Fish's Call Sheet
Michael Fishman shares a behind the scenes view of the entertainment industry, celebrating the talented people who make film, television, and streaming production possible.
Valerie Weiss: Director, Producer, Writer - The Scientist Directing Hollywood’s Biggest Stories
In this episode of Fish’s Call Sheet, Michael sits down with director, writer, producer, and scientist Dr. Valerie Weiss for a fascinating conversation about creativity, courage, sustainability, and the science of storytelling.
Valerie’s journey is anything but ordinary. Before directing across film and television, she earned a doctorate in science and learned how to ask big questions, test ideas, adapt to results, and keep searching for the truth. Now, she brings that same curiosity and discipline to the screen. using the scientific method not just in the lab, but in the crea...
Erica Montolfo-Bura: Writer, Producer - Inside the Writers’ Room, Cancel Culture, and the Mayor of Lanford. Jokes, Stars, and the Story Behind the Story
In this episode of Fish’s Call Sheet, Michael sits down with writer and producer Erica Montolfo-Bura for a smart, honest, and revealing conversation about what it really takes to write television that connects.
Erica takes us inside the writers’ room, where character, story, jokes, audience reaction, creative pressure, and collaboration all collide. Together, Michael and Erica explore how meaningful television is shaped, from writing for specific characters, to building jokes that only those characters could say, to navigating stars, producers, network expectations, and the evolving relationship between shows and their audiences.
Th...
John Boyd: Camera - Pedestals, Pressure, and the Art of the Perfect Camera Shot
In this episode of Fish’s Call Sheet, Michael sits down with camera operator John Boyd for a fascinating, funny, and deeply appreciative look at the craft behind the camera.
John takes viewers inside the fast-moving world of multi-cam sitcoms and soap operas, where every move matters, every frame has purpose, and the camera team has to capture comedy, emotion, timing, and truth in real time. From the outside, a pedestal camera may look like equipment. In John’s hands, it becomes part instinct, part choreography, part storytelling, and part athletic performance.
To...
Zabrina Matiru: Makeup - The Artist Behind the Face. Makeup, Identity, and the Power of Feeling Seen
In this episode of Fish’s Call Sheet, Michael sits down with makeup artist and designer Zabrina Matiru for a beautiful, revealing, and deeply human conversation about the artistry, trust, and care behind every face audiences see on screen.
Born in Kenya, shaped by a multicultural upbringing, and later building her career in Canada, Zabrina brings a rare perspective to her work that's rooted in color, texture, travel, identity, and compassion.
She shares her journey into the entertainment industry, from discovering makeup through design and special effects, to building a career hel...
Caleb Spillyards: Stunts How Hollywood Fights Are Really Made. The Body, the Camera, and the Story Behind the Battles
In this episode of Fish’s Call Sheet, Michael sits down with stunt performer and fight coordinator Caleb Spillyards for a raw, energetic, and revealing conversation about the world of stunts, screen fighting, and what it really takes to make action look effortless.
Caleb shares his journey into the entertainment industry, the grind of building a career one opportunity at a time, and the physical demands required to perform, coordinate, and survive in one of the most intense parts of production. From training and preparation to trust, timing, safety, and storytelling, Caleb breaks do...
Lynda Tarryk: Director - Learning Every Seat Before Taking the Chair — The Hidden Path to Primetime Director
In this episode of Fish’s Call Sheet, Michael sits down with director Lynda Tarryk for an inspiring, practical, and deeply insightful conversation about what it really takes to build a lasting career in television.
Lynda is a three-time Children’s & Family Emmy-nominated television director, with credits including The Conners, Night Court, Lopez vs. Lopez, The Upshaws, How I Met Your Father, and Raven’s Home.
Tarryk shares her remarkable journey from starting as a page, to working as a switcher, becoming an Associate Director, and ultimately earning her place...
Paige Blankenship: Producer - Building a Creative Life from the Ground Up - How to Turn Chaos Into Success
In this episode of Fish’s Call Sheet, Michael sits down with producer Paige Blankenship for an inspiring and practical conversation about what it really takes to build a life in production.
Paige shares her journey from coming into the entertainment industry, rising from the bottom, and learning how to create her own path in a business that rarely hands anyone a roadmap. From a small town to shining in Hollywood.
With experience across feature films, branded content, events, and production leadership, Paige brings a clear-eyed view of what producers actually do...
Tema Staig: Women In Media - Rebuilding Hollywood from the Call Sheet Up
In this episode of Fish’s Call Sheet, Michael sits down with production designer, producer, advocate, and Women In Media founder Tema Staig for a powerful conversation about creativity, collaboration, production, and the future of the entertainment industry.
Tema has spent her career building worlds on screen while also building real pathways for talented women and nonbinary professionals behind the scenes.
Together, Michael and Tema discuss the art of production design, the teamwork required to bring a set to life, the current state of the business, and why protecting pr...
Blake Pickens: Writer, Director, Producer - Creating Productions, Comedy, Cartoons & Telling the Truth from Where You Come From
In this episode of Fish’s Call Sheet, Michael sits down with writer, director, producer, and stand-up comedian Blake Pickens for a thoughtful, funny, and deeply personal conversation about craft, identity, and finding your voice in the entertainment industry.
Blake shares his journey from humble beginnings to building a multi-hyphenate career across film, television, comedy, cartoons, commercials, and live performance.
Together, Michael and Blake explore the discipline behind writing, the vulnerability of stand-up, the leadership required to direct and produce, and the courage it takes to create work rooted in lived exp...
Eden Dranger: Writer - On Writing, Being Horny for Acting & Becoming a Not So Starving Artist
In this episode of Fish’s Call Sheet, Michael sits down with writer and comedian Eden Dranger for a sharp, funny, and deeply useful conversation about the real craft of writing for film, television, animation, and performers.
Eden shares stories from her work on shows like Beavis and Butt-Head and The Unicorn, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how comedy is built, rewritten, sharpened, and sometimes cut.
Together, Michael and Eden explore what it means to write for actors, how the best performers elevate material, and why great writing is often a te...
Ron Moseley: AD, Director - The Call Sheet, the Crew, and the Heartbeat of a Set
In this episode of Fish’s Call Sheet, Michael sits down with longtime friend, director, and assistant director Ron Moseley for an honest, hilarious, and deeply insightful conversation about the real work that keeps a television set moving.
Michael and Ron have known each other since the late eighties, crossing paths through some of television’s most memorable productions. Ron shares his journey through the industry, from A Different World to Roseanne, Grace Under Fire, Geena Davis Show, My Wife & Kids and his recent multi-year run on The Neighborhood. Along the way, he open...
Simone Finch: Writer, Creator - Writing Truth, Sobriety, and the Power of Single Drunk Female
In this episode of Fish’s Call Sheet, Michael sits down with writer, creator, and showrunner Simone Finch, the creative force behind the acclaimed series Single Drunk Female.
With credits that include Madam Secretary, Homeland, Roseanne, and The Conners, Simone has built a career writing characters who are complicated, funny, flawed, honest, and deeply human.
Together, Michael and Simone explore the craft behind the page: how stories are shaped, how writers’ rooms function, how lived experience becomes art, and what it takes to create work that feels both personal and universal.
Tom Werner: Executive Producer - The Sitcom Empire, the Sports Dynasty, and a Conversation 40 years in the Making
In this extraordinary episode of Fish's Call Sheet, Michael Fishman sits down with legendary television producer Tom Werner, co-founder of Carsey-Werner and on of the most influential creative forces in modern television.
Werner's work helped shape generations of comedy and culture through iconic series including The Cosby Show, Roseanne, Grace Under Fire, 3rd Rock from the Sun, That '70s Show, The Conners, and many more.
His career goes beyond a list of hit shows. It is a blueprint for understanding how television can reflect families, challenge audiences, launch...
Back on the Call Sheet - Michael Fishman: Actor, Writer, Director, Producer & Michael Johnson: Writer, Producer
For the relaunch of Fish's Call Sheet, the tables turn.
In this powerful episode, Michel Fishman steps out of the host chair and into the hot seat as his business partner, Michael Johnson, leads an honest, revealing, and deeply personal conversation about the life behind the credits.
From growing up on television as D.J. Conner on Roseanne and The Conners, to building a career across acting, directing, writing, producing, coaching, entrepreneurship, and humanitarianism, Fish opens up about the professional lessons, personal losses, defining relationships, hard-earned wisdom, and behind-the-scenes experiences that shaped him.<...
Danny Zuker: Executive Producer - Creating Timeless Comedy For All Audiences
Five time Emmy winner Danny Zuker is one of the leading executive producers in the entertainment industry. Notably a leading creative force on Modern Family, Zuker has had a truly illustrious career. Beginning as a writer on The Arsenio Hall Show, his incredible writing credits include Evening Shade, Roseanne, Grace Under Fire, Just Shoot Me, Jesse, Norm, Off Centre, Coupling, Stacked, The Unusuals, and Modern Family.
Rising through the industry he has written, created, executive produced, and consulted on countless award winning shows. Know for his quick wit, powerful one liners, and timely jokes, Danny Zuker has...
Jada Ford: Story Producer - Shaping Reality Television
Story Producer and Black Vintage Media founder Jada Ford is an inspirational force in the entertainment industry. Jada began her career as an intern at Maryland Public Television. After college she followed her dreams to Los Angeles quickly landed her first job in Production on VH1's Surreal Life. After over a decade of experience producing commercials, news and unscripted series for internet, cable and network television, she has founded Black Vintage Media.
Jada Ford established herself as excellent Story Producer on productions including Big Brother, Hell's Kitchen, Black Ink Crew, Big Freedia, Tia and Tamera, Bad...
Randy Miller: Composer - The Music That Shapes the Screen
World renowned composer has created timeless music to enhance countless film, television, and video game productions. Music sets the tone for successful entertainment, moving audiences viscerally, with resonance, and tonality. From the Marvel Experience, to films like Hellraiser, The Heart of Nuba, and his latest Love in Country, Randy Miller creates moving one of a kind musical masterpieces.
His career has spanned decades, with his work featured across all genres of entertainment. Randy Miller specializes in creating stirring musical accompaniments, empowering each and every project he works on. Randy Miller takes us behind the process of being...
Ken Levine: Writer, Director, Producer - A Lifetime of Iconic Writing. How to Shape Great Characters
Ken Levine has been entertaining audiences around the world for decades. He has written on some of the most memorable characters on iconic television shows in history. As a writer his credits include: The Jeffersons, The Tony Randall Show, M*A*S*H, Mary, The Simpsons, Cheers, Big Wave Dave’s, Wings, Almost Perfect, Becker, Frasier, and more. Be began his career as a writer before transitioning into a Producer.
He has also directed shows like Pearl, Fired Up, Almost Perfect, Lateline, Dharma & Greg, Everybody Loves Raymond, Becker, and Frasier. As well as being a well known Ma...
John Simmons: Director of Photography - Shaping Frames That Define History
Entertainment industry trailblazing cinematographer, world renowned photographer, and accomplished artist John Simmons specializes in capturing iconic moments. His illustrious credits include iCarly, Family Reunion, Kevin Hart: Zero F**ks Given, No Good Nick, Roseanne, The Ranch, Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn, Dog with a Blog, Men at Work, Good Luck Charlie, Pair of Kings, All of Us, The Tracy Morgan Show, and Married with Children.
A pioneer in the American Society of Cinematographers, John Simmons helped create the Vision committee to help ensure the entertainment industry accurately represents the world as a whole. Our conversation dives into diversity on...
Katrina Elder: Production Coordinator - Building Iconic Films From the Concept Up
From the beginning phases of pre-production as a script starts to take shape through organizing the fundamental portions of filming, the Production Coordinator oversees all logistical requirements. Katrina Elder is an industry leader who specializes in large complex productions.
Katrina has coordinated huge blockbuster movies including Top Gun: Maverick, and The Matrix 4, as well as working on Escape from Spiderhead, Marriage Story, Transformers: The Last Knight, Blair Witch, Gone Girl, Coyote Ugly, The Patriot, Mystery Men and Terminator: Genisys. With a career full of unbelievable experiences and stories you won't want to miss this episode.
...
Kip Kroeger: Post Producer - Elevating Every Frame From "Cut" to Release
Every film and television production depends on a post producer to guide it through post production, and Kip Kroeger is a legend in the field. From editing, to sound mixing, to color correction, and visual effects modern entertainment requires a creative, yet technically savvy post producers to coordinate the ultimate collaboration.
Kip Kroger started on Scrubs, and has developed his incredible reputation through projects like Falling Skies, The Exes, Undateable, The Odd Couple, K.C. Undercover, Roseanne, Whiskey Cavalier, Dave, The Conners, Home Economics, and the standout award winning Ted Lasso.
From cleaning up editorial...
Kevin Grace: Lead Set Decorator & Interior Designer - Building Worlds From the Details
Emmy award winning Set Decorator and renowned Interior Designer Kevin Grace shares his incredible journey from fashion, through reality home makeover star, to being a preeminent Lead Set Decorator on The Kelly Clarkson Show.
Kevin reveals his meteoric rise through the entertainment industry, revealing what it takes to run an industry leading department, and the skills he has learned along the way. From his early days working on the Steve Harvey show in Chicago, to hiking through Los Angeles Kevin Grace will inspire you with humor and honesty.
Kevin's designs are about bringing people together. R...
Leann Emmert: Location Scout, Location Manager - Transforming an Environment to Tell Amazing Stories
World renowned location scout and location manager Leann Emmert reveals the secret of captivating locations that bring productions to life. The first thing that defines Films and Television shows is the location. Locations transport viewers into the storied world, setting the tone for believability, authenticity, and character impact.
This episode of Fish’s call sheet reveals the details behind scouting, selecting, and managing a location from concept through completion. Leann shares her unique journey and perspectives that have helped make her an industry leader.
If you want to know the secrets behind The Dark Knight, Kon...
Jesse Martinez Carlos - Background Actor, Stand-In Actor - Standing In to Elevate Performance
Jesse Martinez Carlos is the man you see in countless productions throughout Hollywood, he joins Michael Fishman to share the secrets behind being a background actor and Stand-In.
This episode of Fish's Call Sheet delves into the world of working actors. The various levels of participation, how Jesse Martinez Carlos rises through the ranks to be featured on television, movies, and commercials.
Jesse Martinez Carlos:
Instagram: @jessemartinezcarlos
Follow our show at :
Twitter: @Fishscallsheet
Instagram: @Fishscallsheet
Facebook: @Fishscallsheet
For Michael Fishman:
Instagram: @ReelMFishman
Twitter: @ReelMFishman
Faceb...
Elda Lopez: Dialogue Coach - Acting is in the Words
Amazing talent and wisdom fills every production. On this episode of Fish's Call Sheet the guest Elda Lopez, shares her experience as a Dialogue Coach. Elda and Michael discuss her original role on Roseanne as Fish's Stand-In.
Along with her entertainment background, Elda Lopez is the author of The (In)Fidelity Factor. Her book shares in-depth perspectives about relationships, personal responsibility, self awareness and building trust.
Follow our show at :
Twitter: @Fishscallsheet
Instagram: @Fishscallsheet
Facebook: @Fishscallsheet
For Michael Fishman:
Instagram: @ReelMFishman
Twitter: @ReelMFishman
Facebook: @ReelMFishman
You...
Vito Giambalvo: Camera Operator, Director, Writer - Capturing History with Laughter & Joy
Famed Cameraman Vito Giambalvo has built a legacy in the entertainment industry that spans the most historic shows in television history. As a camera operator, Associate Director, Director, Writer, and Stand-Up Comic Vito Giambalvo's work has influenced the fabric of entertainment.
Vito and Fish take an in-depth look into camera angles, coverage, and the technology used throughout their careers. The conversation reveals decades of technical prowess and first hand experience that spans over five decades. From Norman Lear's One Day at a Time, through The Jeffersons, to his current work on The Conners, few people love the b...
Jerry Dunn: Art Director, Production Designer - Shaping Every Detail That Brings Stories Home
From design, to production, to presentation the sets used in television and movies establish a world for our imaginations to enter. Art Director and Production Designer Jerry Dunn joins Michael Fishman to walk us through the process from start to finish. Jerry Dunn reveals the secret stories behind the creation of The Roseanne / The Conners set, and how things have changed through the decades.
Check out the video version to see never before seen behind the scenes pitches, schematics, and architectural plans.
Follow our show at :
Twitter: @Fishscallsheet
Instagram: @Fishscallsheet
Facebook: @Fishscallsheet
Randall Winston: Executive Producer, Director - Leading Production with Heart & Humor
Mixed-ish Executive Producer Randall Winston joins Michael Fishman to discuss production from start to finish. They dive into the complex world of producing, the types, styles, and categories of producing. Randall Winston shares his career, and the secrets behind Spin City, Scrubs, and Mixed-ish, before diving into development.
Through the interview Randall Winston, with guidance from Michael Fishman shares editing, producing, directing, developing and diversity in entertainment with humor, and parental candor.
Follow our show at :
Twitter: @Fishscallsheet
Instagram: @Fishscallsheet
Facebook: @Fishscallsheet
For Michael Fishman:
Instagram: @ReelMFishman
Twitter: @Ree...
Brian Schnuckel: Editor - The Secrets to Tightening, Trimming & Cutting Frames to Perfection
Brian Schnuckel has been nominated for multiple Emmy's for his world renowned editing. He currently works as the editor of The Conners on ABC. In this episode we explore the modern editing, what Brian Schnuckel looks for, along with the history of editing and his career.
Michael Fishman helps explain how Brian Schnuckel shapes shows through editing, and explores the technical side of the creative process. He also shares his role as a mentor, and the post production workflow.
Follow our show at :
Twitter: @Fishscallsheet
Instagram: @Fishscallsheet
Facebook: @Fishscallsheet
For Mich...
Fish's Call Sheet - Gail Mancuso - Director
Famed Director Gail Mancuso has been at the helm for iconic television. The two time Emmy award winner shares how she got started in the entertainment industry, and traces her career from Roseanne, through Friends, 30 Rock, Community, and Modern Family.
Gail Mancuso shares insights on how she frames, plans blocking, and a key piece of advice she got from Amy Sherman-Palladino on Gilmore girls for single camera. Michael Fishman and Gail Mancuso have a truly candid talk about the behind the scenes world on set.
You can find and follow us across social media @FishsCallSheet
Fish's Call Sheet - Michael Rizzolo - Boom Operator
Boom Operator Michael Rizzolo has been on stage for some of the most iconic shows in television history. From Roseanne, Dharma & Greg, Two and A Half Men, to Big Bang Theory and The Conners audiences around the world have heard his work.
Michael Rizzolo shares true authentic, heartfelt stories, from behind the scenes of television history. His passion for what he does, and the joy in which he works is palpable.
Follow our show at :
Twitter: @Fishscallsheet
Instagram: @Fishscallsheet
Facebook: @Fishscallsheet
For Michael Fishman:
Instagram: @ReelMFishman
Twitter: @ReelMFishman
Fish's Call Sheet - Charlie Nicholson - Set Dresser
Set Dresser Charlie Nichols takes us on a poetic journey behind the scenes of the entertainment industry. Nicholson reveals how set dressers layer in the texture of a set, immediately authenticating the audiences adventure.
From the pragmatic reality of working on set, to the love of art, through pranks and challenges, you won't want to miss the heartfelt way this episode ends. The ultimate message of how to succeed and overcome will resonate with me for years.
Follow our show at :
Twitter: @Fishscallsheet
Instagram: @Fishscallsheet
Facebook: @Fishscallsheet
For Michael Fishman:
Fish's Call Sheet - Chance Tassone - Craft Services Foreman
If you have been watching Fish's Call Sheet, then you know one name has come up among our guests more than any other, Chance. Chance Tassone is known throughout the entertainment industry as one of the best Craft Services Foreman.
Chance Tassone does more than provide great food, he sets a tone for production, creates an environment of joy, and brings people across the Call Sheet together.
Follow our show at :
Twitter: @Fishscallsheet
Instagram: @Fishscallsheet
Facebook: @Fishscallsheet
Instagram: @ReelMFishman
Twitter: @ReelMFishman
Facebook: @ReelMFishman
Attributions:
Me...
Fish's Call Sheet - Jody Margolin Hahn - Director
Jody Margolin Hahn is an illustrious Director, including her historic leadership on The Conners Live Episode. This episode of Fish's Call Sheet Jody Margolin Hahn shares her path through the business, some of her keys to directing, what she believes are the key to success.
Please subscribe to Fish's Call Sheet
Or follow our show:
Instagram: @FishCallSheet
Twitter: @FishsCallSheet
Facebook: @FishsCallSheet
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FishsCallSheet
You can find and follow us across social media @FishsCallSheet
We are building an interactive SubStack.
You can w...
Fish's Call Sheet - Bill Sindelar - Actor / Host / Stand-Up Comedian / Audience Warm-Up
What do The Conners, The Voice, The Talk, American Idol, Hannah Montana, and Grease Live all have in common? Bill Sindelar, the hilarious actor, host, stand-up comedian and audience warm-up has worked on some of the most iconic TV in the last two decades.
Come explore his amazing career on Fish's Call Sheet. Learn how he shapes the productions you know, and is writing the show you soon will. From Carson Daly, Sharon Osbourne, Pharrell, Wayne Brady, and Kim Kardashian - Bill has worked with them all and more.
Make sure you listen for our...
Fish's Call Sheet - Amy Brown - First Assistant Director
First assistant director is a job with many responsibilities. Amy Brown reveals her journey behind the scenes in the entertainment industry. Amy shares the way she leads iconic television projects, seeking to empower those around her with kindness, and the occasional dance party.
Please subscribe to Fish's Call Sheet
Or follow our show:
Instagram: @FishCallSheet
Twitter: @FishsCallSheet
Facebook: @FishsCallSheet
Reach our Host:
Instagram: @ReelMFishman
Twitter: @ReelMFishman
Facebook: @ReelMFishman
You can find and follow us across social media @FishsCallSheet
We are building an interactive SubStack.<...
Fish's Call Sheet - Erik Solky - Stunt Coordinator
From explosions, bursting out of a windows on fire, fighting on top of moving trains, or driving a car through a building Erik Solky is the stunt man creating some of the epic movie moments you remember.
Come get launched into the action world of stunts, as we go behind the scenes, learning secrets of the trade.
Please subscribe to Fish's Call Sheet
Or follow our show:
Instagram: @FishCallSheet
Twitter: @FishsCallSheet
Facebook: @FishsCallSheet
Reach our Host:
Instagram: @ReelMFishman
Twitter: @ReelMFishman
Facebook: @ReelMFishman
You can f...
Fish's Call Sheet - Ashley Noel - Celebrity Natural Hair Stylist
Celebrity Natural Hair Stylist Ashley Noel redefines hair in Hollywood and how her role on a set puts her at the forefront of diversity and inclusion. On this episode we dive into the complex world of Celebrity Hair Styling. Ashley Noel specializes in Natural Hair, and her work has been featured around the world film, television, magazines, and event coverage.
To see Ashley's work visit:
@hairbyashletnoel on Instagram
Please subscribe to Fish's Call Sheet
Or follow our show:
Instagram: @FishCallSheet
Twitter: @FishsCallSheet
Facebook: @FishsCallSheet
Reach our Host:
I...
Fish's Call Sheet - Jeremy Armstrong - Property Master
Jeremy M. Armstrong is an iconic Property Master who work has been featured of Roseanne, The Conners, Entourage, The Larry David Show, and many more. We celebrate his hard work, and how props often shape the shows, movies, and memorable scenes we love. Together we dive behind the scenes of the entertainment industry as Jeremy shares his perspective, business insights, and what it takes to build a legacy in our industry.
From Jeremey Armstrong's role in production, to the responsibilities of a Property Master, revealing what is a prop, and how the business is changing with technology. Joi...
