Respect The Process

Filmmaker Scott Rice has directed commercials professionally since 2005 and teaches filmmaking at UT Austin. We talk about what film school might leave out—from tech scouts and how a real set works to the business of running a production company—and how his spec commercials helped launch his directing career. Scott shares why he loves teaching, giving back to the next generation of filmmakers, and making work that connects through strong visual storytelling. Check out his work at TwoShotWest. Enjoy!

BOOTCAMP is Saturday, December 5th. Charlotte, NC. Includes 30 minute onbaording call and free 30 minute follow up creative consu...

Filmmaker Andrea Nordgren went to Brand Storytelling at Sundance 2026 wanting to direct something in the vertical space. She landed her first vertical series, a SAG romance thriller, after she cast a local actress in a commercial and that actress later invited her to direct. On set she made her shot list on the day, blocked four actors in a 9:16 frame in one kitchen, and shot on a Sony FX3 with the camera flipped and no first AC to pull focus. She also kept continuity while one home stood in for several different ones.We also chat about how brands...

Filmmaker Azim Miah's is a director and editor from Northampton whose journey into filmmaking began not with fancy gear or industry connections, but with a built-in webcam and a love of making spots. Now he's creating ambitious films with limited resources—and pursuing a purpose bigger than himself: helping make the British film industry more accessible to underrepresented creators. We talk self-doubt, making spec spots, finding collaborators close to home, and why respecting the process means appreciating the people who make the work possible. Check out his Hubba Bubba spot, The Trade.

BOOTCAMP is Saturday, December 5th...

Biff Butler is an editor and the founder of Papercut, an editorial company built around craft, collaboration, and a strong creative culture. Before post-production, Biff played in a touring rock band, an experience that helped him learn how to bring different creative voices together. He began his editing career at Rock, Paper, Scissors, where working alongside leading talent helped shape his approach to the craft. Today, Butler believes the best work comes from trust, open conversation, and making space for ideas from everyone in the room. In this conversation, he reflects on why respecting the creative process—and the pe...

Commercial Director Robert Boocheck joins me for a candid conversation about the realities of freelance commercial directing—the uncertainty between jobs, the pressure of unpaid pitches, and the work it takes to stay in the mix. Robert shares how he tracks bids across production companies, approaches treatments, decides when to trust his instincts over AI, and makes the case for staying involved in post-production. Along the way, we discuss the loneliness behind the highlight reel and why freelance directors need to manage not just the creative work, but also their outreach, relationships, and business. Also check out his fun in...

James Beshara is an angel investor, podcaster, philosopher, musician (see OPENSTATE_), founder of Magic Mind and friend. We explore how to choose the right opportunities, find the work that feels like your true calling, and stay committed to it without becoming overly attached to the outcome. James shares the idea of Swadharma—the work you're naturally wired to do—and offers a thoughtful perspective on creativity, purpose, and building a life that feels aligned. James is a high-output creative individual, so here's some links you'll want to checkk out.

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Director/Cinematographer Ben Brady shares the experiences and lessons that shaped his career—from working on productions with Sacha Baron Cohen and shooting a Radiohead music video connected to Paul Thomas Anderson, to learning from leading cinematographers like Darius Khondji and preparing for new, demanding LED-wall commercial. Ben, who moved from camera PA to DP quickly, explains why curiosity and persistence matter on set, when to ask questions, and how thorough preparation can make the difference between a stressful shoot and a successful one. It's an honest conversation about filmmaking, mentorship, family, and earning your way through the camera de...

Ben Levy is a creative coach, author, and expert in helping people present ideas with clarity, confidence, and humanity. In our conversation, we explored his powerful pitching principle: "wow before how." Whether you're a filmmaker, agency creative, or entrepreneur, Ben's advice will help you earn attention, build trust, and turn your next pitch into a genuine conversation.

FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '26 - JOIN US
Oct. 1–4: our 5th Annual Retreat. SIGN UP NOW
No application. Just save your spot and come learn, shoot, and grow with working filmmakers. Limit 15. 

NEW COURSE - VIRTUAL PRODUCTION FOR COM...

I sat down with Tony Finley, founder of We Film Sh*t, for a candid conversation about the changing business of commercial production. We talked about why directors deserve more ownership and profit, how bloated production-company models can hold creatives back, and why creative risk is essential to making better work. Tony also shared his vision for using AI to connect directors with the right projects and create a fairer, more director-focused industry.

My Filmmaker Retreat has 1 spot left so save your spot now!

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Michael Martin and I discuss how commercial directors can stand out by developing a distinct point of view, taking creative risks, and making work that reflects their voice. Michael shares the story behind his handmade Starbucks director's cut, while both directors explore pitching, career setbacks, ego, humility, and the value of enjoying the creative process. Together, they offer practical perspective for filmmakers navigating competition, building new creative lanes, and staying committed to the journey.

My Filmmaker Retreat has 2 spots left so save your spot now!

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Legendary puppeter Jamie Shannon's approach to puppetry shows that the most memorable characters come from simplicity, intention, and a process that leaves room for both the performer and the audience to bring them to life. Check out his Puppet Island site. Jamie Shannon is the creator behind beloved puppet projects including Nanalan', the beloved Mr. Meaty, The Groggs on YTV, and the viral commercial characters he's made for brands like Smartfood and Good Food.

My Filmmaker Retreat has 2 spots left so save your spot now!

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Loved hanging out with Nathan Miller and Mark Danciger of the Nott Brothers - talking about what it really takes to make it as a director. We get into how they approach the business side of directing, how they work with clients and agencies, and why being clear and collaborative makes the whole process better.We also talk about how their style has evolved, what they've learned along the way, and how they keep things creative without losing sight of the job. If you're into directing, commercials, or just hearing how great creative partnerships really work, this one's for...

EP PJ Koll has spent years in production and founded Where the Buffalo Roam before building Timmy.io, a platform shaped by his experience with the chaos of managing creative work. PJ shares a little of that history and how it led him to create a better way for production teams to stay organized. Enjoy!

My Filmmaker Retreat has 3 spots left so save your spot now!

FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '26 - JOIN US
Oct. 1–4: our 5th Annual Retreat. SIGN UP NOW
No application. Just save your spot and come learn, shoot, and gro...

Jon Sneider, Founder of Wild Gravity, teaches us how his small, experienced teams can create better work faster than big, layered agencies. Jon shares lessons from advertising, filmmaking, and AI, showing why speed, collaboration, and craft still beat bureaucracy—and why creators who learn to work lean can make stronger ads, save money, and move ideas into the world much more quickly. Buy his book, "Hacking Advertising" here.

My Filmmaker Retreat has 5 spots left so save your spot now!

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Oct. 1–4: our 5th Annual Retreat. SIGN...

In this conversation with beauty director Jasmin Kuhn, we dig into the path that helped shape her voice as a filmmaker—from her early exposure to visual storytelling to the commercial work that defines her today. Jasmin shares honest insight on craft, collaboration, paid treatments, and what it really takes to build a strong reputation in the industry. It's a thoughtful look at how experience, clarity, and respect for the process come together to create standout work.

My Filmmaker Retreat has 6 spots left so save your spot now!

NEW COURSE - VIRTUAL PRODUCTION FOR COMMERCIAL DI...

Just 15 minutes of me rambling about my caldron of feelings over fun, new work. Enjoy. My Filmmaker Retreat has 7 spots left so save your spot now!

NEW COURSE - VIRTUAL PRODUCTION FOR COMMERCIAL DIRECTORS

Filmmkaer and friend Kevin O'Brien has shot close to 100 spots on the LED wall. His new course is a tremendous head start to us that will shoot or considering to film on the volumn. Use cose "virtual" to save $50. Click here to learn from the master.

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Explore the dynamic world of Shiouwen Hong and Nathan Freise, married filmmakers thriving on separate creative paths. Shiouwen focuses on impactful documentary projects, while Nathan directs alongside his brother Adam. Discover how these two lovebirds balance personal and professional lives, maintain unique voices, and support each other's artistic journeys. A key takeaway: embracing individuality can enhance collaboration and lead to greater creative success. Click on the names to see their great work.

FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '26 - JOIN US
Oct. 1–4: our 5th Annual Retreat. SIGN UP NOW
No application. Just save your spot and com...

After the last episode's babble, I dig into what it really means to "find your voice" as a filmmaker—especially in the commercial world. It isn't just a visual style, but the combination of your reel and your reputation: the work you put out plus what it's like to work with you. I talk about the balance of ego and humility on set, and explain why repeat business is the magic fourth "R" that grows out of relationships and a strong, consistent voice.

Let me intro you to concepts like ikigai and dharma, reframing success as the inter...

Just me talking about staying tool agnostic as a commercial director—moving between live-action, CG, and AI without losing my point of view. I share recent job stories, how I'm using my Filmmaker Retreat Joshua Tree and Posh Duo promos as testing grounds for new tools, and why I still put actors, crew, agency team - you know - collaboration above whatever camera, crane or software is hot this week. Storytelling with the talking pictures, that's the fun.

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No appl...

Jonathan Del Gatto is a visionary filmmaker and creative coach, known for his transformative work in brand films and direct-to-consumer content. In this episode, Jonathan shares his journey from editing TV commercials to founding Brighter Company, where he crafts compelling narratives that connect with audiences. We explore the evolution of content creation—balancing artistry with strategy, the shift from traditional ads to digital storytelling, and the importance of authenticity in today's market. Jonathan offers insights into his coaching philosophy, emphasizing the value of trust, adaptability, and building meaningful relationships in the industry. Join us as we uncover the secrets to...

Jonathan Del Gatto is a visionary filmmaker and creative coach, known for his transformative work in brand films and direct-to-consumer content. In this episode, Jonathan shares his journey from editing TV commercials to founding Brighter Company, where he crafts compelling narratives that connect with audiences. We explore the evolution of content creation—balancing artistry with strategy, the shift from traditional ads to digital storytelling, and the importance of authenticity in today's market. Jonathan offers insights into his coaching philosophy, emphasizing the value of trust, adaptability, and building meaningful relationships in the industry. Join us as we uncover the secrets to...

Gary Knight is a legendary commercial editor and partner at Cut+Run whose work spans iconic spots for brands like Adidas, American Express, and Chase. In this episode, Gary traces his journey from rubber-numbering film cans as a teenage runner in Soho to becoming a sought-after storyteller in the edit bay. We dig into the craft of editing—taste vs. tools, why watching all the footage still matters, how to find the right tone and tempo, and the power of happy accidents. Gary shares candid stories about collaborating with directors like Gus Van Sant, shaping music-driven montages, handling shrinking tim...

Happy birthday to Jake Brady, our show's editor. I asked him to choose his Top 10 recent episodes and here it is, in no particular order: director Courtney Marsh, director Quinn Katherman, editor Chris Salters (Part 2), Chris Salters (Part 1), writer/director/producer Michael Patrick Jann, dynamic directing duo Morgan & Nick, director Elana Barkowski, director JJ Adler, actor and improv legend Pat Finn and director Craig Melville. Wow! All classic chats. 

Search their name plus mine and the episode comes up. 

FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '26 - JOIN US
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...

Creative Director/Director Scotty Bergstein has been revolutionizing the commercial production process by embracing integrated teams, trust-based collaboration, and cutting-edge technology. Streamlining workflows, enhancing creativity, and delivering high-quality results faster and more cost-effectively are needed to stay relevant. Whether you're a director, agency, or client, his insights provide a roadmap to navigating the evolving advertising landscape with agility and impact. Best of all, it's just great to talk shoppe with my ol' friend.

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Filmmaker Adam Witten, a seasoned expert in the filmmaking industry and partner in Smokin' Oakham, chats with me about the transformative impact of AI on creative processes. Adam shares his journey and experiences, highlighting how AI tools are reshaping podcast editing and visual storytelling. We delve into the balance between human creativity and technological innovation, discussing the legal and ethical considerations that come with AI integration. Join us as we uncover the future of filmmaking and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead in the intersection of art and technology.

POSH DUO
The original 2-in-1 styling wax...

Chris Francis's journey in filmmaking and advertising is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. From his early days as a spelling bee champion and skateboarding videographer to becoming a church storyteller and a key creative force at Raindrop Agency, Chris has continuously evolved by embracing diverse experiences. His work reflects a unique blend of humor, authenticity, and technical skill, which he applies to craft memorable campaigns. At Raindrop, Chris leverages his background to lead creative teams, build compelling narratives, and respect the intricate process of production, making him a standout figure in the industry. Check out...

Oscar-nominated filmmaker Courtney Marsh shares her inspiring journey behind the camera directing acclaimed commercials and short films. Courtney emphasized the importance of building strong industry relationships and trusting the creative process, even when faced with constraints like iPhone filmmaking. Her insights into personal branding and the evolving landscape of filmmaking offer valuable lessons for both aspiring and seasoned directors. It was fascinating to hear how Courtney navigates the challenges of the industry while staying true to her artistic vision.

POSH DUO
The original 2-in-1 styling wax stick. I use Posh Duo to keep my hair fly...

Composer, filmmaker, and Supernatural Sounds founder Randy Shattuck joins us to talk about crafting "music for the heart of the story" and why he wants access as early as the script stage. We dive into "temp love"—that dangerous attachment to placeholder tracks that directors can never quite shake—and how it can sabotage your final score if you're not careful. Randy also shares how his ukulele-driven album "While My Ukulele Gently Weeps" proves that a simple uke can sometimes deliver more emotional truth than a wall of guitars.

POSH DUO
The original 2-in-1 styling wax stick. I...

Filmmaker Josh Baker's journey from a staff filmmaker to the founder of The Wolf Bear Agency is nothing short of inspiring. We first crossed paths at my Commercial Directing Bootcamp, where his passion for storytelling and his unique ability to wear multiple hats in production stood out. Over the years, Josh has honed his craft, directing over 100 commercials, and has become a master at creating impactful video campaigns for home service brands. His dedication to mentoring young talent and his commitment to respecting the process make him a true leader in the industry.

FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE...

Want to actually book more jobs for yourproduction company? James Keblas is one of the smartest minds in commercial production sales systems — and in this episode, he breaks down what really works when it comes to landing clients, building relationships, and staying consistently booked. And please, you must check out James' stellar podcast called "Crossing The Axis". 

We call is a Simulpod© and we talk:
• Smart outreach
• Sustainable growth
• How producers can sell without feeling salesy

Plus, his Book Solid Video Series on YouTube series is a free, step-by-step roadmap for anyone serious ab...

So long 2025. In this episode, I pay tribute to my longtime collaborator and dear friend, Pat Finn, reflecting on our twenty years of creative partnership in commercial filmmaking shooting Valley Toyota. Pat starred as "Pat" in "Pat TV" campaign from LT, the Phoenix agency also mourning their dear Pat. Just me babbling through heartfelt stories and fond memories, to honor Pat's comedic brilliance, generosity, and the lasting impact he had on me.

Here's a documentary Pat & I made on campaign, "Pat TV: The First 15 Years". Enjoy and see what a mench Pat was. It's full of spots...

Filmmaker Barry Walton and I discuss the value of passion projects, the lessons learned from giving back, and the significance of respecting the creative process. Barry shares insights from his many documentary adventures, emphasizing the personal growth that comes from overcoming challenges. The discussion culminates in a reflection on how life teaches us to respect the process, both in filmmaking and in personal endeavors. 

Barry is the owner and founder of Endless Media, with over 20 years of working in video production and brand management. His vision for the company is endless and aims to make content that i...

Director Zack Seckler has been steadily working with the best agencies and brands for years. We chat about this Career Migration spot (click to see and read about it in Shots) and so much more. Zach has been featured in every industry publication, on both the advertising and production side. A treat to finally get to chat.

COMMERCIAL DIRECTING BOOTCAMP - 01.24.2026
Saturday, January 24th. Limit 10 filmmakers. This an in-person, intensive workshop designed to get you to the next level and direct more spots, better spots and express your vision while laughing to the bank. Enroll here...

Rob Spera is a seasoned director and educator, on the pod to share his journey through the world of filmmaking. With over 25 feature films and 100 hours of television under his belt, Rob brings a wealth of experience and insight into the art of directing. In this episode, we delve into his acclaimed book, "Film and TV Directors Field Manual," exploring the practical maxims that have guided his career. Rob's passion for teaching and his dedication to the craft shine through as he discusses the importance of respecting the process and empowering actors to bring their best to the screen...

Director Michael Martin and I delve into the intricacies of the creative industry, sharing personal anecdotes and professional insights. Michael discusses his journey from agency life to founding his own production company, Two Seam, highlighting the importance of building genuine relationships in the industry. The conversation touches on the evolving nature of in-house production, the value of creative freedom, and the significance of respecting the creative process. With humor and candor, both directors reflect on their experiences, offering valuable lessons for aspiring filmmakers. Subscribe now to stay updated with more insightful discussions.

COMMERCIAL DIRECTING BOOTCAMP - 01.24.2026<...

I sit down with the talented director Quinn Katherman, whose creative vision has brought to life memorable commercials, including the Super Bowl spot with Cardi B and the humorous Downy campaign. Quinn shares her journey from a creative director to a celebrated director, revealing the insights and experiences that have shaped her unique approach to storytelling. Discover how Quinn navigates the challenges of commercial directing with innovation and flair.

FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '26 - SAVE YOUR SPOT!
Thursday, October 1st – Sunday, October 4th, 2026. Limit 15 Filmmakers. This will be our 5th year. Limit 15 filmmakers and only 14 sp...

October 22, in Venice, Califonia, Thomas is hosting a fun, free meet up for commercial industry types. Back on the pod, I sat down with Thomas Anderson, an Emmy-winning Executive Producer who has seamlessly navigated the worlds of both agency and freelance production. With a career built on a foundation of freelance production work and the founding of Different Gravy Films in Southern California, Thomas has made things happen on sets, in boardrooms, and everywhere in between. His journey includes senior leadership roles at respected agencies such as Fallon, FCB, DDB, and Garage Team Mazda, as well as freelance work f...

In this engaging conversation, Jordan Brady and Jason Slaughter delve into the intricacies of filmmaking, particularly focusing on the role of a First Assistant Director (AD). They explore personal connections, the journey into the film industry, and the evolution of technology in filmmaking. Jason shares valuable insights for new filmmakers, emphasizing the importance of trusting the crew and respecting the creative process. The discussion also touches on the challenges and rewards of working in commercials, the significance of the Directors Guild of America (DGA), and the impact of technological advancements on production. Overall, the conversation is a rich resource...

1 out of 8 men will get prostate cancer, which means 7 of you are in the clear. I found out I have it in early June and tomorrow I'm having a radical prostatecomy... removal of the prostate. By the time many of y'all hear this, I'll be cancer-free.

The procedure is farily routine, my friends and family are here for me and I live a charmed life. I'm relatively young, healthy with excellent health insurance. And let's not forget I'm devilishly handsome. Catching this early afforded me so many options to eradicate the cancer.  I'm using this episode as a...

Filmmaker Kristyna Archer is a talented interdisciplinary artist working across film, photography, art, and now AI, creating visually-compelling, stylized worlds.  Her work is colorful, quirky, playful, FUN...occassionally absurd. I love her stuff! Kristyna 3.0, as I call her, shares her journey of creative reinvention, from her early days in monochromatic photography to embracing new technologies and storytelling methods. Kristyna discusses the importance of personal projects, evolving artistic identity, and how industry relationships and bold choices have shaped her career.

FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '25 - ONE LAST SPOT!
Thursday, September 25th – Sunday, September 28th, 2025. Limit 15 Filmmakers. This...