In this episode of In the Room, John Williams and guest co-host Joe Brundage sit down with Nirav Murthy, co-founder and co-CEO of Camp Network, to explore the future of intellectual property in the era of AI and blockchain.Nirav breaks down how Camp Network is building infrastructure at the intersection of AI and IP, why blockchain matters for provenance and royalties, and how creators, actors, and producers can protect and monetize their work as AI models evolve.We cover:The copyright fights ahead between AI and creatorsBlockchain for provenance and micro-royalty distributionTokenizing IP, capital formation, and “provable fandom”AI-native content and what it means for actors, writers, musiciansWhy proof of humanity will matter in the next wave of media
In this episode of In the Room, hosts John Williams and Heather Kofka welcome filmmaker Ty McMahan and producer Brandon Kobs, the team behind the powerful new documentary 67 Bombs to Enid. With legendary documentarian Errol Morris as executive producer, the film sheds light on the Marshallese community in Enid, Oklahoma, displaced by U.S. nuclear testing in the Pacific, and the ongoing legacy of that history.Ty and Brandon share how they uncovered the story, the challenges of balancing human focus with historical scale, and why the film has already caught the attention of the United Nations. The conversation also explores Oklahoma’s growing role in film production and the importance of local storytelling with global impact.In the Room is where directors, writers, producers, and actors reveal what really goes on in casting and storytelling.
Filmmaker and cinematographer Clay Liford (Earthling, Wuss, Slash) joins In the Room to share candid insights from a career in indie film. Clay reflects on his path from SXSW premieres to teaching film, why coverage is the most misunderstood part of directing, and how embracing happy accidents can change your filmmaking.He also unpacks the challenges of modern distribution and output deals, offers perspective on AI’s impact on editing, and previews his upcoming dark comedy The Texas High School Regional Theater Festival Murders. Plus, we explore his new education initiative Those Who Do, designed to bring working filmmakers into the classroom.A must-listen episode for anyone passionate about independent filmmaking, cinematography, and the future of the industry.
This week, director William Kaufman (The Channel, Daylight’s End) returns to In the Room to discuss his newest release: Osiris—a gritty sci-fi thriller that’s part Aliens, part Black Hawk Down, and 100% badass.He’s joined by producer Christian Sosa to break down how they:Shot massive firefights on an indie budgetCreated terrifying practical aliensLanded Linda Hamilton for a critical roleTurned a New Orleans soundstage into a spaceshipPulled off some of the best creature effects of 2025Osiris is now available to stream. Catch the chaos, then come behind the scenes with the people who made it happen.Directed by William KaufmanStarring Max Martini, Brianna Hildebrand, LaMonica Garrett, Linda Hamilton
This week In the Room, Emmy-winning casting director Jessica Daniels joins us to pull back the curtain on one of the most essential—but misunderstood—roles in film and TV. From The 40-Year-Old Version to Will Trent, Jessica has cast some of the most nuanced and compelling projects of the last two decades. We talk about her days at Disney and Fox, how casting has changed post-pandemic, and what separates a good audition from a great one. Whether you’re an actor, producer, or just curious how your favorite shows get made—this is a must-listen.
Jaime Schwarz has helped over 100 brands speak for themselves—but now, he’s building something bigger.From co-founding seven startups to inventing a patent for self-authenticating media, Jaime is a true pioneer in the next chapter of content creation. In this episode, he joins John Williams In the Room to break down how blockchain, remix rights, and smart contracts are giving power back to creators—and why the service economy is giving way to the IP economy.If you’re a filmmaker, artist, or digital creator, this is the conversation you need to hear.
Filmmaker and creative producer Christopher Shea steps In the Room to reflect on the twists, pivots, and passion projects that have defined his multi-decade career in indie film, TV, and theater. From directing Berlin-premiering shorts to fixing chaotic sets, Shea unpacks what it really takes to survive—and thrive—in the creative trenches.We talk about:The realities of being a fixer in indie productionThe Austin days of DIY theater and sketch collectivesWorking with today’s rising stars before they broke outThe emotional and logistical cost of being an ADWhy story—not stardom—sells abroadThis is a raw and energizing conversation about creativity, commitment, and the community that makes it all possible.
Award-winning casting director Alyson Silverberg joins John to reflect on a career spanning two decades and some of television’s most beloved series. From Jane the Virgin to Greek, Alyson has built iconic ensembles and discovered fresh talent with a sharp eye and heart-led intuition.They dive into:What it really takes to cast a hit showHow the audition process has evolved from VHS tapes to ZoomThe emotional stakes of testing actors for life-changing rolesThe impact of AI, shifting platforms, and the unknown future of castingWhy human connection still winsWhether you're an actor, producer, or industry fan, this is a masterclass in the art—and heart—of casting.
On this episode of In the Room, Sundance filmmaker Chelsea Christer joins John and Heather to share the wild true story that inspired her dark comedy short Out for Delivery. From a real-life medical shipping disaster to shooting the film in just two days, Chelsea reveals how she brought her sharp, satirical vision to life with zero budget and total heart.We talk casting, making art with your community, and staying true to your voice when Hollywood comes knocking. In the Room is your backstage pass to the world of casting and storytelling—this is one of our most honest and inspiring conversations yet.
What does it take to direct a sci-fi thriller with no script, no studio, and just 8 days of filming? In this week’s episode, John sits down with filmmaker Chris Folkens, whose debut feature Catalyst is turning heads in the indie world.Shot guerrilla-style with an ensemble cast improvising every scene, Catalyst is more than a film—it’s a mirror to society, challenging everything from ego to identity. Chris shares the 9-year journey behind the film, how he raised money in phases, the choice to avoid studio interference, and why trusting your instinct is everything in independent filmmaking.If you’ve ever dreamed of making a movie, this is the episode you need to hear.Watch Catalyst now on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.🎬 Guest: Chris Folkens, Writer/Director of Catalyst📍 Hosted by: John Williams🎙 Produced by: In the Room🔗 YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/ZPAOP8tHJeE
Award-winning indie filmmaker Luca Pizzoleo joins casting director John Williams In the Room to reveal how he bypassed traditional Hollywood and built a massive audience online. With viral shorts like OCD (1M+ views on YouTube, 17M+ on social), 70+ awards, and features in Variety and NYT, Luca is reshaping how films are made, funded, and seen.We dive into:Using TikTok to launch a directing careerMaking powerful films on shoestring budgetsThe new rules of building audience-first filmmakingWhy the future of indie film lives onlineIf you’re a filmmaker, creative, or storytelling junkie—this one’s for you.
Filmmakers Yangzom Brauen and Martin Brauen join us In the Room to talk about their powerful new documentary, MOLA: A Tibetan Story of Love and Loss, which premiered at SXSW. The film follows Yangzom’s 100-year-old grandmother, a Buddhist nun exiled from Tibet, whose final wish is to return to her homeland to die.What unfolds is an intimate exploration of exile, faith, aging with dignity, and the complex bond between a mother and daughter. We talk about the challenges of filming a deeply personal story across three generations, capturing private moments on camera, and the unexpected turns that shaped the documentary.This is an unforgettable conversation about storytelling, legacy, and love at the end of life.Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TdHfKQA6Wpc?si=rvozE2kB9UCjQPA4Learn more about the film: molafilm.com
Filmmaking is evolving, and independent creators are redefining the industry. In this episode of In The Room Podcast, host John Williams sits down with writer-director William Tyler Wiseman and actor Michael Joplin to discuss the journey of making Moonwater, an indie film that explores family, addiction, and small-town survival.They discuss the challenges of bringing an independent film to life, from funding and production to the struggles of film distribution and navigating the festival circuit. Moonwater is more than just a movie—it’s a testament to the dedication and creativity required to make films outside of the Hollywood system.Topics covered in this episode:The realities of independent filmmaking and breaking into the industryHow they funded and produced Moonwater without studio backingThe challenges of distribution and getting an indie film seenThe personal connection behind Moonwater and why the story mattersThe role of acting and storytelling in bringing independent films to lifeIn The Room Podcast brings you inside the minds of filmmakers, actors, and creatives who are shaping the future of storytelling.Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZPAOP8tHJeE
How Angeline Walsh Made a Period Piece for Just $10K & Broke Into StreamingWhat does it take to bring a Victorian-era dark comedy to life with almost no budget? Writer & filmmaker Angeline Walsh joins In The Room by The Cast Station to share her seven-year journey creating The Coroner’s Assistant—an independently funded, self-distributed series that’s now streaming on Tubi, Apple TV, Google Play, and Amazon Prime.From rewriting roles last-minute to turning historical locations into 19th-century England—all while leading an all-female creative team—Walsh’s journey is a masterclass in independent filmmaking.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:🎥 The 7-Year Indie Film Journey of The Coroner’s Assistant💰 How She Made a Period Piece on a $10K Budget🎭 Casting, Directing, and Producing Without Studio Backing🛠️ The Secrets Behind Indie Film Distribution & Getting on Tubi🚀 What’s Next for The Coroner’s Assistant & Season 2🎟️ Watch The Coroner’s Assistant → Tubi (Free), Apple, Google & Amazon🔔 Subscribe to In The Room by The Cast Station for more deep dives into the world of indie filmmaking!📌 Follow & Connect With Us:📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DBt5vlTpK88/📺 YouTube:www.youtube.com/@TCSInTheRoomPodcast
🎙️ In The Room – Next Episode! Get ready to dive into American Spirit, the compelling story of Melody and Jonathan, two exes navigating old wounds and new relationships after a surprise reunion. This film explores the complexities of love, self-discovery, and the moments that force us to reexamine our past. Joining us are the creative forces behind the film: Christopher Yates (Director/Writer), a skilled filmmaker from Alabama with a passion for crafting authentic stories. Yasmeen Tori Fletcher (Ms. Marvel), who brings depth to Melody’s journey of self-reflection. Cooper Roth (The Middle), starring as Jonathan, a college student grappling with unfinished business. Mackinlee Waddell (GCB), who lights up the screen as Riley. Don't miss this conversation on storytelling, performance, and the heart of American Spirit. #InTheRoomPodcast #AmericanSpiritFilm #ChristopherYates #YasmeenToriFletcher #CooperRoth #MackinleeWaddell
Join us as we sit down with the powerhouse creatives behind the chilling feature film "The Beldham” Director/Writer Angela Gulner, Producer Mark Meir, and Cinematographer Ksusha Genenfeld dive into the dark, surreal world of The Beldham and the challenges of bringing this haunting story to life. 🌟 Angela Gulner’s work spans horror, surrealism, and black comedy, often centering women’s stories. Mark Meir, producer and seasoned actor, adds his creative expertise to this project, while Ksusha Genenfeld crafts stunning visuals that capture the story’s intensity. Get ready to hear about the inspirations, hurdles, and eerie experiences behind The Beldham. You won’t want to miss it! 🎥 Starring: Patricia Heaton, Corbin Bernsen, Katie Parker📅 Set your reminders! #PodcastEpisode #TheBeldham #AngelaGulner #MarkMeir #KsushaGenenfeld #AustinFilmFestival #Horror #WomenInFilm #FilmmakingJourney
In this episode, we’re excited to have Will Bakke, an award-winning filmmaker known for his insightful and comedic coming-of-age stories, and Sam Chortek, Executive Producer and both Partners at Rabbit Foot. Will began his career in 2008 with two documentary feature films that gained international distribution and recognition. His narrative feature “Believe Me” was highlighted as a Critic's Pick by The New York Times, showcasing his talent for powerful storytelling. Sam has played a pivotal role in guiding Rabbit Foot’s transformation from a brand-centric studio into a creative powerhouse, leading successful collaborations with networks like Amazon and HGTV. He believes in empowering others and fostering teamwork to innovate and thrive in the ever-evolving media landscape. Join us as we explore their journeys, insights, and the principles that drive impactful storytelling. Don't miss this chance to learn from two industry leaders who make their own luck!
We're thrilled to have the incredibly talented Josh Wiggins on today's episode of "In the Room"! 🌟 From his breakout role in "Hellion" and "Lost In The Sun" to the heartwarming "Max" and the critically acclaimed "Giant Little Ones," Josh has captivated audiences with his compelling performances and versatility. 🎬✨Get ready to dive deep into his journey, hear behind-the-scenes stories, and learn about his upcoming projects, including the action-packed "Armored" with Sylvester Stallone! 🚀🔥Tune in now and join the conversation! 🎧💬InTheRoomPodcast #JoshWiggins #Hellion #MaxMovie #GiantLittleOnes #Hollywood #Podcast #NewEpisode #ActorLife #FilmIndustry #BehindTheScenes
Step into the world of cinematic brilliance with our latest episode of "In The Room" podcast, featuring the visionary filmmaker Kevin Ford! 🎙️✨ From Netflix's riveting documentary "Sr." to impactful works like "The Pushback" and "Everything Is Stolen" Kevin uncovers the magic behind his storytelling craft. Get ready for an eye-opening dialogue packed with wisdom, inside stories, and deep reflections from one of the industry's most innovative minds. You won’t want to miss this inspiring and thought-provoking conversation! 🎧🎬 #InTheRoomPodcast #KevinFord #Filmmaker #DocumentaryFilm #Netflix #Sr #ThePushback #EVERYTHING IS STOLEN #FaceTheRiver #StorytellingMagic #FilmIndustryGems #PodcastMustListen
Step "In the Room" with the brilliant Kelly Williams, the mastermind producer and co-founder of Ten Acre Films!🚧 Currently busy in post-production on the much-anticipated "ALL THAT WE LOVE," Kelly's incredible project slate includes "WHAT HAPPENS LATER," "THE SENIOR," and a host of films that have made waves at Sundance and SXSW.🏆 Named a 2019 Independent Spirit Award Producer to Watch and a Sundance Fellow, Kelly also expands minds as a lecturer at The University of Texas at Austin!🔍 Dive into this captivating conversation on creativity, filmmaking, and behind-the-scenes insights of the industry! You don't want to miss it! Tune in now! 🎧💥#InTheRoom #KellyWilliams #PodcastMagic #FilmGenius #IndieFilmScene #SundanceStar #TenAcreFilms #MustListen