A Phil Svitek Podcast - A Series From Your 360 Creative Coach

Chuck McCaughan and I use Open Socrates: The Case for a Philosophical Life by Agnes Callard as a jumping-off point to explore what it actually means to live an examined life.We dig into the Socratic method—not as an abstract philosophical exercise, but as a lived practice—and discuss where it fits (or doesn’t) in today’s culture. Why do people avoid inquiry? What makes asking fundamental questions about how we live so uncomfortable? And how do social norms, desires, and identity often answer those questions for us before we even realize it?Drawing from Callard’s reframing of Socrates as a genuinely disruptive thinker, we talk about the role of other people in helping us think, how inquiry applies to love, death, politics, and personal change, and why philosophy isn’t about having the right answers—but about learning how to ask better questions.We also invite listeners to join the conversation by sharing what they’re currently inquiring into—the questions they’re circling, avoiding, or finally ready to confront.Related Conversations with Chuck McCaughan:-Muscle Testing, Core Beliefs & Psycho Energetic Transformation: https://youtu.be/jj9RekN_m6c-Unlocking the Subconscious: My Therapy Session: https://youtu.be/L7rnQhe40wA

I chat with filmmaker and producer Soukaina Alaoui El Hassani (https://www.saelhassani.com/portfolio & https://www.instagram.com/saelhassani/?hl=en) to explore her journey from growing up in Casablanca—within a rich oral storytelling tradition—to producing bold, emotionally resonant work across film, advertising, and animation on a global scale.We talk about her path through commercial production, from early work at Vice Media Group to her current role at Versus Creative Studio, collaborating with major brands and media companies while maintaining a strong personal creative voice. Soukaina shares how moving between disciplines has sharpened her storytelling instincts and expanded her sense of what’s possible. This is a conversation about craft, identity, ambition, and using storytelling as a tool for connection—and change.

Author Emily Krempholtz explains what cozy fantasy really means—why the genre is comforting, character-driven, community-centered, and focused on emotional warmth over epic battles. She breaks down the storytelling values that define it: gentle magic, small-town settings, internal growth, and an emphasis on healing, hope, and everyday wonder.This soundbite comes from our full interview discussing Emily’s debut novel, Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore, where we dive deep into her writing process, redemption arcs, slow-burn romance, worldbuilding, and more.If you’ve ever wondered what sets cozy fantasy apart, this clip is the perfect introduction.Watch the full interview for even more insights: https://youtu.be/_EyFawvigds

Author Emily Krempholtz shares her practical, down-to-earth advice on how to begin your own book club—from choosing the right group and setting expectations to keeping it fun, flexible, and sustainable.This moment comes from our larger interview with Emily about her debut cozy fantasy romance, Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore, where we discuss her creative journey, the evolution of the book, worldbuilding, romance writing, audiobooks, and more.If you’re looking for a simple, welcoming way to launch a book club—or revive one—this clip is for you.Watch the full interview for even more insights: https://youtu.be/_EyFawvigds

I unpack my growing frustration with AI—not from a place of fear, but from lived creative experience. Everyone keeps insisting AI is the future and that we all need to jump onboard right now, but I’m not convinced that being an early adopter is automatically the smart move… especially when even the companies building these tools aren’t demonstrating real workflows. They just tell us: “Go experiment.”Meanwhile, the biggest gap I feel every day is that AI still can’t revise or iterate in a precise, grounded, multimodal way across text, images, video, and audio. Until it can work the way real creative processes work—revision after revision, nuance after nuance—it’s not actually helping me build the specific things I want to build.And then there’s the ethical mess. Everyone says their models are “ethically sourced”… but what does that even mean? Who’s verifying it? Is that just another marketing phrase we’re being conditioned to accept?This episode is not a takedown of AI. It’s a conversation starter. A recalibration. A place to voice the tension between realistic skepticism and genuine curiosity. AI isn’t going away—but neither should our questions, boundaries, or standards.I’d love to hear your perspective:-Are you using AI in a way that genuinely helps you?-Do you feel pressured by the hype?-Any podcasts, books, YouTube videos, or thinkers you recommend for a more grounded view?Drop your thoughts in the comments or send me a message. Let’s keep the conversation going.🚀 Looking for a Creative Collaborator or Coach?Whether you need help launching a podcast, shaping your story, editing a video, or navigating the artist’s life—I’m here to help.✅ Work with me: https://philsvitek.com/collaborate/

In this inspiring and joy-filled conversation, Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) and I sit down with author Emily Krempholtz to discuss her debut cozy fantasy romance, Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore—a magical, heart-forward story about second chances, redemption, and what it truly means to be a good person.Emily shares her creative journey from bestselling ghostwriter, editor, and book coach to querying her own novels, facing rejection, and finally writing the story that made publishers say yes. We explore how Violet Thistlewaite evolved from its earliest concept to the finished book, what motivated Emily to write about a reformed villain trying to choose kindness, and how she balanced world-building, lore, plot, and romance—including crafting some delightfully steamy scenes.We also dive into:-The challenges and joys of bringing the audiobook to life-How the townsfolk of Dragon’s Rest (and a mildly homicidal houseplant) took shape-What might be next for Violet, Nathaniel, and the world Emily has created-Emily’s advice for starting your own book club, complete with practical, fun tipsIt’s a warm, insightful, and uplifting episode for writers, readers, and anyone who loves a good redemption arc.Learn more about Emily and her work: https://www.emilykrempholtz.com/Check out Marisa and my in-depth spoiler discussion of the book here: https://youtu.be/T_GVK6L_zq4

Phil Svitek and Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) dive into Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore by debut author Emily Krempholtz, a warm, whimsical cozy fantasy romance about second chances, self-forgiveness, and the transformative power of community. We explore the novel’s “grumpy × sunshine” dynamic, the slow-burn romance between Violet and Nathaniel, and the story’s deeper moral questions about redemption, identity, guilt, and what it truly means to be a good person.For more on Emily’s, visit: https://www.emilykrempholtz.com/ and check out our full interview episode with her (https://youtu.be/_EyFawvigds) for deeper insights into the making of this book!Up next in our Bookmarked series:-The Phantom Tollbooth - Norton Juster (Jan 2026) -Marisa pick (Feb 2026)-The Lost Bookshop – Evie Woods (Mar 2026)-Marisa pick (Apr 2026)-How to Solve Your Own Murder – Kristen Perrin (May 2026)🚀 Looking for a Creative Collaborator or Coach?Whether you need help launching a podcast, shaping your story, editing a video, or navigating the artist’s life—I’m here to help.✅ Work with me: https://philsvitek.com/collaborate/

In this vlog, I recap everything that made November such a full and meaningful stretch.I start with the Film Finance Summit, sharing the biggest takeaways on how indie films like The Arbiters actually get funded. Then I cover my birthday celebration, this year’s American Film Market, and why the World Animation Summit continues to be one of my favorite events — especially with its mix of studio heavyweights and indie creators.I also take you with me to Seattle for Thanksgiving, where I finally slowed down and reconnected with the natural rhythm of winter — something most of us don’t give ourselves permission to do.Finally, I give a full update on The Arbiters:– Where things stand with the Annecy Residency– What’s next creatively– What’s next on the business and financing frontIf you’re an artist, filmmaker, or someone trying to build something meaningful, I hope this episode encourages you to pursue your goals while honoring the season you’re in.🚀 Looking for a Creative Collaborator or Coach?Whether you need help launching a podcast, shaping your story, editing a video, or navigating the artist’s life—I’m here to help.✅ Work with me: https://philsvitek.com/collaborate/

In this episode, I tackle a deceptively simple workflow issue that has major consequences: sharing a Google Drive or Dropbox folder before the files finish uploading. It’s an easy mistake — you drag in your assets, hit “share,” and move on with your day. But for the person on the receiving end, this creates confusion, missed files, inconsistent downloads, and unnecessary back-and-forth. I break down why this happens, how to avoid it, and offer a simple best practice: wait until uploads are complete, or at minimum, send a quick note with how many files will be in the folder and when the upload will finish. A tiny shift in communication, but one that dramatically improves collaboration and keeps projects running smoothly.🚀 Looking for a Creative Collaborator or Coach?Whether you need help launching a podcast, shaping your story, editing a video, or navigating the artist’s life—I’m here to help.✅ Work with me: https://philsvitek.com/collaborate/

Most filmmakers think development is just “writing the script.” In reality, it’s the quiet money pit no one warns you about — from lawyer fees and talent outreach to pitch deck design, travel to festivals, industry events, budgeting specialists, and even the technological tools required. In this episode, I break down the real hidden costs of getting a project off the ground, why budgeting for development is essential, and how creators can avoid getting blindsided. Whether you’re building an indie or studio film, this is the episode that reveals what development actually takes behind the scenes.🚀 Looking for a Creative Collaborator or Coach?Whether you need help launching a podcast, shaping your story, editing a video, or navigating the artist’s life—I’m here to help.✅ Work with me: https://philsvitek.com/collaborate/

Phil Svitek and Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) dive into Albert Camus’ Exile and the Kingdom, a collection of six vivid, unsettling, and deeply human short stories exploring what it means to be isolated yet yearning for connection. Written in 1957 against the backdrop of the Algerian War, these stories capture individuals at decisive moments—moments of moral conflict, longing, rebellion, and revelation.We explore Camus’ legacy as a French-Algerian writer, Resistance journalist, and Nobel laureate whose ideas on the Absurd, Revolt, and moral responsibility shaped the intellectual landscape of the 20th century. Phil and Marisa walk through each story—from Janine’s desert epiphany to the silent cask-workers, the tortured missionary, the conflicted schoolteacher, and the weary artist—unpacking the symbols, emotional arcs, and philosophical questions that define Camus’ work.We discuss the recurring themes of exile, identity, freedom, guilt, spiritual hunger, and the longing for a “kingdom” where meaning and belonging finally converge. Plus, we compare our favorite stories, reflect on what resonated most personally, and consider why Camus’ writing still feels urgent in today’s fractured world.Up next in our Bookmarked series:-Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore – Emily Krempholtz (Dec 2025)-The Phantom Tollbooth - Norton Juster (Jan 2026) -Marisa pick (Feb 2026)-The Lost Bookshop – Evie Woods (Mar 2026)-Marisa pick (Apr 2026)-How to Solve Your Own Murder – Kristen Perrin (May 2026)

Panels are supposed to deliver insights, inspiration, and real value… but too often, a huge chunk of the time gets eaten by long, bloated introductions. Some it takes up 20 minutes out of a 45 minute panel!Today, I break down why panel introductions need to be much, much shorter and how “context over credits” is a rule that changes everything.This isn’t about disrespecting panelists — it’s about giving them more time to shine instead of drowning them in résumé reading.For a deeper dive, including full frameworks, templates, and concrete examples you can use for your own events, I expanded this topic in a full Patreon article here: https://patreon.com/philsvitek (If you run panels, host events, or speak on them, you’ll get a lot out of it.)Whether you’re an organizer, moderator, panelist, or attendee who’s tired of wasting precious time — this episode will help you rethink the way we start conversations.

In this episode, I show you the quickest and easiest way to password-protect a page in WordPress — no plugins, no coding, no complicated settings. If you’re working on client projects, managing private content, or building exclusive experiences, this is one of the most useful features built right into WordPress.Why password-protect a WordPress page?There are lots of reasons creators, businesses, and teams use this feature:Client work: Deliver drafts, designs, cuts, or documents privatelyPatreon/paid members: Share exclusive pages without exposing them publiclyInternal team resources: Keep reference material or WIP pages hiddenEvent pages: Limit access to guests or registrantsPortfolio pieces: Share selective work samples privatelyEarly previews: Release beta features or in-progress content to trusted viewersSensitive info: Anything that shouldn’t live openly on the webPassword-protecting a page is one of the simplest ways to control who sees what — and it’s built into WordPress by default.

My Google Drive had gotten messy — duplicate folders, random uploads, files mislabeled, and years’ worth of assets scattered everywhere. And with limited local storage and very specific permission needs, the usual “Sync & Mirror” option didn’t work for me.So I created my own one-off cleanup method, and after hours of experimenting, it finally worked.In this episode, I break down exactly what I did:✔️ Downloaded everything using the Google Drive desktop app✔️ Copied the full Drive to an external hard drive as a safety net✔️ Used two Finder windows to reorganize folders manually✔️ Added missing files from my local drive that never made it to GDrive✔️ Created clean new folders and moved everything into the correct structure✔️ Archived the original Google Drive folders so nothing was lost✔️ Uploaded the clean, organized version back to GDrive✔️ Kept archive copies on the external drive “just in case”This was a one-time reset designed for people who:don’t have enough hard drive space for a full mirrorneed complicated folder permissionshave years of clutterwant to rebuild their GDrive structure from scratch without losing filesneed a safe and reversible solutionIf your Google Drive feels like a digital junk drawer, this method might save you hours — and your sanity.

The World Animation Summit is one of my favorite industry events — and not because I’m paid to say so. In this episode, I share why this intimate three-day gathering is such a gem for anyone passionate about animation. Hosted annually by Animation Magazine in mid-November, the summit brings together around 500 attendees ranging from emerging creators to legendary filmmakers, all sharing panels, luncheons, and conversations that spark real connection. I reflect on his experience meeting the director of The Wild Robot, how the event fosters genuine creative kinship, and what I’m most excited to capture during my second year attending. I also invite listeners to submit questions I can answer while documenting the experience — offering a rare peek behind the curtain of one of animation’s most inspiring events.🚀 Looking for a Creative Collaborator or Coach?Whether you need help launching a podcast, shaping your story, editing a video, or navigating the artist’s life—I’m here to help.✅ Work with me: https://philsvitek.com/collaborate/

When it comes to podcasting, most creators waste time tweaking the wrong things — obsessing over intro music, rearranging episode order, or chasing the mythical “X factor” that’ll suddenly explode their downloads. In this episode, I break down the biggest mistake podcasters make: over-focusing on minutiae instead of consistency, purpose, and audience value. Drawing from experience producing over 80,000 podcast episodes since 2011, he shares why chasing perfection rarely works, how patience and rhythm build true growth, and why even “low-quality” shows can thrive when they deliver meaning and connection.🚀 Looking for a Creative Collaborator or Coach?Whether you need help launching a podcast, shaping your story, editing a video, or navigating the artist’s life—I’m here to help.✅ Work with me: https://philsvitek.com/collaborate/

In this reflective episode, I expand on my Substack essay “Keep Going: The Quiet Power of Perseverance When Progress Feels Invisible” (https://philsvitek.substack.com/p/keep-going-the-quiet-power-of-perseverance). I explore one of the hardest truths of any creative journey — that progress often happens beneath the surface. Whether you’re pitching a film, writing a book, or chasing a dream that feels perpetually out of reach, I break down the illusion of “stalled progress” and reframe rejection as refinement, not failure. Drawing on examples from filmmaking, Brené Brown’s early rejections, and my own creative process, I share how endurance, adaptability, and faith in your purpose are the real differentiators between those who stop and those who break through. This is a must-listen for anyone in a quiet season of doubt — a reminder that the work you’re doing today is laying the foundation for tomorrow’s success.🚀 Looking for a Creative Collaborator or Coach?Whether you need help launching a podcast, shaping your story, editing a video, or navigating the artist’s life—I’m here to help.✅ Work with me: https://philsvitek.com/collaborate/

It’s my birthday! 🎉 Instead of gifts or a night out, I’m focusing on something more meaningful — supporting independent art and pushing The Arbiters, my hand-drawn animated feature film, closer to full funding.In this video, I share a few ways you can support not just me, but the creative ecosystem I’m part of:1️⃣ Support authors and artists I loveI recently made an Instagram post (https://www.instagram.com/p/DQo8P_VCYHb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) highlighting authors I know personally:📖 Emily Krempholtz – Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore (out Nov 18). Emily’s coached me and made me a better writer in so many ways.🍴 Pyet DeSpain – Rooted In Fire (also out Nov 18). Her food is as soulful as it is delicious.✍️ Jeff Cannata – Best Summed Up. I don’t know Jeff personally, but I’ve supported the project since I’ve heard him announce it on The Filmcast podcast.💪 Eboni K. Williams – Bet on Black. Eboni is one of the wisest people I know, and this book radiates her strength and insight.🎭 AJ Gibson – Flipping the Script. A deeply personal story full of humor, vulnerability, and universal lessons on growth.💫 Cleo Wade – Remember Love. A beautiful and profound poetry collection that feels like medicine for the soul.🧠 Elise Loehnen – Choosing Wholeness Over Goodness. Elise is such a brilliant analytic fuser of ideas — her writing bridges intellect and soul with rare clarity.🌀 Susan K. Wehrley – Shift. Susan is an amazing coach, and this book is as transformative as her others.🌱 Satya Doyle Byock – Quarterlife. A must-read for any young adult — I wish it had existed when I was 20.💰 Chelsea Galicia – SAVE Yourself. An incredible and practical guide to personal finance and self-worth.💔 Rachel Brathen – To Love and Let Go. A deeply moving memoir about loss, love, and healing.2️⃣ Watch my indie feature films🎬 Love Market → Watch free on Tubi or Rent/Buy on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/Love-Market-Amy-Cassandra-Martinez/dp/B09DFS3FTZ/ref=sr_1_1?crid=OPD1DOF5QJEV&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.IdPrSpjj3QqPAftz6QnsMQ.H5mtVTRIKGp9SqJ8znlJDoH1p2q39ZfTS1jxxyxCj6Y&dib_tag=se&keywords=love+market+phil+svitek&qid=1762806777&sprefix=love+market+phil+svitek%2Caps%2C259&sr=8-1)🎥 Finding Love in Bogotá → Watch free on Tubi or Rent/Buy on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CVTV87HL/ref=atv_sr_fle_c_sr62ef6f_1_1_1?sr=1-1&pageTypeIdSource=ASIN&pageTypeId=B0CVV1KBZN&qid=1762806804981)3️⃣ Read my books📗 Master Mental Fortitude (35 creative lessons) → https://www.amazon.com/Master-Mental-Fortitude-Achieving-Ambitions/dp/B0BF2XK7GY/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.2iq-FzaQP-lr2GVeLiZ7jF2ZxSmmSCakvzXhcaac19xNUHAHxF_6tRsvufK4NoZqsjirTRVpyeVmQQNBYJl17HZ6siOyOCDLlbyGBBGdI1BW5Y0Hx64-L5AEXWPJcxCgGlqZoZR7qRJXZHpoKBCs4xxjCwNR26tl8kq-Yj56Kp3WlW3WqQVapzdhbNhS00sqH_ZC2y3HVVnu7HC546f-5IjW6Cf7kiwCmV0rhMjc3zE.u6SVkM25unupCU6gS7y04SF6Y-0vG-DHFLPHCYEmwKI&dib_tag=se&keywords=master+mental+fortitude&qid=1762806868&sr=8-1📙 Elan Elan (coming-of-age fiction set in Slovakia) → https://www.amazon.com/Elan-Phil-Svitek/dp/B09M5HS5G9/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JQOZ43DYPSRY&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.zSiboGodZvBn8Cp3CJkzlw.OR3StJwrFVhPGBYMyz_qtEtrO7vGQbmqjDI1k0uZLvI&dib_tag=se&keywords=elan+elan+phil+svitek&qid=1762806898&sprefix=elan+elan+hil+svitek%2Caps%2C370&sr=8-14️⃣ Join my Patreon community👉 patreon.com/philsvitekYour monthly or one-time support directly funds The Arbiters — covering storyboard development, artist fees, and behind-the-scenes production.🎁 BONUS: You can also get access to the 20-minute behind-the-scenes making-of video from The Arbiters proof of concept for $30 right here → https://www.patreon.com/posts/making-of-proof-119386974?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

This week’s vlog is all about money — in filmmaking and in life.On the creative front, I share major updates on The Arbiters: our budget is finalized, the investor package is complete, and we’re now actively taking the project to investors. I’ve also been interviewing entertainment lawyers in preparation for closing deals and finding the right partner for ongoing production legal.Beyond financing, I dive into brand sponsorships — an unconventional idea for a 2D animated film, but one I truly believe can work. I also recap a Women in Animation event and share my excitement for the upcoming Animation World Summit.On a personal note, I talk about celebrating a housewarming party, my upcoming birthday, why therapy should challenge you, and a frustrating but revealing experience with my auto loan — a reminder that even when you do things right, finances can still test your patience.It’s a full-circle episode about building a creative life — the wins, the stress, and the messy reality of chasing big dreams with discipline and heart.🚀 Looking for a Creative Collaborator or Coach?Whether you need help launching a podcast, shaping your story, editing a video, or navigating the artist’s life—I’m here to help.✅ Work with me: https://philsvitek.com/collaborate/

Phil Svitek and Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) do a bonus Bookmarked episode on George Orwell’s Animal Farm—a quick-hit companion to our 1984 episode. We share overall reactions (Marisa read it right after 1984; Phil revisited it for the first time since high school) and dig into the big stuff: how a “fairy story” becomes a razor-sharp satire of revolutions gone sideways, why language manipulation (Squealer!) matters, the seduction of “ends justify the means,” and what “some animals are more equal than others” says about power today. We connect key moments—Boxer’s tragedy, the windmill grind, Napoleon’s myth-making—to modern propaganda, disinformation, and personality cults, then compare its bite to 1984’s. It’s not a deep dive—more of a guided reaction with themes and takeaways—and we’d love your thoughts: What parallels do you see now? Drop a comment and join the convo.🚀 Looking for a Creative Collaborator or Coach?Whether you need help launching a podcast, shaping your story, editing a video, or navigating the artist’s life—I’m here to help.✅ Work with me: https://philsvitek.com/collaborate/