The Filmmaking Stuff Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Why New Year’s Resolutions Fail—and How to Set Real Goals Instead Jan 05, 2026

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Most New Year’s resolutions fail — and that’s not an accident. In this episode, Tom Malloy explains why resolutions don’t work, how setting 10–15 realistic annual goals changes your mindset, and why believing you can hit a goal is the real key to success. A practical, no-nonsense approach to making 2026 a year of real progress.

Do Film Festival Laurels Help Sell a Movie? Dec 30, 2025

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Do film festival laurels actually help sell a movie? In this episode, filmmaker and distributor Tom Malloy breaks down how official selections impact audiences versus sales agents, why major festivals like Sundance, Cannes, and Toronto still matter, and when lesser-known festival laurels carry little industry weight. A practical, real-world look at festival strategy for independent filmmakers.

When Hiring an Entertainment Lawyer Helps—or Hurts—Your Film Deal Dec 23, 2025

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Should filmmakers hire an entertainment lawyer to review a distribution or sales agent agreement? In this episode, Tom explains when legal review helps, when it hurts, and how over-redlining contracts can kill a film deal. Learn a smarter way to work with attorneys, agree on key bullet points, and protect your movie without blowing up the deal.

How Indie Filmmakers Make Money on YouTube and AVOD Dec 18, 2025

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YouTube and AVOD platforms like Tubi are changing how independent filmmakers make money. In this episode, filmmaker Tom Malloy explains why strong openings, smart pacing, and understanding ad-based audiences are now essential—and how filmmakers can reverse-engineer successful YouTube movies to build a sustainable filmmaking career.

When Things Fall Apart: A Story About Setbacks, Perspective, and Persistence Dec 16, 2025

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In this episode, I share a true story about losing my iPad—and how what felt like a major setback turned into an unexpected win. We talk about emotional detachment, persistence, and why you should never assume something falling apart is the end of the story. A mindset lesson for filmmakers, creatives, and anyone dealing with uncertainty.

Your M&E Track: The Key to Foreign Distribution Dec 11, 2025

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Learn the most important steps to prepare your film for international sales — and the number one deliverable that allows your movie to be dubbed into any language. In this episode, we talk M&E tracks, correct delivery formats, subtitles, dialog lists, and why most buyers still prefer 1080p ProRes. Make your film ready for the global marketplace!

Turning Your Short Film Into a Feature Film Deal Dec 09, 2025

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Turning a festival-winning short film into a feature deal is absolutely doable—if you know how to position it. In this episode, we break down why awards matter, how to build a logical progression from short to feature, and the must-have materials that show you’re ready for the next step. Learn how to transform hype into financing and make your feature film a reality.

How to Pitch Your Film to a Distributor the Right Way Dec 04, 2025

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In this episode, we walk through the exact pitch email you should send when approaching a film distributor or sales agent. You’ll learn how to target the right acquisitions executive, why your trailer needs to be a tight, professional cut, how to use artwork to grab attention, and the smart way to offer a screener without giving your film away. If you want a real shot at getting your completed movie picked up, this is the pitch format that works.

The Essential Elements of a Strong Film Package Dec 02, 2025

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In this episode, we break down what a real film package is—and why most filmmakers misunderstand it. You’ll learn which elements actually give your project value, how producers, directors, cast, and financing fit into the packaging process, and why strong attachments are essential for getting bigger movies made today. If you’re trying to move a film forward, this is a must-listen.

Distribution Contract Red Flags Every Filmmaker Should Know Nov 06, 2025

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Before you sign that distribution deal, hit play. In this episode, I break down the three red flags that can wreck your film’s future — unfair splits, crazy-long contract terms, and inflated marketing expenses. Learn how to spot them early, protect your movie, and secure a deal that actually makes sense in today’s marketplace.

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