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A Conversation With host Floyd Marshall Jr
A Conversation With host Floyd Marshall Jr
Author: Floyd Marshall Jr.
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A Conversation With, with host Floyd Marshall Jr, is for and about real independent filmmakers. We're going to sit back and chat with content creators doing amazing things and making their mark in the world of independent film and beyond. We're going to find out what makes these people exceptional creators in their spaces and we hope that you take something from our conversation and start your own. To your success!
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If you've ever dreamed of becoming an actor, breaking into the industry can seem intimidating. But fear not, because, on our latest podcast episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with Tobi Gadison – a talented filmmaker, extraordinary actor, and the founder of The Actors District in Philadelphia and Atlanta.
With an impressive resume with roles in popular films such as Dukes of Hazzard, Ray, Just My Luck, and Glory Road, Tobi's experience speaks volumes about his expertise. Not only did we chat about his personal journey as an actor, but we also discussed his role as a teacher at The Actors District.
During our conversation, Tobi provided invaluable insights on what it takes to break into acting and succeed in this highly competitive field. From building a solid foundation to honing your craft through training and networking, he shared practical tips and encouragement for aspiring actors looking to make their mark.
So tune in to our latest podcast episode for an in-depth discussion on breaking into acting with one of the industry's brightest talents.
Watch Here: https://www.youtube.com/live/lDy6D2f5Qew?feature=share
Tobi Gadison BIO:
Tobi Gadison was born & raised in Washington, DC and later moved and finished high school in Philadelphia. While there he started training at the world renowned, Freedom Theatre. After high school, Tobi went back to DC and and attended Howard University to study music and business. Thereafter, Tobi relocated to New Orleans and served as a program administrator for L.O.V.E. Clubs (Lifting Our Valuable Esteem) a youth outreach program that was spread throughout several schools across the New Orleans area. With several commercials and leading roles in plays that toured across the country, Tobi landed roles in major movies, which include but not limited to: “Ray”. “The Dukes of Hazzard” ,“Just My Luck” and Jerry Bruckheimer’s “Glory Road”.
Relocating back to Philadelphia, post Hurricane Katrina, Tobi Gadison starred in several plays and independent films, and cofounded Manifesto Consulting Group (MCG), LLC; a creative venture group. MCG developed The Hip Hop Art Program and The Actors’ Institute, which led to MCG being contracted by The United Way to help train their program administrators and affiliates. While in Philadelphia, Tobi starred in a number of independent films. One of which, Myra’s Angel, garnered him The Best Actor Nomination from The American Black Film Festival (ABFF). He also starred and toured across the country in the theatrical productions of The Last Jimmy and Henry Box Brown produced by Dice Raw from The Roots.
Committed to giving back, Tobi Gadison dedicated his time to serve on the Board of Directors and the Artistic Board Committee for the New Freedom Theatre. He also served as the Dir. of Creative & Strategic Planning for iChoose2Live, a company that inspires and motivates young adults through art, education and community outreach, as the strategic planning director on various projects. He has also produced the documentary Generation Next for BET’s Wrap-It-Up Program which targeted how popular culture affects issue such as, bullying, suicide prevention and sexual health issues that affect in youth.
Tobi has produced & directed several indie films and serves as the senior founding partner of a production company called GadCity ,LLC. Under his company, Tobi Gadison launched The Actors District, an actor’s training facility whose actors have been
featured in major films and TV shows including Marvel, Creed and The Upside. 75 to 85% of all films shot in Philadelphia, contain The Actors District actors. Currently, they are actively developing and curating original content for their self-generated imprint, The District Collective. Recently being voted “The Best Acting School” in Philadelphia, The Actors District has launched a second location in Atlanta at Trilith Studios which is responsible for a plethora of Marvel & 007 movies.
A Conversation With Bianca Bethune was definitely an interesting experience. Bianca is not only an accomplished tv and film actor but also the owner of Sun Scape Productions. She discussed her start in the business, scoring her role in Bad Boys III, and what she's working on now. It was great to hear about her journey and what she's doing to make her dreams a reality. This episode is not to be missed!
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Bianca Bethune BIO:
My name is Bianca Bethune I am a tv and film actor. Specifically, a child actor known for the role of Megan Burnett in the Bad Boys franchise. I have been featured in other shows like Criminal Minds, Everybody Hates Chris and a heavy recurring role on ABC Family's Switched at Birth. I've established my production company this past year where I house my podcast, how-to masterclasses, and film projects. My company is called Sunskape Productions, its mission is to help others find their own light, your higher self arising.
View all projects, trailers, and short films on Instagram- @thebiancabethune_
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In this episode of "A Conversation With," I sat down with Ny MaGee, an entertainment reporter and screenwriter. Ny discussed her journey and struggles as a black journalist.
Here is an excerpt of our conversation:
"When it comes to covering shows and films as a black journalist, we don't get a lot of respect; we're supposed to get they put us in a box. Society puts black people in general in a box. Let's keep it real. So then, when it comes to being a reporter, they think we all just cover B. E. T."
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Ny MaGee BIO
Ny MaGee is an entertainment reporter, screenwriter, consultant, and founder of the multimedia company NAYUTOPIA. She has over 15 years of experience working in the film industry in areas including production and post-production, marketing, distribution, and acquisitions. She has worked for legendary film producer Roger Corman, Quentin Tarantino's production team at Miramax, the late Larry Flynt, MTV/ VH1, Hallmark Channel, Paramount, Jim Henson Co., Parade Magazine, and various LA-based companies representing above-the-line talent.
Submit Your Short Film: The Film Collective
In this episode of A Conversation with Floyd Marshall Jr. & Co-host Okema T. Moore, we sit down once again with Tracey Baker-Simmons — a 30+ year entertainment industry veteran, executive producer, and pioneer of reality television. From music videos and independent film to creating the iconic series Being Bobby Brown starring Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown, Tracey has seen Hollywood transform from the inside out — and she’s evolved right alongside it. Today, Hollywood is shifting again — studios consolidating, content pipelines tightening, AI reshaping workflows, and global production strategies changing the landscape. But is Hollywood really “dying,” or is it simply reinventing itself?Tracey breaks down:Why major brands are building their own studio infrastructuresHow creators can adapt and stay competitiveWhy ownership and education are becoming the new power currenciesHow to position yourself and your projects for the next era of film and televisionWhether you’re a filmmaker, aspiring producer, digital storyteller, or creative entrepreneur, this episode is a masterclass in mindset, strategy, and longevity in a rapidly evolving industry.🎧 Tune in and learn how to stay ahead of the shift — not behind it.====================Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
🎬 “A Conversation With Host Floyd Marshall Jr. & Co-host Okema T. Moore” dives deep into the spirit, vision, and impact behind the Micheaux Film Festival—one of the fastest-growing and most inclusive festivals in the U.S. Founded by Noel Braham and Courtney L. Branch, the festival champions independent filmmakers and celebrates diversity, community, and authentic storytelling.In this episode, Noel and Courtney share how Micheaux grew from a small screening in 2018 into a powerhouse festival that feels more like family than industry. They reveal the meaning behind this year’s theme, “Warrior,” discuss the challenges of sustaining art in a changing Hollywood, and explore how faith, persistence, and purpose have shaped their journey.🎧 Tune in for:Behind-the-scenes insights from Micheaux’s foundersThe importance of community-driven filmmakingLessons on perseverance, creativity, and building inclusive platformsHow the festival’s spirit of faith and family continues to inspire the next generation of filmmakers💡 “The Micheaux Film Festival is the People’s Film Festival—and the People’s Film Festival is Micheaux.”#MicheauxFilmFestival #IndependentFilm #Filmmakers #BlackCreatives #FaithInFilm #FilmCommunity #Podcast #FloydMarshallJr #OkemaTMoore====================Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
In this inspiring episode, Eunice Smith-Shelley — filmmaker, strategist, and industry disruptor — shares how she’s redefining storytelling from concept to production. With over 30 years in corporate leadership and creative entrepreneurship, Eunice blends business strategy with cinematic vision to empower underrepresented voices in film.As the founder of Word Smith Studios, she’s built a creative hub for emerging filmmakers to learn, produce, and lead. She also created the groundbreaking Flip the Script Film Fellowship, which has trained and launched hundreds of Black filmmakers into the industry.Host Floyd Marshall Jr. explores Eunice’s path from engineering process design to storytelling mastery — and how she’s proving that the next generation of filmmakers doesn’t have to wait for permission to create.🎬 What You’ll Learn:The art of merging business systems with filmmaking creativityHow Flip the Script Film Fellowship reshapes opportunity for Black filmmakersWhy strategic storytelling is the future of film production====================Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
Step into the world of Hollywood storytelling with Kevin Eugee Wilson—Showrunner, Director, Executive Producer, and CEO of Sylver Lining Media. From producing the BET Awards, NAACP Image Awards, and Soul Train Awards to creating hit shows like Laugh Tonight with Damon Williams and Known Cap TV, Kevin’s career spans Netflix, Lionsgate, BET, Nike, and more.In this candid conversation with hosts Floyd Marshall Jr. and Okema T. Moore, Kevin shares his journey from Chicago to Los Angeles, the hustle of breaking into scripted and unscripted TV, and his lessons on resilience, creativity, and creating opportunities. Listeners will gain insider insight into:🎬 Breaking into Hollywood as a filmmaker and showrunner🏆 Producing iconic award shows and live events💡 How to create your own IP and stay relevant in the industry🌟 The importance of tough skin, networking, and trusting your gutIf you’re an aspiring filmmaker, creative entrepreneur, or simply curious about the business of entertainment, this masterclass offers invaluable takeaways on success, longevity, and building legacy in media.📌 Follow Kevin at @prodbyeugee across platforms.====================Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
NAACP Image Award-winning filmmaker, writer, and producer Ericka Nicole Malone joins hosts Floyd Marshall Jr. and Okema T. Moore for an inspiring conversation on creativity, resilience, and representation in film and theater. From writing plays in college to founding Ericka Nicole Malone Entertainment, Ericka shares her journey of self-financing projects, creating opportunities for women of color, and producing the acclaimed biopic Remember Me: The Mahalia Jackson Story.Discover how Ericka embodies the power of disruption in Hollywood, builds inclusive teams with 85% women of color, and uplifts emerging creators through her Power EN-ME Grant and Sundance initiatives. She also reflects on mentorship, excellence vs. perfection, and the importance of community support in breaking barriers for Black women in the industry====================Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
Award-winning cinematographer, director, screenwriter, and author Steven Bernstein (Monster, White Chicks, SWAT, Like Water for Chocolate) joins host Floyd Marshall Jr. for an in-depth conversation on filmmaking, storytelling, and the creative process. Bernstein shares how he broke into the film industry, why he avoids traditional outlines in screenwriting, and how he builds authentic, emotionally compelling characters.From the set of Monster with Charlize Theron to directing and writing acclaimed projects, Bernstein opens up about the importance of imperfection in art, the future of filmmaking in the age of AI, and why risk-taking and personal truth lead to the most powerful stories.🎧 What you’ll learn in this episode:How Steven Bernstein’s career spans blockbuster hits and indie triumphsWhy character depth matters more than predictable story beatsBehind-the-scenes stories from Monster, SWAT, White ChicksThe reality of Hollywood’s shift toward AI and how to stay relevantBernstein’s advice for filmmakers facing rejection or creative fear====================Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
Go behind the scenes with veteran filmmaker Derrick Hammond — a director, producer, writer, cinematographer, and editor with over 20 films under his belt. Hosted by Floyd Marshall Jr. with co-host Okema T. Moore, this conversation dives deep into the realities of independent filmmaking: from learning the craft on big-budget sets, to mastering sound, navigating distribution, building strong crews, and creating a sustainable career in today’s fast-changing film landscape.Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a seasoned creative, or simply curious about what it takes to turn ideas into finished films, you’ll get candid insights, industry tips, and real-world strategies for making movies that get made, get seen, and get paid.🎧 Press play and get a masterclass in indie filmmaking — straight from those who live it.Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
🎬 In this episode of "A Conversation With," host Floyd Marshall Jr. and co-host Okema T. Moore welcome the dynamic Jalene Mack—renowned entertainment attorney, actress, author, producer, and leader in the Houston film industry. Jalene brings decades of experience in film production, law, and creative business to the table, sharing actionable legal tips for filmmakers, screenwriters, producers, and anyone working in entertainment.Discover the essential steps for protecting your creative work, from copyrighting scripts and understanding contracts to smart pitching strategies. Jalene explains why indie filmmakers and creative entrepreneurs must know the business side of Hollywood, and how cities like Houston are fast becoming top destinations for film and media production.Get real-world advice on film funding, team building, and navigating the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry. Learn how to leverage local film incentives, create successful collaborations, and build a creative team that can help you thrive—without needing to move to L.A.Key Topics:Legal tips for filmmakers and creativesProtecting your scripts, projects, and intellectual propertyHow to build your dream team in the film industryFunding your film and understanding film financeHouston’s rise as a film and media hubStrategies for indie filmmakers to succeedWhy entertainment law matters for every creative entrepreneurWhether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, producer, actor, or creative business owner, this episode delivers expert insights, inspiration, and actionable steps for mastering both the creative and business sides of entertainment.Listen now and take your filmmaking journey to the next level!Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
In this powerful episode, hosts Floyd Marshall Jr. and Okema T. Moore welcome multiplatform TV executive and creative force Donna Marie Reid. Go behind the scenes as Donna Marie pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to thrive in today’s unpredictable film and television industry.Discover candid stories and practical advice about navigating industry shake-ups, pitching your ideas to networks, building meaningful industry relationships, and developing the kind of creative resilience that turns setbacks into opportunities. Donna Marie, known for her work with major networks and her commitment to mentoring the next wave of storytellers, shares wisdom you can’t find in a textbook.Whether you’re a filmmaker, screenwriter, or aspiring creative, this episode is packed with actionable tips on standing out, embracing flexibility, and building a lasting career. Tune in for inspiration, industry insight, and real talk you won’t hear anywhere else.========Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
Step into the world of international film with Yolonda Brinkley—global disruptor and founder of the Diversity in Cannes Short Film Showcase. In this powerful episode, Yolonda shares her inspiring journey, from breaking down barriers at the Cannes Film Festival to championing true inclusion for marginalized voices in cinema.Discover what it takes to build a global movement, empower Black women in film, and create opportunities for independent filmmakers. Yolonda opens up about the challenges of fighting industry gatekeeping, the importance of authentic representation, and the realities of sustaining a creative mission.Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, advocate for diversity, or simply passionate about the power of storytelling, this episode delivers a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and building your own table—no invitation required.Key topics:Diversity in CannesBlack women in filmGlobal film marketsIndependent filmmaker adviceFilm industry inclusionCreating your own opportunitiesResilience & legacy in the arts🎬 Listen now and be inspired to disrupt the status quo in film and beyond!#DiversityInCannes #WomenInFilm #BlackWomenCAN #FilmIndustryDisruptor========Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
In Episode 147 of A Conversation With Floyd Marshall Jr., hosts Floyd Marshall Jr. and Okema T. Moore sit down with groundbreaking reality TV pioneer Tracy Baker-Simmons—“Master of the Unscripted.” With over 30 years in the industry, Tracy has produced iconic projects like Being Bobby Brown, Welcome to Dreamland, and The Houstons: On Our Own, forever changing the landscape of reality television.Tracy shares her journey from humble beginnings in Atlanta to becoming a trailblazer for Black representation in unscripted television. She dives deep into the art of authentic storytelling, what it means to “create while grieving,” and how her passion for reading and self-education powered her career. Tracy also reveals the inspiration behind her education platform, TV Decoded, and offers invaluable advice for aspiring producers and filmmakers.Don’t miss this inspiring conversation packed with wisdom, industry gems, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of TV’s most influential producers.========Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
In this unfiltered and thought-provoking episode of A Conversation With..., host Floyd Marshall Jr. and co-host Okema T. Moore are joined by industry veterans Patrick Coker and James Moorer for a real talk on the state of Black storytelling in film.They dive into:Why original Black stories still matter and how Sinners proved itThe myth of “one script success” and the reality of long-term creative careersHow to build your brand and know your lane as a writer or filmmakerBudget vs. vision—what to do when you’ve only got $5K but dream in millionsEgo vs. teamwork and knowing when to step back or collaborateThe danger of normalizing mediocrity and chasing quick profit over qualityWhy understanding the business side of film is just as critical as the artWhether you're emerging, indie, or experienced, this episode delivers honest insight and hard-earned lessons for anyone serious about making films that last.========Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
In this eye-opening episode, Floyd Marshall Jr. and Okema Moore sit down with genre-breaking filmmaker Nace DeSanders. Known for her bold and artistic work in experimental horror, Nace shares how a passion for storytelling and a global perspective—from New York to Madrid to South Africa—inspire her deeply impactful films. The conversation explores her unconventional journey from volunteering at festivals to directing acclaimed shorts like Hello Sickness and The Wounded and the Watcher, and her upcoming feature Dance of the Demon, which centers on endometriosis through a haunting, allegorical lens.This episode dives into:How working for free strategically can launch a film careerThe importance of building diverse crews and communityHorror as a platform for social impact storytellingWhy filmmakers (and viewers) must "vote with their money"Nace’s insights on global filmmaking, mentorship, and being a Black woman in horrorWhether you’re a filmmaker, a genre fan, or just someone who loves hearing real, raw creative journeys, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now and be inspired by the power of visionary storytelling and bold authenticity.Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Emmy-winning filmmaker and former world champion flair bartender Deborah Richards to explore her bold journey from behind the bar to behind the camera.💥 Topics Include:How Deborah turned flair bartending into award-winning filmmakingThe making of her documentary Shaken and StirredGender dynamics in male-dominated spacesThe art of pivoting on setWhy filmmakers need a business plan as much as a creative vision🎬 Whether you're a filmmaker, entrepreneur, or creative visionary, this episode is packed with lessons on grit, resourcefulness, and following your passion with purpose.#DeborahRichards #PodcastInterview #FilmmakingJourney #DocumentaryFilm #ShakenAndStirred #WomenInFilm #CreativeBusiness #FloydMarshallJr #OkemaMoore
Angela White - Standing on Business in the Film IndustryWhat does it really take to make it in film? In this powerful conversation, producer Angela White (Silver Lining Entertainment) drops a masterclass on producing, distribution, and why your film is a product—but YOU are the brand. From shooting in Ghana to creating viral Tubi hits, Angela keeps it real about hustle, humility, and standing on business. If you're serious about filmmaking, don’t miss this episode.=======Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
In this insightful episode of A Conversation With, host Floyd Marshall Jr. and co-host Okema T. Moore sit down with the multi-talented filmmaker, producer, and activist Victorious De Costa. Known for his powerful documentaries like Digging for Weldon Irvine and Yusuf Hawkins: Storm Over Brooklyn, Victorious shares his journey from music to film, blending storytelling with social impact.From his latest short film Exit Interview—a romantic dramedy with a thought-provoking soundtrack—to his upcoming documentary Butterflies Jump Too, which sheds light on racial disparities in youth suicide rates, De Costa opens up about his creative process, the emotional weight of his work, and the importance of telling stories that challenge perspectives.The discussion also dives into his experiences working with incarcerated individuals at Rikers Island, his passion for using art as a tool for healing, and his approach to balancing multiple creative endeavors. Plus, he shares the inspiration behind his Men Cry apparel line, advocating for emotional expression among men.This episode is a deep dive into the mind of an artist committed to storytelling with purpose. Whether you're a filmmaker, a music lover, or someone passionate about activism, this conversation will leave you inspired.Tune in, subscribe, and don’t forget to leave a review! 🎙️✨=======Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
What happens when an independent thriller with no Hollywood budget, no A-list actors, and no major marketing campaign outperforms blockbuster films? Sugar Mama, a Tubi original, has done just that—challenging the dominance of subscription-based platforms like Netflix and proving that ad-supported streaming is a serious competitor.In this episode, we break down:How Sugar Mama became a streaming sensation.The power of social media in driving organic film success.Why Tubi is emerging as a game-changer for independent filmmakers.The future of streaming and whether free, ad-supported models could disrupt Hollywood’s traditional playbook.Join us as we explore what Sugar Mama’s success means for indie creators, Black representation in thrillers, and the ever-evolving streaming landscape.=======Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0























