
Insights from recent episode analysis
Audience Interest
Podcast Focus
Publishing Consistency
Platform Reach
Insights are generated by CastFox AI using publicly available data, episode content, and proprietary models.
Most discussed topics
Brands & references
Est. Listeners
Insufficient chart data. Estimates will improve as the show charts.
- Per-Episode Audience
Est. listeners per new episode within ~30 days
N/A🎙 Daily cadence·993 episodes·Last published 3d ago - Monthly Reach
Unique listeners across all episodes (30 days)
N/A - Active Followers
Loyal subscribers who consistently listen
N/A
Market Insights
Platform Distribution
Reach across major podcast platforms, updated hourly
Total Followers
—
Total Plays
—
Total Reviews
—
* Data sourced directly from platform APIs and aggregated hourly across all major podcast directories.
On the show
From 10 epsHosts
Not detected.
Recent guests
Recent episodes
IFH 860: Hollywood’s Book Whisperer Reveals Why Most Scripts Never Sell with Lane Shefter Bishop
Jun 23, 2026
39m 50s
IFH 859: What James Gunn Taught Me About Success with Will Keenan
Jun 16, 2026
1h 17m 49s
IFH 858: The Cinematographer’s Secret to Making Actors Trust You with Jared Hess
Jun 9, 2026
37m 45s
IFH 857: The Untold Story of ECW’s Rise & Fall with John Philapavage
Jun 2, 2026
1h 58m 09s
IFH 856: How to Make an Indie Film When You Have NO Money with Bob Woolsey & Darren Borrowman
May 26, 2026
1h 00m 44s
Social Links & Contact
Official channels & resources
Official Website
Login
RSS Feed
Login
| Date | Episode | Topics | Guests | Brands | Places | Keywords | Sponsor | Length | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6/23/26 | ![]() IFH 860: Hollywood’s Book Whisperer Reveals Why Most Scripts Never Sell with Lane Shefter Bishop | What if the reason your screenplay isn't getting attention has nothing to do with your writing ability?In this eye-opening conversation, Lane Shefter Bishop—known throughout Hollywood as "The Book Whisperer"—breaks down the single most important tool every writer needs: the logline. Having built a career discovering books before publication and developing them into film and television projects, Lane reveals why most writers struggle to sell their work, how executives evaluate ideas in seconds, and why being unable to explain your story in one compelling sentence is often the first sign something is fundamentally wrong with the project itself.Drawing from years of experience working with major studios, publishers, producers, and bestselling authors, Lane shares practical insights on storytelling, character goals, stakes, theme, structure, and pitching. From identifying weak protagonists to diagnosing story problems before a screenplay is even written, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for screenwriters, novelists, filmmakers, and content creators who want to create stories that not only work creatively but also stand a real chance of selling in today's competitive marketplace.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support. | 39m 50s | ||||||
| 6/16/26 | ![]() IFH 859: What James Gunn Taught Me About Success with Will Keenan | What does a career look like when it spans cult films, Bollywood productions, Hollywood boardrooms, and ultimately a complete reinvention of purpose?In this episode, Will Keenan shares one of the most unconventional journeys in entertainment. From landing the lead role in Tromeo and Juliet alongside a young James Gunn to producing independent films, working in Bollywood, and eventually becoming an executive at Maker Studios, Endemol, and Streamup, Will offers a rare insider perspective on how the entertainment industry transformed from traditional filmmaking into the digital era.But this conversation goes far beyond career milestones. Will delivers a brutally honest look at why most independent films fail, how online audiences have become the new gatekeepers of success, why creators should stop waiting for permission, and how YouTube has replaced many of Hollywood’s traditional discovery systems. The discussion culminates in his decision to leave Hollywood behind and create St. Babs, a nonprofit foundation honoring his mother’s legacy, proving that sometimes the most meaningful chapter of a creative life begins after professional success.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support. | 1h 17m 49s | ||||||
| 6/9/26 | ![]() IFH 858: The Cinematographer’s Secret to Making Actors Trust You with Jared Hess | What separates a good cinematographer from one that directors, producers, and talent repeatedly trust with high-pressure productions?In this episode, cinematographer Jared Hess shares hard-earned lessons from over a decade shooting for ESPN, WWE, Bellator, and major fight promotions. From filming in dangerous neighborhoods and chaotic gyms to working directly with elite athletes and unpredictable environments, Jared explains why technical skill alone is never enough. The real job is managing people, emotions, pressure, and trust while still delivering cinematic images under impossible conditions.But beneath the stories of cameras and production lies a deeper conversation about collaboration, leadership, and surviving the modern filmmaking industry. Jared breaks down how cinematographers can build trust with directors and talent, why ego destroys sets, the importance of preparation, working without enough time or money, and how maintaining calm energy can completely transform an interview or production day. For indie filmmakers and aspiring DPs, this episode becomes a practical masterclass on professionalism, communication, and visual storytelling under pressure.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support. | 37m 45s | ||||||
| 6/2/26 | ![]() IFH 857: The Untold Story of ECW’s Rise & Fall with John Philapavage | What happens when a lifelong wrestling fan decides to document one of the most chaotic and misunderstood subcultures in entertainment history?In this episode, filmmaker John Philapavage breaks down the 13-year journey of creating Barbed Wire City, the unauthorized documentary about ECW and the culture surrounding extreme wrestling. From tracking down elusive wrestlers and dealing with conflicting stories to surviving crowdfunding, licensing nightmares, and volatile personalities like New Jack, John reveals the brutal realities of making an independent documentary without studio backing.But beneath the stories of wrestling chaos lies something much deeper: a masterclass in documentary filmmaking. John explains how trust, persistence, and storytelling discipline became more important than fandom itself. The conversation dives into interview psychology, handling unreliable subjects, crowdfunding mistakes, DIY filmmaking, licensing issues, and why documentaries are ultimately about people—not just the subject matter. Whether you're a filmmaker, wrestling fan, or creative entrepreneur, this episode offers a rare look into what it truly takes to finish a passion project against impossible odds.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support. | 1h 58m 09s | ||||||
| 5/26/26 | ![]() IFH 856: How to Make an Indie Film When You Have NO Money with Bob Woolsey & Darren Borrowman | What does it really take to make an independent film with almost no money, no studio backing, and no guarantees?In this episode, filmmakers Bob Woolsey and Darren Borrowman break down the entire chaotic journey of making their indie feature film Do Something with Your Life—from crowdfunding disasters and broken cameras to film festivals, self-distribution, and the harsh realities of today’s indie film marketplace. Along the way, they share invaluable lessons about collaboration, creativity, and why waiting for permission is the fastest way to never make your movie.The conversation dives deep into crowdfunding strategy, low-budget filmmaking hacks, horror film distribution, DSLR filmmaking, building long-term creative teams, and the emotional rollercoaster of surviving post-production. Bob and Darren reveal why modern filmmakers must think beyond just making the movie and start planning distribution from day one. This is a masterclass in DIY filmmaking from two creators who learned everything the hard way—and kept going anyway.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support. | 1h 00m 44s | ||||||
| 5/19/26 | ![]() IFH 855: The Crazy Story Behind Shooting Clerks (The Clerks Biopic) with Christopher Downie | Christopher Downie’s filmmaking journey began the same way many indie filmmakers start—with VHS tapes, cheap cameras, and a deep obsession with movies. But after discovering Kevin Smith’s Clerks and the View Askewniverse films, filmmaking transformed from a hobby into an identity. In this episode, Christopher shares the unbelievable story behind Shooting Clerks, the ambitious biopic about the making of Clerks, and how years of fan films, persistence, and sheer determination eventually earned the support of Kevin Smith himself.The conversation dives deep into the realities of independent filmmaking: actors not showing up, productions collapsing, hard drives failing days before premieres, crowdfunding chaos, and the constant need to improvise under pressure. But beneath the filmmaking war stories is a larger lesson about creativity itself—that great indie filmmaking often comes from limitations, not resources. Christopher’s story becomes a reminder that the DIY spirit that inspired Clerks decades ago is still alive today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support. | 1h 21m 30s | ||||||
| 5/12/26 | ![]() IFH 854: Why Most Indie Films Fail Before Production Even Starts with Jenna Edwards | What really stops independent filmmakers from succeeding?According to producer and actress Jenna Edwards, it’s not talent, money, or even connections—it’s the complete lack of a real plan. In this powerful conversation, Jenna shares the hard truths she learned moving from acting on shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Malcolm in the Middle into producing independent films. From networking mistakes to ego-driven productions, she explains why most projects collapse long before the camera ever rolls.But beneath the filmmaking advice is an even deeper story of resilience. After surviving a horrific tragedy that nearly ended her career, Jenna rebuilt her life from the ground up and discovered a new perspective on storytelling, creativity, and collaboration. This episode becomes more than a conversation about filmmaking—it becomes a blueprint for how artists survive the chaos of the industry without losing themselves in the process.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support. | 1h 12m 32s | ||||||
| 5/5/26 | ![]() IFH 853: The Legal Mistake That Can Destroy Your Film Career with Nellie Akalp | What if the biggest threat to your film isn’t your budget… your script… or even your distribution—but something legal you never even thought about?In this episode, Nellie Akalp, CEO of CorpNet, breaks down the essential legal foundations every filmmaker must understand before stepping onto set. From LLCs to liability protection, she reveals why treating your film like a real business isn’t optional—it’s survival.As the conversation unfolds, the deeper truth emerges: filmmaking isn’t just art—it’s structure, protection, and strategy. Nellie explains why each film should be its own entity, how to avoid costly legal mistakes, and what most indie filmmakers get completely wrong when starting out. This isn’t about paperwork—it’s about protecting your vision, your team, and your future in the industry.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support. | 35m 54s | ||||||
| 4/28/26 | ![]() IFH 852: Why Moving to LA Might Ruin Your Film Career with Will Ball | In this episode, Will Ball—talent agent and founder of a new agency—breaks down the harsh realities of the film and acting industry that most aspiring filmmakers never hear. From the oversaturated market in Los Angeles to the misconception that talent alone leads to success, Will explains why many creatives struggle after chasing the Hollywood dream. He shares firsthand experiences from working in both Philadelphia and LA, revealing how opportunity often depends on timing, positioning, and understanding the business—not just passion.The conversation also dives into practical strategies for filmmakers and actors trying to build sustainable careers. From avoiding scams and understanding representation to focusing on smaller markets where you can actually stand out, Will emphasizes the importance of taking control of your path. Instead of waiting for opportunity, creators must “greenlight themselves,” build real connections, and develop their craft in environments where they can grow—before stepping into larger, more competitive arenas.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/indie-film-hustle-a-filmmaking-podcast--2664729/support. | 1h 23m 16s | ||||||
| 4/21/26 | ![]() IFH 851: Why Your Film Might Never Get Distributed (Brutal Truth) with Liz Manashil✨ | film distributionself-distribution+3 | Liz Manashil | SundanceCreative Distribution Initiative | — | predatory dealsmarketing+1 | — | 1h 10m 41s | |
Want analysis for the episodes below?Free for Pro Submit a request, we'll have your selected episodes analyzed within an hour. Free, at no cost to you, for Pro users. | |||||||||
| 4/14/26 | ![]() IFH 850: Why Most Creators Never Finish Their Film (Hard Truth) with James Altucher✨ | creativityfilmmaking+3 | James Altucher | HBO | — | executionsmall wins+3 | — | 1h 08m 05s | |
| 4/7/26 | ![]() IFH 849: Why 99% of Indie Films NEVER Get Distribution with Bill Ostroff✨ | indie filmfilm distribution+3 | Bill Ostroff | — | — | film careerindustry understanding+3 | — | 1h 21m 52s | |
| 3/31/26 | ![]() IFH 848: Why Most Filmmakers NEVER Finish Their Movies with Rob Dimension✨ | indie filmmakingprocrastination+3 | Rob Dimension | — | — | crowdfundingplanning+3 | — | 53m 11s | |
| 3/24/26 | ![]() IFH 847: The Indie Filmmaker’s Survival Guide (No Hollywood Required) with Ethan Marten✨ | indie filmmakingcareer in film+5 | Ethan Marten | The Indie Filmmaker’s Survival GuideNo Hollywood Required | Hollywood | filmmakingpassion+4 | — | 1h 30m 36s | |
| 3/17/26 | ![]() IFH 846: Why Breaking Into TV Is HARDER Than You Think with Sandra Leviton✨ | televisionfilm+3 | Sandra Leviton | FXSons of Anarchy+1 | — | gatekeeper systemportfolio+3 | — | 51m 05s | |
| 3/10/26 | ![]() IFH 845: The Screenwriting Software Changing How Writers Work with Guy Goldstein✨ | screenwritingcollaboration+2 | Guy Goldstein | WriterDuet | — | WriterDuetscreenwriting software+2 | — | 50m 21s | |
| 3/3/26 | ![]() IFH 844: How to Turn a YouTube Idea Into a Feature Film with Patrick Epino✨ | YouTubecrowdfunding+3 | Patrick Epino | the National Film SocietyAwesome Asian Bad Guys | Hollywood | Hollywood tropesAwesome Asian Bad Guys+3 | — | 50m 58s | |
| 2/24/26 | ![]() IFH 843: How to Turn a Short Film Into a Film Career with Jennifer & Kevin Sluder✨ | filmmakingindependent film+3 | Kevin SluderJennifer Sluder | Sunshine Boy ProductionsHeartless | North CarolinaLos Angeles | Sunshine Boy ProductionsHeartless+2 | — | 55m 34s | |
| 2/17/26 | ![]() IFH 842: The Art of Networking in Hollywood – Real Strategies That Work with Erman Baradi & Brandon Waites✨ | networkingHollywood+3 | Erman BaradiBrandon Waites | The Film EmpireThe Art of Networking in Hollywood – Real Strategies That Work with Erman Baradi & Brandon Waites | HollywoodLos Angeles | networking mistakesprofessionalism+2 | — | 1h 14m 05s | |
| 2/10/26 | ![]() IFH 841: What a Real Film Producer Actually Does with Marc Bienstock | 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. | 46m 19s | ||||||
| 2/3/26 | ![]() IFH 840: Finding Your Way into Film Without Film School with David Powers | 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. | 2h 08m 14s | ||||||
| 1/27/26 | ![]() IFH 839: The Rodriguez List: How to Make Movies with What You Already Have with Aaron Kaufman & Brian Levin | 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. | 54m 16s | ||||||
| 1/20/26 | ![]() IFH 838: Finding a New Creative Path in Indie Film with Charmane Star | 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. | 52m 13s | ||||||
| 1/13/26 | ![]() IFH 837: How Filmmakers Can Win in the Digital Marketing Age with David Feinman | 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. | 55m 49s | ||||||
| 1/6/26 | ![]() IFH 836: The New Rules of Indie Filmmaking No One Is Teaching with the Jalbert Brothers | 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. | 1h 02m 50s | ||||||
Showing 25 of 1000
Pitch Fit is a Pro feature
See how bookable this show is for guests, which brands already advertise, the per-episode ad value, and the best-fit guest and sponsor profile. The numbers are blurred on the free plan.
How readily this show books outside guests like you.
How proven this show is for host-read sponsorships.
For Guests
ProFor Advertisers
ProUpgrade to Pro to unlock guest cadence, sponsor categories, fit scores, and per-episode ad value for this show.
