In this episode of the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast, we sit down with Tom Cox and Jordy Randall, the executive producers behind SEVEN24 Films. With Heartland as Canada’s longest running one-hour drama and one of the most-watched shows on Netflix globally, these two Alberta industry leaders reflect on building a production company that’s helped define the province’s screen identity. From early days of advocating for local infrastructure to managing major productions like Wynonna Earp and Brokeback Mountain, Tom and Jordy share lessons on longevity, leadership, and the work ethic that drives Alberta-made storytelling.

In this episode:

• How Tom and Jordy’s shared birthday sparked the name of their production company
• The origin story of Heartland, and how it became a Canadian cultural export
• Why Alberta, not Quebec, became the home for Heartland, and what it took to convince CBC
• Building a production company in Alberta when there was no studio infrastructure
• The evolution of Alberta’s screen sector and what’s changed since the “late 1900s”
• A behind-the-scenes look at Wynonna Earp, and the global fan campaign that saved it
• Why Alberta’s film crews are “filmmakers first,” and what that means for production culture
• The risk and reward of producing in a province where the business is still catching up to the passion
• How 724 has created thousands of jobs over two decades and why mentorship matters now more than ever
• Tips for emerging talent: what Tom and Jordy look for in new collaborators

Contacts

Guests: Tom Cox & Jordy Randall

Titles: Executive Producers & Managing Partners, SEVEN24 Films Films

https://seven24films.com/about/

https://gem.cbc.ca/heartland

“We’ve always said we’re building one season at a time. You’re only as good as your last year.” 

– Jordy Randall

“We didn’t just want to make shows; we wanted to build a business in the place we love to live.” 

– Tom Cox

This podcast is brought to you by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA), championing Alberta’s screen sector for over 40 years through advocacy, industry events, and professional development. Learn more or become a member at ampia.org.

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CREDITS

Hosted by: Justine Gamez Huckabay & Brent Kawchuk

Thank You to Our Supporters

This podcast is proudly presented by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA)

Produced in collaboration with Metamorphosis Media Group

Studio space and internship support provided by Mount Royal University, Broadcast Media Studies

Promotional support courtesy of the Alberta Film Commission

Series trailer edited by Joe Media Group

We’re grateful to these organizations for helping bring Alberta’s screen stories to life and into the world.

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