latest episodes

  • "Visibility Could Have Saved Me" | Empowering Marginalized Communities with Smoke Breaks Actors
    • 2/10/25

    "Visibility Could Have Saved Me" | Empowering Marginalized Communities with Smoke Breaks Actors

    This episode delves into the transformative power of theater as a medium for healing and self-discovery. Our guests share their personal stories of navigating identity, acceptance, and community through their art, highlighting the importance of visibility and authentic representation in the creative space.

    • The therapeutic role of theater in processing trauma

    • Shared experiences fostering community and connection

    • The critical need for representation in media

    • The balance between individuality and shared narratives in performing arts

    • Navigating complex relationship dynamics creatively

    • Emphasizing vulnerability and authenticity in storytelling

    • The impact of storytelling on societal perceptions and mental health

    • Calls to action for increased visibility and advocacy in the arts

  • "Time Is Your Most Valuable Resource" | The Impact of Love on Creativity with Megan Caulfield

    "Time Is Your Most Valuable Resource" | The Impact of Love on Creativity with Megan Caulfield

    Ever wondered how creativity can be a powerful tool for healing and personal growth? Join us on a heartfelt exploration of how life's abrupt changes, like personal loss, can ignite a passion for creative expression and lead to profound transformation. Alongside our esteemed guest, Megan Caulfield—an inspiring producer, director, actor, and founder of The Heal Reel production company—we navigate the unique intersection of sound healing and artistic endeavors. Megan shares her journey through the film industry, underscoring the importance of art as a medium for healing and revealing her exciting new project in pre-production.

    We delve into the complexities of grief and creativity, reflecting on personal stories that illustrate how loss can inspire some of the most expressive works of art. Drawing from our experiences, we discuss the lasting impact of loved ones, the role of family in creative pursuits, and the pivotal moments that helped redefine our paths. From the emotional toll of attending a loved one's funeral to rediscovering the joy of acting, these chapters explore the challenging yet transformative process of navigating grief and self-discovery.

    Discover how balancing creative aspirations with financial stability can open the door to a fulfilling career. We touch on the journey from theater to film, the excitement of being on set, and the nuanced approaches to acting that bring characters to life. The conversation also highlights the importance of fostering creativity in future generations, offering insights into guiding children through emotional growth with meditation and yoga. Whether discussing the spiritual influence of quartz sands or the healing power of dance, this episode is brimming with inspiration to help you embrace your creative potential and find hope amidst life's challenges.

  • "Every Project Is An Opportunity For Greatness" | Crafting Stories Through Music with Brooks Leibee
    • 7/15/24

    "Every Project Is An Opportunity For Greatness" | Crafting Stories Through Music with Brooks Leibee

    Unlock the secrets of film music and storytelling with Brooks Leiby, a multi-talented filmmaker and media composer. Brooks takes us on a remarkable journey from his early fascination with film scores to becoming a professional composer. Discover how he finds inspiration from various musical pieces, and learn a nifty iPhone trick for creating standout profile pictures. Join us as we reminisce about our past collaborations in Orlando and geek out over Brooks' passion for dinosaurs, from his T-Rex Funko Pop to his vintage Velociraptor toy.

    Explore the nuances of crafting music for film, TV, and video games with Brooks as he shares his transition from behind the camera to the world of composition. Get an insider’s look into the collaborative process of spotting sessions and the technical intricacies of game scoring, with a special focus on the God of War series. Brooks opens up about the importance of aligning musical approaches with narrative needs and how constraints can fuel creativity rather than hinder it.

    Balancing passion with financial stability is a challenge Brooks knows all too well. He candidly discusses the relief of maintaining a steady income while pursuing his creative dreams and emphasizes the importance of self-worth in the industry. Aspiring composers will find invaluable advice on experimenting with different roles and staying resilient. With reflections on influential figures like Hans Zimmer and the impact of iconic works like Jurassic Park, this episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical wisdom for anyone passionate about music and storytelling.

  • The REAL Magic Trick Behind Visual Effects with Danny Joseph
    • 1/2/24

    The REAL Magic Trick Behind Visual Effects with Danny Joseph

    On today's episode, we dive into Danny Joseph's journey in his career as a visual effects artist. We go into how we met, the importance of finding clarity and direction, and tips on managing multiple projects.

  • "After 7 Drafts, I Finally Knew It Was Good Enough" | Navigating the Creative Journey with Abe Knapp
    • 8/5/24

    "After 7 Drafts, I Finally Knew It Was Good Enough" | Navigating the Creative Journey with Abe Knapp

    Ever wondered how creatives keep their passion alive amidst the pressures of the industry? Join us as we sit down with a phenomenal artist who has navigated the highs and lows of the creative journey. Our guest opens up about the intricate balance between staying productive and avoiding burnout, sharing personal stories of fear, uncertainty, and the relentless pursuit of meaningful connections. The conversation also sheds light on the impact of technology on our interactions, critiquing gadgets like the AppleVision Pro for promoting disconnection. If you've ever struggled to stay true to your artistic mission while keeping up with peers and idols, this episode is a treasure trove of insights.

    In this episode, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our guest, from their humble beginnings in fan editing and Photoshopping to being featured on major Instagram accounts. Inspired by YouTube channels like Benny Productions, our guest has built an impressive portfolio that continues to inspire others. We also explore the host's ambitious goal of interviewing 100 diverse creatives and tease an exciting upcoming episode featuring a music composer. Finally, we delve into the evolving journey of discovering a unique cinematic style, discussing the role of aspect ratios and the importance of maintaining a genuine sense of cinematography. Don't miss out on this inspiring and insightful conversation!

  • "Hard conversations create impactful art." | Lessons from Smoke Breaks Filmmaker William Mettlach
    • 9/23/24

    "Hard conversations create impactful art." | Lessons from Smoke Breaks Filmmaker William Mettlach

    How can therapy transform the way we write stories? In this episode, we explore the profound impact of emotional intelligence and therapeutic insights on the art of screenwriting. Our special guest, William Metlock, takes us on his unique journey from an aspiring marine biologist to a mental health clinician who finds balance between his professional and creative lives. William shares the meticulous two-and-a-half-year process of bringing his short film "Smoke Breaks" to life, a testament to dedication and passion in creative expression.

    Join us as we navigate the fascinating intersection of mental health and storytelling, uncovering the layers that therapy adds to character development. From exploring William's personal life, including his experiences with Hurricane Katrina and his shift in career aspirations, to his heartfelt reflections on family dynamics and self-acceptance, this episode offers a rich tapestry of themes. We delve into the authenticity of queer representation in film, the importance of community support in creative projects, and the emotional rollercoaster of casting and directing a debut film.

    Lastly, we celebrate the triumphs and challenges of filmmaking, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, perseverance, and staying true to one’s artistic vision. Listen to William’s heartfelt anecdotes about finding father figures through martial arts and the powerful, everyday inspirations behind his storytelling. As we wrap up, we tease upcoming projects and underscore the joy of local filmmaking, leaving you inspired by the transformative power of blending mental health insights with creative pursuits.

  • "If You Want To Be A Filmmaker, Show Up And Do The Work" | Filmmaking Success with Chris Jadallah
    • 10/21/24

    "If You Want To Be A Filmmaker, Show Up And Do The Work" | Filmmaking Success with Chris Jadallah

    Join us as Chris Jadallah, owner of Calliope Films, takes us on a captivating journey through the filmmaking landscape, sharing his personal experiences and the lessons he learned from his mentor, Dane. Chris opens up about overcoming challenges in regions with limited opportunities, like Pensacola, and how he found his footing in video production. By reflecting on the parallels between his journey and the mentorship seen in characters like Spider-Man and Tony Stark, Chris highlights the essential role of guidance and support in shaping his career. Discover how his passion for video storytelling is intertwined with a mission to empower and nurture artistic growth in his community.

    Navigating the complexities of personal and professional relationships, Chris shares invaluable insights into running a business with his life partner, Sierra Hobbs. From maintaining strong communication to balancing personal relationships with a shared passion for filmmaking, Chris offers a candid look into the dynamics of working alongside a loved one. He also reflects on his leadership style, shaped by his formative experiences in a high school drumline, and how these early lessons translate into leading a film set and fostering a supportive environment for newcomers in the industry.


    Explore the intricacies of the business side of creativity as Chris discusses setting rates, valuing clients, and the persistence required to thrive in the creative industry. From the unpredictable nature of film production to expanding opportunities between New York and Pensacola, Chris shares his vision for a "bridge of opportunity" that connects creative minds across different locations. Tune in to hear Chris's inspiring stories and valuable lessons that offer a unique perspective on pursuing a fulfilling career in filmmaking while staying true to one's passion.