Indie Film Hustle® - A Filmmaking Podcast

Latest Episodes:

IFH 843: How to Turn a Short Film Into a Film Career with Jennifer & Kevin Sluder Feb 24, 2026

Show notes

Jennifer and Kevin Sluder share their journey from North Carolina to Los Angeles and how they built Sunshine Boy Productions into a growing independent film company. Kevin’s early recognition as a screenwriter opened doors, but instead of waiting for projects to materialize, the couple chose to produce their own short films. Their first project ignited a passion for hands-on filmmaking and laid the foundation for their creative partnership.
As their experience grew, so did their ambitions. Jennifer stepped into marketing and branding while Kevin transitioned into directing with Heartless, a Poe-inspired horror short now touring festivals. Their story highlights the importance of networking, strategic growth, and creating opportunities instead of waiting for them—offering a practical blueprint for filmmakers ready to take control of their own careers.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

IFH 842: The Art of Networking in Hollywood – Real Strategies That Work with Erman Baradi & Brandon Waites Feb 17, 2026

Show notes

Erman Baradi and Brandon Waites share practical, real-world advice on how to network effectively in Hollywood without coming across as desperate or transactional. Drawing from their own journeys — from military service and film school to building strong online presences — they explain why relationships, not scripts, are the true currency of the film industry. Their discussion highlights the importance of patience, professionalism, and respecting everyone from assistants to executives.
The episode also explores common networking mistakes, the power of mentorship, and why building connections before moving to Los Angeles can dramatically increase your odds of success. Through their platform, The Film Empire, they aim to create opportunities that prioritize long-term relationships over short-term wins. It’s an honest conversation about the reality of breaking into Hollywood — and the mindset required to stay in it.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

IFH 841: What a Real Film Producer Actually Does with Marc Bienstock Feb 10, 2026

Show notes

Marc Bienstock shares an honest look at what producing really means, drawing from decades of experience on both independent and studio films. From his early days at NYU and directing features to becoming a trusted producer on projects like The Visit and Split, Marc explains how preparation, communication, and team building form the foundation of every successful production. His philosophy centers on supporting the director’s vision while navigating budgets, schedules, and inevitable on-set challenges.
The conversation also explores the business realities of modern filmmaking, including tax incentives, financing strategies, and why producers must be problem-solvers above all else. Marc discusses working with M. Night Shyamalan, teaching future filmmakers, and the lessons he’s learned about leadership and collaboration. His journey offers a practical, no-nonsense blueprint for anyone who wants to understand how films actually get made — and how to survive doing it.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

IFH 840: Finding Your Way into Film Without Film School with David Powers Feb 03, 2026

Show notes

David Powers shares his unconventional path into filmmaking, one driven by curiosity rather than credentials. From discovering cinema through genre films and festivals to learning production hands-on through wrestling shoots and indie sets, David explains how real-world experience shaped his understanding of storytelling, collaboration, and problem-solving. His journey highlights how festivals like the New York Asian Film Festival can serve as both inspiration and long-term creative homes.
The conversation also explores burnout, boundaries, and the importance of choosing sustainable paths in film. David discusses learning when to say no, recognizing red flags on set, and finding fulfillment outside nonstop production work. By returning to directing through festival programming and digital content, he demonstrates how filmmakers can step back without giving up—and rediscover why they fell in love with movies in the first place.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

IFH 839: The Rodriguez List: How to Make Movies with What You Already Have with Aaron Kaufman & Brian Levin Jan 27, 2026

Show notes

Aaron Kaufman and Brian Levin share an unfiltered look at how independent filmmakers can build real momentum by creating instead of waiting. Drawing from experiences ranging from YouTube comedy to studio features, they explain the power of the “Rodriguez List”—writing scripts based on the assets you already have. Their approach emphasizes volume, consistency, and learning through execution rather than chasing perfect conditions or external validation.
The episode also explores the realities of producing indie films in a crowded marketplace, from the challenges first-time directors face to the importance of protecting a story’s emotional core. Through lessons learned on Flock of Dudes and beyond, Aaron and Brian make it clear that modern filmmaking success comes from action, adaptability, and the courage to put work into the world—long before anyone gives you permission.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

IFH 838: Finding a New Creative Path in Indie Film with Charmane Star Jan 20, 2026

Show notes

Charmane Star shares her unexpected journey from a small role in Black Dynamite to discovering a deep passion for independent filmmaking. What began as a routine booking evolved into a Sundance Film Festival premiere and a Sony Pictures acquisition, introducing her to the collaborative and global nature of indie cinema. Through international screenings, she gained firsthand insight into how cultural context shapes audience reactions and why universal storytelling matters.
The conversation also explores her work in indie horror and thriller films like Face of Evil and Catch 22, where she embraced physically and emotionally demanding roles. From zombie makeup and night shoots to intense character preparation, Charmane reflects on growth, reinvention, and balancing career with personal life. Her story is a reminder that creative paths don’t have to be linear—and that staying open to change can lead to powerful new chapters.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

IFH 837: How Filmmakers Can Win in the Digital Marketing Age with David Feinman Jan 13, 2026

Show notes

David Feinman shares how cinematic storytelling can be used to build successful businesses and viral experiences. From creating Zombie Run—a nationwide immersive event inspired by zombie films—to founding Viral Idea Marketing, David explains how understanding narrative, pacing, and emotion allows content to cut through digital noise. His approach treats marketing like filmmaking, where suspense, structure, and audience engagement matter more than traditional advertising tactics.
The conversation also explores what “going viral” really means, emphasizing shareability over view counts. David discusses the importance of professionalism, attention to detail, and designing content specifically for social platforms. His journey offers filmmakers and creatives a practical blueprint for turning storytelling skills into sustainable careers by blending creativity with strategy in the modern media landscape.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

IFH 836: The New Rules of Indie Filmmaking No One Is Teaching with the Jalbert Brothers Jan 06, 2026

Show notes

The Jalbert Brothers share how they built their filmmaking careers by embracing low budgets, consistent output, and hands-on learning. Rather than waiting for funding or studio approval, they focused on making films with minimal resources, sometimes for as little as $1,000. Each project became a practical lesson in storytelling, directing, editing, and problem-solving, allowing them to sharpen their skills faster than traditional development paths.
The conversation highlights the importance of momentum, repetition, and audience awareness in today’s film industry. By treating filmmaking as both a creative and strategic endeavor, the Jalbert Brothers have learned to use social media and digital platforms as powerful tools for distribution and growth. Their journey proves that success in modern filmmaking comes from action, adaptability, and the courage to keep creating — no matter the budget.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

IFH 835: What Really Happens After You Write the Script with Michael K. Snyder Dec 30, 2025

Show notes

Michael K. Snyder shares a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to build a sustainable screenwriting career. From film school and early networking with Lloyd Kaufman to moving to Los Angeles with a plan, Michael’s journey highlights the importance of preparation, persistence, and relationship-building. Rather than chasing quick wins, he focused on writing constantly, producing short films, and using scripts as calling cards to open doors and start meaningful conversations.
The episode also explores the realities of development—outlines, treatments, rewrites, and long stretches of uncertainty. Michael explains how writers are evaluated not just on originality, but on their ability to collaborate, adapt existing material, and understand character-driven storytelling. His experience proves that success in Hollywood isn’t about overnight breakthroughs, but about loving the process and staying in the game long enough for opportunity to find you.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

IFH 834: How to Build a Screenwriting Career That Actually Lasts with Bob Saenz Dec 23, 2025

Show notes

Bob Saenz shares a rare, honest look at what it means to build a long-term career as both an actor and screenwriter. From his early days in theater and television to writing studio films and Hallmark movies, Bob’s journey emphasizes craft over shortcuts. He explains how his time acting on Nash Bridges became a hands-on education in filmmaking, shaping his approach to writing realistic dialogue, authentic scenes, and story-driven scripts.
The conversation also explores the dangers of ego, the myths of overnight success, and why breaking screenwriting “rules” can sometimes be the smartest move. Bob discusses how networking is about relationships—not transactions—and why patience is the most underrated skill in Hollywood. His story is a grounded, experience-driven roadmap for writers who want careers that last, not just scripts that sell once.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Indie Film Hustle® – A Filmmaking Podcast

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected