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

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.

The old Hollywood system is crumbling, and two legendary filmmakers—Robert Rodriguez and Mark Duplass—aren't waiting around. Rodriguez is launching Brass Knuckle Films, letting fans invest in his movies, while Duplass is bypassing streamers to self-release his latest show.This isn't just a trend—it's a blueprint for survival. If you're a filmmaker still hoping for a studio greenlight, you're already behind. In this episode, we break down:-Why Rodriguez and Duplass are ditching Hollywood's traditional model-The key lessons you can apply to fund and distribute your own film-Why indie filmmakers must take control before it's too late

In this inspiring conversation, I sit down with animator and storyteller Toby Cochran, the creative force behind LUKi & the Lights, a deeply moving animated short film about ALS. We discuss his journey in animation, the challenges of indie filmmaking, and the importance of authentic storytelling. Toby shares insights from his years in the industry, his experience with Oscar campaigning, and the mission behind his studio, Big Grin Productions. If you're passionate about animation, filmmaking, or stories that make an impact, this is a must!Toby's website: https://www.tobycochran.com/Big Grin's Productions website: https://www.biggrinproductions.com/Global Neuro YCare website: https://globalneuroycare.org/Watch LUKi & the Lights: https://globalneuroycare.org/full-movie/

I share major updates on The Arbiters, including progress on the script, our writer's room sessions, and the latest developments with our new trailer and proof of concept. I also discuss the investor deck, the filmmaking digital school project, and the strides I've made in my novel writing.Beyond that, I explore key topics like the real struggles of indie filmmaking, why companies fail to properly educate their employees—making career growth harder—and how we, as a society, are losing the ability to recognize and communicate mission-critical information.I also share my thoughts on the Indie Spirit Awards (and award shows in general), an escape room adventure, and my review of Ne Zha 2. Oh, and YouTube finally monetized my channel!Art isn't just about creative talent—it's about patience, persistence, and playing the long game. Slow and steady truly wins the race.Why Are All The Oscar-Winning Filmmakers Broke? from Luc Forsyth: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SxC00XV5NFMThe Hidden Costs of Layoffs: Why Cutting Jobs Hurts Companies in the Long Run: https://youtu.be/Kbvra7KpXuI

Layoffs may seem like an easy way for companies to cut costs, but the data tells a different story. In this episode, we dive deep into the financial, operational, and cultural consequences of layoffs, showing how they often backfire by increasing expenses, tanking stock prices, and damaging long-term growth.

I break down the basics that filmmakers need to know about film markets—when to attend (and when to skip), how to plan effectively, the major markets worth considering, and the real costs (including the hidden ones no one talks about). I also share my personal experiences navigating these markets, tips for staying organized, and how to maximize your outreach efforts.Plus, I expand on some of these insights in my Substack, and on Patreon, I share my exclusive template for keeping outreach organized, so you can track contacts, responses, and follow-ups like a pro. If you're looking to level up your networking and business strategy in the film industry, this episode is a must-watch!Yours truly,Phil SvitekFilmmaker, author, podcaster & 360 Creative Coach⁠http://philsvitek.com⁠

In this insightful interview, I sit down with Susan K. Wehrley, a consciousness coach with 35 years of experience helping leaders and individuals manifest their goals and create a life they love. As the owner of BIZremedies and the author of 13 books, including her recent bestseller SHIFT, Susan shares how personal experiences shaped her understanding of manifestation and how she developed her 4-step process to shift limiting beliefs and achieve success.What makes this conversation stand out is how authentic and honest Susan is—she doesn't just talk the talk, she truly walks the walk. Her transparency about her own struggles and breakthroughs makes her advice deeply relatable and actionable. Plus, there's a fun and unexpected moment where Susan coaches me in real time, helping me work through a personal block and experience a breakthrough firsthand!We explore:-The pivotal moments in Susan's life that led to her deep understanding of manifestation.-How childhood imprints and subconscious fears block us from achieving our desires.-The role of meditation in shifting consciousness and unlocking intuition.-The science behind manifesting and how to align mind, heart, gut, and intuition.-Practical steps to overcoming self-doubt and breaking free from limiting beliefs.-Real-life examples of how Susan applied these principles to transform her life.-A live coaching moment where Susan helps me break through a mental block!If you're looking to enhance self-awareness, trust your intuition, and master the process of manifestation, this conversation is for you!-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

In a world dominated by social media and AI, our attention is constantly being pulled in a thousand directions. But the greatest gift we can give someone is our presence—real, undivided attention. While the world demands our focus, we have the power to be the change we want to see. Let's talk about the value of being present, how it shapes our relationships, and why it's more important now than ever.

The arts have long been built on mentorship, yet today, too many creatives are left to fend for themselves, struggling to learn the craft without guidance. It's time to bring back apprenticeships—real hands-on learning from experienced artists to the next generation. This isn't just about tradition; it's about sustainability, preserving knowledge, and ensuring that skills aren't lost. Let's talk about how we can create pathways for mentorship and why it's essential for the future of the arts.

Sean Baker's impassioned speech at the 2025 Film Independent Spirit Awards (watch it here: https://youtu.be/yIxtMGRlx0k?si=0_QCG3cLpvqFDWKd) resonated deeply with me. Like him, I'm an indie film lifer—and that's okay. We get to define success on our terms, and we must demand what we're worth. The money is out there, and while we're not asking for a fortune, we won't accept pennies either. Indie filmmakers create jobs, revenue, and art that matters. It's time we shape the industry rather than let it shape us. Let's do this.

Welcome to our monthly book discussion series hosted by Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) and me, Phil Svitek! This month, we dive into Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones, a whimsical and subversive fantasy novel that blends fairy tale magic with witty character dynamics.Follow Sophie Hatter's journey as she's transformed into an old woman by the Witch of the Waste and seeks refuge in the mysterious moving castle of the infamous wizard Howl. Along the way, she encounters a fire demon, uncovers hidden truths, and discovers her own unexpected magical abilities.Join us as we explore the novel's themes of fate vs. free will, identity, transformation, and the power of words. We'll discuss Diana Wynne Jones' unique writing style, her influence on fantasy literature, and the impact of Howl's Moving Castle on both readers and pop culture—including its renowned Studio Ghibli adaptation.We'd love to hear your thoughts! Share your favorite moments, insights, and interpretations in the comments.Upcoming Reads:• Confessions of a Forty-Something F** Up* by Alexandra Potter (March 2025)• Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison (April 2025)• (May 2025 TBD)• Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Reckoning of Roku by Randy Ribay (June 2025)Be sure to like, share, and subscribe! Connect with us on social media and check out Marisa's podcast, Friends & Favorites w/ Marisa Serafini, available at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/friends-and-favorites-w-marisa-serafini/id1693327509.Yours truly,Phil SvitekFilmmaker, author, podcaster & 360 Creative Coach⁠http://philsvitek.com⁠

Gene Wolfe once said, “You never learn how to write a novel. You just learn how to write the novel that you're writing.” And the more I create, the more I realize how true this is—not just for writing, but for filmmaking, painting, music, and every other art form.Each project is its own unique puzzle, demanding fresh solutions. You never fully “arrive” as an artist; instead, you become an expert at navigating the unknown over and over again.In this episode, I dive into why embracing the uncertainty of creation is key to artistic growth—and why the most successful artists aren't the ones who “have it all figured out,” but the ones who thrive in the process of discovery.

We've been conditioned to think that if we can't measure it, it doesn't matter. But what if the opposite is true? What if the most meaningful things—art, kindness, justice, human connection—can never be captured in numbers?In this episode, I argue that we need to do away with KPIs entirely because they'll never truly measure real impact. I reference Loretta Ross and her work on “calling in”, share my own experiences—like a book I discussed in my monthly book club (https://youtu.be/vPgWM5rOFqA?si=W3sJ1GFyVvsLC1Xt) and the premiere of my second film—where the ripple effect of our actions is unknowable.Takeaways:

Ne Zha 2 just made nearly $1 billion in China alone, proving that Hollywood isn't the only game in town. As filmmakers, we need to think beyond Hollywood and understand where the real opportunities lie. In this episode, I break down:

"Unfortunately, I can't take on any unpaid work to help you make money at this time." You've probably seen this phrase floating around—and while I get the sentiment, the reality is more nuanced.

If your emails aren't getting responses or feel ignored, it's probably because they're too long, too vague, or filled with weak phrases. Let's fix that!

I've committed to being truly bold in my outreach for my big animated feature. Now, with more time opening up, I'm returning to past projects: updating my novel outline and starting to write this week, wrapping up my digital film school video and 20-year doc with a new editor I've gotten to know. As I close out the vlog, I share some observations—like the real difference between having a sponsor vs. letting them control your vision, the irony of people who don't respect boundaries, and why at some point… mentors don't have the answers you need. Oh, and taxes? Done.

Indie filmmakers are always told to keep it small—one location, minimal cast, limited scope. But what if you flipped that thinking on its head? Instead of shrinking your vision, expand it. More locations. A bigger cast. A film that feels massive without breaking the bank.The truth is, playing big doesn't have to mean spending big. Strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and leveraging resources differently can give your indie film the scope of a blockbuster without the budget of one. In this episode, I break down how you can shatter the “small indie film” mold and make something truly ambitious without losing control of your costs.Let's redefine what's possible for indie filmmakers. Ready to go big? Let's talk in the comments!Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe! Yours truly,Phil SvitekFilmmaker, author, podcaster & 360 Creative Coach⁠http://philsvitek.com⁠

Many artists feel trapped by traditional industry models—musicians relying on streaming, painters chasing galleries, filmmakers hoping for big studio deals. But what if you changed the game? Greg Holden's post about ditching Spotify for physical album sales is just one example of how artists can take control. (Original post:https://www.threads.net/@gregholden/post/DFWhBXbPkKe).Painters who bypass galleries and sell directly through Facebook make $30K per painting. Indie filmmakers crowdfund and sell directly to their audience. Comic creators thrive through Kickstarter and Patreon. The key? Owning your art and connecting directly with fans.In this episode, I explore why breaking free from traditional gatekeepers can lead to a more sustainable and profitable creative career. If you're an artist of any kind, it's time to rethink the way you share and sell your work.How are you making your art work for you? Drop your thoughts in the comments!Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe! Yours truly,Phil SvitekFilmmaker, author, podcaster & 360 Creative Coach⁠http://philsvitek.com⁠

This week has been a whirlwind! I worked at the Grammys, which was an amazing experience, I've been continuing on with The Arbiters—recutting our proof-of-concept trailer to better reflect the updated script, continuing outreach, and… an actor I'd love to have in the film has shown interest!On top of that, I'm submitting to Anime Expo and planning other events to get The Arbiters in front of more eyes. And in the midst of all this, I'm making time to be healthier—more yoga, better habits, and trying to keep balance while chasing big goals.Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe! Yours truly,Phil SvitekFilmmaker, author, podcaster & 360 Creative Coach⁠http://philsvitek.com⁠

Digital nomads and influencers might get by with a laptop, ring light, and hard drive—but my work demands so much more. In this episode, I showcase my mobile setup designed for filmmakers, podcasters, and creatives who need full functionality on the go. From hard drives and monitors to power backups, I'll show you how I've built a workspace that travels anywhere. Whether you want to replicate it or take inspiration, this is how to stay productive without compromise. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe! Yours truly, Phil Svitek Filmmaker, author, podcaster & 360 Creative Coach ⁠http://philsvitek.com⁠