Afleveringen
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Imagine you're working your ass off for a thankless 60+ hours a week job on a TV show, and you discover everyone else in your position is making more than you.
PS, they're all men. And you're the only woman.
In this week's episode of the Hollywood Confessional, we hear a confession from an office production assistant who found herself in this very dilemma.
"When I was handed all of the pay cards with everybody's rates on them for
that week, it happened that the card on top was another production assistant.
And when I looked at his card –- not trying to look, but in receiving something, one
must look at it -- I realized he was getting paid $50 more a week than me."
Awareness leads to action in this inspiring story from a PA who found the courage to confront her boss and demand fair pay... despite the very real fear that doing so could end her career.
"I was really scared. I feel scared even just describing this story to you. Because think about what this guy could do to me, you know? He could make it so I could never work in this town again."
We get into the dangers of taking a stand when you feel like you have no power, and the calculated risks that come with following your beliefs. Finally, we discuss what entertainment industry workers can do to protect themselves in similar pay gap situations.
Spoiler... sometimes these stories have a happy ending.Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
We are back! Welcome to season three of Hollywood Confessional. The season opener sets the stage with a gripping narrative from a support staffer, who unveils the emotional rollercoaster of managing a monster boss.
Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Welcome back to the Confessional! We're back for Season 3, and this year we've got more confessions, more interviews, and more producers! It's bigger, badder, and better in every way.
Join us on March 28th for our season premiere.Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
We dedicate this episode to @Time Person of the Year Nominee the Hollywood Strikers!
Getting real for a sec, though -- the Hollywood Strikes of 2023 are officially over, and TBH we're feeling a little uncertain.
A lot of hope and solidarity were born this Hot Labor Summer. Yet despite all the wins and losses, joy and tears, no one really knows what the future holds.Part of our mission at the Hollywood Confessional is to share untold stories from people working in entertainment so that other folks in the industry know they're not alone. Enter our Season Two Finale, "The Best Worst Strike Story Ever."
In this episode, we hear from a confessor about how their crazy career path led to a crisis during the WGA Strike of 2007-2008. The years of struggle. The short wins and endless losses. The moment when their dream finally comes true... followed by the moment when they realize it's about to be waylaid by forces beyond their control.
Through the ups and downs, we hear how despite all the changes in Hollywood, much remains the same... even the occasional happily ever after.
Join us in the booth for this funny, heartwarming confession that will have you nodding along and feeling that spark we all need to keep our love of this industry alive. If you like the episode, please share and connect with us on socials @fessuphollywood. We'd love to hear your thoughts on how you want to make Hollywood a happier place in 2024 and beyond!
#Hollywood #WGAStrong #SAGAFTRAStrong #Strikes #fessuphollywood
Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
Nolwen Cifuentes and Dyan Jong had an idea. An independent digital platform celebrating the cinematic achievements of actors, screenwriters, and filmmakers with a focus on diverse voices and perspectives. But as they saw the very people they aimed to uplift locked in a grueling labor struggle, they dedicated their first two issues to highlighting the stories, challenges, and concerns of SAG-AFTRA and WGA union members during the current strikes.
Join us in the booth as we talk with Nolwen and Dyan about their inspiration for creating JULY Magazine and how they've pivoted to show support for the artists they aim to celebrate. From inception to publication, we follow their creative journey and hear how they hope to make Hollywood a happier place!
#WGAStrong #SAGAFTRAStrong #UnionStrong
@july_mag
Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
Strike news drops. In Variety, Deadline, The Hollywood Reporter, TheWrap. Hundreds of thousands of people jump on the story, the future subject of their talks, hopes, fears, and social media stands. But where did it come from… and why?
In this week’s episode of the Hollywood Confessional, an entertainment journalist gives the inside scoop on what goes on behind the scenes at a trade publication.
From the insane hours and grueling work to the genuine love of story that drives them — even when the system gets them down — our confessor gets real about how news gets made in Hollywood, and sheds light on how they feel trades should be reevaluated and transformed.
Join us in the booth as we learn about this little-discussed side of the industry and catch up on what’s inspiring us during strike times! #WGAStrong #SAGAFTRAStrong
Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
For 130 days and counting, fresh, hot pizzas have appeared on the LA studio picket lines every... single... day. How?
Meet this week's guest on the Hollywood Confessional, Jess Morse! Jess is one of many people making Hollywood a happier place in strike times. So far, Jess and a team of volunteers have delivered an astounding $20,000 worth of pizza to keep picketing writers and actors on their feet. Join us as we hear how this massive meal-providing operation kicked off with a tweet, and how it was quickly followed by a cascade of generosity and heartwarming stories.
If you'd like to volunteer to deliver pizzas or donate to the pizza cause, you can get in contact with Jess on Twitter @chessmorse. And connect with us while you're at it! It's never been clearer that as positive members of the happy Hollywood community, we are all in this together.Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
Power talks behind closed doors. In this special confession, we hear from an executive at a streaming arm of a studio about what's actually being said and done inside the studios during the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes.
How corporate chaos fostered by the streaming boom and the pandemic led to a desire among many to double down on control. How that desire manifests differently for the leadership than it does for the rank-and-file. How the disconnect is fostering an atmosphere of dissent within the studios, countered only by fear and the rise of an "us-versus-them" mentality.
Our confessor shares these truths along with some thoughts on how striking workers can most effectively counter the toxicity in this Hollywood Confessional "extra". Please help spread the word by sharing with others who want to make Hollywood a happier place.
#WGAStrong #SAGAFTRA #WGAStrike #UnionStrongConnect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
Hello Hollywood Faithful! This week we've got a very special episode where we interview Joelle Garfinkel, creator of Green Envelope Grocery Aid. Joelle is actively working to make Hollywood a happier place by organizing a mutual aid fund for those in need.
If you'd like to donate to the fund, you can venmo Joelle: http://venmo.com/joelle-garfinkel
You can also send money via PayPal: https://paypal.me/greenenvelopeaid?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US
If you'd like to apply for funds, you can find the application here: https://forms.gle/YrunTwueUZD5uvos8
Additional information can be found at Joelle's twitter: @msjoellegarfConnect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
Motorcycle chases. Labor abuses. Unsolicited bodily fluids. Just another day Hollywood?
In this week's episode, a small arms and demolitions expert enters a different kind of battlefield when he takes a job as a production assistant on a film run by a notorious low-budget producer. But neither earthquakes nor legal problems nor a $50-a-day flat rate can deter this intrepid confessor. Join us as we hear how, despite crazy obstacles, he hustled his way to the top of the industry... only to discover he wasn't where he wanted to be.
We also have a very special guest this week! Hollywood historian Andrea Van Landingham, author of Hollywood Horrors: Murders, Scandals and Cover-Ups from Tinseltown, joins us to talk about the history of Hollywood and whether it's doomed (destined?) to be a crazy town. Don't miss it!Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
We pick up right where we left off last episode: the first AD just pulled a real gun. This raises a storm of questions about safety measures, responsibility, and ethics. We unpack this incident, empathizing with the line producer's reaction, and explore the gray areas of accountability when guns make their way onto a film set. In this whirlwind of conflict, controversy, and collective action, we witness the ripple effects shaking Hollywood's foundation.
We also discuss the significance of the recent development of this summer's labor movement and how the industry's landscape is being reshaped. Join us as we examine these complexities, highlight the power of labor solidarity, and ponder the lasting legacy of these incidents on Hollywood's work culture.Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
A producer walks onto a movie set and takes out a gun. Why?
Our confessor has a lot to say about that. In this week's episode of the Hollywood Confessional, we hear the first part of an intense behind-the-scenes tale from a Second AD on an independent film where a run-and-gun approach led to a dangerous situation. We discuss safety on set, the importance of engaged leadership, and how group dynamics can shape events in ways perhaps no individual expects.
This confession was recorded prior to the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. However, our intro was recorded Wednesday, July 12, hours prior to the expiration of the SAG-AFTRA contract. It features a special conversation with our friends at Blue Monday Productions Shira Gorelick and Julie Snyder, as we discuss the rumor mill surrounding negotiations and what we're all fighting for. Check it out, share this episode, and let us know your thoughts @fessuphollywood! And if you have a moment, please leave us a review on your podcast app. It really helps get the word out to those who are working to make Hollywood a happier place!
#WGAStrong #WGAStrike #SAGAFTRA #SAGStrikeConnect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes in the world of commercial production? Tune in to this episode of The Hollywood Confessional as we hear stories about the immense pressure of juggling time, budget, and creativity while producing commercials.
We have three stories this week: a worldwide search for a model, a client who didn't understand that English and Spanish are different languages, and a scrappy producer just trying to get his job done.
We also talk about the WGA strike as it goes into it's ninth week. So sit back, relax, and hang out with us in the confessional booth.Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
INT. MAJOR AGENCY - TV LIT DESK - DAY (2007)
A dedicated ASSISTANT discovers a plan detailing exactly when all support staffers will be let go to save the agency money during the 2007 Writers Strike.
Join us in the confessional booth as we hear this support staffer’s tale of seeing exactly how much their agency valued support staff… and their clients. In a parallel to some actions taking place during the WGA strike today, their agency seeks positive PR on the picket lines but turns cutthroat behind closed doors.
As the confessor and their cohorts try to figure out how to weather the storm of this major labor dispute, they reflect on how years of sacrifice can amount to nothing on their company’s bottom line. Ultimately, they realize the most important thing in Hollywood isn’t always saving your job… it’s saving your self.
#wgastrike
#wgastrong
#fessuphollywood
Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
Ever felt like you were just another horse being traded in the entertainment business?
Join us this week as our confessor shares their story of becoming a hot commodity as a writer... and then losing steam. Through the emotional rollercoaster of selling a pilot and several pitches but never getting anything made, they uncover some invaluable lessons about creativity, self-belief, and various ways to stay human in this highly transactional industry.
In this episode, we also explore the crucial role of having the right people in the room when it comes to nurturing the creative process, and how these connections can help propel us towards emotional and artistic growth. So, whether you're an aspiring TV or film writer or a seasoned pro, tune in for an inspiring discussion about navigating the highs and lows of the industry and finding that creative sweet spot with like-minded individuals.Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
Who knows what really goes on behind the scenes in Hollywood? Crew members, that's who. This week, we're sharing a confession from a lighting technician who has worked on dozens of films and TV series, witnessing some intense safety issues and some jaw-dropping work environments. We hear stories of rigging across mountaintops and frozen waterfalls, almost killing someone with a tree, and finally how a bad boss led our confessor to refuse to work on one famous show ever again. Find out how safety on set depends on who's running the show, how those on non-union sets are often more exposed to danger, and what makes working tough jobs in the entertainment industry rewarding. Join us in the booth!
Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
Fellowship and festival season is upon us! And as we continue to support #WGA writers in their efforts to make Hollywood a happier place, we also celebrate the intrepid spirits of all those who dare to enter competitions. This week our confessor navigates the trials and tribulations of festival season successfully... only to learn that even when you win, it's not all laurels. Thanks for tuning in!
Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
TRIGGER WARNING: This week's story involves drug use. If this could be distressing to you, please skip this episode and join us next week.
“I’m at a party. Somebody goes into their pocket and pulls out five or six pills. And I take all of them, and I eat them. About 15 minutes later, I’m not feeling good. I think I’m about to throw up. I’m by the sink. I look in the cupboard, and there’s a filter. So I grab a coffee filter. I lean over the sink, and I throw up into the coffee filter. And then I squeeze it, open the filter. And there are the pills. And I take the pills and take a beer, and I swallow them again. That’s the kind of addict I was.”
In today’s episode, we hear from an actor whose brilliant career fell apart due to their addictions to drugs and alcohol. From booking several roles a month at 19 to becoming a final contender for a series lead, our confessor’s meteoric rise coincided with an increasingly habit of using… which ultimately brought it all crashing down.
“I thought talent was everything. I thought, I’m not the first guy to have issues with drugs or alcohol. Let’s figure it out. I’m worth it. But within a few years, I had nothing. I blew all the money. I didn’t have anything left.”
Redemption didn’t come easily for our confessor. They continued to book roles because of their talent, but marijuana and cocaine eventually led to more ravaging addictions… and trouble with the law. They only survived, as our confessor puts it, because angels were looking out for them… just long enough to bring our confessor to the point where they were ready to get the help they needed.
In this episode, we hear how addiction can completely take over the life of an artist, and at least one of the reasons why. We also hear a profoundly moving tale of redemption, as our confessor finally figures out what it takes to come clean.
"Coming Clean" is very important to us, and we hope this story will inspire our fellow entertainment industry professionals who are also struggling with addiction. Let us know what you think on Twitter or Instagram @fessuphollywood. And please leave us a review and rating here! We’ll be back in two weeks with another episode of Hollywood Confessional.
Other episodes we think you'll enjoy:
“The Comeback” - A fearless aspiring filmmaker scores a job directing a studio feature right out of college. But when it turns out not to be the big break they expect, they must find a way to stay in the game through 25 years of diminishing returns.
“Resting Smile Face” & “The Method” - A PA learns that their friendly face might encourage a-holes to ask for favors. An aspiring actor deals with a shady coach who was really teaching people to bully.Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
Ever thought about making your own movie? Maybe considered the advice “If you want to be a filmmaker, just shoot a film!” It sounds simple. But take it from our confessor: Do-it-yourselfing can be a dangerous (and expensive) business!
In this week’s confession, we hear from a gung-ho aspiring director who gets tired of
waiting for something to happen in their career and decides to take action to achieve theirdream. Unlike some Hollywood hucksters, however, our confessor isn’t comfortable claiming to be something they’re not. So they do it the hard way…
“My level of work ethic, first, and dignity, second, tells me I cannot wear a title if I
have not earned it. But I started to realize the things I wanted to do cost money.
Like, a LOT of money.”
After years of frustration, they join a collective of artists who claim they’re all going to
volunteer time to work on each other’s short films… only to discover that no one in the group wants to produce. So our confessor realizes that if they want to direct, they’re going to have to do the whole thing on their own.
“If I don’t move the needle, nothing will move. Because who’s going to do it? Who’s
going to do anything for me if I don’t do it for myself?”
Determination and self-reliance lead our confessor down a path riddled with crazy
setbacks and miraculous breakthroughs. Ultimately the film gets made… but will it make their career?
In this episode, we get into the following:
1. How to make your own short film
2. How to work with actors (when they don’t want to work with you)
3. How to deal with setbacks in your creative career
As content creators ourselves, this story really resonates with us. We’d love to hear what you think! Shoot us a note about when you tried to make your own film @fessuphollywood, or leave us a review here.
Other episodes we think you'll enjoy:
“The Comeback” - A fearless aspiring filmmaker scores a job directing a studio feature right out of college. But when it turns out not to be the big break they expect, they must find a way to stay in the game through 25 years of diminishing returns."Clipboard Girl" - A tough aspiring filmmaker faces a disaster her first day on set but finds a way to turn it into a win for her career.
“Resting Smile Face” & “The Method” - A PA learns that their friendly face might encourage a-holes to ask for favors. An aspiring actor deals with a shady coach who was really teaching people to bully.
Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife -
Money. Fame. That nagging feeling that you might have given up everything you believed in to get the one thing you wanted.
In this week’s confession, we hear from a feature film writer who experienced all this and more. Well, maybe not the fame part. And… not a ton of money, now that we think about it. But they definitely sold out for a glimpse of Hollywood glory.
“The whole ‘artist’ thing – whatever I once felt like I needed to say – that was completely gone. I was ready to make a deal. A thousand bucks for the option, and I was in.”
The deal seemed like a great idea at first. They survived development hell, got to call themself a professional screenwriter. But once the film finally got the green light, they learned selling out has its own price.
“So many things were happening. They were picking locations, hiring a DP, holding auditions – and they cast [BLEEP BLEEP] as the lead! But I barely got to see any of this. I just heard it was happening through the grapevine. In essence, it was like my part was finished.”
In this episode, we discuss:
1. How to manage FOMO when the movie you spent years working on is being made without you
2. Why screenplay options should really be more than a thousand bucks3. How to make the most of your three days on set when the director is crying and the star has locked himself in his trailer
We wrap up this episode with a shoutout to some industry professionals who saved our butts more than once while we were working on location in Toronto – the transportation crew! These folks don’t often get a lot of shine, but they should! They start work before anyone else, and their days don’t end until everyone gets home safely. Thanks to all the transpo pros out there for making Hollywood a happier place!
If you know someone who deserves a shoutout, or if you have a story you’re dying to get off your chest, let us know on Twitter or IG @fessuphollywood.
And please leave us a review and rating here! We’ll be back in two weeks with another episode of Hollywood Confessional.
Other episodes we think you'll enjoy:
“The Comeback” - A fearless aspiring filmmaker scores a job directing a studio feature right out of college. But when it turns out not to be the big break they expect, they must find a way to stay in the game through 25 years of diminishing returns.
“The Porn Car” - A veteran industry pro tells a zany tale from behind the scenes of a well-known TV show, navigating cocaine-fueled disasters and encounters with nude adult film stars while trying to keep the production running.Connect with us:
Instagram Facebook Twitter WebsiteHollywood Confessional is a Ninth Way Media production, produced by Meagan Daine and J.R. Zamora-Thal.
Sound Effects and Music provided by Zapsplat and Pixabay.
Keywords: filmmaking podcast, film podcast, screenwriting podcast, entertainment podcast, Hollywood, filmmaking, writerslife, actorslife, setlife - Laat meer zien
