World-building isn't just for fantasy and sci-fi—it's the invisible foundation behind every great film, commercial, or video. In this episode of The Story Lab with Nate Bonsell, we dive into what world-building really means for filmmakers today.

From the genius of Severance to the budget realities of $5K productions, we explore how setting creative limitations can lead to stronger storytelling, greater immersion, and higher impact. Learn how cinematography, sound, and design choices create the "playground" for your characters—and why embracing constraints can be your most powerful tool.

🎬 Topics covered:

What world-building really is (and isn't)

Why limitations unlock creativity

How aspect ratios, lenses, and gear impact the world

Getting the most from low-budget productions

The evolving role of DPs and directors in storytelling

👀 Bonus episodes are coming soon, where we break down specific projects and how we built worlds from the ground up—what worked, what didn’t, and what we learned.

Watch or listen to the full conversation now!

Follow Nate: https://www.instagram.com/nbonsell24/

#WorldBuilding #FilmmakingTips #TheStoryLab #Cinematography #LowBudgetFilm #DirectorDP #Storytelling #FilmProduction

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Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso

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Has modern filmmaking become too agenda-driven? Are we losing the heart of storytelling in the name of expression?

In this episode of The Story Lab, we dive into the ethics of filmmaking, the power of redemptive arcs, and why the most impactful stories often come from a place of humility—not ideology. From indie films to advocacy docs, we explore why your why matters more than ever.

🎥 Topics we cover:

The fading moral compass in modern cinema
Why agenda-pushing alienates audiences
The role of redemption in the best stories
How faith, purpose, and ethics shape creative work

If you're a filmmaker wondering how to tell stories that matter—without preaching—this one’s for you.

👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments. What’s your take on storytelling and ethics in 2025?

Subscribe for more and watch on YouTube: https://linktr.ee/thestorylabfilm

Support the show

Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more!

Too many entrepreneurs jump straight into building businesses without realizing the real key to success—branding yourself first. In this episode of The Story Lab, we break down why personal branding is more valuable than any single business and how it sets you up to solve problems in a way that attracts the right opportunities.

📌 What You’ll Learn:
✔️ Why your personal brand matters more than any one company
✔️ How to position yourself as a problem solver, not just a business owner
✔️ The real reason people trust brands before they buy solutions
✔️ Actionable steps to start building your brand today

🚀 Don’t just build businesses—build a brand that lasts.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep-dive conversations on filmmaking, creativity, and entrepreneurship!

Check out Teddy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teddyg111?igsh=MWx4NmNrcDE0M2d0Yg==
Check out Teddy's Work: giard.co

Support the show

Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more!