A Phil Svitek Podcast - A Series From Your 360 Creative Coach

In this episode, we're talking about one of the simplest but most overlooked tools for creatives and professionals alike: a blackbook. Not a sketchbook, but a secure place where you keep all your essential passwords, account logins, crypto seed phrases, banking info, and more. You'd be surprised how many people lose access to critical accounts—not because of hacking, but because they didn't write things down. We break down what to include in your blackbook, how to keep it updated, and why it's essential for long-term success. Plus, a bonus tip on using non-personal emails for business accounts to avoid bottlenecks as your work grows.

Inspired by Alison Levine's powerful insight on the Question Everything podcast, this episode explores what it really means to “go big and go home”—not just as a climber on Mount Everest, but as an artist. Whether you're a filmmaker, musician, writer, painter, or podcaster, knowing when to push and when to pull back is essential. We discuss how this idea applies to creative risk-taking, budgeting, burnout, and the myth of “all or nothing” ambition. Levine's Everest story is a masterclass in courage and self-preservation—something every artist can learn from.Listen to the original Question Everything episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-mount-everest-taught-her-about-failure-fear-and/id1550883345?i=1000718789300

Moving to a new city? Before diving into apartment listings or Zillow rabbit holes, try this analog trick: buy a physical map. In this episode, Phil shares a simple yet powerful strategy for finding your ideal neighborhood—marking all the places that matter most to you (schools, gyms, grocery stores, dentists, etc.) and letting the map reveal where your life naturally wants to be. It's about aligning your daily needs with your geography—so you're not just moving somewhere nice, but somewhere that actually works for you.

Phil and Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) dive into The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune—a whimsical, heartwarming tale about belonging, found family, and the courage to challenge a broken system. We unpack Linus Baker's transformation from rule-following bureaucrat to fierce protector, the magical misfit children of Marsyas Island, and Arthur Parnassus's quiet resistance against prejudice. Along the way, we explore themes of identity, compassion, and what it truly means to create a home.Up next in our Bookmarked series:– August 2025: Directed By by James Burrows– September 2025: Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer– October 2025: Brida by Paulo Coelho

In this special conversation, Phil Svitek and Marisa Serafini (@SerafiniTV) sit down with award-winning author Randy Ribay to dive into his latest work, Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Reckoning of Roku. We explore how Randy's personal identity, cultural background, and love of storytelling shaped this powerful addition to the Avatar universe.While we don't spoil The Reckoning of Roku, we do get into major themes and lore from Avatar: The Last Airbender, so be warned if you haven't finished the original series.We also talk about Randy's approach to writing for young readers, what it was like to work within an existing canon, and how he brings emotional truth to characters navigating legacy, regret, and transformation.

In this spoiler-filled deep dive into The Life of Chuck, I'm joined by therapist and former actor Charles McCaughan for a one-of-a-kind conversation. We explore Mike Flanagan's haunting and heartfelt adaptation of Stephen King's novella through a therapeutic lens—examining grief, memory, ego, joy, and the multitudes we all contain.Charles brings a unique perspective—not only as a healer who developed the transformational modality Psycho Energetic Transformation, but also as a former actor who understands the emotional layers embedded in performance. We unpack the film's reverse chronology, Chuck's lifelong emotional arc, and the hidden messages the universe (and our subconscious) might be sending us.Watch a 10-minute session demo with Charles: https://youtu.be/L7rnQhe40wAFull session available on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/full-therapy-125813889Learn more about Charles's work: https://www.charlesmccaughan.com/More with Charles: https://youtu.be/jj9RekN_m6c

Most out-of-office emails end with “text me if it's urgent.” But what if we flipped that? In this episode, I explore the power of a cheeky, honest OOO message that simply says: “In case of emergency, dial 911.” It's more than a joke—it's a boundary, a perspective shift, and a challenge to redefine what actually qualifies as urgent in a work-obsessed world.

Freelancing offers freedom, flexibility, and high earning potential—but if you're not managing your cashflow, you're building on shaky ground. In this episode, I break down why even well-paid freelancers can find themselves stressed and scrambling, how to prepare for the financial rollercoaster, and what systems you need to stay stable, sane, and paid.

Join Phil Svitek LIVE for a Q&A session following the release of his documentary 20 Years of Creativity: The Reel Story of Phil Svitek.In this candid follow-up, Phil dives deeper into the moments that shaped his creative journey—from student filmmaker to studio builder, podcast pioneer to animation producer. Whether you've watched the documentary or are just discovering it, this is your chance to ask questions about the stories behind the stories, the lessons learned, and what's next.

This heartfelt and revealing documentary traces filmmaker and creative coach Phil Svitek's journey across two decades of storytelling—from Connecticut to Los Angeles, AfterBuzz TV to indie films, podcasting to animation. Through never-before-seen footage, intimate interviews, and raw personal reflection, Phil opens up about the triumphs, failures, friendships, and turning points that shaped his creative life.From scrappy student films and late-night editing marathons to building studios, mentoring creatives, and traveling the world to chase stories, 20 Years of Creativity explores what it means to grow as an artist—without losing your sense of purpose. You'll meet the people who helped along the way, see the behind-the-scenes struggles that don't make it to social media, and get an unfiltered look at the personal evolution behind the professional résumé.Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a multi-hyphenate creative, or someone in the middle of figuring it all out, this documentary offers a mirror, a blueprint, and a source of inspiration. It's not a highlight reel—it's the reel story.Credits:Directed by: Phil SvitekEdited by: Shannon JosephsSound Design & Mix: Edgar Cortes & Lina Maria Lopez CajiaoColor: Shannon Josephs Original Score: Edgar CortesAdditional Music: Licensed through Envato MarketProduced by: Phil Svitek ProductionsFeaturing appearances by:Jackie Miranne, Maria Menounos, Lauren LoGrasso, Cathy Kelley, Kevin S. Bright, Sean “X-Pac” Waltman, Elise Loehnen, Derrial Christon, Courtney Stewart, Susan K. Wehrley, Jerry Ferrara, Ken Napzok, and many more friends, collaborators, and creatives who shaped Phil's 20-year journey.Want to work with Phil?Phil partners with storytellers, brands, and emerging creatives to elevate their projects—from development to release. Whether you're building a podcast, launching a film, or looking for creative guidance, Phil can help you bring your vision to life. Learn more or get in touch at → https://www.philsvitek.comFair Use & Monetization DisclaimerThis documentary includes archival footage, podcast clips, and show excerpts used under fair use for the purposes of commentary, documentation, education, and creative reflection.This video is not monetized, and no copyrighted material is used for commercial gain. All rights remain with their respective owners.

In this bite-sized tutorial, Pramita Mukherjee—named one of Animation Magazine's 2025 Rising Stars—walks us through the animation production pipeline step-by-step. From modeling and rigging to CFX and lighting, she breaks down the essential roles that bring animated characters and worlds to life.This clip is part of a full interview where we explore Pramita's creative journey from Kolkata to Los Angeles, her advice for rising artists, and her advocacy through Women in Animation and Asians in Animation. Watch the full conversation to hear more about her path, influences, and insights: https://youtu.be/iOyLJSdyoSo

In this guided manifestation session, Susan K. Wehrley—consciousness coach and author of SHIFT—walks Phil through a real-time intuition exercise to overcome the pressure of pitching a creative project.Together, they explore the power of surrender, how to move from ego to intuition, and why trust is the hardest yet most essential step in the manifestation process. This clip is from a longer conversation where Susan shares her 4-step process for shifting limiting beliefs, stories of transformation, and how to align heart, mind, gut, and intuition.

In this special mid-year vlog, Phil Svitek recaps the first half of 2025—from career shifts and LA wildfires to major creative wins, including progress on his animated film The Arbiters, book projects, and upcoming documentaries. He reflects on what's working, what needs adjusting, and how he's navigating burnout, growth, and tough industry changes. Plus, he shares how he's rethinking funding, where he might move, and offers exclusive written prompts and tools to help you reflect on your year too.

Phil and Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) unpack The Reckoning of Roku by Randy Ribay—an Avatar: The Last Airbender novel and the first not written by F.C. Yee. We explore Roku's journey from hesitant student to conflicted Avatar, his crumbling friendship with Sozin, and the book's rich themes: grief, freedom, legacy, and spiritual identity. We also examine how the story deepens bending lore and sparks canon debates.Up next in our Bookmarked series:– July 2025: The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune– August 2025: Directed By by James Burrows– September 2025: Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer– October 2025: Brida by Paulo Coelho

If your time is free, people will treat it like it's worthless. In this episode, I share how I started filtering potential clients to protect my time, energy, and focus. From intake forms to paid discovery calls, these tools aren't walls—they're gates for the right people. Inspired by Ryan Holiday, this episode is about knowing your value before the contract is signed.⏳ Call to creatives: What boundaries are you putting in place to protect your time?

Being excellent at your job doesn't automatically make you a great freelancer. In this episode, I break down why side clients require a whole new skill set—one rooted in leadership, communication, and structure. I'll share personal lessons learned and offer guidance on how to transition from employee mindset to service provider without burning bridges.

What if the best way to change the world wasn't by tearing things down—but by lifting the right things up? In this episode, I explore how sharing what you love helps cut through the noise, builds trust with your audience, and shapes a better digital culture. We'll talk about algorithms, emotional energy, and why being a curator of good is more powerful than being a critic of bad. Be a lighthouse, not a foghorn.

Recorded live at the Mifa exhibits during the Annecy Festival, this behind-the-scenes tutorial features Toon Boom expert Alexander Matthews walking me through the ins and outs of Storyboard Pro. Originally intended just for my animation team on The Arbiters, the insights were too good not to share. From efficient shot planning to smart panel workflows, Alexander answers my feature-specific questions in ways that apply universally to animators, directors, and storyboard artists alike. He also offers a quick look at Harmony and Toon Boom's broader suite of tools.Note: Audio is a bit rough due to the festival environment, but the value is absolutely worth it.

What if your flaws were your genius? What if the ego running your life wasn't even real? And what if your unhappiness could be traced back—not to your job, your partner, or your past—but to a single, powerful truth: you haven't taken full responsibility yet?In this compressed highlight reel from one of our most eye-opening episodes, Charles McCaughan shares the core insights from his decades of healing work, from how the inner critic is born to why turning the finger inward can radically change your life. You'll hear about the roots of dysfunction, the myth of the 50/50 relationship, the false promises of the ego, and the moment Charles began talking to his own mind to save his life.This preview is just the beginning. The full episode dives even deeper into how we heal, grow, and finally come home to ourselves.Listen to the full episode here: https://youtu.be/jj9RekN_m6cWatch a 10-min session demo with Charles: https://youtu.be/L7rnQhe40wAExplore Charles's work: https://www.charlesmccaughan.com/Full healing session access on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/full-therapy-125813889

In this behind-the-scenes vlog, I offer an in-depth look at what's currently happening across my creative projects. I walk through my packed schedule for the 2025 Annecy Film Festival & Market, share what makes the event so vital for animation professionals, and reflect on the prep, pitches, and priorities for my animated feature The Arbiters.I also open up about how we finally cracked the script, the updated pitch materials, and what's next for our team once I return from France. Plus: exciting news about my personal 20-year career documentary, investing in Robert Rodriguez's new studio Brass Knuckle Films, and the evolution of my YouTube and podcast strategy—including why I'm choosing to only spotlight movies I truly love.There's plenty of practical tips and hard-won lessons in here for any artist navigating their own journey. And whether you're into animation, film, or just building a creative career—this one's for you.Join the journey. Ask questions. Leave comments. Let's grow together.

Poet and creative coach Mark McGuinness shares a simple but transformative phrase for getting unstuck: “Even though…” In this episode, I explore how this tiny mindset shift can unlock momentum, courage, and creative breakthroughs. Whether you're worried about failure, lacking resources, or facing the unknown, "even though" helps you act anyway—and that's where real progress begins.

Saying “no” doesn't have to be the end of the conversation—it can be the beginning of a deeper connection.In this episode, I explore how referring someone else (when you're not the right fit) can actually elevate your reputation, expand your network, and leave everyone involved better off. Whether you're a freelancer, creative, or job seeker, this approach builds trust, respect, and long-term opportunity.It's not about pitching yourself—it's about being part of the solution.

What if we stopped treating people like the problem—and instead teamed up with them to solve it?In this episode, I share a recent mindset shift that redefined how I handle conflict, frustration, and communication breakdowns. The core idea? Reframing problems as shared challenges, not personal battles.Whether you're in a relationship, managing a team, collaborating with a creative partner, or facing tension with a friend—this simple reframe changes everything. Instead of going head-to-head, go shoulder-to-shoulder.About This PodcastI'm Phil Svitek, the 360 Creative Coach. This podcast blends technical skills with mental resilience to help artists and storytellers succeed. From tutorials to interviews, reviews to real-time vlogs—everything here is designed to empower your creative journey.More at: http://philsvitek.com

Welcome to our monthly book discussion series hosted by Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) and me, Phil Svitek! This month, we dive into 1984 by George Orwell—a haunting dystopian novel that remains startlingly relevant more than 75 years after its release.We follow Winston Smith, a quiet rebel in a world where the Party controls truth, history, language, and even thought. As Winston struggles to hold onto his sense of reality and love in a society ruled by surveillance, propaganda, and fear, Orwell forces us to confront the dangers of authoritarianism and the erosion of individual freedom.In this conversation, we unpack the novel's central ideas—from Newspeak, doublethink, and Big Brother to the manipulation of memory and meaning. We also explore Orwell's personal history, his political awakening, and why this story continues to resonate with readers facing censorship, misinformation, and political polarization today.Join us as we break down Orwell's major themes, timeless warnings, and literary legacy—and don't forget to share your takeaways in the comments!Upcoming Reads:-Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Reckoning of Roku by Randy Ribay (June 2025)-TBD (July 2025)-Directed By by James Burrows (August 2025)

Few filmmakers have redefined cinematic mood, longing, and visual poetry the way Wong Kar Wai has. In this episode, I dive into why Wong's work continues to influence generations of filmmakers, cinematographers, and romantics alike. Known for his nonlinear storytelling, emotionally charged characters, and dreamlike visual style, Wong Kar Wai crafts stories where time slips, love lingers, and memory haunts.Whether you're new to his work or a fan looking to revisit, I highlight five essential films that showcase the range and depth of his genius: • Happy Together • Days of Being Wild • In the Mood for Love • Chungking Express • Fallen AngelsWe'll explore what makes each film special, how they connect thematically, and why Wong's slow, stylish, and emotionally layered approach remains unmatched in global cinema.

Video podcasting is booming—but let's be honest: most people are overspending. Between expensive gear, post-production burnout, and trying to emulate studio-level shows, many creators discover the cost just isn't sustainable.In this episode, I break down how to launch a high-quality video podcast as cheaply as possible, especially with a remote-first setup. This isn't a step-by-step tutorial—it's a strategic overview of tools and mindset. The key? Think “live-to-tape.” That means doing as much of the production live as possible, then adding only essentials like intros, ad breaks, and end cards in post. This approach minimizes time, cost, and complexity.I walk through options like OBS (free and powerful), VDO.Ninja (for remote guest routing), Streamyard (simple and intuitive), and vMix (pro-level live switching). Each has strengths—and knowing what fits your needs is half the battle.

Every podcaster needs a reliable set of tools—and Descript is one that deserves a permanent spot in your workflow (official website: https://www.descript.com/). In this episode, I highlight why Descript isn't just for beginner editing, but a powerful utility tool that can streamline your production process. From transcription to rough cuts to soundbite discovery, Descript acts like the Google Docs of podcasting—perfect for solo creators and teams alike. While I still recommend finishing your audio or video edits in tools like Pro Tools, Audition, or Premiere, Descript helps speed up those messy middle stages—especially paper edits and team collaboration. I also share how I use transcripts to pull quotes, repurpose content, and even feed into ChatGPT to generate titles, tags, and summaries. It's not a replacement—it's a power tool.

When someone asks, “Who are you?”, do you struggle to answer? In this episode, I share a powerful life exercise given to me by director Jude Weng (Only Murders in the Building, Black-ish) that goes far beyond job titles or hobbies. It's called the three eulogies exercise—writing your own eulogy from the perspective of a loved one, a colleague, and a close friend. This simple yet profound practice reveals what truly matters to you and serves as a compass for how you want to live. I walk through the steps, reflect on the emotional impact, and explain why confronting our mortality can be one of the most clarifying things we do.

Screenwriting isn't about stuffing your script with detail—it's about clarity, rhythm, and impact. In this episode, I share an eye-opening writing exercise passed down from director Jude Weng (Only Murders in the Building, Black-ish), where students compare what they think a scene looks like in a script versus how it was actually written. Spoiler: less is more. I break down how to do this exercise yourself, what it reveals about overwriting, and why this method will sharpen your screenwriting instincts faster than most traditional advice.

Packing for a trip doesn't have to be a stress fest.In this episode, I share my simple, low-stress travel packing strategy: I start tossing things into a suitcase a week before the trip — no pressure, just instinct. Then, the night before I leave, I review everything, cut what I don't need, fill in any gaps, and lock it down. It's flexible, mindful, and helps me avoid that last-minute “I forgot something” panic.Whether you're a chronic overpacker or always scrambling last minute, give it a try — or tell me what works for you.How do you pack? Do you plan it all or wing it? Let's compare notes.

Patreon just rolled out a powerful new feature: creators can now sell individual posts without requiring a monthly subscription. In this episode, I break down exactly how it works, who it's for, and why this opens up a new stream of income for artists, podcasters, filmmakers, writers, and beyond.Whether you're trying to earn more from your content or support creators in a low-commitment way, this shift matters.I'll cover: – How one-off post sales work– What kinds of content are perfect for à la carte selling– Strategic tips for bundling, pricing, and promoting your posts– Why this benefits both creators and fansI'd love to know:— What kind of content would you consider buying individually?— If you're a creator, how might you use this?Drop me a comment or message!And if you want to test it out yourself, I've got some one-off pieces available here: https://www.patreon.com/c/philsvitek

The Annecy Animation Festival is massive, exciting, and—honestly—a bit overwhelming in the best way (https://programme.annecyfestival.com/programme).In this episode, I break down how I'm choosing what to attend, from must-see pitch sessions to market meetings and creative conversations. With so much happening at once, I'm prioritizing events that align with both creative inspiration and real business opportunities. Whether you're a filmmaker, animator, producer, or fan, there's something here for you.Have you been to Annecy before? Let me know your best tips—I'd love to hear them.If you're going this year, hit me up so we can connect.Never been but curious? Tell me what you'd want to know and I'll include it in my post-Annecy follow-up episode!

What if your body could reveal the truth behind your deepest emotional wounds?In this illuminating episode, Charles McCaughan shares how he developed Psycho Energetic Transformation—a healing modality that uses muscle testing to uncover and eliminate subconscious beliefs driving your pain, patterns, and self-sabotage.Charles opens up about his past as a troubled actor, how therapy failed him for over 20 years, and why real change comes from working directly with the subconscious. If you've ever felt stuck despite doing “all the right things,” this conversation will shift your understanding of healing, ego, and responsibility.Watch a 10-minute session demo with Charles: https://youtu.be/L7rnQhe40wA?si=vPtseeGo83Bd8203Explore Charles's work and offerings: https://www.charlesmccaughan.com/Get exclusive access to the full-length healing session on my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/full-therapy-125813889?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_linkIf this speaks to you, share it with someone ready to break free from unconscious cycles.

I explore Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos' recent claim that the traditional movie theater model is "outmoded" and that Netflix is "saving Hollywood" (https://variety.com/2025/film/news/netflix-ceo-ted-sarandos-movie-theaters-outdated-1236376565/).I dive into how streaming platforms have reshaped audience behavior, impacted creative sustainability, and transformed films from cultural events into disposable content.This isn't about rejecting innovation—it's about examining who benefits when disruption becomes the goal over quality.I'll reflect on why theaters still matter, the irreplaceable nature of shared experiences, and why the future of film deserves more than algorithm-driven entertainment.This episode is an exploration of what's at stake for filmmakers, audiences, and the stories that move us.

I explore a growing tension: How did innovation, once hailed as progress, end up dismantling industries that were built for long-term sustainability?Together, we'll unpack how tech platforms—like Uber, Airbnb, Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube—shifted costs and risks away from companies and onto everyday people. We'll examine the trade-offs: from rising living expenses and fragmented media to the creative burnout affecting artists and storytellers.This isn't about easy answers—it's an exploration of the hidden consequences behind the "disruption" narrative, and a reflection on what it might take to build a more balanced future for creators, workers, and audiences alike.Stay curious. Stay critical.

Welcome to our monthly book discussion series hosted by Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) and me, Phil Svitek! This month, we dive into Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison — a sweeping, lyrical novel about family, memory, freedom, and finding one's true self.We follow Milkman Dead, a young man born into privilege but alienated from his roots, as he embarks on a journey that reconnects him with the strength, sorrows, and ancestral stories of his past. Along the way, Morrison weaves a tapestry rich with myth, folklore, and haunting imagery—challenging us to rethink ideas of identity, flight, love, and legacy.In this discussion, we explore major themes like generational trauma, the search for selfhood, economic and racial injustice, the transformative power of oral history, and what it really means to be free. Join us as we break down Morrison's unforgettable characters, potent symbolism, and enduring legacy—and don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments!Upcoming Reads:-1984 by George Orwell (May 2025)- Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Reckoning of Roku by Randy Ribay (June 2025)-TBD (July 2025)-James Burrow's Directed By (August 2025)Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe. And check out Marisa's podcast, Friends & Favorites w/ Marisa Serafini: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/friends-and-favorites-w-marisa-serafini/id1693327509

In this vlog, I take you behind the scenes as we gear up for big meetings in May for The Arbiters. From refining the script to building out detailed storyboards and concept art, we're practicing daily to ensure everything is sharp for the pitch. I also talk through our planning for the Annecy Film Festival—including travel logistics—and why I've paused work on my filmmaking book (temporarily!) to prioritize The Arbiters.Plus, I share insights from my manifesting journal now that I'm halfway through the process, reflect on lessons from watching the Grammys Rewind series, and recap my Boston trip for Emerson College's film fest and men's soccer alumni event. It's a packed update on balancing the creative grind, personal growth, and staying grounded in the journey.

In this inspiring deep-dive, I sit down with Pramita Mukherjee—featured in Animation Magazine's 2025 Rising Stars of Animation (https://www.animationmagazine.net/2025/03/rising-stars-of-animation-2025/)—to explore her global journey from growing up in Kolkata to working on major animated films in Los Angeles. Pramita shares how early cartoons like DuckTales and Powerpuff Girls sparked her imagination, and how a pamphlet changed the course of her life.We talk about the importance of foundational 2D animation training, navigating burnout and industry instability, and why upskilling and curiosity are essential for long-term success. Pramita also gives a breakdown of underappreciated roles in animation and shares how she gives back through mentorship, including her involvement with Women in Animation, Asians in Animation, and VES.Whether you're just starting out or looking for the motivation to keep going, this is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the art and heart of animation.

Some books don't just land—they arrive exactly when you need them. True and False Magic by Phil Stutz and Elise Loehnen has been that book for me. It's more than just a workbook—it's a guide for facing life's unavoidable challenges: uncertainty, hard work, and pain. If you've read The Tools, this one goes deeper, stitching together familiar ideas like the Life Force, Part X, and the Realm of Illusion into a practical, repeatable system. I've been recommending it to friends nonstop because it's not just inspiring—it's actionable. If you're navigating a tough moment or looking to reconnect with your inner drive, don't skip this one.

Want to elevate your storytelling? In this episode, we break down the most essential insights from Robert McKee's legendary book STORY. From mastering structure to crafting scenes that turn, you'll learn why writing is a craft, not a mystery—and how to wield that craft with intention. We cover the five essential story beats, the role of genre, the importance of character choices, and what it really means to be a writer. Whether you're writing screenplays, novels, or anything in between, these timeless lessons will sharpen your storytelling instincts.

In this continuation of our conversation on manifestation, I'm joined again by Susan K. Wehrley to explore the deeper practices that keep us aligned when our goals feel just out of reach. We talk about the real work behind manifestation—clearing fear, tuning into intuition, believing beyond your timeline, and staying open to receive.Susan shares her daily tools like meditation, yoga, the S.T.O.P. Technique, and gratitude journaling—plus a powerful framework of the five levels of consciousness. We also dig into inspired action, how to set goals without forcing, and what to do when things don't go according to plan. This is about mastering your mindset, staying grounded, and trusting the path as it unfolds.-Watch our first manifestation interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcIcpCHhI6s&t=4s&pp=ygUZcGhpbCBzdml0ZWsgc3VzYW4gd2VocmxleQ%3D%3D-Get Susan's book SHIFT on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/SHIFT-Mastering-Leadership-Enlightenment-Cheetah/dp/0972950591-Learn more about Susan and her programs at: https://www.BIZremedies.com-Alex Wehrley's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexwehrley/?hl=en

This year feels like a major transition—for all of us. In this vlog, I reflect on how I'm navigating change through creative work, personal rituals, and a few powerful tools that have grounded me lately: therapy, yoga, journaling for manifestation, and Phil Stutz's True and False Magic. I open up about the big deadlines ahead for The Arbiters, reviving my filmmaking how-to book after a ghostwriting setback, and the poetic freedom I'm exploring for my next novel. Plus: thoughts on burnout, the cost of always seeking “cheaper” solutions (including over-relying on AI), and why rest might be more revolutionary than we think.

I recently saw Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at LA's Pantages Theatre — and while this isn't a review, I have to say: it blew my mind. Watching it felt like witnessing real magic. The lighting, the practical effects, the precision — it all made me rethink how we approach live-action filmmaking. In this episode, I reflect on the lessons filmmakers can learn from theater, especially when it comes to committing to an idea and creating illusions without relying on CGI. If you're a storyteller or creative, this one's for you.

What separates professionals from amateurs? It's not talent. It's not even opportunity. It's consistency. In this episode, I break down why showing up week after week, month after month, year after year is the true mark of a real artist. Drawing inspiration from Steven Pressfield's The War of Art, I explore how professionals commit to their work as a practice—not just when they feel inspired. We talk about the long-term power of habits, the importance of creating systems over chasing motivation, and how consistency turns creativity into a career. If you want to stop dabbling and start building a body of work that lasts, this episode is for you.

Need to send a large amount of footage to someone in another city? Skip the upload wait times and ditch the heavy hard drives. In this quick tip episode, I share a simple, efficient method: SD cards. They're compact, lightweight, and can hold a surprising amount of data—perfect for small to medium-sized projects. I recently sent 250GB of footage to a collaborator in New York this way, and it was cheaper, faster, and way less hassle than cloud uploads or shipping bulky drives.

In this episode, we sit down with Bud Rebel—filmmaker, actor, podcaster, and content creator—whose career spans indie feature films (The Undead, All Screwed Up), over 200 YouTube videos, and a podcast that's welcomed major Hollywood guests. Bud shares how he built his creative empire from the ground up, the mindset shifts that kept him going, and his strategies for staying consistent across platforms. If you're an aspiring artist wondering how to take your first (or next) step, this conversation is full of actionable wisdom and inspiring energy.For more info on Bud, check out http://budrebelproductions.com.

Welcome to our monthly book discussion series hosted by Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) and me, Phil Svitek! This month, we dive into Confessions of a Forty-Something F**k Up by Alexandra Potter — a witty, honest, and relatable novel about starting over when life doesn't go to plan.We follow Nell, a woman whose business fails, engagement crumbles, and who finds herself back in London starting from scratch. Navigating a sea of Instagram-perfect lives, marital milestones, and sky-high rent, Nell feels like she's missed the boat. But through an unlikely friendship with the fabulous 80-something Cricket, she begins to rediscover joy, resilience, and the messy beauty of real life.In this discussion, we explore themes of reinvention, aging, societal pressure, female friendship, and embracing the f**k ups that make us human. Join us as we reflect on the book's most poignant and hilarious moments—and share your take in the comments!Upcoming Reads: -Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison (April 2025)-1984 by George Orwell (May 2025)-Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Reckoning of Roku by Randy Ribay (June 2025)Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe. And check out Marisa's podcast, Friends & Favorites w/ Marisa Serafini: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/friends-and-favorites-w-marisa-serafini/id1693327509

We've seen movies based on books, comics, and even toys—but what if the starting point was a song? In this episode, I explore the idea of using an original track—something catchy, cinematic, and emotionally resonant—as the IP that launches a film. Imagine writing a movie with a song baked into the concept, getting that song to catch on (think Ava Max or Indila), and building momentum from there. Is it crazy... or just crazy enough to work? I share my thoughts and ask: should more creators be looking at unconventional paths to break through the noise?

What if you could start building hype for your project before it's even finished? Here, I talk about how creators across all disciplines—writers, filmmakers, musicians, visual artists—can use public events like Comic-Cons, book festivals, art fairs, and music expos to generate excitement and gather early fans before the final product is out. These events are more than just launchpads—they're opportunities to engage your audience, test ideas, and build community around your work-in-progress.Here are a few examples:-Writers hosting live readings of early chapters at literary events-Filmmakers showing concept art or proof-of-concept trailers at conventions-Musicians performing demos or unreleased tracks during pop-up sets-Visual artists displaying sketchbooks or inviting feedback on unfinished seriesWhether your project is a film, a novel, an album, or a gallery show—there's value in bringing people into the process early. It's not about perfection—it's about connection.

I break down a subtle trap many of us fall into—we compare ourselves not to one person, but to a collage of people, mistakenly treating their combined successes as if they belong to a single superhuman. No wonder we feel like we're not doing enough. But when we separate these individuals and actually study their journeys, we find the challenges, setbacks, and slow growth that got them to where they are. This isn't about minimizing their success—it's about making your own path feel more real, grounded, and doable. You don't need to do everything all at once.

I dive into a simple yet powerful idea that could improve job platforms like Fiverr and Upwork: what if the freelancer who gets hired is paid the average of all submitted quotes? This small shift could reduce underbidding, encourage fair pricing, and promote higher-quality work across the board. I break down how this model benefits freelancers, clients, and the platforms themselves—and why it might be the key to a more sustainable freelance economy.