Dean unpacks the turning point that changed his work: an acting class with Aaron Speiser that replaced “how should this look?” with “what does this human believe right now?” We dig into the “moment before,” the trap of starting scenes in a pre-...

Ever notice how the best performances feel unforced, like the camera just wandered into a real moment? That’s the core of our time with actor and coach Dean West, who makes a compelling case that presence beats performance every time. We dig in...

A meme tried to tell our story for us—so we brought in the person at the center of it. Ann Mahoney sits down with us to unpack a viral rumor about a Walking Dead scene, why it’s completely false, and what gets lost when the internet mistakes co...

A 48-hour film sprint on a horse rescue ranch. Cowboy kung fu. Seven hours of beautiful footage left on the floor. That’s where our talk with New Orleans filmmaker Scott Nielsen kicks off—and it only gets wilder from there. Scott breaks down th...

What if your greatest challenges became your greatest strengths? Actress, writer, and producer Eileen Gruba transforms this question from philosophical musing to lived reality in this powerful conversation about disability, resilience, and the ...

Resilience takes center stage as actress, writer, and producer Eileen Gruba shares her extraordinary 30-year journey through the entertainment industry. From childhood tragedy to industry trailblazer and advocate for disabled actors, Eileen's s...

What does it mean to find success in the entertainment industry during slow times? Hick Cheramie returns to our show after two years to share the profound wisdom he's gained navigating the unpredictable waters of an acting career while maintain...

From childhood VHS movie-making to crafting indie films with a distinctive voice, actor-director Zac Cino takes us behind the scenes of his creative journey on this episode of NOLA Film Scene.Zac shares the story of how a prop gun press...

When we hit record on our very first NOLA Film Scene episode two years ago, we never imagined the incredible journey ahead. From upgrading our recording setup (goodbye, dark sound booth!) to forming meaningful connections with talented creators...

What happens when a 21-year Coast Guard veteran trades military service for movie magic? Kevin Cheatham takes us behind the scenes of his remarkable journey from aviation mechanic to Hollywood stunt performer, actor and filmmaker in this fascin...

What would make you cut a beard you've grown for years? For TJ, it wasn't money—it was the right creative project. In this candid conversation, TJ and Plaideau break down their separate journeys through this year's 48-Hour Film Competition in N...

Tatiana Piper's path to the DC Universe began not on a Hollywood soundstage but in a Russian classroom where creative aspirations were met with skepticism. "When is this phase going to fade out and you're going to go be a doctor or lawyer or bu...

Dollar bills transform into works of art and vehicles of human connection in the hands of Jim Vess, the beloved "origami guy" of the New Orleans film scene. Recorded at the inaugural Galaxy Con New Orleans, this conversation reveals how Jim's c...

What happens when a childhood passion refuses to be silenced? In this captivating conversation, Jana McCaffrey reveals her remarkable journey through multiple careers while never letting go of her dream to perform.

Birthday celebrations, upcoming film competitions, and the realization that we're approaching our podcast's two-year anniversary – this casual check-in episode captures the ongoing journey of NOLA Film Scene.

From performing sketch comedy to nearly empty theaters to suddenly writing for Steven Spielberg, Paul Rugg's unexpected journey into animation reveals the magical creative energy behind Warner Brothers' most beloved 90s cartoons. Paul's journey...

What does it take to cross boundaries between music, acting, and language? Manon Pagès embodies this creative journey, bringing her classical music foundations to the vibrant film scene of New Orleans.The conversation opens a window int...

Tj discusses a major failure on a film project and Plaideau discusses a win.

Susan Lebrecht's creative journey defies conventional artistic paths, weaving together dance, choreography, and acting into a rich tapestry of expression. Her earliest artistic memories revolve around musical theater and watching West Side Stor...

Ever wondered what it takes to create a short film in just 48 hours? Michelle Bousquet talks about her book which details how to do complete a 48 Hour Film Project.  Michele's Book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/iqQKn54

Tony Gibson isn't just an actor, he's a creative force who morphs into his characters with an unrivaled intensity. As he reveals in our conversation, this transformative approach stems from his early days in metal music scenes, where he discove...

What does it take to fall in love with filmmaking and stay in love with it for decades? Bob Krieger's journey from a kid "borrowing" his dad's Super 8 camera to an award-winning editor offers a fascinating window into the evolution of visual st...

The duo announces an exciting crossover with "Anecdotes from Bob Krieger," featuring fellow creatives Michelle Bousquet and Dave Burdick. This special collaboration will unfold across two episodes—first on Bob's podcast, then with the tables tu...

What does it take to go from filming basketball workouts on an iPhone to becoming an award-winning cinematographer? Jonathan Boots Sigler's journey through the filmmaking landscape offers a fascinating glimpse into how talent, opportunity, and ...