she turned that experience into a thoughtful exploration of privilege, vulnerability, and perspective, bringing the film from concept to completion through grit, community, and creative conviction. 

This episode offers inspiring insight for filmmakers, editors, post-production professionals, and anyone building a creative career based on skill, dedication, and self-belief.

Key Topics Covered
  • How Itunu transitioned from acting to a sustainable career in post-production
  • Working across Channel 5, Discovery, MTV, Warner Bros., and CNBC
  • Navigating high-speed editorial environments and promo production
  • Creating impactful short-form content for news, business, and digital audiences
  • Detailed insights into editing workflows, graphics integration, QC, AAF/EDL handling, and version control
  • Premiere Pro vs Avid vs DaVinci Resolve vs Baselight — honest comparisons
  • Crafting the promos for CNBC’s Built for Billions
  • The story behind her first short film Give Me Your Phone and turning trauma into art
  • How organisation, humility, and collaboration strengthen post-production work
  • Staying adaptable and relevant in a fast-changing creative industry

Call to Action. 

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling.
  • Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:
    • 25% Off More Labs
    • https://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY

    • 20% Off Strong Coffee Company
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1 week ago
53 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 276: Rob Reiner and the Lost Art of Making Films Like Sleepless in Seattle
Last night, I watched Sleepless in Seattle.
This morning, I woke up to the news that Rob Reiner and his wife, producer Michele Singer Reiner, had been found dead at their Los Angeles home, as police investigate what they’ve described as an apparent homicide.In this episode, we sit with grief, uncertainty, and legacy — and we look closely at what Rob Reiner’s career teaches us about filmmaking craft.

From All in the Family to This Is Spinal Tap, The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally… and A Few Good Men, Reiner’s work shaped American culture across decades and genres.We examine the technical construction of Sleepless in Seattle — its use of 35mm film, Panavision lenses, parallel editing, practical production design, and emotional restraint — and ask a larger question:
Could a film like this be made today, independently, in London?The technology exists. But does the culture still make room for quiet stories, adult romance, and patient storytelling?

This episode explores legacy, loss, and the conditions required to make films that endure — not through spectacle, but through tone, timing, and humanity.

Call to Action. 

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling.
  • Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:
    • 25% Off More Labs
    • https://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY

    • 20% Off Strong Coffee Company
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  • X (Twitter): @DamienSwaby Show more...
2 weeks ago
5 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 275: How One Filmmaker Made a Studio-Level Fantasy on a $100K Budget
In this episode, Damien speaks with filmmaker Christopher, the creator of Princess Hally and the Jester, a groundbreaking ultra-low-budget fantasy feature made with a hybrid workflow of green screen, virtual production, traditional VFX, and AI-enhanced imagery.Christopher shares how he went from NYU Tisch to building an animation studio, mentoring artists who would later work on Avatar and with Christopher Nolan, and ultimately pioneering new methods of independent filmmaking.

Highlights From the Conversation
  • Early Beginnings: From birthday-party camcorder experiments to applying (twice!) to NYU Tisch.
  • Film School Insights: NYU in the early 2000s — shooting on 16mm, learning craft over tech, and being ahead of the digital curve.
  • First Company Success: His Nashville-based interactive animation studio where future Oscar-level talent got their start.
  • The Birth of Princess Hally and the Jester:
    • Conceiving a classical fairytale inspired by Technicolor films like The Wizard of Oz.
    • Shooting an epic fantasy for under $100k — often as a literal one-man crew.
    • Convincing actors the project wasn’t impossible (many initially thought it was).
    • Managing set builds, lighting, and performances inside a garage turned green-screen stage.
  • AI + VFX Hybrid Workflow:
    • Completing 600 new VFX shots in 30 days with no crew.
    • How AI expanded existing handmade work rather than replacing it.
    • Why this approach will likely become the norm for independent and studio filmmaking alike.
  • Casting & Performance:
    • Building the relationship between Princess Hally and Henry.
    • Working with actors who sometimes never shared the stage in real life due to the shooting constraints.
  • Challenges on Set:
    • A near-disastrous second day of filming.
    • Emotional moments of doubt — and how the director’s wife kept the production alive.
    • Sound recording issues leading to 90% of the film being looped in post.
  • The Role of Family:
    • Christopher’s wife made every costume — essential for elevating the world-building.
  • Tools for Indie Filmmakers:
    • Emphasis on Unreal Engine 5, Maya, freelance marketplaces, and early experimentation with AI prompts.
  • Where Independent Film Is Headed:
    • How YouTube, TikTok, and gaming have shifted audience habits.
    • Why indie filmmakers will soon match studio visuals thanks to evolving tools.
  • What’s Next:
    • A new period adventure film in early development.
    • Hopes of working with a full crew after this one-man epic.
🎬 Film Mentioned Princess Hally and the Jester
Currently available on Amazon Prime (director’s cut), with releases on additional platforms coming soon.

TRAILER: https://vimeo.com/1112925787

📌 Three Words Christopher Uses to Describe the Film“21st century filmmaking.
Show more...
3 weeks ago
50 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 274: Caprice on Fame, Films, and Creating Feel-Good Christmas Stories
In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations, Damien Swaby sits down with Caprice Bourret — award-winning model, actress, entrepreneur, and now film producer — to discuss her powerful career reinvention and the making of her new Christmas movie, A Scottish Christmas Secret.Known worldwide for her iconic modelling career, Caprice has graced over 350 magazine covers, starred in major West End productions, built a successful business empire, and now leads JJLove Productions, where she produces heartfelt seasonal TV films for global audiences.Damien attended the premiere of A Scottish Christmas Secret and reflects on the warm, intimate atmosphere — popcorn, sofas, friendly faces, and the big screen bringing everyone together. This episode explores why Christmas films matter, how Caprice transitioned from supermodel to producer, and why she’s committed to creating movies that bring people comfort and joy.WHAT WE COVER:
  • Caprice Bourret’s career transformation from global supermodel to film producer
  • The founding and mission of JJLove Productions
  • Behind the scenes of A Scottish Christmas Secret
  • Why Christmas films are still culturally important
  • Producing, acting, and balancing creative control
  • How personal reinvention can spark new creative chapters
  • The importance of telling feel-good stories in uncertain times
  • What’s next for Caprice and her growing film slate
ABOUT CAPRICE BOURRETCaprice is an award-winning model, successful entrepreneur, actress, philanthropist, and the founder of JJLove Productions. Her work spans over 300 TV/film appearances and more than 350 magazine covers. She now produces internationally released movies including A European Christmas, A Toast to Love, and A Scottish Christmas Secret.WHY THIS EPISODE MATTERSIf you’re interested in filmmaking, producing, acting, or the process of reinventing your career, Caprice’s story is a blueprint for possibility. Her move into film production shows how creative ambition can evolve, grow, and find new expression later in life.LISTEN IF YOU LIKE:
  • Christmas films
  • Film producer interviews
  • Acting and filmmaking insights
  • Reinvention & career growth stories
  • Behind-the-scenes filmmaking conversations
https://www.capricebourret.com

Call to Action.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling.
  • Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:
    • 25% Off More Labs
    • https://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY

    • 20% Off Strong Coffee Company
    • https://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY

    • 15% Off Tussle
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3 weeks ago
40 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 273: Cutting the Story: Juli Berg on Documentary Editing, TV Post, and a Life in Film
In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations, host Damien Swaby speaks with Juli Berg, an accomplished film and television editor and post-producer whose creative path began in junior high school and evolved into a decades-long career in documentary, unscripted television, music videos, and independent film.Juli shares the early experiences that shaped her artistic identity, the unexpected moments that led her to the School of Visual Arts (SVA), and the pivotal decision to pursue filmmaking professionally.

She explains how her early academic strengths intersected with her love for art, eventually leading her to earn a BFA in Film/TV from SVA—a choice that set the stage for a distinguished career in post-production.

After graduating from SVA, Juli began her career as an assistant editor in the documentary world, working alongside legendary editors including Larry Silk, Lillian Benson, and Jonathan Oppenheim.

Her first professional editing assignment—ABC’s In Concert—merged two of her passions: music and picture editorial. Over the years, she has:
  • Edited numerous short films screened at domestic and international festivals
  • Directed, produced, and edited a wide range of music videos
  • Served for two years as an Avid editing instructor at SVA, helping develop the next generation of editors
  • Built a reputation as a self-sufficient editor and post-producer capable of managing narrative structure, pacing, and story architecture independently
  • Delivered over 80 episodes and specials as Editor/Post-Producer on History Channel’s long-running series American Pickers
Juli is passionate about honoring the work of everyone involved in the filmmaking chain. She approaches editorial storytelling as a form of writing—shaping raw footage into its best possible version while maintaining the integrity and intention of those who shot it.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling.
  • Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:
    • 25% Off More Labs
    • https://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY

    • 20% Off Strong Coffee Company
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    Show more...
1 month ago
47 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 272: Barbara Niven: A Masterclass in Craft, Courage & Career Longevity
Episode Summary

In this episode, Damien Swaby is joined by the remarkable Barbara Niven, an actress whose dedication, versatility, and heart have made her one of Hollywood’s most enduring and admired talents.

With a career spanning more than three decades, Barbara has starred in over 100 film and TV roles, been featured in thousands of commercials, and contributed her experience and leadership to the Screen Actors Guild.Barbara discusses her work on Hallmark’s highest-rated series and films — including Chesapeake Shores, Cedar Cove, Murder She Baked, and Crossword Puzzle Mysteries. She talks openly about the discipline it takes to maintain longevity in Hollywood, as well as the joy she finds in each new character she inhabits.

She also reflects on her critically acclaimed portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in HBO’s The Rat Pack, still considered one of the top depictions of the icon to date. Her award-winning performances in independent cinema, including A Perfect Ending and Hamlet’s Ghost, showcase her range, intuition, and emotional intelligence as a performer.

Outside the screen, Barbara has built a global reputation as Hollywood’s top Media Trainer and Video Marketing Coach, teaching professionals across industries through her signature program Unleash Your Star Power!™. She helps people break through fear, speak confidently, and shine with authenticity.

Barbara is also a best-selling author, renowned speaker, mental health advocate, and a National Ambassador for American Humane. 

This episode is packed with inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom for actors, filmmakers, creators, entrepreneurs, and anyone pursuing their passion.

Key Topics Covered
  • How Barbara became one of the busiest actresses in Hollywood
  • Working on Hallmark’s biggest and most beloved series
  • Bringing Marilyn Monroe to life in The Rat Pack
  • What it takes to stay relevant and fulfilled in entertainment
  • The creation of Unleash Your Star Power!™
  • Overcoming fear, self-doubt, and perfectionism
  • Living a life of purpose, passion, and service
W https://www.barbaraniven.com 





Call to Action.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling.
  • Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:
    • 25% Off More Labs
    • https://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY

    • 20% Off Strong Coffee Company
    • https://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY

    • 15% Off Tussle
    • https://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY

    • 20% Off Eric Javits
    • https://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY

    • 25% Off Quantum Energy Square
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    Show more...
1 month ago
47 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 271: Inside the Neighborhood: Seth Zvi Rosenfeld’s Guerrilla Filmmaking & NYC Stories
Episode Snapshot

Playwright-turned-filmmaker Seth Zvi Rosenfeld joins Damien Swaby to talk about his journey from the New York theatre scene to Hollywood, Sundance, and independent filmmaking. He shares how his latest film—shot guerrilla-style in a real restaurant over six days—became a heartfelt portrait of community and resilience in post-lockdown New York. The conversation dives deep into working with non-actors, directing for truth, and navigating today’s streaming and indie distribution landscape.

Chapters & Timestamps
  • 00:00 – Welcome & intro
  • 00:01 – Origin story: theatre → screenwriting (New Line Cinema)
  • 00:03 – Lessons from early Hollywood experiences
  • 00:04 – First short film, Sundance Lab & early features
  • 00:05 – Brother’s Kiss and King of the Jungle
  • 00:06 – Transition into television work
  • 00:07 – Pandemic short rekindles love for filmmaking
  • 00:08 – The birth of a new film at El Posto A Canto restaurant
  • 00:09 – Shooting with real patrons and blending fiction with reality
  • 00:10 – Guerrilla filmmaking on the Williamsburg Bridge
  • 00:12 – Creating a film about community and connection
  • 00:16 – Directing non-actors and improvisation
  • 00:19 – The heart of the film: post-pandemic togetherness
  • 00:22 – Collaborating with longtime friends and actors
  • 00:24 – New York City as a living character
  • 00:27 – Danny Hoch’s creative influence and personal experiences
  • 00:29 – Tone, truth, and emotional authenticity in filmmaking
  • 00:33 – Influences: Sidney Lumet, Woody Allen, and Scorsese
  • 00:36 – Lessons from theatre: the art of working with actors
  • 00:38 – Television vs. indie film: control and collaboration
  • 00:41 – Distribution realities & using FilmHub
  • 00:44 – Next project: Legit — a comedy set in New York’s cannabis world
  • 00:46 – Why we tell stories and how film preserves human experience
  • 00:47 – Closing thoughts and reflections
People, Places & Projects Mentioned
  • Films by Seth Zvi Rosenfeld: Brother’s Kiss, King of the Jungle
  • Restaurant: El Posto A Canto (New York City)
  • Collaborators: Christopher James, Rebecca James, Danny Hoch, Julio & Beatrice, Victor (Sixto)
  • Influences & References: Goodfellas (Scorsese), Dog Day Afternoon, Serpico, Network (Sidney Lumet), Manhattan (Woody Allen), Saturday Night Fever
  • TV: How to Make It in America
  • Distribution Platform: FilmHub
Notable Quotes
  • “When you’re shooting a movie in six days, the cameras need to be going all the time.”
  • “Create an environment where no one can do anything wrong — then roll.”
  • “If theatre should play with your eyes closed, film should work with the sound off.”
  • “I’m always chasing what feels true — that’s where the emotion and the comedy live.”
  • “There will always be a need for people with a good story to tell it.”
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seth_Zvi_Rosenfeld

Call to Action.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling.
  • Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:
    • 25% Off More Labs
    • https://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY

    • 20% Off Strong Coffee Company
    • Show more...
1 month ago
46 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 270: The Paper Bear: Arix Zalace Blends Animation and Nature for Conservation
In this episode, host Damien sits down with filmmaker and conservationist Arix Zalace, the creative mind behind The Paper Bear — a visually stunning blend of animation and live action that tells the story of Florida’s disappearing wilderness.

Arix shares how his journey from producing corporate films evolved into a years-long mission of documenting Florida’s black bears and protecting one of North America’s most biodiverse regions. What began as a passion project became a cinematic call to action that uses art and emotion to reconnect people with the natural world.

🎧 In this conversation:
  • How The Paper Bear combines animation and real-world storytelling
  • The challenge of filming wild black bears in Florida’s forests
  • Arix Zalace’s evolution from commercial work to conservation cinema
  • The emotional power of father-son themes and 1980s-style adventure filmmaking
  • Building partnerships and funding an independent environmental film
  • Why storytelling and animation are powerful tools for conservation
Whether you’re a filmmaker, storyteller, or nature lover, Arix Zalace’s passion and persistence will inspire you to see how creativity can help protect our planet’s wild heart.

W: https://www.thepaperbear.org/who-we-are

IMBD: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm7730373/
  • Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:
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    • Show more...
1 month ago
48 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 269: Zayn Alexandre: Reclaiming the Arab Narrative — From Beirut to New York
Episode Summary 

Lebanese-American filmmaker Zayn Alexandre joins us to discuss his journey from a small town outside Beirut to the heart of New York’s independent film scene. Known for his award-winning films Abroad and Manara, Alexandre shares how psychology, identity, and diaspora shape his storytelling. From the Venice Film Festival to the TIFF Filmmaker Lab, Zayn has carved a space for authentic Middle Eastern voices in global cinema. In this conversation, he opens up about cultural identity, representation, and the responsibility of Arab artists to tell stories that challenge stereotypes while embracing universal human truths.

In this deeply personal and cinematic episode, Zayn Alexandre—a Lebanese-American film director, writer, and actor based in New York City—reflects on his artistic journey and the transformative power of storytelling.

His voice reminds us that film is not only art — it’s empathy in motion.🏆 Awards & Recognitions Mentioned
  • Venice Film Festival – Giornate degli Autori (Venice Days)
  • Khayrallah Art Prize for Lebanese Diaspora Art
  • Silver Hypatia Award – Alexandria Short Film Festival
  • Ahmed Khedr Award – ÉCU European Independent Film Festival
  • Laguna Sud Award – Italy
  • TIFF Filmmaker Lab ‘21
  • Arab America’s 40 Under 40
https://www.zaynalexandre.com/about

  • Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:
    • 25% Off More Labs
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    • https://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY

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    • https://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY

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    • Show more...
2 months ago
36 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 268: North Carolina to Bloomberg: How Victoria Duncan Balances Art and Analytics
In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations, host Damien Swaby talks with Victoria Duncan, a filmmaker and Senior Creative Video Producer at Bloomberg Media Studios, about building a career that bridges art, analytics, and authenticity.

Victoria shares how she transitioned from post-production and film school at NYU Tisch to producing global branded campaigns at Bloomberg. She opens up about her creative process, directing style, and the balance between data-driven storytelling and emotional resonance in branded content.

🎬 Topics Covered:
  • Victoria’s journey from North Carolina to New York and Bloomberg
  • The making of I Am Enough and its Lincoln Center adaptation
  • How to balance creativity and client goals in branded storytelling
  • Building collaborative systems at Bloomberg Media Studios
  • Mentorship, judging film festivals, and empowering women in film
  • A look at Victoria’s upcoming short film Exit Sign
This conversation is a must-listen for filmmakers, creatives, and storytellers interested in the intersection of film, branding, and innovation at one of the world’s leading media companies.


  • Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:
    • 25% Off More Labs
    • https://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY

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2 months ago
38 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 267: Between the Notes: Mark Watters & Eastman’s Soundtrax Vision
Show Notes

In this episode, I sit down with Mark Watters to talk about a life lived in music: from Disney, Pixar, and Olympic scores, to his role today at Eastman School of Music, where he oversees the Beal Institute for Film Music and Contemporary Media. We get deep into the Eastman Film & Media Festival—how it started, what it’s become, and why Rochester, NY is fast becoming a home for composer communities and cinematic sound.Mark reveals:
  • His early obsession with film music (yes, Star Wars fourteen times just for the score)
  • How “The Art & Craft of Music for Animation” ended up as a session at Soundtrax, hosted by him. Soundtrax Film Music Fest+1
  • Why the Eastman Festival is more than panels and concerts—it’s an immersive space for composers to test ideas
  • His thoughts on legacy, mentorship, and how teachers and students exchange influence
  • The way he listens now—and how that listening echoes what first drew me into music
We also weave in my own origin story: discovering Mo’ Better Blues via BBC Two, being changed by Terence Blanchard’s trumpet, and inviting back Cynda Williams (as Clarke Bentancourt, and on “Harlem Blues”) because she embodies that space between story and song.As part of this musical conversation, I reference how The South Bank Show elevated composers through storytelling, and I end with a poetic note on Rochester—where winter winds and Eastman echoes make composition both memory and promise.

Soundtrax Highlights to MentionFrom the Soundtrax Film Music Festival (October 16–18, 2025, at Eastman / Rochester) schedule: Soundtrax Film Music Fest
  • “The Art & Craft of Music for Animation” — hosted by Mark Watters in Kilbourn Hall
  • Film Scores Live! — Terence Blanchard with E-Collective & Gateways Festival Orchestra in Kodak Hall
  • John Williams Reimagined — concert of Williams’ themes rearranged for flute, cello, piano University of Rochester Calendar+1
  • Interstellar in Concert — live performance of the Zimmer/Nolan score in Rochester’s Third Presbyterian Church visitrochester.com+1
W: Soundtrax Film Music Festival



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3 months ago
55 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 266: The Food Matrix: Exploring Flavor, Film, and Creativity with Dr. Bryan Quoc Le
📒 SHOW NOTES

In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, Damien sits down with Dr. Bryan Quoc Le, Ph.D., a food scientist, consultant, and author of 150 Food Science Questions Answered.

Bryan’s career is a masterclass in curiosity-driven storytelling — one that filmmakers, storytellers, and creatives will find both inspiring and familiar.🎬 What’s inside this episode:
  • A story worth filming: How Bryan’s 2,000-mile walk across America sparked his lifelong obsession with taste, survival, and the science of food.
  • The art of structured storytelling: Why Bryan’s book 150 Food Science Questions Answered reads like a collection of perfectly crafted short films — each one with a setup, conflict, and resolution.
  • From science to screen: Bryan’s collaboration with Emmy Award-winning filmmakers on The Food Matrix, exploring the philosophy and science of flavor.
  • Bridging industries: How food science, media, and film all share a core principle — making complex ideas clear, engaging, and human.
  • Big takeaways: Lessons from food science that resonate with filmmaking — clarity, curiosity, pacing, and respecting your audience’s attention.
  • The central question: The deceptively simple obsession that drives all of Bryan’s work: What makes food taste good?
📚 Along the way, we’ll spotlight some of the book’s most fascinating questions:
  • Should you put hot food straight into the fridge?
  • Is raw milk really safe to drink?
  • Do soy and fish sauce need refrigeration once opened?
  • Do canned and frozen fruits and vegetables actually lose nutrients?
For filmmakers and creatives, this episode is a reminder that the best stories don’t always come from Hollywood. Sometimes, they come from a lab, a kitchen, or even a long walk across America.

W: https://www.mendocinofoodconsulting.com/bryanquocle

W: 150 Food Science Questions Answered: Cook Smarter, Cook Better

W: https://www.proceragin.com

W: https://www.statesmenmarinades.com
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3 months ago
58 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 265: Finding the Funny in Life’s Hardest Stories with Nicole Magerko
🎙️ Episode Intro

What happens when comedy collides with life’s most challenging topics? In this episode, host Damien Swaby sits down with Nicole Magerko — a Chicago-based comedy screenwriter, producer, and founder of Pine Grove Productions. Nicole’s work thrives at the intersection of humor and humanity, shining a light on aging, caregiving, and the often-overlooked everyday struggles that bind us together.

From the personal turning point that inspired her company, to her evolving voice as a creator in the film and TV world, Nicole shares the realities of building a career that is both creatively fulfilling and socially resonant.

📒 Show NotesIn this episode, you’ll hear about:
  • 🎬 The beginnings of Pine Grove Productions
    Nicole opens up about how a quarter-life crisis led her to start a company dedicated to telling heartfelt, comedic stories about the human condition.
  • 💡 Why humor matters in heavy conversations
    How laughter can be a tool for connection when exploring subjects like aging, family caregiving, and identity.
  • 🛠️ The process behind the craft
    Nicole shares her writing and producing approach — blending lived experience with creative storytelling to make work that feels both authentic and entertaining.
  • 🚀 Challenges and opportunities for emerging filmmakers
    What it takes to stand out in the crowded film and TV landscape, and how she’s navigating an evolving industry as a fresh voice.
  • ❤️ Life lessons from comedy
    Why Nicole believes comedy is more than entertainment — it’s a way to confront fear, embrace imperfection, and build empathy.
W: https://www.nicolemagerko.com
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3 months ago
33 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 264: Filmmaking, Resilience & Ethical Storytelling with Rene Estes
📝 Show NotesIn this episode of Filmmaking Conversations, we sit down with filmmaker, media strategist, and founder of The Video Mentor, Rene Estes. With a career that spans STEM research, entrepreneurship, and film, Rene brings a bold, emotionally intelligent lens to the power of storytelling.We dive into:
  • The emotional impact of digital narratives and ethical storytelling.
  • How media shapes cultural beliefs around aging, beauty, and resilience.
  • Rene’s journey creating The Video Mentor, a platform empowering creators to produce cinematic content on their own.
  • Lessons on confidence, belonging, and overcoming challenges as a woman in media.
  • Why resilience—both emotional and financial—is critical for creators.
  • How storytelling can become a tool for truth, influence, and hope in an era of misinformation.
Rene’s perspective challenges us to go deeper, avoid surface-level clickbait, and embrace media that sparks human connection, innovation, and change.
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  • X (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405
  • Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en 
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3 months ago
32 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 263: Remembering Robert Redford: How a Career Rewired Indie Filmmaking
Episode Summary 

Recording from the spare room, Damien reflects on Robert Redford’s passing and maps how Redford’s career choices—as star, director, producer, and institution-builder—reshaped the conditions for independent filmmaking. From championing adult, character-driven stories to proving quiet films can win big, this episode translates Redford’s moves into practical takeaways you can use on your next shoot.

Key Takeaways:
  • A bankable star choosing adult, idea-forward dramas expands mainstream appetite for intimate stories.
  • Ordinary People validated quiet, precise filmmaking at the highest level—proof that small can be prestigious.
  • Redford’s producing/directing showed that authorship is a business plan: attach taste and protect tone.
  • All Is Lost licensed formal minimalism—audiences will follow honesty and behavior.
  • The ethos behind Sundance—artist-first, risk-tolerant, community-powered—grew directly from his career instincts.
Pull Quotes (for socials/show notes):
  • “Curation is career—Redford proved that picking brave scripts changes the weather for everyone.”
  • “You can stabilize a shot; you can’t fake a revelation.”
  • “Small isn’t a limitation—it’s a design principle.”
Recommended Watchlist (for context):
  • Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
  • All the President’s Men (1976)
  • Ordinary People (1980) — dir. Robert Redford
  • Quiz Show (1994) — dir. Robert Redford
  • All Is Lost (2013)


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3 months ago
7 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 262: Alexandra Paul: From Baywatch to Activism — A Journey of Storytelling and Purpose
Episode Summary

Most of the world knows Alexandra Paul as one of the stars of Baywatch, where she became a household name on one of the most-watched TV shows in history. But Alexandra’s story runs far deeper than the beaches of Malibu.

In this inspiring conversation with host Damien Swaby, Alexandra opens up about how she fell into acting at just 18, the role of storytelling in her life, and what it really took to thrive in the competitive world of Hollywood. She shares candid reflections on the ups and downs of fame, her journey into activism, and why she continues to reinvent herself through podcasting and personal growth.Whether you’re chasing a creative dream, building resilience in your career, or seeking to align your work with your values, Alexandra’s wisdom will resonate.Why Listen?
  • Hear the untold story of how Alexandra went from shy high-school drama student to international Baywatch star.
  • Learn how storytelling can become a tool for both self-expression and connection.
  • Discover the challenges and lessons of sustaining a career in Hollywood while staying true to your values.
  • Be inspired by Alexandra’s activism and her commitment to living authentically.
Memorable Quotes“What really got me interested in acting was the fact that I could express myself and be different people — not just the good girl I thought I had to be.”“Resilience isn’t about never failing. It’s about showing up again and again, no matter what.”“When your work aligns with your values, you find a fulfillment that success alone can’t give you.”Episode Highlights & Timeline
  • 00:02:00 – Early years: Growing up in a non-artistic family, finding her own creative spark.
  • 00:06:30 – First steps into acting: From modeling at 16 to falling in love with performance at 18.
  • 00:15:00 – Hollywood lessons: What it takes to survive and thrive in the industry.
  • 00:22:00 – Baywatch fame: The highs and challenges of starring on a global hit series.
  • 00:35:00 – Reinvention: How Alexandra transitioned into podcasting and other creative pursuits.
  • 00:45:00 – Activism: Aligning her public platform with her passion for making a difference.
  • 00:55:00 – Final reflections: Advice on authenticity, resilience, and purpose.
Key Takeaways
  • 🎬 You don’t need a creative upbringing to follow a creative path.
  • 💡 Storytelling is about truth, connection, and self-expression.
  • 💪 Resilience and consistency are the true engines of longevity in any career.
  • 🌍 Living in alignment with your values is more rewarding than fame or success alone.
  • 🎤 Reinvention keeps creativity alive — never stop evolving.
Resources & Links
  • Alexandra Paul’s Official Site https://alexandrapaul.com
  • Follow Alexandra on Instagram
  • Learn more at FlowVeda.com
  • A Handbook of the Stanislavski Method
Show more...
3 months ago
45 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 261: From Tehran to Sundance: Naghmeh Farzaneh on Storytelling Through Animation
✨ Episode Summary
In this conversation, Damien Swaby speaks with Naghmeh Farzaneh, an Iranian-born painter turned animation director, whose work has screened at Sundance and platforms like The New Yorker and Sesame Workshop. Naghmeh shares how she animates memory, navigates identity, and teaches the next generation of artists to embrace animation as more than cartoons — as a powerful storytelling medium. ⏱ Episode Highlights
  • (04:15) How painting led Naghmeh to discover animation by accident
  • (12:30) Turning memories of immigration into Scent of Geranium
  • (21:40) Directing The Smallest Power with The New Yorker for Sundance
  • (34:20) The painterly pipeline: from sketchbooks to After Effects
  • (42:05) Adapting style for audiences at TED-Ed, Sesame Workshop, and beyond
  • (54:10) Why “home” remains a central theme in her art
  • (1:05:00) Advice for young artists and a message to her younger self
🎧 What You’ll Learn
  • Why animation can be as expressive as painting or photography.
  • How Iranian visual culture influences global storytelling.
  • Practical insights into blending traditional art with digital tools.
  • The challenges and joys of freelancing as a filmmaker.
  • Why “finding home” is one of the most universal themes in art.
🔗 Connect with Naghmeh Farzaneh
  • https://www.naghmehfarzaneh.com/about 
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3 months ago
43 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 260: Redefining Representation: Josiane Faubert on Building PICHA
Episode Summary

In this episode, Damien Swaby sits down with Josiane Faubert, a photographer and creative entrepreneur who has built a platform to showcase authentic, diverse imagery of Africa and the diaspora. From her early life in Gabon to studying in Paris and building a career in London, Josiane shares her journey of redefining representation in visual storytelling.The conversation explores how cultural heritage, lived experience, and determination can shape a filmmaker’s and photographer’s perspective — and why authentic representation matters now more than ever.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode
  • 🌍 How growing up in Gabon and France influenced Josiane’s eye for photography.
  • 📸 Why she founded PICHA Afrostock collection and the mission behind it.
  • 🎥 The challenges creatives of color face in the stock image and film industries.
  • 💡 Tips for emerging filmmakers and photographers trying to build a sustainable career.
  • 🔑 The importance of telling stories that reflect true diversity, not stereotypes.
About Josiane Faubert

Josiane is a Gabonese-born photographer and entrepreneur who founded PICHA Afrostock, a platform dedicated to showcasing diverse, authentic African and diasporic imagery. Her work has been featured in global campaigns, and she is passionate about bridging gaps in representation across media and visual storytelling.

Links & Resources
  • Follow Josiane Faubert on Instagram
  • Explore Afrostock on PICHA
  • Damien Swaby – Filmmaking Conversations
Check out https://starwalkerorganicfarms.com YouTubel: https://www.youtube.com/@StarWalkerOrganicFarms
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3 months ago
42 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 259: Challenging Stereotypes: Dr. Ali on Building a Muslim-Led Streaming Platform
In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations, I sit down with Dr. Ali, the visionary founder of Fam Cinema. His platform is more than just a streaming service—it’s a movement designed to empower marginalized voices, provide family-friendly viewing, and give filmmakers fairer opportunities to share their work. We talk about:
  • The childhood experience that inspired Dr. Ali to challenge stereotypes in film.
  • Why representation matters—and how media can heal and empower communities.
  • The values and criteria Fam Cinema uses to curate powerful, authentic films.
  • The obstacles of launching a values-driven streaming platform in today’s industry.
  • Why Fam Cinema’s pay-per-view model is a better deal for filmmakers.
  • The exciting launch of Fam Cinema’s very first global film festival, open to features, shorts, and animated projects from around the world.
This episode is for filmmakers, storytellers, and anyone who believes cinema can—and should—do more than just entertain.

W: famcinema.com

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3 months ago
25 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Ep 258: Finding Stories in Unexpected Places with Mick Lexington
In this episode, Damien Swaby sits down with filmmaker and multi-disciplinary creative Mick Lexington to talk about his journey through art, music, and writing — and how it all led him back to filmmaking. From restless college days in the Midwest to wandering the streets of Paris, playing music in London, and finally honing his craft as a writer and filmmaker, Mick shares a candid look at what drives him to create.

They dive into:
  • How Mick’s unconventional path shaped his voice as a storyteller.
  • The realities of indie filmmaking and staying true to your artistic instincts.
  • The importance of persistence, curiosity, and “getting things out of your system” to find your real calling.
  • Why failure, detours, and even being “a bum in Paris” can become part of an artist’s foundation.
This conversation is full of honesty, humor, and inspiration for anyone navigating their own creative journey.Links & Resources:
  • IG Mick Lexington: https://www.instagram.com/micklexingtonofficial/?hl=en
  • Website: https://www.micklexington.com
Check out https://starwalkerorganicfarms.com YouTubel: https://www.youtube.com/@StarWalkerOrganicFarms
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4 months ago
43 minutes

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby
Step into the world of independent film with Filmmaking Conversations with Damien SwabyFrom established industry voices to the filmmakers of tomorrow, Damien Swaby opens up conversations that spark ideas, share experiences, and celebrate creativity in all its forms.

Each episode offers listeners both inspiration and practical takeaways, leaving them better equipped to bring their own stories to life.With a loyal and growing audience of passionate filmmakers and film lovers, Filmmaking Conversations has become a trusted space for authentic dialogue and fresh perspectives on the art of storytelling.

Join us—and discover why this podcast is resonating with the community shaping the future of film.

Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network