In Love with the Process Podcast

Music by: Code Elektro & Mitch Murder

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EP352 | Fighting Back Against the Fear Culture in the Film Industry Jun 17, 2025

Show notes

Have you noticed how your Instagram feed always seems to know exactly how to rattle you? The posts that spike your anxiety, poke at your insecurities, and feed you negativity, all carefully designed to keep you scrolling?

On this episode of In Love with the Process, host Mike Pecci tackles the rise of fear-driven content in the creative world. He set out to interview a guest who kept showing up in his algorithm, someone preaching doom and gloom about the future of filmmaking. The goal was to ask real questions, challenge the narrative, and shed some light on what's really happening in the industry.

But in a twist of irony, that guest canceled last minute in the rudest way possible… and in doing so, revealed more about their process than they probably intended.

Mike dives into a passionate rant about attention-seeking influencers, the toxic economy of fear-based content, and how to spot the predators exploiting creatives for clicks, likes, and profit. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or just pissed off by the state of your feed, this one’s for you.

Music by: Code Elektro & Mitch Murder

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EP351 | Chris Teague on Cinematography for Star Wars: The Acolyte Jun 09, 2025

Show notes

On today’s episode of In Love with the Process, host Mike Pecci sits down with acclaimed cinematographer Chris Teague, whose latest work includes Lucasfilm’s The Acolyte — the newest installment in the Star Wars universe. Chris’s past credits include visually inventive series like Broad City, Russian Doll, and Only Murders in the Building.

Together, Mike and Chris explore the importance of collaboration, and how doing great work with the right people — no matter the scale — can open doors to massive opportunities. Chris shares how his early days shooting character-driven comedy led to lighting epic sci-fi fantasy, and the lessons learned along the way.

They dive into the creative techniques used to light The Acolyte, the power of practical production design, and why the emotional magic of working with passionate teams can’t be replicated by AI.

This episode is a must-listen for filmmakers, cinematographers, and Star Wars fans curious about how grounded, human artistry fuels the biggest stories in the galaxy.

► Chris's IG

Music by: Code Elektro & Mitch Murder

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RPRT53 | Right Place, NYC, Right Time to talk about AI Jun 05, 2025

Show notes

On today’s episode of Right Place / Right Time, Mike Pecci and Lance A. Williams dive into a whirlwind of creativity, celebrity moments, and AI disruption. Mike shares stories from his recent trip to Lower Manhattan, where Gina Gizella Manning shot stunning content at the premiere of Guy Ritchie’s new film The Fountain of Youth — and Mike jumped in to edit it on the spot, crafting epic visuals in real-time.

They also talk NYC food adventures, hidden gems discovered with Gina, and what it means to stay creatively energized in one of the world’s greatest cities.

Then the conversation turns to the release of Google’s new AI filmmaking platform, VEO 3 — and why it’s not going to replace directors, editors, or traditional cinema anytime soon. Mike and Lance break down the hype, the fear, and the reality behind AI in film, and offer a grounded perspective on what’s next for working creatives.

Whether you're a filmmaker, a tech skeptic, or just looking for inspiration, this one’s got it all. Buckle up for an episode that’s part industry insight, part creative therapy, and full of energy.

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EP350 | Vanja Černjul on Lighting, Cinematography, and House of the Dragon Jun 03, 2025

Show notes

On today’s episode of In Love with the Process, host Mike Pecci sits down with master cinematographer Vanja Černjul, the visual mind behind acclaimed projects like House of the Dragon, The Deuce, Orange is the New Black, and Crazy Rich Asians.

The two gush over the emotional power of great lighting — how it doesn’t just shape a scene, but evokes memory, tone, and truth. From bold stylistic choices to subtle shifts in mood, Vanja breaks down how lighting becomes a language of its own.

They also dive into the essential role of communication and prep, why shows like House of the Dragon look so damn good, and the creative magic that happens when a director brings a clear vision to set.

This is a must-listen for filmmakers, cinematographers, and anyone obsessed with how powerful visuals can tell a story all on their own.

Strap in for a deep, passionate, and inspiring look behind the lens on a brand new episode of In Love with the Process.

► Vanja's IG

Music by: Code Elektro

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RPRT 52 | From Baker to Billboards May 29, 2025

Show notes

This week, Lance sits down with Jackie Ho—once a pastry chef, now a walking contradiction in the best way possible: Barbie meets Blade Runner. Her path is a blend of kick ass martial arts, high-glam fashion, and a pouring a bit of love into everything you do. You won’t believe the right place, right time story that launched her from the kitchen to global screens; proof that sometimes the universe doesn’t whisper, it roars.

Jackie’s story isn’t just about being in the right place; it’s about being ready when the world finally notices.

► Jackie's IG

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EP349 | From Actor to Director: The Leap Behind the Camera May 27, 2025

Show notes

Part 2 of our epic conversation with actor/writer/director Ash Adams takes a sharp turn into the world of writing, directing, and the natural evolution of an actor in Hollywood.

Host Mike Pecci and Ash compare creative war stories from opposite starting points — Mike, a visually driven filmmaker who once struggled to connect with actors, and Ash, an actor-first storyteller who had to learn to trust and lead technical teams with deeper knowledge of the craft. Together, they unpack the mindset shifts, challenges, and growth that come with stepping behind the camera.

This episode is packed with real-world insights for any filmmaker battling imposter syndrome or trying to figure out how to lead a team while staying true to their creative instincts.

Ash has focused his career on making powerful, character-driven films. His feature Once Fallen, which he wrote, directed, and co-starred in alongside Ed Harris, Amy Madigan, Peter Weller, and Taraji P. Henson, earned multiple awards and critical acclaim. His earlier works include The Distance (Best Documentary at the Roving Eye Doc Fest) and After the Past (Audience Choice Award, Malibu International Film Festival). He’s also known for An LA Minute with Gabriel Byrne, and Gasoline Alley starring Bruce Willis and Luke Wilson.

► Ash's IG

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Music by: Code Elektro & Desire

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RPRT51 | Our 51st Episode! May 22, 2025

Show notes

Face front, True Believers! In this sensational 51st episode of Right Place Right Time, Mike and Lance swing into action with a heartwarming, hilarious, and high-energy celebration of everything that’s made their podcast mighty! A celebration of their first milestone with blockbuster flicks and toe-tapping tunes. From unforgettable guests to globe-trotting adventures, this one’s got a little bit of everything like a Brazilian pizza!. It’s a deep dive into the past, a toast to the present, and a rocket ride toward the future. Excelsior!

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EP348 | From Daytime Drama to Cult Classic Star: Ash Adams’ Wild Ride Through Hollywood' (w/ Ash Adams) May 20, 2025

Show notes

On today’s episode of In Love with the Process, host Mike Pecci sits down with actor, writer, and director Ash Adams for Part 1 of an unforgettable deep dive into the wild world of Hollywood through the decades.

Ash takes us back to his early days starring as Johnno Ryan on the hit ’80s daytime drama Ryan’s Hope (134 episodes!), and what it was like being a California beach kid dropped into the gritty chaos of 1980s New York City. From there, the two explore Ash’s time in Hollywood during the ’80s and ’90s — landing gigs on everything from The Young Riders to 90210 and Dragnet — and how he struggled (and learned) to balance ego, ambition, and creative purpose.

It’s a nostalgic, brutally honest, and deeply entertaining look at the evolution of a working actor turned award-winning filmmaker. If you love industry stories, raw truth, and old-school Hollywood vibes — this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Part 1 of our chat with Ash Adams starts now.

► Ash's IG

► Italians do it Better IG

Music by: Code Elektro & Desire

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

RPRT50 | Get Yer Ass Off The Couch May 15, 2025

Show notes

This week on Right Place / Right Time, Mike Pecci gets real about the not-so-secret ingredient to finding yourself in the right place at the right time: you’ve got to get off the couch.

Mike shares his favorite tricks for creating situations that spark serendipity — from striking up conversations with strangers to putting yourself in just the right amount of discomfort to unlock unforgettable experiences. Whether you're looking for a fresh way to meet someone new or hoping to stumble into a hidden speakeasy that no one talks about, this episode is packed with inspiration, humor, and practical advice on how to make life happen to you.

Hit play — your next great story might start today.