IN THE ROOM - The Cast Station

Jaime Schwarz has helped over 100 brands speak for themselves—but now, he's building something bigger.From co-founding seven startups to inventing a patent for self-authenticating media, Jaime is a true pioneer in the next chapter of content creation. In this episode, he joins John Williams In the Room to break down how blockchain, remix rights, and smart contracts are giving power back to creators—and why the service economy is giving way to the IP economy.If you're a filmmaker, artist, or digital creator, this is the conversation you need to hear.

Filmmaker and creative producer Christopher Shea steps In the Room to reflect on the twists, pivots, and passion projects that have defined his multi-decade career in indie film, TV, and theater. From directing Berlin-premiering shorts to fixing chaotic sets, Shea unpacks what it really takes to survive—and thrive—in the creative trenches.We talk about:The realities of being a fixer in indie productionThe Austin days of DIY theater and sketch collectivesWorking with today's rising stars before they broke outThe emotional and logistical cost of being an ADWhy story—not stardom—sells abroadThis is a raw and energizing conversation about creativity, commitment, and the community that makes it all possible.

Award-winning casting director Alyson Silverberg joins John to reflect on a career spanning two decades and some of television's most beloved series. From Jane the Virgin to Greek, Alyson has built iconic ensembles and discovered fresh talent with a sharp eye and heart-led intuition.They dive into:What it really takes to cast a hit showHow the audition process has evolved from VHS tapes to ZoomThe emotional stakes of testing actors for life-changing rolesThe impact of AI, shifting platforms, and the unknown future of castingWhy human connection still winsWhether you're an actor, producer, or industry fan, this is a masterclass in the art—and heart—of casting.

On this episode of In the Room, Sundance filmmaker Chelsea Christer joins John and Heather to share the wild true story that inspired her dark comedy short Out for Delivery. From a real-life medical shipping disaster to shooting the film in just two days, Chelsea reveals how she brought her sharp, satirical vision to life with zero budget and total heart.We talk casting, making art with your community, and staying true to your voice when Hollywood comes knocking. In the Room is your backstage pass to the world of casting and storytelling—this is one of our most honest and inspiring conversations yet.

What does it take to direct a sci-fi thriller with no script, no studio, and just 8 days of filming? In this week's episode, John sits down with filmmaker Chris Folkens, whose debut feature Catalyst is turning heads in the indie world.Shot guerrilla-style with an ensemble cast improvising every scene, Catalyst is more than a film—it's a mirror to society, challenging everything from ego to identity. Chris shares the 9-year journey behind the film, how he raised money in phases, the choice to avoid studio interference, and why trusting your instinct is everything in independent filmmaking.If you've ever dreamed of making a movie, this is the episode you need to hear.Watch Catalyst now on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.

Award-winning indie filmmaker Luca Pizzoleo joins casting director John Williams In the Room to reveal how he bypassed traditional Hollywood and built a massive audience online. With viral shorts like OCD (1M+ views on YouTube, 17M+ on social), 70+ awards, and features in Variety and NYT, Luca is reshaping how films are made, funded, and seen.We dive into:Using TikTok to launch a directing careerMaking powerful films on shoestring budgetsThe new rules of building audience-first filmmakingWhy the future of indie film lives onlineIf you're a filmmaker, creative, or storytelling junkie—this one's for you.

Filmmakers Yangzom Brauen and Martin Brauen join us In the Room to talk about their powerful new documentary, MOLA: A Tibetan Story of Love and Loss, which premiered at SXSW. The film follows Yangzom's 100-year-old grandmother, a Buddhist nun exiled from Tibet, whose final wish is to return to her homeland to die.What unfolds is an intimate exploration of exile, faith, aging with dignity, and the complex bond between a mother and daughter. We talk about the challenges of filming a deeply personal story across three generations, capturing private moments on camera, and the unexpected turns that shaped the documentary.This is an unforgettable conversation about storytelling, legacy, and love at the end of life.Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TdHfKQA6Wpc?si=rvozE2kB9UCjQPA4Learn more about the film: molafilm.com

Filmmaking is evolving, and independent creators are redefining the industry. In this episode of In The Room Podcast, host John Williams sits down with writer-director William Tyler Wiseman and actor Michael Joplin to discuss the journey of making Moonwater, an indie film that explores family, addiction, and small-town survival.They discuss the challenges of bringing an independent film to life, from funding and production to the struggles of film distribution and navigating the festival circuit. Moonwater is more than just a movie—it's a testament to the dedication and creativity required to make films outside of the Hollywood system.Topics covered in this episode:The realities of independent filmmaking and breaking into the industryHow they funded and produced Moonwater without studio backingThe challenges of distribution and getting an indie film seenThe personal connection behind Moonwater and why the story mattersThe role of acting and storytelling in bringing independent films to lifeIn The Room Podcast brings you inside the minds of filmmakers, actors, and creatives who are shaping the future of storytelling.Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZPAOP8tHJeE

How Angeline Walsh Made a Period Piece for Just $10K & Broke Into Streaming What does it take to bring a Victorian-era dark comedy to life with almost no budget? Writer & filmmaker Angeline Walsh joins In The Room by The Cast Station to share her seven-year journey creating The Coroner's Assistant—an independently funded, self-distributed series that's now streaming on Tubi, Apple TV, Google Play, and Amazon Prime. From rewriting roles last-minute to turning historical locations into 19th-century England—all while leading an all-female creative team—Walsh's journey is a masterclass in independent filmmaking.

Join us as we sit down with the powerhouse creatives behind the chilling feature film "The Beldham” Director/Writer Angela Gulner, Producer Mark Meir, and Cinematographer Ksusha Genenfeld dive into the dark, surreal world of The Beldham and the challenges of bringing this haunting story to life.

In this episode, we're excited to have Will Bakke, an award-winning filmmaker known for his insightful and comedic coming-of-age stories, and Sam Chortek, Executive Producer and both Partners at Rabbit Foot.  Will began his career in 2008 with two documentary feature films that gained international distribution and recognition. His narrative feature “Believe Me” was highlighted as a Critic's Pick by The New York Times, showcasing his talent for powerful storytelling. Sam has played a pivotal role in guiding Rabbit Foot's transformation from a brand-centric studio into a creative powerhouse, leading successful collaborations with networks like Amazon and HGTV. He believes in empowering others and fostering teamwork to innovate and thrive in the ever-evolving media landscape. Join us as we explore their journeys, insights, and the principles that drive impactful storytelling. Don't miss this chance to learn from two industry leaders who make their own luck!

We're thrilled to have the incredibly talented Josh Wiggins on today's episode of "In the Room"!

Step into the world of cinematic brilliance with our latest episode of "In The Room" podcast, featuring the visionary filmmaker Kevin Ford!

Step "In the Room" with the brilliant Kelly Williams, the mastermind producer and co-founder of Ten Acre Films!

This week we are "In The Room" with the brilliant  Nicole Riegel, and incredible Karmen Leech and Lani Thomison!

We are thrilled to have the phenomenally talented Todd Allen in the room!

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Join us on In The Room podcast for a conversation with the brilliant Bob Byington, tracing his journey from SXSW breakout to indie darling. From "RSO [Registered Sex Offender]" to "Infinity Baby", Byington's films have captivated audiences with their wit and originality. Now, with "Lousy Carter" starring David Krumholtz, available on most streaming platforms, Byington continues to push boundaries. Don't miss our chat about his unique vision and the magic of indie filmmaking! #InTheRoomPodcast #LousyCarter #BobByington #IndieFilm #DavidKrumholtz #SXSW

In The Room' with our extraordinary guests: Amman Abbasi and Sana Jafri!

In The Room with award-winning writer-director Mark Lambert Bristol as he unveils the secrets of his illustrious career. Bristol's latest feat? Directing "Accidental Texan" starring Thomas Haden Church, Carrie-Anne Moss, Rudy Pankow, and Bruce Dern. With storyboard artistry for top directors like Christopher Nolan and David Fincher, Bristol brings a unique visual flair to his work.

 We're taking a deep dive into the life of the phenomenal Pat Healy! From his formative years at Steppenwolf Theatre to gracing over 30 films and leaving an indelible mark in hits like 'Magnolia' and 'Captain America: The Winter Soldier,' Pat's journey is a testament to his undeniable talent. And let's not overlook his recent stellar performance in  Killers of the Flower Moon.' Join us for a glimpse into the inner workings of this multifaceted artist's journey! ✨ #InTheRoom #PatHealy #HollywoodJourney #TheCastStation"

Ronnie Gene Blevins is an incredibly talented actor who has left an indelible mark in both independent gems and blockbuster hits. His memorable appearances in acclaimed projects such as "True Detective," "The Dark Knight Rises," and "Joe" have showcased his versatility and undeniable talent. Ronnie is a hard-working actor who consistently delivers exceptional performances, earning him a well-deserved reputation in the industry. It is truly a pleasure to have him "In The Room" today to discuss his career and contributions to the film and television world.

This week, we sit down with Katherine Propper is a gifted filmmaker whose debut feature 'Lost Soulz' is making waves, set for a 2024 release by Kino Lorber. Winner of multiple awards for her shorts, like 'Birds', she's a Tribeca Fest regular with a love for blending reality and fiction in film. Catch her work online and hear more about her journey from art history grad to becoming a filmmaker on our podcast! @kpropz  @lostsoulzmovie #Tribeca2023 #CinemaArt

Holden Brother's are a writing/directing/producing/acting dynamic duo, Josh and Nick Holden, started their production company Mishnoon in Austin, TX in 2008. They cut their teeth on a lot of music docs and music videos, in the Outlaw Country music scene with the likes of Willie Nelson, Bonnie Raitt, Kris Kristofferson and others. They released The Golden Rut in 2016 and are in post production on their next feature "Sell Out". Just a delight to get to talk about everything about getting it done and what it takes to get your ideas out into the world! #HoldenBrothers #IndieFilmTalk #OutlawCountry #ActorsLife

In today's episode, we have - Paul Ben-Victor! With an impressive filmography of over 150 films and TV series, he has worked with renowned directors and made appearances in notable productions such as "The Irishman" and HBO's "Vinyl". His exceptional acting skills garnered critical acclaim for his portrayal of "Moe Howard" in the ABC biopic "The Three Stooges". Currently, you can catch him in Season 4 of The Chosen! #PaulBenVictor #TheIrishman #Vinyl #TheThreeStooges #TheChosen #Actor

In this episode we sit down with, Lance Larson the multi-award winning director, writer and editor. We sit down to discuss his Journey as a filmmaker and what it took to get his first feature film, Deadland out into the world! Some amazing insights and just a delightful human!

In today's episode, we chat with Austin Amelio, who offers an insightful, behind-the-scenes look at his journey to becoming a successful actor. Join Austin as he delves into the craft, experiences, and personal stories that have shaped his journey in the acting world.

Join us as we sit down with Austin Nichols, the multi-talented actor, writer, and director. In this episode, Austin shares intimate insights into his journey, discussing standout roles from films like "The Day After Tomorrow" and "Wimbledon," along with his acclaimed TV experience in “Walker" and "The Walking Dead." Discover the craft of storytelling and character development as Austin navigates the creative process, offering a rare glimpse into his process.

In this episode we talk with writer, director Emily Elizabeth Thomas, a whip-smart Texas native with a New York edge. She's fully aware of how the game is played and ready to win. Her duality is her strength as she balances a female-driven dramatic film landscape against wildly colorful commercial concepts. Her short films have played festivals around the world while her commercial work has put her into the worlds of ESPN, BACARDI and DISNEY's THE MANDALORIAN. She truly can do it all and it looks as if she intends to.

This week, we sit down with Writer, Actor and Director MACON BLAIR to talk about his first film I DON'T FEEL AT HOME IN THIS WORLD ANYMORE and take a sneak peek at his upcoming TOXIC AVENGER! And with casting like MELANIE LYNSKEY and ELIJAH WOOD for your first feature, and PETER DINKLAGE as the Toxic Avenger on your second film, we want to know how THOSE crazy phone calls happen. Join us as we talk auditions, VHS camcorders, squibs, and stolen lawn tigers!

Writer / Director Andrew Bujalski is actually in the room for this one and we talk about everything from playing the waiting game with actors' agents and the hopeful offers you make, to shooting a film during a global pandemic where no two actors are in the same room. Sometimes you just gotta take that boat and push it all the way out. “One does not discover new lands without consenting to lose sight of the shore for a very long time.” - Andre Gide

In this episode, everything's unconventional and unscripted with JOE SWANBERG, Director of the 2013 film DRINKING BUDDIES and Netlfix's Anthology show EASY. We're talking members-only VHS stores, wielding power wisely when you get it, and going punk rock to get what you want made.

This episode's going to the producers! We're lucky enough to have Jon Wroblewski and Christian Sosa (and Roosevelt the Dog!) of ROOSEVELT FILMS and they're sharing everything producing! The producing partners have been making films together for a decade with a keen eye on being fiscally responsible while allowing for maximum creativity. Today they discuss the details of what it takes and how much work goes into being a producer in Film, TV, and Advertising.

Join us as we talk with actor JIMMY GONZALES, known for his work on MAYANS M.C, FLAMIN' HOT and in his starring role alongside Dennis Quaid in BLUE MIRACLE. One of the most honest humans, epic storytellers and genuine actors, Jimmy takes us on a ride; creating his own luck, making memorable moments and learning to relax in the fight.

We're talking commercials! And tacos, actually. Get to know Chris Smith, a working commercial director and find out just what it takes to get those commercials you see from concept to screen.

In this episode, hang out with actor ASHLEY SPILLARS as she posits the no rhyme or reasons of casting, the ups and downs of auditions and the power in being relaxed.

In this week's episode, we talk with Writer / Director AJ EDWARDS of the TYE SHERIDAN feature film AGE OUT, about casting non-actors and young children, conversations vs. callbacks and a perfectly surprising performance by the gaffer.

In this week's episode, we talk with Katie Graham and Andrew Matthews, the filmmaking duo behind the SXSW Audience Award-winning feature film ZERO CHARISMA. Join us as we talk tabletop gaming, nerd culture, the overseas market's love of weddings and babies, and casting from your gut, despite everyone telling you not to.

Join us in this episode as we chat with Writer and Director Trey Nelson, who takes us behind the scenes of his film "Lost in the Sun."  Trey shares his experiences and insights into bringing this captivating story to life as well as his Journey as an Artist. 

In today's episode, we talk with Writer / Director SPENCER PARSONS about his experiences with casting his horror feature SATURDAY MORNING MASSACRE, collaboration, commodity fetishism, and Viking funerals!

In this episode, we talk with Emmy-nominated actor SCOOT MCNAIRY. Known for his remarkable performances in films like “ARGO,” “GONE GIRL,” and TV series such as “NARCOS,” “TRUE DETECTIVE” and “HALT & CATCH FIRE” we talk everything from auditions and table reads to riding bulls and jumping out of planes!

In today's episode, we talk with writer/director, editor and composer AMMAN ABBASI about his experience working with non-actors and the casting of his two-time Independent Spirit Award-nominated and 2017 Sundance premiere film DAYVEON.

In today's episode, we talk with Writer, Director MICHAEL TULLY about his experiences with casting his Sundance premiered, coming of age in the 80's gem, PING PONG SUMMER. Karate Kid meets Ping Pong with Susan Sarandon, Amy Sedaris, Lea Thomson and John Hannah!

In today's episode, we talk with Writer, Director BRYAN POYSER about his experiences with casting his Sundance competition and Spirit Award nominated film LOVERS OF HATE.

In today's episode, we talk with Writer, Director, Producer and Showrunner KAT CANDLER about her experiences with casting between films (HELLION) and television (QUEEN SUGAR).