Story and Craft with Marc Preston

Marc Preston welcomes actor and producer Olivia Taylor Dudley to “Story and Craft” to talk sci-fi, horror, and why aliens have been a lifelong fascination — so much so that all three of her rescue dogs are named after extraterrestrial-inspired references, including SETI. Olivia breaks down how she “fell into” producing through early YouTube-era work on “Five Second Films.” She shares her unconventional path into acting, dropping out of school due to anxiety, moving to LA at 17, and finding structure and comfort on set. They dive into her new film “Touch Me,” a weird sci-fi/horror/comedy about an alien, and mental health themes, plus her time on “The Magicians,” voiceover/audiobook work, and why horror can feel comforting.02:53 Rescue Dogs and Hairless Breeds04:12 Producing and Wearing Many Hats05:43 ADHD and Loving the Edit07:45 Five Second Films Origins10:35 Patton Oswalt Connection11:32 Dropping Out and Moving to LA12:59 The Exorcist and Finding Acting15:29 Horror Sci Fi Upbringing17:52 SETI Aliens and Disclosure Talk21:12 Touch Me Alien Horror Comedy24:42 Family Background Horses and Ranch25:43 Grandma the Space Nerd26:03 Ranch Stargazing Mysteries27:46 Touch Me Origins32:33 Inside The Magicians35:24 Why Horror Works37:06 Theatrical Versus Streaming41:20 Upcoming Projects Update42:07 The Seven Questions

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, Marc Preston goes behind the curtain with producer/writer Joel Church-Cooper (“Going Dutch”, “Brockmire”, “Future Man”, “Undateable”) to talk about how TV comedy really gets made and how the business has changed. Joel shares his Northern California upbringing, film-nerd roots in the video store era, and the comedy influences that shaped him (“Kids in the Hall”, “Mr. Show”). They dig into big studio comedies, as well as how algorithms and “second-screen” viewing are reshaping storytelling. Joel breaks down the origins of “Going Dutch” (including the real Army base that inspired it), the evolution of “Brockmire”, working with Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg. It’s an engaging chat about what it takes to create great TV!03:29 Film Nerd Origins04:56 Video Store Era Stories13:21 Comedy Influences and Sketch Classics17:24 Public Access and Media Power26:02 Going Dutch and Algorithm Notes28:54 What He Watches Now33:15 Kids Movies and YouTube Brain Rot41:57 Chasing Authenticity42:33 Brockmeyer Origins49:05 Baseball as Existential Comedy51:07 Future Man Writers Room57:39 Why “Going Dutch” was set in The Netherlands01:01:36 Culture Clash Comedy01:03:13 The Seven Questions

On this episode of Story & Craft, we sit down with actor/director/writer/producer Kevin Kane. Kevin talks about growing up around Philly (and a stint in Myrtle Beach), catching the acting bug early thanks to a school report on Jimmy Cagney, and eventually moving to New York to chase theater and serious training. He breaks down studying Meisner at the William Esper Studio, how that tight-knit class bond turned into real creative momentum, and how he and Amy Schumer started working together - eventually leading to a long collaboration on projects like ”Inside Amy Schumer” and “Trainwreck.” Kevin also shares how he first got into the Dick Wolf universe, what it was like booking “Law & Order” early on (with Jerry Orbach encouraging him), and how guest spots on “SVU” ultimately helped lead to his role as Terry Bruno. Along the way they get into Philly’s Mummers Parade, comedy vs. drama, shy-kid-to-actor life, cops’ reactions to SVU, and working on ”The Irishman.”03:23 From Philly to Myrtle Beach: Growing Up in Seasonal Towns04:45 College Breakthrough: Acting Electives & Realizing It’s Possible06:17 Philly Traditions Explained: The Wild Mummers Parade09:41 Catching the Acting Bug: Jimmy Cagney, Old Movies & Film Obsessions11:41 ’80s/’90s Pop Culture, Music, and the Ice-T Connection14:43 Shy Kid to Performer: Barroom Stages, Fear, and Moving to New York16:23 Why New York (Not LA): Theater Dreams & Acting Heroes18:01 Comedy vs Drama: Versatility, SNL Era Influences & Finding Your Lane19:58 Family Reactions + “Acting Is a Shy Man’s Revenge”21:42 Training at William Esper Studio: Meisner Technique & Finding Your Tribe24:16 Meeting Amy Schumer: Showcase to Theater Company & Making Your Own Work26:10 Breaking into the Dick Wolf Universe: First Law & Order Audition27:17 SVU Guest Roles to Series Regular: Bonding with Mariska Hargitay28:18 Comedy Fundraisers to Inside Amy Schumer: Getting Pulled Into Sketch TV29:46 On the Trainwreck Set: Writing Alt Jokes with Judd Apatow33:27 Life on SVU in NYC: How Real Cops React to the Show34:15 Scorsese’s The Irishman: Fittings, De Niro, and Feeling Old in a ’90s Suit36:14 Actor vs. Multi-Hyphenate: Where the Work Feels Most Grueling37:41 The “Seven Questions”

On this episode of Story and Craft, we sit down with actor Ken Leung. Known for his roles in “Rush Hour”, “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”, “The Sopranos”, and notably “Lost”, Ken shares his experiences across stage, TV, and film, as well as his role in the new season of HBO’s “Industry”. We dive deep into Ken's diverse career, discussing his induction into the acting world, his memorable roles, and the nuances of playing distinct characters in different genres. They also chat about the impact of “Lost”, working on “Industry”, and Ken's upcoming film, “Project Hail Mary” with Ryan Gosling and Milana Vayntrub. Tune in for an insightful conversation that will inspire!00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:32 Guest Introduction: Ken Leung01:15 Substack and Listener Engagement02:45 Interview Begins: Ken's Background06:16 Growing Up in New York09:43 Acting Journey and Family Dynamics12:37 Learning Through Acting20:39 Working with Sidney Lumet23:10 Landing the Role in Lost26:26 Experiencing Hawaii and Settling In27:28 The Evolution of Lost27:46 The Impact of Streaming on TV Shows31:17 Transition to Industry35:52 Project Hail Mary and Future Projects38:12 The Seven Questions

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Thomas Jane from the Amazon Prime Video film “Play DIrty”, as well as projects such as The Expanse and Boogie Nights.  We cover Jane's impressive body of work, as well as his journey from modest beginnings in Maryland to becoming a notable actor in Hollywood. We discuss Thomas’ passion for storytelling, the joys and challenges of being an actor, and the importance of authentic human experiences in film. Thomas also reveals his graphic novel projects and his deep dive into writing a book about visiting aliens. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that covers everything from chocolate to extraterrestrials!SHOW HIGHLIGHTS03:26 Thomas Jane's Early Life and Career Beginnings13:54 Playing Mickey Mantle08:48 The Expanse and Sci-Fi Genre18:34 High School and Early Acting27:47 Reflections on Education and Society36:32 Independent Films and Future Projects43:17 Sci-Fi and Authentic Stories44:26 Advice to Aspiring Actors46:00 Family and Personal Life48:38 Memories of Paul Reubens53:31 Working with Talented Directors55:38 The Seven QuestionsListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #PodcastInterview #Storytelling #ActorInterview #HollywoodInterview #FilmNerd #ThomasJane #PlayDirty #TheExpanse #Troppo #PrimeVideo #MarkWahlberg #Actor #Acting #StoryAndCraft #GraphicNovels #SyFy #Aliens #IndieFilm 

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with producer,Danny O’Malley. Danny is a Grammy and James Beard award nominee.  He just picked up an Emmy nomination for theNetflix series “Chef's Table”.  Danny takes us on a culinary journey through his experiences.  They also  talk about everything from the impact of Anthony Bourdain, Chicago-style pizza preferences, memorable dining experiences, to the global influence of food and its power to bridge cultures. Danny also shares insights into his Greek heritage, his obsession with Chinese cuisine, and the making of compelling food stories. Tune in for an exciting conversation filled with delicious tidbits and behind-the-scenes stories that food lovers won't want to miss!SHOW HIGHLIGHTS01:34 Chicago Roots and Pizza Preferences04:10 Journey into Food Television07:19 Food and Cultural Connections08:58 Anthony Bourdain’s Impact17:03 Memorable Culinary Experiences20:34 A Culinary Journey Through History25:18 Exploring Food Cultures and Personal Favorites27:47 The Uncharted Territory of African Cuisine29:19 The Evolution of Food Programming33:03 The Seven QuestionsListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #DannyOMalley #ChefsTable #Netflix #Alinea #GrantAchatz #AnthonyBourdain #JamesBeard #Proudcer #Producing #storyandcraft #Cooking #Restaurants #Chefs #FoodNetwork #FoodTV 

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with author, writer, producer and director,Larry Charles , who has a new memoir out called “Comedy Samurai: Forty Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter”.  He’s known for a constellation of projects, such as Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Entourage, Mad About You, Borat, The Dictator and The Comedians.  We dive into Larry's journey from Brooklyn to Hollywood, discussing his work on iconic shows, as well as collaborations with the likes of Jerry Seinfeld, Larry David, Sacha Baron Cohen, Bob Dylan and Bill Maher.  We cover Larry's inspirations, his experiences in the industry, and his new memoir.  This is a great bit of insight into the crafts of comedy and storytelling from one of the best in the business.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS02:43 Larry Charles' Personal Story02:58 Impact of Losing a Home07:34 Comedy in Tragedy08:37 The Influence of George Carlin13:32 Creating Content in the Digital Age18:50 Larry Charles' Early Life and Family29:08 Jewish Influence in Comedy34:15 Comedy Inspirations and Influences40:17 Exploring Comedy Preferences42:24 The Pressure of Producing Sitcoms43:42 The Evolution of Comedy44:37 Behind the Scenes of Entourage49:32 Directing Borat52:05 The Joys and Challenges of Directing55:58 The Seven Questions58:50 Dream Dinner Guests01:01:07 Religulous and Satirizing Religion01:05:08 Celebrity Crushes and Desert Island Picks01:12:10 Advice to My Younger SelfListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #LarryCharles #Seinfeld #CurbYourEnthusiam #Borat #Comedy #JerrySeinfeld #SachaBaronCohen #LarryDavid #BillyCrystal #PaulReiser #BillMaher #BobDylan #MelBrooks #Author #Writer #Producer #Director #ComedySamurai #storyandcraft #HBO #Author #Bruno #TheDictator #Jewish #Religulous 

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine from theApple TV Series “Smoke”, as well as upcoming projects such as “Dexter: Resurrection” and “Washington Black.”  We discuss Ntare's extensive career, including his roles in popular TV shows like “The Chi” and “Treme.”  Ntare also opens up about his Ugandan heritage, and his own journey into acting.  We also chat about his and his long-term documentary project “Memories of Love Returned.”  It’s a great chat about a unique journey!SHOW HIGHLIGHTS02:20 Ntare's Background and Family03:27 Journey into Acting10:12 Life in New York and Los Angeles12:52 Cultural Connections and Cuisine16:07 Colonial History and Family Lineage18:49 Acting Career Highlights21:04 Landing the Role in “Smoke”24:49 Unexpected Career Paths27:25 Family and Acting29:26 Cultural Connections and Cooking31:24 Upcoming Projects37:05 The Seven QuestionsListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #NtareGumaMbahoMwine #Smoke #Dexter #WashingtonBlack #AppleTV # TaronEgerton # JurneeSmollett #GregKinnear # JohnLeguizamo #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #Uganda #Photography

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Mariana Treviño from the Apple TV+ series “Stick”, as well as projects such as "A Man Called Otto" and host of film and TV work in Mexico.  We discuss her life and career, as well as her thoughts about working with co-stars Owen Wilson and Marc Maron. We also touch on Mariana’s Mexican roots, her journey into acting, and her fond memories of family trips to South Padre Island, Texas. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS01:30 Mariana's Background and Career02:08 Monterey and Family Connections04:11 Acting Journey and Inspirations07:24 Golf and Life Metaphors09:56 Theater and TV Career13:11 Cultural Heritage and Memories16:20 On-Set Experiences and Chemistry19:00 Reflecting on Character Dynamics19:25 Working With Marc Maron20:58 The Seven QuestionsListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #MarianaTrevino #Stick #AppleTV #OwenWilson #MarcMaron #JudyGreer #PeterDager #TimothyOlyphant #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #Golf #Monterrey #SouthPadreIsland #SPI 

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Brandon Lessard from thenew film “The Unholy Trinity.”  Brandon shares his experiences working alongside Pierce Brosnan, Samuel L. Jackson, and David Arquette in this Western set in Montana. We dive into Brandon's journey from Fairfax, Virginia to Los Angeles, as well as his passion for acting.  Brandon also touches on his love for historical dramas, his writing endeavors, and the physical challenges faced during the film's production. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with insight and cool behind-the-scenes stories.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS01:30 Brandon's Background and Journey to Acting02:56 Family and Early Influences07:30 Musical Tastes and Influences09:58 Acting Inspirations and Favorite Roles13:15 The Unholy Trinity: Behind the Scenes20:20 Filming in Montana25:15 The Crew and Filming Challenges27:13 Childhood Inspirations and Favorite Genres28:48 Admiration for Vince Gilligan and Taylor Sheridan30:01 Star Wars Fandom and Western Roles36:34 Balancing Acting and Personal Life37:57 Memorable Moments with Iconic Actors42:53 The Seven QuestionsListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #BrandonLessard #TheUnholyTrinity #RoadsideAttractions #PierceBrosnan #SamuelLJackson #DavidArquette #KatrinaBowden #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #Montana #Western

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Annalise Basso from the film “The Life of Chuck”, as well as projects such as “Captain Fantastic” and “Snowpiercer.”  We chat about Annalise’s acting career, from childhood to now, as well as what it was like growing up with a brother and sister who are also in the industry.  We also touch on Annalise’s other passions, such as ballet and surfing…and how those things keep her grounded and inspired.  It’s a great conversation that covers Annalise’s journey from Missouri to one of this year’s most anticipated summer movies. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS02:23 Family and Pets03:04 Acting Career and Experiences06:36 Life in LA and Family Dynamics07:37 Childhood and Early Career24:45 Living at Oakwood and Stage Parents31:29 Discussing the Cast and Plot of the Movie32:10 Reflections on Life and Acting33:59 Current TV and Movie Recommendations36:19 Childhood Movie Memories38:25 The Value of Physical Photos and Videos40:30 The Seven QuestionsListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #AnnaliseBasso #TheLifeofChuck #Snowpiercer #CaptainFantastic #KarenGillan #NickOfferman #MarkHamill #MatthewLillard #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #GabrielBasso # TomHiddleston #Dance #Surfing #ChildActor 

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor, Felix Solis from the Netflix series “Sirens”, as well as projects such as The Rookie and Ozark.  We discuss Felix's upbringing in New York City, his early career in theater, and his transition to television.  Felix shares personal stories, including his unique connection to the Beastie Boys and a memorable encounter with Anthony Bourdain.  We also get a glimpse into Felix's take on his Puerto Rican heritage, as well as his love for his rescue dogs.  It’s a great chat and an opportunity to learn about Felix’s journey in the arts.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS01:42 Felix Solis and his New York history02:43 Felix Solis on Atlanta and Ozark05:41 Anthony Bourdain Anecdote10:07 Theater Beginnings and Philip Seymour Hoffman20:15 Growing Up in New York25:48 Family Background and Multicultural Upbringing30:18 Career Moves and The Rookie35:30 Life with Rescue Dogs38:40 Dog Sitting and Travel39:14 Auditioning for Ozark42:46 Representation in Media46:04 Puerto Rican Cuisine and Cooking47:39 The Seven QuestionsListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #FelixSolis #Sirens #TheRookie #Ozark #Netflix #MillyAlcock #KevinBacon #JulianneMoore #MeghannFahy #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #PhilipSeymourHoffman #AnthonyBourdain #NewYork #PuertoRican #RescueDogs

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Reed Diamond from the film “Drop.”  Reed has had a long career working in a constellation of projects, such as “Memphis Belle,” “Homicide: Life on the Street,” “Orphan Black: Echoes” and “Moneyball.”  We cover Reed's career highlights, his foundational experiences at Juilliard, and his passion for music. Reed shares insight into his recent projects, including his new film and the joys of working with his family. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS01:49 Reed's Life in Canada and Maine11:20 Reed's Musical Journey27:18 The Magic of Movie Soundtracks33:45 Juilliard Experience34:59 Deciding to Pursue Acting at Julliard36:32 Early Influences and Family Background39:07 First Big Break and Career Beginnings41:29 Memorable Projects and Experiences45:50 The Joy of Acting and Future Aspirations49:08 Personal Life and Family Dynamics54:05 The Seven QuestionsListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #ReedDiamond #Drop #OrphanBlack #Designated Survivor #13ReasonsWhy #BrandonSklenar #MeghannFahy #ViolettBeane #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #Music #FamilyMan #MoneyBall

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor and musician, Alex Wolff from the new film “Magic Farm”, as well as projects such as "A Quiet Place: Day One," "Oppenheimer," "A Good Person," "Hereditary" and the "Jumanji" films.  We discuss his new film, his role in the horror movie “Hereditary,” and his experiences working with notable directors like M. Night Shyamalan and Christopher Nolan. Alex shares insights about his childhood, his musical journey with his brother, Nat Wolff, and the emotional experience of performing with his jazz pianist father at Madison Square Garden while on tour with Billie Eilish.  SHOW HIGHLIGHTS01:39 Alex Wolf's Acting Journey03:10 New Film: Magic Farm05:02 Musical Influences and Family08:53 Creative Process and Inspirations16:43 The Seven QuestionsListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #AlexWolff #MagicFarm #Oppenheimer #Hereditary #Mubi #NatWolff #BillieEilish #ChloeSevigny #WolffBrothers #Actor #Musician #Acting #storyandcraft #Jazz #MNightShyamalan

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with author,Jim Murphy who wrote thebook “Inner Excellence.”   We discuss Jim's journey, including his time as a professional baseball player, his mother's samurai heritage, and his transition to coaching.  We explore his unique experiences, such as living in solitude in the desert to write, “Inner Excellence,” which gained significant attention when Philadelphia Eagles' A.J. Brown was seen reading it on the sidelines during a playoff game.  Jim shares insights on his philosophy of living a meaningful life, the impact of Japanese culture, and his aspirations to make a difference in the lives of people around the world.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS01:01 Jim Murphy's Athletic Journey05:52 Transition to Coaching09:30 Cultural Influences and Personal Philosophy20:03 Reflections on Dreams and Aspirations21:37 Introduction to Living a Full Life21:46 Desert Experience and Personal Transformation27:30 Impact of AJ Brown and Future Goals33:58 The Seven QuestionsListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #JimMurphy #InnerExcellence #SelfHelp #AJBrown #TexasRangers #Rangers #Baseball #Author #Acting, Directing, etc. #storyandcraft #NFL #Football #PhiladelphiaEagles #Motivation #Inspiration 

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor, Asher Grodman from the CBS series “Ghosts.”  Asher shares his journey from a shy kid growing up on a farm in New Jersey, to what he learned about performance at his Bar Mitzvah.  We discuss his early career experiences, his love for football, and the making of a unique mockumentary for the Jacksonville Jaguars.  We also touch on life as a working actor on a successful network television show, and what it’s like to portray a character who never wears pants.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS03:19 Asher's Background and Upbringing09:58 Early Acting Experiences15:13 Pursuing Acting in High School and College24:50 The Jacksonville Jaguars Project32:48 Winning Awards and Recognition34:07 Auditioning for Ghosts36:45 The Unique Concept of Ghosts40:16 The Casting Process and Table Read42:14 The Impact of COVID-1944:22 The Ensemble Cast and Collaboration48:00 The Seven QuestionsListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #AsherGrodman #Ghosts #JacksonvilleJaguars #Jaguars #CBS #ImRoseMcIver #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #NFL #Football

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor and comedian, Tone Bell from the Netflix series “Survival of The Thickest”, as well as projects such as the film Trigger Warning with Jessica Alba and the Kathy Bates comedy series, Disjointed.  Tone shares insights about his journey from growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, to becoming a successful stand-up comedian and actor.  We talk about the challenges and joys of touring, his early influences, and his deep love for stand-up, as well as his experiences on television and in film.  We also discuss the significance of his family and how personal experiences shape his comedic storytelling. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS01:51 Tone Bell's Journey to Austin05:15 Comedy Beginnings and Inspirations07:36 The Realities of Touring as a Comedian13:30 Comedy Styles and Influences17:33 Family and Personal Life21:42 Transition to Acting and Comedy22:14 Theater Experiences and Challenges24:40 Television Aspirations and Family Influence26:38 College Days and Early Career29:56 Acting Roles and Collaborations33:16 Personal Reflections and Future Plans33:47 The Seven QuestionsListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #ToneBell #SurvivalOfTheThickest #TriggerWarning #Disjointed #Netflix #MichelleButeau # JessicaAlba #KathyBates #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #Comedy #Comedian 

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with actor,Virginia Gardner from the#1 Network film “F Marry Kill”, as well as projects such as Halloween, Runaways and Beautiful Disaster & Beautiful Wedding with Dylan Sprouse.  Virginia shares her journey from Sacramento to Los Angeles at age 16, as she discusses her start in modeling to her success as an actor. She discusses her early career experiences, including her first major film “Project Almanac.”  We also touch on her childhood inspirations, as well as her abiding love for 90’s rock music.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS02:30 Virginia's Early Life and Career Beginnings05:19 First Acting Experiences and Moving to LA07:58 Transition to Acting and First Major Film Role19:46 Working with Dylan Sprouse and Lucy Hale22:38 Traveling for Work and Filming Challenges26:10 Wine Adventures and Personal Life30:09 True Crime Podcasts and Online Dating31:33 Gen Z and Traditional Dating32:21 The Trad Wife Trend33:51 Life with a Touring Musician36:57 Nineties Music Nostalgia39:59 The Seven Questions50:58 Perfect Day and Career Reflections55:53 Upcoming Projects and Final ThoughtsListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #VirginiaGardner #FMarryKill #Halloween #BeautifulDisaster #Runaways #Lionsgate #LucyHale #DylanSprouse #Actor #Acting #storyandcraft #TheStruts #90sMusic #Matchbox20

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with director,Laura Murphy from thefilm “F Marry Kill, which features Lucy Hale and Virginia Gardner.  We delve into Laura’s career journey from writing and directing at MTV to her work with high-profile talent like Awkwafina, Eliza Schlesinger, and John Oliver.  The episode covers Murphy's experiences in the film industry, her filmmaking approach, and her love for comedy.  We also touch on her personal life, including balancing motherhood with her career, her preferences in film genres, and her creative process.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS01:30 Laura Murphy's Early Career05:32 Journey to MTV and Promos08:16 Directing and Comedy25:20 Balancing Work and Family30:45 Influences and Inspirations33:12 Caddyshack and Comedy Classics33:58 Screening Anxiety and Audience Reactions35:48 Current TV Shows and British Dramas38:32 The Seven Questions40:31 Dream Conversations and Influential Figures45:06 Celebrity Crushes and Nostalgia47:24 Island Essentials: Movies and Music50:24 Perfect Day and Simple Luxuries53:40 Alternative Careers and Detective Dreams54:25 Advice to Younger SelfListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #LauraMurphy #FMarryKill #LucyHale #VirginiaGardner #Director #Directing #storyandcraft #JohnOliver #IlizaShlesinger #Awkwafina #MTV 

On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with director,Ash Avildsen who directed the new film “Queen of The Ring!”  We discuss the film’s thematic roots in pro wrestling history, particularly the story of Mildred Burke, an influential female wrestler from the 1930s to the 1950s. Ash shares his filmmaking process, including the challenges of casting and the collaborative nature of movie production. The discussion covers aspects of music in film and the evolution of the music industry.  Ash also reflects on his relationship with his father, director John Avildsen, and how it influences his work. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS01:31 The Making of 'Queen of the Ring'02:34 Ash's Love for Wrestling07:05 Challenges in Casting08:04 The Evolution of the Music Industry14:27 Growing Up with Famous Parents16:51 Transitioning from Music to Film19:45 The Collaborative Art of Filmmaking21:05 The Importance of Music in Film26:02 Cinema vs. Television28:14 The Theater Experience29:59 Convenience of Watching Movies on Phones30:52 Childhood Movie and TV Influences32:40 Directing Style and Influences34:06 Challenges of Filming Wrestling Scenes42:38 Personal Life and Hobbies45:04 The Seven QuestionsListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.  Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at  www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #AshAvildsen #QueenOfTheRing #EmilyBettRickards #JoshLucas #Director #Directing #storyandcraft #Wrestling #ProWrestling #MildredBurke #SumerianRecords #SumerianRecords #JohnAvildsen #KarateKid