Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

• Ep 228: From I Love Lucy to Ally McBeal: Amy Castle's Path to Stardom and Music

  Join us for an exciting conversation with the multi-talented Amy as she shares her journey from a young performer influenced by iconic shows like I Love Lucy and Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood to landing major roles in TV hits like Ally McBeal. In this episode, we dive deep into Amy’s creative evolution, from memorizing Lucille Ball's famous Vitameatavegamin monologue to winning a Young Artist Award on Lizzie McGuire during a challenging time for the industry.Amy opens up about her early love for performance, her powerful role in shaping her own health-conscious lifestyle, and how she combined her on-camera skills with a passion for nutrition to create the hit show What’s Amy Eating? With over 200 episodes, Amy has inspired countless viewers with her healthy living journey.Plus, we discuss her latest venture into music with the release of her original single "Moving On" and the story behind directing her own music video. This episode is filled with reflections on childhood influences, the ups and downs of a career in entertainment, and the ways in which passion can shape multiple creative endeavors.Highlights Include:Growing up in Los Angeles and the early TV shows that shaped Amy's love for performanceMemorizing Lucille Ball's Vitameatavegamin monologue as a kidHow early theater roles and Ally McBeal shaped Amy's career in televisionThe journey to becoming an advocate for healthy eating with What’s Amy Eating?Winning a Young Artist Award for Lizzie McGuire during the aftermath of 9/11A look at Amy’s musical journey, from Moving On to directing her own music videoW: https://www.amycastle.com

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• Ep 227: From Dentistry to Emmy Gold: The Cinematic Journey of Michael Fitzer

  In this episode, we had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the remarkable Mike, an Emmy Award-winning cinematographer with over 25 years of experience in the film industry. We traversed the fascinating landscape of his career, uncovering the pivotal moments that shaped his unique approach to visual storytelling. Mike's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the courage to pursue one's true calling.Initially setting his sights on a career in dentistry, his path took an unexpected turn when he discovered his innate talent for capturing the world through the lens of a camera. This led him to the world of documentary filmmaking, where he honed his skills in weaving compelling narratives and addressing pressing social issues. Throughout the interview, Mike's passion for his craft was palpable. He emphasized the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision, even when faced with the pressures of the industry.His dedication to capturing the essence of his subjects and his commitment to using film as a tool for change were truly inspiring. We delved into some of the key aspects of Mike's filmmaking process, from his meticulous pre-production planning to his hands-on approach to cinematography. He shared his insights on the ever-evolving technology of filmmaking, emphasizing the importance of mastering the fundamentals while remaining adaptable to new tools and techniques. Mike's advice to aspiring cinematographers was both practical and heartfelt: "Have fun, be passionate, and never stop learning." He stressed the significance of building strong relationships within the industry and the value of continuous self-improvement.This episode was an insightful exploration of the art and craft of cinematography, guided by the wisdom and experience of a true master. Mike's journey is a reminder that the path to success is rarely linear, but with passion, dedication, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected, anything is possible.Relevant links:https://www.film180.com/aboutSpalding University's MFA in Writing Program

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• Ep 226: The Art of Music Law: Navigating the Industry with Sarah Falzon

  In this episode of The Art of Music Law, we dive into the world of entertainment law with Sarah Falzon, an accomplished associate at Taylor Oballa Murray Leyland LLP. With her expertise in music and entertainment law, Sarah shares her insights on the unique legal challenges artists and music companies face today.Episode Highlights:1. Background & Career PathSarah shares her journey into entertainment law and the experiences that sparked her interest in the field.How her background in mathematics and statistics shapes her approach to legal work and problem-solving.The transition from law school to practicing entertainment law and the lessons she learned along the way.2. Music & Entertainment LawThe biggest legal challenges artists and music companies face today, and how they can protect their interests.A breakdown of a common legal issue Sarah helps artists navigate, from contract negotiations to copyright concerns.The significant impact streaming platforms and digital media have had on music law.Legal protections that emerging artists should prioritize early in their careers to safeguard their work.3. Personal Connection to MusicSarah reflects on her personal connection to music, having played the violin for over 20 years, and how this influences her work as a lawyer.How being a musician herself helps Sarah relate to her clients and advocate for their needs in a more empathetic and effective manner.4. Advice & Future TrendsSarah offers valuable advice for young lawyers interested in pursuing a career in entertainment law.The trends and legal issues shaping the future of the music industry, including the evolving relationship between artists and digital platforms. W: SARAH FALZON

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• Ep 225: Mastering the Art of Cinematography with Quenell Jones, SOC

  Guest: Quenell Jones, SOC (Society of Camera Operators)Episode Overview:In this episode, Damien Swaby sits down with Quenell Jones, an accomplished cinematographer and camera operator, to discuss his journey in the film industry, his passion for cinematography, and the collaborative nature of filmmaking.Quenell shares insights from his experiences working with various networks, his education in film, and the technical aspects of creating impactful visual stories.Key Topics Discussed:Early Beginnings: Quenell reflects on his introduction to the film industry through high school projects and internships at CNN and PBS.Passion for Cinematography: He discusses how his curiosity for visual storytelling was sparked by watching documentaries and his experiences with different camera technologies.Education in Film: Quenell shares his decision to pursue a master's degree in film in Manchester, England, and the international perspective he gained from working with filmmakers from diverse backgrounds.The Role of a Cinematographer: Insights into the responsibilities of a cinematographer, including collaboration with directors and the technical processes involved in capturing images.Challenges in the Industry: Quenell talks about the ups and downs of a filmmaking career, including recent strikes and the stress that can accompany the profession.Artistic Collaboration: The importance of merging creative ideas with directors and other artists to construct compelling visual narratives.Recent Projects: Quenell highlights some of his recent work, including his role as a camera operator on notable films and shows.Quotes:"The passion to create movies, the passion to create content, the passion to build a story that is impactful.""Cinematography goes way, way back, and it’s about the construction of many artisans working together."Contact Quenell: Quenell Jones, SOCWatch Zero Day: Zero Day

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• Ep 224: Breaking Barriers in Hollywood with Diane Strand

  Episode Summary: Welcome to another episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby! In this inspiring episode, we sit down with powerhouse producer, entrepreneur, and mentor Diane Strand. From working on legendary TV shows like Friends and General Hospital to founding the JDS Creative Academy, Diane has dedicated her career to both storytelling and uplifting the next generation of media professionals.We dive into Diane’s journey—her early love for theatre, the challenges of making it in Hollywood, and her transition into entrepreneurship. She shares firsthand experiences from the entertainment industry, the grit required to succeed, and how she turned obstacles into opportunities.Most importantly, we explore her passion for mentorship and education, and how JDS Creative Academy is creating career pathways for aspiring creatives, including those with special needs.Whether you're a filmmaker, writer, producer, or just someone passionate about the entertainment industry, this episode is packed with wisdom, motivation, and actionable insights.Tune in to hear how Diane is breaking barriers and empowering the future of media arts.Key Topics Covered: 🎭 Diane’s early passion for storytelling and theatre 🎬 Behind the scenes of Friends and General Hospital 💪 The reality of making it in Hollywood—hard work, perseverance, and grit 🚀 Pivoting from TV production to entrepreneurship 🎓 How JDS Creative Academy is shaping the next generation of filmmakers and media professionalsGuest Info: 🌟 Diane Strand – Founder of JDS Creative Academy, Producer, Author, and Industry Mentor.W: https://jdscreativeacademy.org/LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianestrand/IG: https://www.instagram.com/jdscreativeacademy/Follow & Subscribe: 🎙️ Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby is available on all major podcast platforms! Subscribe and leave a review to support the show.Email: [email protected]

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