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

Right after the screening of my comedy short “5 Minute Film School,” we got up in front of the crowd at the Silicon Beach Film Festival for a candid Q&A about making a no-budget parody that somehow took two years to finish.

Big life/work update! I just hit send on a major application to Annecy's Residency for The Arbiters (our indie anime-style feature) — huge milestone and real momentum. Right after that… my old car tapped out, so I had to scramble for a new one in the middle of an already packed September. I'm also gearing up for a quick trip, moving from one place to another here in LA, and prepping for our LA Comic Con panel:LA Comic Con Panel: Indie Anime Meets Industry: The Bold Journey Behind The Arbiters — Sat, Sept 27 @ 5:00 PM, Room 407.Behind the scenes, The Arbiters keeps building steam. And I'm choosing to pause/slow down a bit — not a defeat, just a smart reprioritization. Sometimes we need grace and downtime anyway to keep doing our best creative work because life can be a lot sometimes. That's why I'm literally filming this on the drive to a screening of my short “5 Minute Film School” so I can make the most use of the drive. BTW, watch the short here: https://youtu.be/JrEj-W4Mg78?si=gVfS_5F_HLvqOLTsIf you're into indie filmmaking, animation, or just honest creator life updates, this one's for you.

Exciting news! I'm announcing our upcoming panel Indie Anime Meets Industry: The Bold Journey Behind The Arbiters.Bringing an original anime-style feature film to life as indie creators is no small feat—but we're making it happen. This panel will take you behind the scenes of The Arbiters, a 2D-animated sci-fi fantasy epic, and explore the creative, technical, and entrepreneurial journey of building a high-quality animated film outside the traditional system—while still engaging with it.

Every artist loves the rush of motivation—the spark of a new idea, the thrill of inspiration. But motivation doesn't last. The true test is turning that spark into consistent self-discipline. I break down why discipline matters more than motivation, how to build it into your creative routine, and practical strategies to help you push through resistance when the excitement fades.Whether you're writing, painting, editing, or creating anything, this is the bridge between vision and reality—the difference between hobbyist and professional.

Storyboarding is the backbone of any animated project, and over time I've developed a process that keeps things clear and collaborative—especially when working remotely. In this episode, I break down my approach: starting with a detailed shot list, pulling visual references (or even filming with action figures when needed), and creating floor plans to map the action. From there, I hand everything to the animator, answer their questions, and review their first draft of boards. Each new round builds on the last—notes, revisions, and the next batch of shots already prepped in advance. It's a system that ensures consistency, saves time, and makes sure everyone stays aligned creatively.

Deadlines aren't just about dates—they're about trust. In this episode, I break down why vague requests like “no rush” or “get it to me Tuesday or Wednesday” set everyone up for confusion and disappointment. If you really need something by Wednesday, say Wednesday. And if you secretly want it by Monday, be honest about that too. Clear, specific deadlines create clarity, reduce stress, and build respect between collaborators. On the flip side, if you're the one receiving work, don't settle for fuzzy timelines—demand clear deadlines so you can prioritize and deliver with confidence.

Phil Svitek is joined by Demetri Panos (@DemetriPanos) and Marisa Serafini (@serafiniTV) to unpack Ne Zha 2—the $2.2 billion global phenomenon that redefined animated cinema. We break down everything from its production scale (over 4,000 artists across 138 studios) to its mythology roots in Investiture of the Gods. Topics include Ne Zha and Ao Bing's evolving partnership, Lady Yin's emotional sacrifice, and the larger worldbuilding. We also discuss the film's groundbreaking animation, and what its record-shattering success means for the global animation industry. Whether you loved the spectacle, the cultural depth, or the mythology, this conversation explores why Ne Zha 2 isn't just a sequel—it's a milestone.

Phil and Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) dive into Directed By James Burrows, the memoir of one of television's most influential sitcom directors. Burrows, the creative force behind Cheers, Friends, Frasier, Will & Grace, and more than 1,000 episodes of TV, offers a funny, candid, and deeply instructive look at his career. We unpack his unique directing style, the alchemy of casting and chemistry, and the innovations that made “Must See TV” an era-defining phenomenon. Along the way, we discuss Burrows' reflections on representation, legacy, and regret. This book is both a nostalgic trip through TV history and a masterclass in the craft of comedy.Up next in our Bookmarked series:– September 2025: Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer– October 2025: Brida by Paulo Coelho– November 2025: TBD– December 2025: Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore by Emily Krempholtz

It's tempting to think “someone else will handle it”—that politicians, activists, celebrities, or organizations are better equipped to solve the world's problems. But when we push responsibility outward, we shrink our own capacity for impact.The truth is this: you are 100% responsible for 100% of the relationships in your life—family, friends, neighbors, colleagues. And those connections are where real change begins. In this episode, I explore why local responsibility isn't just the most effective place to start, but also the training ground for bigger change. From repairing tension with a friend to showing up for your block, these seemingly small acts of responsibility create ripples that extend outward—building the credibility, competence, and influence that scale to global movements.

Ever wanted to make a movie but don't have millions of dollars or fancy Hollywood gear? My short film FIVE MINUTE FILM SCHOOL has you covered.It's a parody step-by-step tutorial that shows you how to create a cinematic masterpiece using just your smartphone, action figures for emotional performances, and some editing tricks that probably shouldn't work… but do. Tongue-in-cheek? Absolutely. Believable? For a minute, maybe.Catch FIVE MINUTE FILM SCHOOL at the Silicon Beach Film Festival:-When: Monday, September 8th at 6:00 PM-Where: TCL Chinese Theaters, Hollywood – Theater 3, Block UU-Get tickets: http://siliconbeachfilmfestival.com/tickets (scroll to Block UU)I'm thrilled this project stars and features work from so many talented friends: Victor Laurenz, Khaliel Abdelrahim, Napoleon Tavale, Veronica Piedrahita, Derrial Christon, Courtney Stewart, Lucia Tarantino, Lyndsey Wegner, Meagan Lynn, Edgar Cortes, and more.Come out, support indie film, and let's have some fun. See you September 8th!

Every once in a while, a thriller comes along that feels both fun and grounded — that was my experience with Relay. Directed by David Mackenzie (of Hell or High Water fame) and starring Riz Ahmed, Lily James, and Sam Worthington, this cat-and-mouse story dives into the shadowy world of whistleblowers and corporate cover-ups.It's a world I don't know personally, but the film felt real enough to pull me in. What stood out most is how the characters constantly forced each other to step up their game — no “stupid” decisions that take you out of the story, just a sharp escalation that kept me engaged. While the final twist didn't feel fully developed, it still delivered a punch and reminded me that sometimes a movie can be both imperfect and incredibly fun.If you're into gritty thrillers with strong performances and clever dynamics, Relay is well worth your time.

Every so often a film comes along that feels like it carries the spirit of Studio Ghibli and old-school Disney charm. For me, that was The Glassworker — a film that first landed on my radar a year or so ago. I became intrigued, dove into the incredible 90-minute behind-the-scenes documentary (which is inspiring in its own right), and now I've finally had the chance to see it at a preview screening in LA ahead of its U.S. release on September 5th.Directed by Usman Riaz, The Glassworker is Pakistan's first hand-drawn animated feature, an anti-war romantic drama that blends delicate artistry with heartfelt storytelling. While not without its imperfections, the film shows immense promise, and you can clearly see that Riaz is a filmmaker at the start of what I believe will be a wonderful career.I share my thoughts on the film, why it's worth supporting, and how backing projects like this ensures that new voices in animation get the chance to build a lasting body of work. If you're drawn to hand-crafted animation, heartfelt romance, or stories about the cost of war and the resilience of art, The Glassworker might be for you.The Glassworker releases in U.S. theaters on September 5th.Watch the making-of documentary here: The Glassworker – Behind the Scenes: https://youtu.be/rxAOUJt1PaU?si=plGMiL7JHRCh-EPN

I take you behind the scenes of the latest developments for The Arbiters. I'm deep in drafting my Annecy residency application and working with my animation team on the storyboards, shaping the next stage of the film's creative journey. At the same time, I'm updating the budget and financing plan to reflect our growth and position us for full funding—big opportunities are on the horizon, and exciting decisions are coming soon.I also reflect on why moderate ratings (not everything has to be a 1 or a 5) matter more than we think, share some upcoming life transitions I'll be navigating over the next six weeks, and give details about the September 8th screening of my short Five Minute Film School at the Silicon Beach Film Festival:-Where: TCL Chinese 6 Theaters, Hollywood-When: Monday, September 8th at 6:00 PM-Block UU – Theater 3Grab tickets here: http://siliconbeachfilmfestival.com/tickets

I chat with Hallie Schmeling, a teacher turned advocate for nervous system regulation in schools and creator of Regulate 2 Educate: Nervous System Regulation for Meaningful Learning. Hallie shares her journey from 12 years in the classroom to stepping outside traditional teaching, the obstacles she faced in bringing her ideas forward, and how the series SHIFT: The Gut Intelligence Blueprint helped her reconnect with her mission.We dive into why nervous system regulation is essential for both educators and students, how it impacts learning and well-being, and Hallie's vision for creating meaningful change in education.Learn more:

If you're a fan of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, you need to check out Turtle Power: The Definitive History of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Directed by Randall Lobb, this 2014 documentary dives into the 30-year legacy of Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael—covering their humble indie comic origins, the animated series phenomenon, blockbuster films, and the cultural impact that made the Turtles a global franchise. Featuring interviews with co-creators Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman, plus cast and crew from across the TMNT universe, it's an essential watch for anyone who grew up shouting “Cowabunga!”Learn more about the documentary at definitivefilm.com.

Too many creators and entrepreneurs land a major platform—a conference stage, a podcast appearance, a viral moment—only to waste it because they're not ready. No website. No social media presence. No mailing list. Just “email me if you're interested.” In this episode, I break down the three pillars that make the difference between momentum gained and momentum lost: Anticipation, Preparation, and Execution. Learn how to think ahead, build the right assets, and deliver in a way that converts attention into lasting impact.

You've got your storyboards—now what? In this episode, I overview how to turn your static boards into a properly timed animatic that actually works. From figuring out how long each shot should last to knowing how many frames you'll need, I cover it.Whether it's a dialogue scene or pure action, timing is everything. I share practical methods—from acting out scenes with a stopwatch to using tried-and-true animation timing benchmarks—and reveal how tools like music, editing instincts, and emotional tone shape your pacing.

In this vlog, I share why the best advice comes from practitioners—people who've actually done the thing you're trying to do. I give an update on The Arbiters and some key perspective shifts I've had along the way. I also talk about how progress can feel slow for a long time… until suddenly everything starts coming together at once. Plus, I share where I'm at with my Annecy recap video and what's next.

Most people operate from fear—even when they're trying to help. This episode starts with two quotes that continue to guide me: one from James Cameron and one from Avatar: The Last Airbender.Using these as a jumping-off point, I share a message I recently sent to a friend about aiming high, trusting your vision, and refusing to shrink your ambition to fit someone else's comfort zone. From risking a “no” in a big meeting to spending nearly a decade finishing a documentary, this is a reminder to dream boldly, move at your own pace, and stop asking for permission to create.Let these words give you the push to keep going.

If you're a freelancer, creative studio, or small business taking on clients, having a standard contract template isn't just smart—it's essential. In this episode, I break down why every working professional should start with a clear, customizable agreement: it speeds up onboarding, protects your work, and sets the tone for a professional relationship. I also share why it's a red flag when larger companies claim they “do this all the time” but don't have a contract of their own. Plus, I offer tips for what to include in your template and how to respond when a client doesn't have one. Trust me—your future self (and your bank account) will thank you.

In this episode, I'm sharing some of my all-time favorite anime films—classics, deep cuts, and emotional journeys that have stuck with me as a filmmaker and storyteller. From the timeless works of Miyazaki like Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away, to the mind-bending brilliance of Paprika and Perfect Blue, to modern gems like Your Name, Belle, and Suzume. Whether you're new to anime or looking for your next must-watch, this list has something for every kind of viewer.

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.