Claim OwnershipThe Creative Gap
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© Gian Carlo Stigliano
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The Creative Gap Podcast is for Filmmakers, Entrepreneurs & Creatives. Our goal is to provide conversations around rarely-discussed topics, including Personal Finance, Mental Health, Business, Investments, Relationships, Freelance Life and so much more. Hear from weekly guests on all podcasting platforms.
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This week we have Director Mait Hudson. Mait is a Film Director for Elevation Film, a Christian Church where he focuses on telling stories based around the Christian Faith. In this episode we chat about his walk in faith, how he approaches projects, the mentality needed to succeed as a director and becoming a Father.
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Mait Hudson: Instagram | Website
Carlo: Instagram | Website
The Creative Gap: Instagram | Youtube
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This week we have artist Aaron Ricketts. Aaron is a Creative Director, Producer & Photographer who has created a portfolio of work that will blow your mind. In this conversation we chat about his journey, mindset and mentality needed to operate as a business owner and artist as well as making time for family and relationships.
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Carlo: Instagram | Website
The Creative Gap: Instagram | Youtube
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This week we have Cinematographer Eric Koretz. Eric is best known for his work on Netflix’s Ozark S4 as well as Special Ops: Lioness, Frank & Lola + a ton more. In this conversation we get a glimpse into the mindset of a top level DP and what it takes to get there.
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Carlo: Instagram | Website
The Creative Gap: Instagram | Youtube
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1This week we have Filmmaker, Podcaster, Runner, Youtuber, Father & Husband Eric Floberg. In this conversation we chat about how Eric manages all of his various businesses and brands all while being present as a father and husband.
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Eric Floberg: Instagram | Youtube | Floberg Runs
Carlo: Instagram | Website
The Creative Gap: Instagram | Youtube
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This week we have Cinematographer Oren Soffer. Oren recently shot the feature film ‘The Creator,’ directed by Gareth Edwards, along with cinematographer Greig Fraser ASC ACS, released theatrically worldwide in 2023.
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Carlo: Instagram | Website
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This conversation with Sam Snowden dives into the evolving mindset of a creative navigating purpose, pressure, and identity in a saturated digital landscape. He reflects on how growing responsibilities and external expectations can distort your original “why,” emphasizing the importance of returning to your roots and creating for the younger version of yourself. The discussion explores the unpredictability of freelance life, the danger of relying on external validation, and the need to build self-assurance through things beyond work—like relationships, fitness, and lived experience. Sam highlights the balance between ambition and not being consumed by your craft, reframing obsession as consistent curiosity rather than burnout. Ultimately, the conversation centers on taking action (“create more”), embracing failure as a necessary part of growth, and defining success on your own terms rather than through comparison or metrics.Switch to Musicbed and start your 14-day free trial today: https://fm.pxf.io/tcgp-freetrialSign up to Milanote for free with no time-limit: https://milanote.com/carlostigsLearn more about Nanlite & Nanlux Products: https://nanlite.com/ // https://www.nanlux.com/#/en🤝 Follow Sam ► https://www.instagram.com/samsnowden🤝 Subscribe ► https://www.youtube.com/@samsnowden🤝 Follow The Podcast & Carlo!The Creative Gap: https://www.instagram.com/creativegap/ | https://www.youtube.com/@CreativeGapPodcastCarlo: https://www.instagram.com/carlostigs/ | https://www.youtube.com/@carlostigs
In this conversation, Kariza Santos reflects on her journey as a filmmaker and YouTube creator, discussing the realities of building a creative career while trying to maintain balance in life. She shares how freelancing, experimentation, and years of learning eventually led her to develop a cinematic storytelling style on YouTube, while also navigating the constant pressure to produce content in a fast-moving digital space. Kariza talks about the importance of structure, boundaries, and time-blocking to avoid burnout, as well as the role of mentorship, collaboration, and community in helping creators grow. Ultimately, she emphasizes that creativity is a long-term pursuit built on persistence, curiosity, and self-awareness—encouraging creators to focus less on algorithms or perfection and more on finding their voice, continuing to learn, and creating work they’re genuinely proud of.Switch to Musicbed and start your 14-day free trial today: https://fm.pxf.io/tcgp-freetrialSign up to Milanote for free with no time-limit: https://milanote.com/carlostigsLearn more about Nanlite & Nanlux Products: https://nanlite.com/ // https://www.nanlux.com/#/en🤝 Follow Kariza ► https://www.instagram.com/lifeofriza🤝 Subscribe ► https://www.youtube.com/lifeofriza🤝 Follow The Podcast & Carlo!The Creative Gap: https://www.instagram.com/creativegap/ | https://www.youtube.com/@CreativeGapPodcastCarlo: https://www.instagram.com/carlostigs/ | https://www.youtube.com/@carlostigs
Ryan Booth shares an honest and deeply thoughtful look at what it actually means to grow as a filmmaker. From breaking out of the commercial “box” that once defined him to directing his first feature "Stages" after an eight-year journey, Ryan unpacks the tension between comfort and conviction — and what each stage of his career demanded of him. He reflects on moving from DP to commercial director to narrative filmmaker, learning to take full ownership of a vision, and collaborating without losing authority. This conversation explores leadership, vulnerability, agency politics, intuition, and the endurance required to bring a feature to life. At its core, it’s about the courage to stop trying to make everyone happy and instead stand firmly behind your voice — embracing the reality that the chaos and uncertainty never disappear, they simply evolve as you do.Switch to Musicbed and start your 14-day free trial today: https://fm.pxf.io/tcgp-freetrialSign up to Milanote for free with no time-limit: https://milanote.com/carlostigsLearn more about Nanlite & Nanlux Products: https://nanlite.com/ // https://www.nanlux.com/#/en🤝 Follow Ryan ► https://www.instagram.com/ryanbooth/🤝 Follow The Podcast & Carlo!The Creative Gap: https://www.instagram.com/creativegap/ | https://www.youtube.com/@CreativeGapPodcastCarlo: https://www.instagram.com/carlostigs/ | https://www.youtube.com/@carlostigs
In this episode, Blaine Westrup reflects on the slow, earned process of finding your style as a filmmaker and the confidence that only comes through time, failure, and self-critique. He shares pivotal on-set struggles that shaped his growth, the tension between ownership and collaboration as a DP, and the importance of culture, energy, and “vibe time” on set. Blaine dives into risk—both financial and creative—and how saying “yes” more often changed his trajectory. He speaks candidly about YouTube as a creative logbook rather than an algorithm game, the discipline required to survive the highs and lows of freelance life, and why stepping away from the camera can sharpen your voice. Ultimately, his definition of success isn’t fame or money, but an inner calm—a grounded confidence in the direction he’s walking and the life he’s building beyond just the frame.Switch to Musicbed and start your 14-day free trial today: https://fm.pxf.io/tcgp-freetrialSign up to Milanote for free with no time-limit: https://milanote.com/carlostigsLearn more about Nanlite & Nanlux Products: https://nanlite.com/ // https://www.nanlux.com/#/en🤝 Follow Blaine ► https://www.instagram.com/wstrpp/Subscribe to Blaine ► https://www.youtube.com/@BlaineWestropp1🤝 Follow The Podcast & Carlo!The Creative Gap: https://www.instagram.com/creativegap/ | https://www.youtube.com/@CreativeGapPodcastCarlo: https://www.instagram.com/carlostigs/ | https://www.youtube.com/@carlostigs
In this episode of The Creative Gap Podcast, filmmaker and YouTuber Matt Aitia opens up about risk, identity, and the long road toward creative ownership. The conversation begins with a reflection on resilience, patience, and betting on yourself when there are no guarantees. Matt breaks down his approach to goal-setting, consistency on YouTube, and why process matters more than surface-level metrics. He shares how stepping away from steady lighting work forced him to confront fear, redefine success, and rebuild his identity beyond job titles. A major focus of the episode is his short film Get Up, Try Again—from self-funding and committing real money, to directing for the first time, navigating anxiety, post-production setbacks, and learning when to “kill your darlings.” Together, the conversation explores mentorship, networking as relationship-building (not transactions), the emotional cost of creative transitions, and why sustainability—not status—is the real measure of success. It’s an honest look at what it means to keep creating, even when certainty disappears.JOIN CIVA COLLECTIVE ► https://www.civacollective.com/WATCH TRAIN GET UP, TRY AGAIN ON YOUTUBE ► https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ho6585isjYFollow Us!Matt Aitia: Instagram | WebsiteCarlo: Instagram | WebsiteThe Creative Gap: Instagram | Youtube____________________________________________________⚙️ GEAR USED TO MAKE THIS PODCAST:Rodecaster Pro II: https://amzn.to/3RluSeVRode Podmic: https://amzn.to/3RpaR77Mic Stand: https://amzn.to/4caJUfiCamera 1: https://amzn.to/45h5E7bCamera 2: https://amzn.to/45g8iKxLight: https://amzn.to/3KK6XSt
In this episode, Nica Fazio shares a grounded and honest look at what it truly takes to grow in the film industry. After moving from another country to New York, she reflects on the non-linear reality of building a career on set—navigating visas, cultural shifts, and the challenge of starting from zero in an unfamiliar industry. Rather than relying on shortcuts or titles, Nica’s path has been shaped by persistence, curiosity, and showing up with humility. Alongside her growth as a working grip and electric, she has also built an authentic presence on social media, using it as a tool to share her experiences, educate, and encourage others. Through this visibility, Nica has become an inspiration to many women around the world, showing that a career in film—especially in technical departments—is not only possible, but attainable. Her story is a powerful reminder that film careers are built slowly, through kindness, trust, and the courage to keep going when the path isn’t clear.JOIN CIVA COLLECTIVE ► https://www.civacollective.com/USE THE CODE: TCG20 TO RECEIVE 20% OFF "THE FOUNDATION" MEMBERSHIPFollow Us!Nica Fazio: Instagram | Community InstagramCarlo: Instagram | WebsiteThe Creative Gap: Instagram | Youtube____________________________________________________⚙️ GEAR USED TO MAKE THIS PODCAST:Rodecaster Pro II: https://amzn.to/3RluSeVRode Podmic: https://amzn.to/3RpaR77Mic Stand: https://amzn.to/4caJUfiCamera 1: https://amzn.to/45h5E7bCamera 2: https://amzn.to/45g8iKxLight: https://amzn.to/3KK6XSt
In this episode of The Creative Gap, cinematographer Adolpho Veloso reflects on the long arc of a creative career—moving from instinct and innocence to experience, restraint, and trust. Through stories from Train Dreams, he shares how embracing limitations, trusting instinct, and reconnecting with early creative innocence helped him find freedom again—both on set and in life. This episode explores how growth as a DP is deeply tied to growth as a human—learning patience, accepting imperfection, and understanding that the film is always bigger than any single decision or mistake (you make). The conversation explores choosing projects with intention, leading through calm and collaboration, navigating limitations as creative fuel, and redefining success beyond technical perfection. At its core, this episode is about presence: on set, in relationships, and in life. This episode is less about how to shoot a film and more about how to live alongside the work without losing yourself in the process.JOIN CIVA COLLECTIVE ► https://www.civacollective.com/WATCH TRAIN DREAMS ON NETFLIX ► https://www.netflix.com/title/82020378Follow Us!Adolpho Veloso, ABC, AIP: Instagram | WebsiteCarlo: Instagram | WebsiteThe Creative Gap: Instagram | Youtube____________________________________________________⚙️ GEAR USED TO MAKE THIS PODCAST:Rodecaster Pro II: https://amzn.to/3RluSeVRode Podmic: https://amzn.to/3RpaR77Mic Stand: https://amzn.to/4caJUfiCamera 1: https://amzn.to/45h5E7bCamera 2: https://amzn.to/45g8iKxLight: https://amzn.to/3KK6XSt
In this episode, Todd Banhazl reflects on cinematography as both a craft and a place of meaning, emphasizing that a DP’s real responsibility goes far beyond the image—it’s about creating a safe, trusting, and energized environment where people can do their best work. He and Carlo talk through leadership learned by failing and repairing, why attitude and emotional awareness matter as much as talent, and how early alignment with directors and departments prevents creative conflict later on. They explore the tension between saying yes out of fear versus curating projects with intention, the shifting definition of “independent film” in a streaming-driven industry, and the importance of protecting taste, patience, and process in a culture that moves too fast. The conversation closes with a grounded perspective on joy and priorities, as Todd shares how fatherhood and family have reshaped how he chooses work—and clarified which projects are truly worth the time and energy they demand.JOIN CIVA COLLECTIVE ► https://www.civacollective.com/USE THE CODE: TCG20 TO RECEIVE 20% OFF "THE FOUNDATION" MEMBERSHIPFollow Us!Todd Banhazl, ASC.: Instagram | WebsiteCarlo: Instagram | WebsiteThe Creative Gap: Instagram | Youtube____________________________________________________⚙️ GEAR USED TO MAKE THIS PODCAST:Rodecaster Pro II: https://amzn.to/3RluSeVRode Podmic: https://amzn.to/3RpaR77Mic Stand: https://amzn.to/4caJUfiCamera 1: https://amzn.to/45h5E7bCamera 2: https://amzn.to/45g8iKxLight: https://amzn.to/3KK6XSt
This last episode of 2025 is really just me taking a breath and looking back. All year, I’ve had the chance to sit across from people I genuinely admire and listen to their stories — not just the wins, but the doubts, the fear, the growing pains, and the parts of their lives they don’t always share publicly. Without realizing it at first, those conversations started shaping how I see my own life and the way I want to move into this next year. What stood out to me was how similar the lessons were, even though everyone’s path looked different: there’s no linear road, only commitment; kindness matters more than we think; sustainability beats burnout; fear never really leaves, but experience teaches you how to keep going anyway; and at the end of it all, people matter more than projects. This episode isn’t about having it all figured out — it’s about recognizing where we are right now, finding peace in the process, and reminding ourselves that if we’re stepping into a new year feeling unsure, tired, or hopeful but unclear, we’re not behind. We’re just starting again.JOIN CIVA COLLECTIVE ► https://www.civacollective.com/USE THE CODE: TCG20 TO RECEIVE 20% OFF "THE FOUNDATION" MEMBERSHIPCarlo: Instagram | WebsiteThe Creative Gap: Instagram | Youtube____________________________________________________⚙️ GEAR USED TO MAKE THIS PODCAST:Rodecaster Pro II: https://amzn.to/3RluSeVRode Podmic: https://amzn.to/3RpaR77Mic Stand: https://amzn.to/4caJUfiCamera 1: https://amzn.to/45h5E7bCamera 2: https://amzn.to/45g8iKxLight: https://amzn.to/3KK6XSt
In this episode of The Creative Gap Podcast, Carlo & his wife Angelica sit down for an honest conversation about marriage, identity, and choosing fulfillment in an unpredictable creative life. Together, you reflect on her decision to leave a traditional job to pursue freelance work in yoga and wellness, the emotional highs and lows that come with that shift, and the identity changes that follow when you stop chasing “stability” and start building something meaningful. The conversation expands into marriage, compromise, redefining success beyond money, and creating a life rooted in presence, purpose, and long-term sustainability—ending with a reminder to practice contentment (santosha) while still allowing space to grow.JOIN CIVA COLLECTIVE ► https://www.civacollective.com/USE THE CODE: TCG20 TO RECEIVE 20% OFF "THE FOUNDATION" MEMBERSHIPFollow Us!Angelica: Instagram Carlo: Instagram | WebsiteThe Creative Gap: Instagram | YoutubeSUPPORT THE PODCAST ON PATREON____________________________________________________⚙️ GEAR USED TO MAKE THIS PODCAST:Rodecaster Pro II: https://amzn.to/3RluSeVRode Podmic: https://amzn.to/3RpaR77Mic Stand: https://amzn.to/4caJUfiCamera 1: https://amzn.to/45h5E7bCamera 2: https://amzn.to/45g8iKxLight: https://amzn.to/3KK6XSt
In this episode, Carlo sits down with filmmaker and YouTuber Patrick Tomasso for a deep, honest conversation about navigating creativity, identity, and longevity in the digital world. Patrick opens up about evolving beyond gear reviews, embracing video essays, and why passion—not algorithms—must guide your work. Together, they explore the fear of changing niches, the pressure to post constantly, maintaining integrity with brands, and the importance of building a genuine connection with an audience who resonates with who you really are. Grounded in vulnerability, humor, and real creative experience, this episode is a reminder that the most meaningful work comes from following your curiosity, trusting your voice, and continuously redefining yourself as you grow.JOIN CIVA COLLECTIVE ► https://www.civacollective.com/USE THE CODE: TCG20 TO RECEIVE 20% OFF "THE FOUNDATION" MEMBERSHIPPATRICK TOMASSO: Instagram | WebsiteCarlo: Instagram | WebsiteThe Creative Gap: Instagram | Youtube____________________________________________________⚙️ GEAR USED TO MAKE THIS PODCAST:Rodecaster Pro II: https://amzn.to/3RluSeVRode Podmic: https://amzn.to/3RpaR77Mic Stand: https://amzn.to/4caJUfiCamera 1: https://amzn.to/45h5E7bCamera 2: https://amzn.to/45g8iKxLight: https://amzn.to/3KK6XSt
In this episode of The Creative Gap, cinematographer and entrepreneur Nicholas Bluff shares how his creative journey evolved from filming parkour videos in Copenhagen to founding Bluff Bounce, a lighting innovation now used by filmmakers worldwide. He reflects on lessons learned from working in the lighting and camera departments, the cultural contrasts between filmmaking in Denmark and Brazil, and how observation and curiosity led him to develop a product that replicates the beauty of natural light. Nicholas discusses balancing art and entrepreneurship, building structure to fuel creativity, and the importance of presence, awareness, and authenticity in a world driven by speed and imitation.JOIN CIVA COLLECTIVE ► https://www.civacollective.comFollow Us!Nicholas Bluff: InstagramBluff Bounce: Instagram | WebsiteCarlo: Instagram | WebsiteThe Creative Gap: Instagram | Youtube____________________________________________________⚙️ GEAR USED TO MAKE THIS PODCAST:Rodecaster Pro II: https://amzn.to/3RluSeVRode Podmic: https://amzn.to/3RpaR77Mic Stand: https://amzn.to/4caJUfiCamera 1: https://amzn.to/45h5E7bCamera 2: https://amzn.to/45g8iKxLight: https://amzn.to/3KK6XSt
In this episode, Joshua Martin shares his journey from videography to cinematography, balancing family life with a freelance career, and navigating the challenges of YouTube and creative authenticity. He opens up about financial struggles, building multiple income streams, and the importance of budgeting in an unpredictable industry. Joshua emphasizes reducing overhead, finding peace, and redefining success—not by numbers or possessions, but by sustainability, impact, and community.JOIN CIVA COLLECTIVE ► https://www.civacollective.comFollow Us!Joshua Martin: Instagram | YoutubeCarlo: Instagram | WebsiteThe Creative Gap: Instagram | Youtube____________________________________________________⚙️ GEAR USED TO MAKE THIS PODCAST:Rodecaster Pro II: https://amzn.to/3RluSeVRode Podmic: https://amzn.to/3RpaR77Mic Stand: https://amzn.to/4caJUfiCamera 1: https://amzn.to/45h5E7bCamera 2: https://amzn.to/45g8iKxLight: https://amzn.to/3KK6XSt
In this episode of The Creative Gap Podcast filmmaker and entrepreneur Jakob Owens, explores the balance between creative ownership, freelance life, and building sustainable businesses. Jakob talks about the importance of creating freedom in his career so he can prioritize family and personal life, while also navigating the challenges of criticism and self-doubt when putting himself out publicly through YouTube, podcasts, and business ventures. The discussion covers financial literacy for creatives—how to think about investments, debt, and cutting unnecessary expenses—as well as the value of trustworthy business partners and building projects that align with personal passion. Jakob also shares how fitness, discipline, and pushing through hard challenges shape his mindset as both a filmmaker and entrepreneur. The episode closes with reflections on evolving beliefs, communication in relationships, and Jakob’s excitement about upcoming projects with Prism Lens FX.JOIN CIVA COLLECTIVE ► https://www.civacollective.comFollow Us!Jakob Owens: Instagram | WebsiteCarlo: Instagram | WebsiteThe Creative Gap: Instagram | Youtube____________________________________________________⚙️ GEAR USED TO MAKE THIS PODCAST:Rodecaster Pro II: https://amzn.to/3RluSeVRode Podmic: https://amzn.to/3RpaR77Mic Stand: https://amzn.to/4caJUfiCamera 1: https://amzn.to/45h5E7bCamera 2: https://amzn.to/45g8iKxLight: https://amzn.to/3KK6XSt
In this episode of The Creative Gap, Carlo sits down with BPN filmmakers George Kroeker and Ian Rodriguez to discuss their journey into filmmaking, their collaboration, and the making of "Surrender", BPN’s feature-length documentary revolving around last year's Last Man Standing Race. They share how they each got started—from photography and design to videography—before finding their way onto the BPN media team, and how their friendship and honesty shaped their creative partnership. The conversation dives into the challenges of shooting an unpredictable multi-day race, the risks they took in storytelling, and the symbolism behind the film’s title & ethereal nature. Throughout, Ian and George emphasize BPN’s culture of trust, faith, and pushing creative boundaries, reflecting on how Surrender not only redefined what a running documentary could look like but also deepened their growth as filmmakers and men of faith.JOIN CIVA COLLECTIVE ► https://www.civacollective.comWATCH "SURRENDER" ► https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJsFxxtd23YFollow Us!George Kroeker: InstagramIan Rodriguez: InstagramCarlo: Instagram | WebsiteThe Creative Gap: Instagram | Youtube____________________________________________________⚙️ GEAR USED TO MAKE THIS PODCAST:Rodecaster Pro II: https://amzn.to/3RluSeVRode Podmic: https://amzn.to/3RpaR77Mic Stand: https://amzn.to/4caJUfiCamera 1: https://amzn.to/45h5E7bCamera 2: https://amzn.to/45g8iKxLight: https://amzn.to/3KK6XSt
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