Episodes

  • #11 - SUMMARIES | Charla Lauriston: From Haitian Roots to Hollywood Comedy and Why Failure is the Key

    #11 - SUMMARIES | Charla Lauriston: From Haitian Roots to Hollywood Comedy and Why Failure is the Key
    Sep 12 2025

    This episode is brought to you by HelloFresh. Go to www.hellofresh.com/MAKEIT10FM now to get 10 Free Meals + a Free Item for Life!



    Hello, Hello!


    Welcome to SUMMARIES, Episode #11


    Summaries take some of our best long-form interviews (and even some unpublished ones) and condense them down to 10 (or so) minutes of pure listening pleasure.


    Summaries are hosted by our AI interns, Alex Ivey and Allison Inverness, and are designed to give you, our valued listeners, just the information you need from each guest. It's a new short-form concept for a fast-paced world. It's the answer to the two-hour podcast you want to listen to but never have the time for.


    Each new episode of Summaries will be published right here, on the MAKE IT feed. We think you'll love it as much as we do—now, on to the show.



    ---



    Alex and Allison summarize our previously released episode with Charla Lauriston, Writer (Grand Crew on NBC), Comedian, and Podcaster (The Werking Writer) So, who is Charla Lauriston?



    Charla Lauriston is a Vancouver and Los Angeles-based comedian, writer, and director. Born in Haiti and raised on the East Coast, she’s currently a Supervising Writer/Producer for Grand Crew on NBC and has previously written for The Last OG, Ghosted, People of Earth, Hoops, and others. Her 2021 episodic short, Witchsters, is the official selection of the 2022 Slamdance Film Festival, New Filmmakers Los Angeles, and the 2021 Austin Film Festival and American Black Film Festival. Charla is the host of The Werking Writer Podcast, a career-focused show and community created for new and aspiring screenwriters.



    Enjoy the show, and follow Charla on Instagram here.




    We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your creative journey. #MAKEIT


    All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content

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    16 mins
  • 418 - Netflix Phenomenon, The Attention Economy and How Social Media Shapes Our Stories | Indie Talk #99

    418 - Netflix Phenomenon, The Attention Economy and How Social Media Shapes Our Stories | Indie Talk #99
    Sep 5 2025
    This episode is brought to you by Saily. Saily is a new eSIM service app, brought to you by the creators of NordVPN.You can choose from several affordable eSIM plans in over 190 countries and 8 regions. With a Saily eSIM, you'll always have a connection when needed.Just download the app, select a country, region, or plan, and install the eSIM. It’s that simple. For our discerning MAKE IT listeners, get an exclusive 15% discount on Saily eSIM data plans! Download the Saily app and use code "make it" at checkout for 15% off, or go to https://saily.com/makeit This episode is brought to you by Insta360, (the trailblazing camera brand renowned for its innovative 360 and action cameras) andtheir brand-new pocket-sized marvel, the GO Ultra 4K. Compact like an Oreo and weighing in at just 53 grams, this little powerhouse is not just designed to fit in your pocket—it's crafted to deliver stunning, super-smooth 4K footage at 60 frames per second. And here’s a special treat for you: With your purchase of the Insta360 GO Ultra, snag a free set of Sticky Tabs, perfect for mounting your camera to everything from winter jackets to backpacks. Simply visit https://store.insta360.com and enter the promo code MAKEIT - good for the first 30 purchases only. Hello, Hello! In this episode, we dive into the cultural phenomenon of "K-Pop Demon Hunters," exploring its record-breaking success on Netflix and the Billboard Hot 100, and discuss the shifting landscape of global media consumption. We reflect on the evolution of the Fantastic Four franchise, audience fatigue with cinematic universes, and the impact of representation in film and music. The conversation also touches on personal epiphanies about pleasure, the effects of modern distractions, and the challenges of navigating sensitive topics in family entertainment.We also talk about:The Nashville and Defy Film Festivals, including behind-the-scenes stories and the importance of community in indie filmmaking.An All-New TWSK: The surprising history and influence of the Billboard Hot 100, with a deep dive into movie soundtracks that have dominated the charts.The role of facial hair, grooming products, and cultural expectations in professional and personal life.An All-New Culture Check: The impact of media sensationalism, clickbait headlines, and the challenges of responsible journalism in the attention economy.Reflections on parenting, generational shifts, and the complexities of discussing LGBTQ+ representation in children’s media.People, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:Nashville Film FestivalDefy Film FestivalCatalina Film FestivalK-Pop Demon HuntersRed NoticeBillboard Hot 100FrozenHamiltonLa La LandLightyearSupermanFantastic FourCaptain AmericaPedro PascalThe Rock (Dwayne Johnson)Josh BrolinJon HammGeorge ClooneyPhilip Seymour HoffmanMark WahlbergSnoop DoggMartha StewartTaylor SwiftPrinceBee GeesOlivia Newton-JohnJohn TravoltaWhitney HoustonToni BraxtonMary J. BligeBrandyC.C. WinansSaily (eSIM service, NordVPN)Insta360 (Go Ultra camera)Beacons.ai (link hub)Modern Family (TV show)Saturday Night FeverPurple RainWaiting to ExhaleThe BodyguardGrease (films and soundtracks)Azerbaijan (film production incentives)Dr. PhilDick GregoryRoss TuckerWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcastSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    1 hr and 50 mins
  • 417 - Producer and Actress Sofia Yepes On Making “The Low End Theory,” Killing Your Darlings, and Authentic Storytelling in Indie Film

    417 - Producer and Actress Sofia Yepes On Making “The Low End Theory,” Killing Your Darlings, and Authentic Storytelling in Indie Film
    Aug 22 2025
    This episode is brought to you by Function Health. Welcome to the new normal in health. Not the outdated version you grew up with. Your baseline. Your body. On your terms. Learn more and join using our/my link. The first 1000 get a $100 credit toward their membership. Visit www.functionhealth.com/MAKEIT or use gift code MAKEIT100 at sign-up to own your health.---This episode is brought to you by Saily. Saily is a new eSIM service app, brought to you by the creators of NordVPN. You can choose from several affordable eSIM plans in over 190 countries and 8 regions. With a Saily eSIM, you'll always have a connection when needed.Just download the app, select a country, region, or plan, and install the eSIM. It’s that simple. For our discerning MAKE IT listeners, get an exclusive 15% discount on Saily eSIM data plans! Download the Saily app and use code "make it" at checkout for 15% off, or go to https://saily.com/makeitHello, Hello!In this episode, we welcome Sofia Yepes, an accomplished actor, writer, and producer, for a deep dive into her creative journey and the making of her feature film, The Low End Theory. We explore Sofia’s inspirations, the challenges of authentic storytelling, and the parallels between music production and filmmaking. The conversation also highlights the importance of editing, cultural specificity, and the power of community in the creative process.We also talk about:Sofia’s experiences growing up in Colombia and Queens, and how her background shaped her artistry.The influence of A Tribe Called Quest’s "Low End Theory" album on Sofia’s film and a discussion of favorite tracks.The technical and emotional aspects of film editing, including the “kill your darlings” principle.An all-new Things We Should Know on Colombian filmmakers, spotlighting Patricia Cardoso’s historic achievements.People, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:Nashville Film FestivalNicole KidmanJennifer LopezJennifer BoniorJason PadgittLauren ThelenA Tribe Called Quest ("Low End Theory" album)Patricia Cardoso (director, "The Water Carrier," "Real Women Have Curves")Maria Fernanda Cardoso (artist)In the Black Network (streaming platform)Nashville, TNQueens, NYMedellin, ColombiaTarzana, CAParis, FranceBrooklyn, NYHattie B’sPrince’s Hot ChickenMarilyn MonroeOwen WilsonJon HammSara Antonio"Encanto" (Disney film)"Harold and Maude" "True Romance" "Rosemary’s Baby" "Dirty Dancing" "Mulholland Drive" "Scarface" "Goodfellas" "Another Version of You"Will Trent (TV series)Lauryn Hill (artist)We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcastSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    1 hr and 30 mins
  • #10 - SUMMARIES | Linda Nelson: Streaming & Digital Distribution Pioneer

    #10 - SUMMARIES | Linda Nelson: Streaming & Digital Distribution Pioneer
    Aug 15 2025

    This episode is brought to you by Function Health. Welcome to the new normal in health. Not the outdated version you grew up with. Your baseline. Your body. On your terms.

    Learn more and join using our/my link. The first 1000 get a $100 credit toward their membership. Visit www.functionhealth.com/MAKEIT or use gift code MAKEIT100 at sign-up to own your health.


    Hello, Hello!


    Welcome to SUMMARIES, Episode #10


    Summaries take some of our best long-form interviews (and even some unpublished ones) and condense them down to 10 (or so) minutes of pure listening pleasure.


    Summaries are hosted by our AI interns, Alex Ivey and Allison Inverness, and are designed to give you, our valued listeners, just the information you need from each guest. It's a new short-form concept for a fast-paced world. It's the answer to the two-hour podcast you want to listen to but never have the time for.


    Each new episode of Summaries will be published right here, on the MAKE IT feed. We think you'll love it as much as we do—now, on to the show.



    ---



    Alex and Allison summarize our previously released episode with Linda Nelson, CEO and Co-Founder of Indie Rights. So, who is Linda Nelson?



    Linda Nelson began her career as an international investment banker, IT executive an entertainment real estate developer. After meeting Michael Madison, she pivoted into the movie business finally realizing her artistic potential. As an Executive Producer on NSYNC, she quickly realized that she was interested in being more "hands on" and was the DP for her next film, SHIFTED. As a Producer on DELIVERED she was finally able to gain experience in all aspects of the financing, development, production and distribution phases of moviemaking. In 2007, she co-founded Indie Rights with Michael Madison and has been active in distribution every since. Indie Rights now has a diverse catalog of more than 1,200 films and exhibits annually at Cannes and AFM. The company enjoys direct relationships with all major streaming platforms.



    Enjoy and follow Linda on Instagram here, and check out his website here.




    We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT


    All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content

    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    19 mins
  • 416 - Emmy-Winning Director Fr3der1ck Taylor on Superman, Sing Sing, Filmmaking, and the Future of Movies

    416 - Emmy-Winning Director Fr3der1ck Taylor on Superman, Sing Sing, Filmmaking, and the Future of Movies
    Aug 8 2025
    This episode is also brought to you by Function Health. Welcome to the new normal in health. Not the outdated version you grew up with. Your baseline. Yourbody. On your terms. Learn more and join using our/my link. The first 1000 get a $100 credit toward their membership. Visit www.functionhealth.com/MAKEIT or use gift code MAKEIT100 at sign-up to own your health.Hello, Hello!In this episode, we discuss the complexities of celebrity culture and accountability, the influence of historical figures, and the balance between safety and autonomy in creative pursuits. The discussion also critiques the film 'Sing Sing' and reflects on the disappointments of the latest Superman movie, highlighting the significance of budget constraints in fostering creativity.We also talk about:The generational impact of family, education, and cultural expectations on creative careers.The evolution and influence of Black music, from jazz and gospel to modern hip hop and trap.The role of AI in the creative process and its implications for filmmakers and artists.The importance of community, collaboration, and solidarity among filmmakers of color.The business side of filmmaking, including budgets, marketing, and the challenges of breaking into Hollywood.People, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:Fr3der1ck TaylorTomorrow Pictures, tomorrowpictures.tv)Netflix (Strong Black Lead)Soho House NashvilleThe Clipse, MaliceRyan CooglerJordan PeeleColeman DomingoIce CubeSeth RogenSpike LeeMichael JacksonKanye WestMiles DavisBeyoncéBill CosbyElvis PresleyLeBron JamesAaron RogersTemple UniversityCounter Histories: Rock HillIf Cities Could DanceDisneyQuincy JonesMarlon BrandoChristopher ReeveGene HackmanDaniel Day-LewisClarence MaclinBrad PittWorld War ZJeb Brody (Imagine Entertainment)Jason Padgitt (Nashville Film Festival)Brian Owens (SIF, Canada)Bob Raines (Tennessee Film Committee)Nashville Film FestivalFayetteville Film FestivalPopeyes Dippers (commercial)MTVHillman College (Cosby Show reference)Star Trek II: The Wrath of KhanSupermanSing SingGet OutMoonlightParasiteDo the Right ThingPsychoVertigoSunset BoulevardCitizen KaneUSNopeFruitvale StationBlack PantherRustinThe Dip (music video)Function HealthFatburger (restaurant)Jack Daniels WhiskeyBelvedereMySpaceWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcastSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    2 hrs and 22 mins
  • 415 - How Creatives Can Beat AI at Its Own Game - Indie Talk #98

    415 - How Creatives Can Beat AI at Its Own Game - Indie Talk #98
    Jul 25 2025
    This episode is brought to you by IDEO U. Equip yourself with repeatable, practical frameworks developed by IDEO, empowering your organization to continuously innovate and confidently navigate future challenges. For a limited time, IDEO U is offering our listeners 15% OFF SITEWIDE! Go to www.IDEOU.com/MAKEIT for 15% OFF today. This episode is also brought to you by Function Health. Welcome to the new normal in health. Not the outdated version you grew up with. Your baseline. Your body. On your terms. Learn more and join using our link.The first 1000 get a $100 credit toward their membership. Visit www.functionhealth.com/MAKEIT or use gift code MAKEIT100 at sign-up to own your health.Hello, Hello! In this episode, we talk about the transformative world of artificial intelligence, exploring its potential impacts on creative industries, society, and the job market. The hosts engage in a candid and wide-ranging discussion about AI's current capabilities, limitations, and the critical importance of artists adapting to new technological tools.We also talk about:The cultural significance of cereal mascots and their evolutionThe role of nostalgia in technological discussionsThe environmental impact of data centers and AI infrastructureThe potential for AI to democratize complex tasks like medical diagnosticsThe psychological impact of technological disruption on creative professionalsPeople, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:IDEO UFunction HealthSpotifyApple PodcastsMAKE IT on YouTubeMAKE IT on InstagramMAKE IT on TikTokMAKE IT on XDiddyR. KellyMichael JacksonKing CombsStanley KubrickFritz LangHAL 9000Max HeadroomStacy WidelitzKendrick LamarTony the TigerCinnamon Toast CrunchBuck RogersMetropolis (1927 film)Ex MachinaTeslaNvidiaAMDOpenAIChatGPTSponsors:IDEO UFUNCTION HEALTHWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcastSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • #09 - SUMMARIES | Vanzil Burke: The Blueprint for Discovering and Nurturing Talent

    #09 - SUMMARIES | Vanzil Burke: The Blueprint for Discovering and Nurturing Talent
    Jul 18 2025

    Hello, Hello!


    Welcome to SUMMARIES, Episode #09


    Summaries take some of our best long-form interviews (and even some unpublished ones) and condense them down to 10 (or so) minutes of pure listening pleasure.


    Summaries are hosted by our AI interns, Alex Ivey and Allison Inverness, and are designed to give you, our valued listeners, just the information you need from each guest. It's a new short-form concept for a fast-paced world. It's the answer to the two-hour podcast you want to listen to but never have the time for.


    Each new episode of Summaries will be published right here, on the MAKE IT feed. We think you'll love it as much as we do—now, on to the show.



    ---



    Alex and Allison summarize our previously released episode with Vanzil Burke, Artist Manager and Producer of the hit film Karen. So, who is Vanzil Burke?



    Vanzil Burke is the CEO of The Burke Management Firm based in Beverly Hills, California. The firm, founded in 2007, is a talent management agency inspired and founded on strong core values of Integrity, Honesty, and Trustworthiness. Growing up in Dublin, Georgia, Vanzil showed his passion for talent representation early on. When local talent shows were announced, Vanzil often collaborated with performing groups to manage and help prepare for the shows. After graduating from Florida A&M University, Vanzil relocated to Los Angeles, California, to pursue his dream of becoming a Hollywood Talent Manager.


    His Beverly Hills-based firm represents Television and movie stars, Musicians, Reality Stars, Sports Figures, and Filmmakers. His clients have appeared on the networks HBO, VH1, ABC Family, CBS, National Geographic Wild, and OWN. His clients have also appeared in films distributed by Screen Gems, Columbia Pictures, Netflix, and New Line Cinema. His firm also serves as a production company for projects created by his clients.



    Enjoy and follow Vanzil on Instagram here, and check out his website here.




    We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT


    All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content

    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    29 mins
  • 414 - AI vs. Human Creativity and The Death of the Male Movie Star - Indie Talk #97

    414 - AI vs. Human Creativity and The Death of the Male Movie Star - Indie Talk #97
    Jul 11 2025
    This episode is brought to you by Factor meals. No prep, no cooking. Just dietitian-approved, chef-prepared meals delivered to your door and ready to eat in 2 minutes.Go to factormeals.com/MAKEIT50OFF. Use the code MAKEIT50OFF to get 50% off your order plus free shipping!This episode is brought to you by IDEO U. Equip yourself with repeatable, practical frameworks developed by IDEO, empowering your organization to continuously innovate and confidently navigate future challenges. For a limited time, IDEO U is offering our listeners 15% OFF SITEWIDE! Go to www.IDEOU.com/MAKEIT for 15% OFF today. Stay tuned for a special note from David Smith, Professor of the Film Tech Program at Columbia State Community College. Enroll today at https://www.columbiastate.edu/academics/written-oral-and-digital-communications/film-crew-technology/Hello, Hello! In this episode, we talk about the evolving landscape of film, technology, and creativity. We explore the challenges facing modern filmmaking, from the shrinking theatrical release windows to the potential impact of artificial intelligence on content creation. We engage in a thought-provoking discussion with David Smith from Columbia State Community College's film crew technology program and examine the changing nature of stardom and media consumption.We also talk about:• The financial performance of recent blockbuster films like Mission: Impossible• The dilution of celebrity culture through social media• Potential ethical challenges of AI in creative industries• The importance of marketing for independent filmmakers• Personal reflections on life choices and audience perspectivesPeople, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:• David Smith• Columbia State Community College Film Tech Program• Factor Meals• Cotton Bureau x MAKE IT• Beacons.ai• Netflix• Hulu• Google• OpenAI• Tom Cruise• Brad Pitt• Timotheé Chalamet• Leonardo DiCaprio• Kim Kardashian• Joe Rogan• Jason Bateman• Spotify• ElevenLabs• RunwayML• AnthropicSponsors:Factor mealsBzigoColumbia State Community College Film Crew Tech ProgramWe are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEITAll Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcastSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    1 hr and 42 mins