No Set Path (Drew English)
Explore every episode of No Set Path
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 06 Mar 2023 | EP00 - Welcome | 00:01:21 | |
Welcome to “No Set Path” - a podcast that takes you on a journey through the unpredictable world of creativity. This show explores the ups and downs of life as a creative through unscripted and candid conversations with guests who have forged their own paths and show that no two roads are the same for anybody. Visit our WEBSITE as well as our INSTAGRAM and YOUTUBE pages. | |||
| 07 Mar 2023 | EP01 - It’s OK to Have Seasons | Brandon Bloch - Co-Founder of Hometeam | 00:56:16 | |
Brandon Bloch has been in the production world for over 10 years as a Cinematographer and Director and is now a founding partner of Hometeam; a fully remote production company with a global network of top-tier talent in every US State and across 150+ countries. I’ve shot a bunch of work for them including projects for HBO and NBC and it’s pretty amazing what they are able to pull off at scale by leveraging their resources. Not only does Hometeam have Emmy, Clio and Webby awards under their belt, but they’ve just been named one of Fast Company’s most innovative companies of 2023. It was a joy to be able to talk to Brandon about everything from how he got started in filmmaking to helping head up such a successful venture. Hometeam: www.wearehometeam.com // @hometeamcontent Brandon’s Site: www.brandonbloch.com | |||
| 14 Mar 2023 | EP02 - Taylor Ballantyne | 01:09:54 | |
Taylor Ballantyne is a Director and Photographer specializing in commercial, advertising, print, editorial, music videos and feature films. Ballantyne was a staff photographer for Sports Illustrated for over 6 years. She received a national cover for Sports Illustrated and directed a short film accompanied by a photographic spread for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit's Body Paint portion of their magazine entitled "In Her Own Words" which has been featured on Good Morning America and aired at the Cannes Lions film festival. Ballantyne directed a chart-climbing music video entitled "I Would've Loved You" with "The Voice" winner Jake Hoot and Kelly Clarkson. Ballantyne directed her first feature length documentary and concert film for Kenny Wayne Shepherd, which premiered at the end of 2022 at the Belcourt Theatre in Nashville, TN. She continues to build her craft and gathers her inspiration in lively creative environments surrounded by artists of all kinds. Website: www.taylorballantyne.com Instagram: @taylorbphoto \\ @taylorbfilm | |||
| 21 Mar 2023 | EP03 - John Mofield | 01:10:57 | |
John Mofield is a Cinematographer and Photo Journalist hailing from Nashville, TN. His years of experience in documentary and commercial has sent him all over the world and an enabled a greater understanding of art and humanity. Mofield has recently returned home from a 5-moth, 15,000 mile overland motorcycle journey from Nashville to Ushuaia, Argentina while working on a personal photography project where he endeavors to gain a more personal glimpse of the human condition. Website: www.johnmofield.com Instagram: @johnmofield30 | |||
| 28 Mar 2023 | EP04 - Emotional Awareness & Following Your Heart w/ Jon Bregel | Founder of Variable | 00:46:44 | |
In 2011, Variable launched as a commercial production company and creative collective. Variable produced dozens of award-winning campaigns for global brands while playing a pivotal role in the careers of many of today's most influential filmmakers. While the journey to creating a recognized filmmaking brand was rewarding in many ways, Variable co-founder, Jon Bregel, felt deeply disconnected from his own wellness and personal life, ultimately making the decision to leave the company in 2019. Relaunched by Bregel in 2022, Variable has transitioned its focus from producing content, to encouraging filmmakers who are eager to live well while pursuing career goals. In this episode, we dig into the importance of emotional awareness, being an artist and following your heart even when everyone else might think you're crazy. EPISODE LINKS: PODCAST INFO: HOST INFO: | |||
| 04 Apr 2023 | EP05 - Vulnerability & The Business of Art w/ Michael Sargeant | Creative Producer - Magnum Photos | 00:53:05 | |
Since 2018, Michael Sargeant has spearheaded Magnum Photos’ video-on-demand education program, Magnum Learn, and works to produce a variety of video content for the agency. Projects include courses led by Alec Soth, Gregory Halpern, Bieke Depoorter, Matt Black and Jonas Bendiksen, as well as a group course focused on street photography with contributions from Martin Parr, Bruce Gilden, Susan Meiselas, Mark Power, amongst others. In this episode, we discuss his near-foray into life in the military, vulnerability, artistic value and navigating the business side of the art and photography world. EPISODE LINKS SHOW LINKS | |||
| 11 Apr 2023 | EP06 - Mentorship & Thinking Outside The Box w/ Peter Szabo | Head of Commercial Partnerships at Spotify | 00:00:59 | |
Always at the intersection of technology, Music & Brands, Peter is Head of Commercial Partnerships at Spotify. Previously, he was SVP, Head of Global Music & US Ad Sales at Shazam. And before that, he held various roles at Pandora, iHeartRadio & Entercom. Originally from Boston, he graduated from Syracuse University and recently relocated with his wife & 2 boys from Santa Monica to Lake Oconee, GA. In this episode we discuss Peter’s beginnings in Radio and the importance of mentorship and thinking outside the box. We also turn the tables slightly on our host, Drew, where he gives more insight to his backstory and the importance of personal maturity. Peter’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pszabo/ SHOW LINKS HOST LINKS | |||
| 18 Apr 2023 | EP07 - The Power of Asking a Question w/ David Goldman | Portrait & Documentary Photographer | 00:57:36 | |
David Goldman is an award winning documentary and portrait photographer/filmmaker. Originally from Toronto he has lived in both Los Angeles and New York. His documentary work has taken him to India, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Ethiopia and the Northern Territory of Australia working on projects about human trafficking, maternal health and marginalized people. David is also known for the album packaging artwork for Blink 182’s Enema Of The State that has sold more than 15 million copies worldwide. His current project, The Motorcycle Portraits series, began after considering how ubiquitous motorcycles are in developing countries yet a luxury item in more developed countries. Focusing on the people that ride and how the shared use of this machine connects individuals no matter where in the world they live. In this episode, David and Drew discuss: - His journey from photo assistant to photographic one of the largest albums of the 90’s - The pivot into documentary work - The power in simply asking a question - His current project, The Motorcycle Projects …and more David’s Website: https://davidgoldmanphoto.com/ More about No Set Path Follow Drew English | |||
| 25 Apr 2023 | EP08 - Unexpected Stories & Community w/ Anna Andersen | Director | 00:52:06 | |
Anna is an award-winning documentary and commercial filmmaker, whose work focuses on the dynamism of the female identity and worlds unknown. Using documentary-style storytelling techniques, Anna’s unique approach bridges the gap between commercial and intimate storytelling. Her documentary work has been screened at DOC NYC, Florida Film Festival, and Sidewalk Film Festival and has been awarded multiple Grand Jury and Audience Awards. She has worked dozens of brands and streaming platforms and you can see her work in Global Citizen, NowThis, COMPLEX, Vox Media, New Lab, Amogy, Modern Meadow, and most recently, Fujifilm. Topics discussed in this episode: EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 03 May 2023 | EP09 - Filmmaking Abroad & Connecting w/ Josh Herum | Cinematographer | 00:58:36 | |
Josh is a St. Louis, Missouri-based Cinematographer who has shot two feature films in Nepal. He has also directed numerous music videos, narrative and documentary short films, branded content, and has been the cinematographer on projects with companies; Netflix, BBC, Meta, Sony Music, Wall Street Journal, Procter & Gamble, JAMF, Metabolic Meals, 4-H, Mission Taco Joint, Elanco, Missouri Botanical Gardens, and Barnes Jewish Hospital working with a variety of production companies and agencies. In this episode Drew & Josh talk about… EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 10 May 2023 | EP10 - Keep The Work Fun w/ Zach Kuperstein | Cinematographer | 01:03:29 | |
Zach Kuperstein, a New York-based cinematographer listed among Variety’s Artisan Elites, has a passion for visual storytelling. He burst onto the field with the southern gothic film, “The Eyes of My Mother,” premiering at the Sundance Film Festival in 2016. His work earned him nominations at the Independent Spirit Awards and the Camerimage International Film Festival. His most recent release, “Barbarian,” topped the American box office on its opening weekend and left an indelible mark on the horror genre. EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 17 May 2023 | EP11 - Find Your Own Unique Voice w/ Atom Moore | Watch Photographer | 01:13:52 | |
Atom Moore is a New York City based photographer working in and around the watch industry locally and internationally. A love of watches brought this photographic veteran almost entirely into the sphere of watches. Creating unique art works from watches since 2015 he has had 3 critically acclaimed watch photography exhibitions. Atom works directly with top watch brands and industry publications. His recent clients include Grand Seiko, Vacheron Constantin, J.N. Shapiro Watches, Autodromo, and HODINKEE. In this episode we discuss… - Finding your tribe …And more! EPISODE LINKS: Atom's Website: atommoore.com MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH”: Podcast Website: nosetpath.com FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH: Drew's Website: drewenglish.com | |||
| 25 May 2023 | EP12 - Mult-Faceted & Multi-Fascinated w/ Julie Hotz | Artist | 01:01:53 | |
Julie "Jules" Hotz is an LA based Filmmaker, Photographer, Artist, and long distance hiker. Working in both the commercial and documentary worlds they specialize in outdoor, environmental, and human interest work, they have helped create work for REI, The North Face, Outdoor Research, Red Bull, Outdoor Magazine, Guayaki, etc., as a Photographer, Director of Photography, and/or Director. Julie is also in IATSE Local 600 as a Camera Operator and has operated on TV shows, commercials, feature films, and documentaries, for HBO, PBS, Fortune 500 companies, and indie productions. EPISODE LINKS: Julie's Website: www.juliehotz.com MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH”: Podcast Website: nosetpath.com FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH: | |||
| 30 May 2023 | EP13 - Take Your Audience on a Journey | with Eli Walker - Founder of Drunk Yoga® | 00:55:53 | |
Eli Walker curates interactive wellness and storytelling experiences that build community and help individuals and organizations who struggle with disconnection create belonging. As the founder/CEO of the internationally-acclaimed Drunk Yoga® equipped with a BFA in Theater from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, Eli Walker is a community engagement expert with a knack for leveraging the power of "play" to make mindfulness practices fun. EPISODE LINKS: Eli’s Website: eliwalkerstories.com Drunk Yoga: dodrunkyoga.com + @drunkyoga MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” Website: nosetpath.com FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH Instagram: instagram.com/drewenglishh | |||
| 08 Jun 2023 | EP14 - The Power of Curiosity | Jason & Adam Koontz of Born Rival | 00:50:38 | |
Jason and Adam Koontz are brothers who turned their love for action sports filmmaking during their childhood into a career. The duo works together on a majority of their projects, with Jason as Director of Photography and Adam as a Movi operator and heavy lift drone pilot. Over the last 10 plus years their aesthetic has been refined by travel, collaboration and deeper connection to the lifestyle that being a creative affords them. It has led them to co-found Born Rival, which is an apparel brand celebrating film culture and the use of the visual medium to form expression. The brand puts an emphasis on photography and film production, but it will definitely inspire you no matter your creative pursuit. In addition to the apparel, which is manufactured right here in NYC, they also produce original films and editorial spotlights that feature image-makers & storytellers from across the industry, shedding light and perspective on the creative process. EPISODE LINKS: Jason’s Website: jasonkoontz.com Adam’s Website: adamkoontz.tv MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 14 Jun 2023 | EP15 - Shedding Labels and Ego | Noam Kroll - Filmmaker & Creative Entrepreneur | 01:18:01 | |
Noam Kroll is a Los Angeles-based narrative filmmaker, known for his incredibly DIY approach to the craft. Over the past decade, Noam has written, directed, shot, and edited several acclaimed short and feature projects that have screened at international film festivals, including his micro-budget features "Shadows on the Road" and "Psychosynthesis." In addition to his narrative work, Noam is a creative entrepreneur and the founder of the production company Creative Rebellion, which has produced content for renowned brands like Google, NBC / Universal, and more. Committed to sharing his expertise, Noam reaches millions of filmmakers through his popular podcast, "Show, Don't Tell," newsletter, "Micro-Budget Weekly," and his personal filmmaking blog, www.noamkroll.com. Currently, Noam is gearing up to release his third feature film “Disappearing Boy”. He is also in development for his fourth feature film "Teacher's Pet", which is funded and slated to shoot this summer. EPISODE LINKS: Cinecolor: cinecolor.io MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 29 Jun 2023 | EP16 - From Acting to Advocacy | Sarah Elmaleh - Voice Actor & Director | 01:08:47 | |
Sarah Elmaleh is an actor, voice director, consultant and industry advocate best known for her roles in videogames, from blockbuster AAA titles (Hi-Fi Rush, Fortnite, Halo Infinite, Gears 5) to critically acclaimed indie games (Afterparty, Pyre, Gone Home). She has likewise directed a talented and diverse set of casts in both indies (The Red Lantern, The Wreck) and AAA (Fortnite, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2) alike. Her consultancy is designed to comprehensively educate and connect developers with novel and industry-standard performance processes, from navigating the union (SAG-AFTRA), to casting, to recording. Led by her desire to foster stronger collaboration within games and across creative communities, she has been an organizing and educating force in games spaces (such as IndieCade) and institutions (USC, NYU) for many years, while nurturing meaningful exchange between game developers and the actor’s union, SAG-AFTRA. She teaches the core Queer Vox voiceover workshop Interactive module, has served as director and co-host of the IndieCade awards since 2016, and is one of six dev hosts of the game developer interview podcast Eggplant: The Secret Lives of Games. EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 12 Jul 2023 | EP17 - Leveraging Knowledge & Opportunity | Travis Wears - Founder of Cine Kit List | 00:56:53 | |
Travis Wears has been working as a freelance director, DP, and editor since 2009. He's traveled the US and abroad creating content for Netflix, ESPN, Audi, CAT, Walmart, MTV, CMT, HGTV, Travel Channel, NBC, Fox Studios, Brisk, John Deere, Animal Planet, Showtime, KFC, Pepsi, Frito Lay, Kleenex, Toyota, Yoplait, The MLB, NFL, MLS and many more. Highly experienced in docu-series, corporate and sports, Travis also loves commercial work, helping to create brand campaigns and broadcast spots for numerous blue-chip clients such as American Express, Kemps Dairy Products, KC Streetcar and Pepsi's boutique brand Stubborn Soda EPISODE LINKS: Production Vans & Grip Trucks FB Page MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 26 Jul 2023 | EP18 - Leaning Into The Creative Core | David Kruta - Cinematographer | 00:57:43 | |
David Kruta is an acclaimed Director of Photography, celebrated for his compelling visual storytelling in features such as "Concussion," "The Sounding," and recent projects like "Black Friday" with Bruce Campbell, "Agent Game" featuring Mel Gibson and Jason Isaacs, and "The Last Thing Mary Saw" starring Stefanie Scott and Isabelle Fuhrman. His work on "The Sounding" earned him the prestigious Haskell Wexler Award for Best Cinematography. Beyond films, Kruta's diverse portfolio includes commercials for high-profile clients such as Porsche and Canon, music videos, and documentaries. His unique, realistic style, inspired by his New York base, has led to recognition from the International Cinematographers Guild and admiration across the industry (lol). Always exploring new creative avenues, Kruta is also involved in exciting upcoming projects like "The Last Job" and "Creep Box” EPISODE LINKS: Cinematography Salon FB Group MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 09 Aug 2023 | EP19 - Always Follow Your Gut | Brian Stansfield - EP of Stansfield Studios | 01:02:23 | |
Brian Stansfield is a seasoned professional in the visual storytelling landscape. Brian's journey kicked off with global adventures, documenting the work of the U.S. Army across different corners of the world. After honing his craft and business acumen in New York City, he launched Apollo Lighting & Grip, which caters to small and medium-sized productions, offering tailored film and photography lighting and grip solutions. Now, based out of Atlanta, Georgia and as the executive producer of Stansfield Studios, he specializes in crafting compelling narratives and impactful imagery that enhances his clients' brand identity and goals. EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 24 Aug 2023 | EP20 - Trust Yourself & Love The Process | Mike Pecci - Director & Podcast Host | 01:07:03 | |
Classically trained as a filmmaker and cinematographer, Pecci then spent over 20 years forming and running a production company that has produced award-winning content for brands like Bose and Sam Adam's, and music videos and treatments for artists like the Wu Tang Clan, Lucius, Killswitch Engage, and Meshuggah. His two recent acclaimed short films, the Russian sci-fi epic "12 Kilometers" and the Argento-inspired thriller "Who's There" are both currently in development to be features. EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 12 Sep 2023 | EP21 - Longevity As Legacy | Matheus Bastos - Cinematographer | 01:04:00 | |
Matheus Bastos is director of photography based in New York and Los Angeles. Growing up as the first generation child of immigrants, he found an avenue into the arts and a passion for storytelling at a young age, entertaining himself with films and music. His work has played at multiple film festivals around the world such as SXSW, Tribeca Film Festival, Cinequest, Cannes Court Metrage, as well as Rolling Stone, Billboard, Revolver, and more. EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 26 Sep 2023 | EP22 - Building Worlds, Capturing Moments | Oren Soffer - Cinematographer | 01:06:58 | |
Oren grew up between the United States and Israel nurturing hobbies in painting and photography, building LEGOs, and voraciously watching movies. These activities laid the groundwork for what would eventually become a love of cinematography and a passion for crafting bold, cinematic imagery. Last year, Oren wrapped filming on the feature film ‘The Creator,’ directed by Gareth Edwards, along with cinematographer Greig Fraser ASC ACS, slated for release on September 29 2023. Two of his other recent features premiered at the TIFF and TriBeCa film festivals in 2022. He has also shot multiple award-winning short films, including 'Opera of Cruelty,' which won a Student Academy Award, and ‘See You Soon,’ which won the audience award at the Palm Springs International Shortsfest before subsequently premiering on Short of the Week and receiving a Vimeo Staff Pick. During his studies at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, Oren was nominated for the ASC Gordon Willis Student Heritage Award, and was a finalist for the Arri Volker Bahnemann Award for Cinematography. Oren has also shot hundreds of commercials and music videos for a variety of clients including Nike, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, HBO, Foot Locker, Grey Goose Vodka, Doritos, Kohler, Wilson Tennis, Marriott Hotels, ACE Hardware, Crest, Viacom, and Universal Studios. EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 11 Oct 2023 | EP23 - From Bands to Brands | Jeremy Perez-Cruz - Creative Director | 01:08:09 | |
Jeremy Perez-Cruz is a brand, marketing, strategy and creative leader based in Brooklyn, New York. Jeremy has spent 20 years building and growing brands that have brought together the physical and digital in ways that have transformed how we define “the real world.” In his work for some of the world’s largest and most beloved brands, he’s led creative at The New York Times, served as VP of Creative at Skillshare, VP of Brand at Buzzfeed, Head of Brand Marketing at Uber, Senior Design Manager of Global Beverage at Pepsico and Founder of Etsy’s Global Brand Studio. Today, Jeremy leads Parts Per Million, a brand-focused creative and strategic studio specializing in five-day innovation sprints and anchored in a philosophy of curiosity, collaboration, empathy and play. Obsessed with light, color, and the sincerity of candid moments, Jeremy’s photography is deeply observational and emotive. His @sleepingplanes instagram account captures spontaneous, honest moments of meaning in everyday life in New York City. Jeremy’s images represent a human instant, glimpsing the world at a singular time, and reflect a collaborative connection between an artist, their subject, and the audience. EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 07 Feb 2024 | EP24 - Your Process, Your Style | Michael Lukk Litwak - Director | 00:30:49 | |
A Deep Dive into Filmmaking with Michael Litwak: Lessons, Passion, and Personal Insights A fascinating discussion with filmmaker Michael Litwak where he shares his experiences from his early career to creating commercially successful projects. Litwak emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning, dedication, and collaboration as key factors in successful projects. He also gives some personal insight on preserving creative control over work and contributing value to the industry. Litwak engages with his followers primarily through Instagram, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of his work. Michael concludes with details about his upcoming film, 'Molli and Max in the Future' and how fans can stay updated with its progress. EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 30 Apr 2024 | EP25 - VALUE IN VULNERABILITY | 00:10:30 | |
In this first solo episode of the podcast, host, Drew English unpacks the concept of value coming from being vulnerable, taking risks and opening up about challenges professionally. | |||
| 07 May 2024 | EP26 - Authenticity in the Digital World | 01:00:29 | |
Evan Bourcier, a self-taught filmmaker, shares his experiences navigating the industry, his passion for teaching and helping other self-taught individuals and his observations on the changing landscape of online content creation. Evan reflects on his initial fascination with the world of high-end cinematography, which led him to produce content prolifically, only to bring it to an abrupt halt. He explores the motivations behind his decision, revealing that his urge to share knowledge stemmed from a desire to process the information he was learning. He also shares his observation on the hyper-engineered nature of online content that often lacks authenticity, and how he's striving to balance strategy with personal interest. Despite his success, Evan admits to struggling with connecting his content to his audience since his hiatus. He expresses his desire to keep his content authentic and intriguing, even as he navigates the complex algorithms and changing dynamics of the online world. EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 14 May 2024 | EP27 - From Side Hustle to Studio | Taylor Dederick of Unless Media | 00:59:14 | |
In this episode, host Drew English sits down with Taylor Dedrick, the woman behind Unless Media, a marketing and social media firm based in the Hudson Valley. Taylor is a Hudson Valley Native, having been born and raised in Saugerties, New York. Taylor founded Unless Media, a Creative Marketing Studio, in 2021 with the goal of bridging the gap between structured marketing practices and freethinking, creative small businesses. She graduated from Siena College in Loudonville, NY, with a B.S. in Marketing and Digital Design and went on to work as a digital marketing specialist, where she quickly learned corporate marketing wasn't for her. There were two things she knew for sure: she loved watching small businesses flourish, and she loved her community. So she took her knowledge and experience in marketing and launched Unless Media, where she now gets to work with creative, inspiring individuals and small businesses every day. Key points discussed in the episode: - Taylor shares how she transitioned from a corporate marketing specialist to running her own creative marketing studio. She talks about the importance of fostering creativity and explains why she moved away from the predictability of a traditional 9-to-5 job. - Taylor discusses her work process, detailing her typical day and how she manages different aspects of her business, from answering emails and arranging the day's schedule to creating content and brainstorming for future projects. - Taylor touches on how she manages content shoots for her clients, describing the process as both fun and inspiring. - The conversation explores the rise of the 'side hustle', with Taylor sharing her journey of turning her side gig into a full-time business. - Taylor provides some insight into how her clients find her and how she reaches out to potential clients. Listen to the full episode for more insights into Taylor's journey and her approach to creative digital marketing. EPISODE LINKS: Website: unlessmedia.com Instagram: @unlessmediia MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” Website: nosetpath.com Instagram: instagram.com/nosetpath YouTube: youtube.com/@nosetpath FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH Instagram: instagram.com/drewenglishh LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drewenglish Twitter: twitter.com/thedrewenglish Website: drewenglish.com | |||
| 29 May 2024 | Overcoming Obstacles | Josh Caldwell - Director | 00:58:06 | |
In this episode, host Drew English interviews writer and director Josh Caldwell. They discuss Josh's journey in the film industry, starting with his breakthrough $6,000 feature, 'Layover', and his subsequent work for big names like Paramount Studios, Hulu, and Netflix. Josh also shares his experiences and philosophies on living a creative professional life, the importance of gaining diverse experiences outside of the film industry, and how he finds balance and inspiration from nature and fly fishing. EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 02 Jul 2024 | Crafting Stories Through Food and Film | Kevin Longa | 01:01:05 | |
How did a suburban kid with a penchant for skate videos become a celebrated food filmmaker? Join us as Kevin takes us through his unexpected journey, from wielding his dad's Hi8 camera to navigating his way through health challenges and discovering a profound love for culinary storytelling. Influenced by his optometrist father, who documented the family's life, Kevin's early years were a mix of creative experimentation and a pivotal health scare that set him on a transformative path. Discover how Kevin's passion for food and filmmaking flourished during his time at UCLA, where he majored in economics and minored in human complex systems, all while sidestepping traditional culinary and film schools. His entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of "Taste," an international documentary series capturing the stories of unique food entrepreneurs across three continents. Kevin's college experiences, from founding a film organization to traveling extensively, were instrumental in shaping his career and bringing his vision to life. Go behind the scenes of independent filmmaking as Kevin shares his minimalist approach to production, emphasizing authenticity and human connections. Learn about the practicalities and strategic decisions that have defined his journey, from balancing high-quality gear with a frugal lifestyle to hosting culinary tours that connect people through shared stories and meals. This episode is a testament to staying true to one's passions and the power of genuine human interaction in a digitally driven world. CHAPTERS: (00:01) Journey From Suburbia to Filmmaking (07:44) Passion, Education, and Entrepreneurship in Filmmaking EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 17 Jul 2024 | From Performance Anxiety to Sound Mastery | Dallas Taylor | 00:57:23 | |
In this episode, we explore the transformative journey of Dallas Taylor, who transitioned from a musician in a poor Arkansas neighborhood to a successful sound designer and entrepreneur. Dallas shares his early struggles with severe performance anxiety during a pivotal solo performance, which led him to discover a passion for recording and audio technology. His career in sound design began through a chance encounter with an audio professional and eventually flourished, culminating in the founding of a high-end sound design company after leaving a beloved position at Discovery. Dallas discusses the unpredictable challenges and mental health struggles inherent in freelance and entrepreneurial work, highlighting how creating original content, like his podcast "20,000 Hertz," has provided financial stability and peace of mind. The episode delves into the art of sound design, the impact of childhood trauma on communication, and the therapeutic value of storytelling. We also look forward to upcoming projects in social media, expressing excitement for future innovations in sound and media. Join us for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of mental health in creative fields and the power of resilience and passion in overcoming life's challenges. (00:00) Former Musician Transitions to Sound Design EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 27 Aug 2024 | Balancing Light and Life | Alex Disenhof, ASC | 00:58:08 | |
Alex Disenhof ASC, the acclaimed cinematographer behind season two of "The Rings of Power," joins us for an intimate conversation on the latest episode of "No Set Path." We explore the breathtaking sets and hear firsthand how Alex's early influences, from his grandfather's love for photography to his formative years at Emerson College, shaped his illustrious career. Our chat with Alex also uncovers the unpredictable highs and lows of the film industry. Sharing anecdotes from his time at Michel Gondry's company Partizan to the thrill of a college project making it to Camera Image, Alex emphasizes the power of community and collaboration in achieving creative success. From the joys of fatherhood to relocating from Los Angeles to the serene Hudson Valley, Alex's journey highlights the importance of prioritizing personal well-being amid professional accomplishments. We wrap up with a glimpse into his upcoming projects and reflections on the evolving nature of work-life balance, offering listeners a heartfelt and inspiring narrative of achieving dreams while nurturing a fulfilling personal life. (00:00) The Cinematographer's Journey Into Filmmaking EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 09 Oct 2024 | Breaking Barriers: Empowerment, Equity, and Representation in Film | Tracy Sayre | 00:43:01 | |
Join us as we welcome Tracy Sayre, the co-executive director of Moonshot Initiative, an inspiring organization committed to fostering gender equity in the film industry by creating opportunities for women and non-binary filmmakers. Tracy shares her remarkable journey from co-founding the Women's Weekend Film Challenge, which evolved into Moonshot Initiative, to her current role in empowering underrepresented voices. Listen in as Tracy offers insights into overcoming industry challenges, focusing on collective needs rather than individual competition, and the transformative impact of providing access to equipment and experience. Through Tracy's personal journey, we explore the underrepresentation of women, particularly women of color and LGBTQ+ individuals, in key roles such as directors and directors of photography. Tracy's narrative reflects on how diverse experiences have shaped her passion for storytelling and advocacy, emphasizing the urgent need for external pressure on Hollywood to drive real change. Finally, Tracy opens up about balancing a creative career with family life and the transition from the hustle of New York City to the vibrant creative community in the Hudson Valley. She discusses the constant push and pull of maintaining a successful career while being the best parent, partner, and friend. Discover how Tracy's story is a testament to the importance of finding a supportive community that fuels creativity without the financial strains of city living. Don't miss out on updates about the upcoming Moonshot Film Challenge in Los Angeles and the pilot accelerator program offering aspiring filmmakers a chance to pitch their scripts to major studios. (00:03) Empowering Women in Film Industry EPISODE LINKS: | |||
| 06 Jan 2025 | Courage & Self-Discovery | Merritt Minnemeyer | 01:08:18 | |
Joining us this week is Meritt Minnemeyer, an executive coach who offers insights on aligning leadership actions with personal values. We explore the challenging journey of entrepreneurship in creative fields, reflecting on how maintaining focus through internal values can provide a sense of safety and purpose amidst life's pressures. Meritt's upbringing in a family-run business environment shaped her unique perspective on creativity and executive leadership. Our conversation highlights the dynamic balance of ego and acceptance, reminding us of the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of finding peace in our journeys. Through inspiring stories, such as a client's transformative adventure of teaching English abroad in her 50s, we illustrate the power of incremental steps and the courage to pursue dreams regardless of age or circumstance. Later in the episode, we explore the concept of “becoming”, emphasizing connection and fulfillment over numerical achievements. We discuss conscious leadership and self-inquiry as vital tools for aligning actions with true personal values, leading to a journey of continuous growth. (00:00) Navigating Career Transitions and Personal Loss EPISODE LINKS: MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH” FOLLOW DREW ENGLISH | |||
| 26 Mar 2025 | Finding Your Zone of Genius in Film Production | Lisamarie Shires | 00:51:08 | |
Episode Summary In this episode, Lisamarie Shires shares her journey from government contracting to photography, then to producing, and finally to coaching creative professionals. She discusses how her experience across various roles in the production industry has informed her coaching philosophy, focusing on helping creatives build sustainable businesses that prioritize life and family while achieving professional success. Chapter Markers [00:00-04:00] Lisa's Journey from Government Work to Creative Fields [04:00-09:00] The Appeal of Producing and Its Challenges [09:00-15:00] Transition from Production to Coaching [15:00-24:00] Balancing Family Life and Career in Production [24:00-31:00] Post-COVID Industry Changes and Client Expectations [31:00-37:00] Personal Branding and Finding Your Unique Value [37:00-45:00] Overcoming Multi-Passionate Creative Identity Crisis [45:00-49:00] Values-Based Decision Making and Future Programs Key Takeaways Lisa left a stable government job to pursue her creative passions, starting with photography before moving into producing Her coaching practice developed naturally from her tendency to mentor younger professionals and her own experience with coaching The production industry has shifted from transactional to relationship-focused, requiring creatives to position themselves as experts who deliver results For creatives with families, finding work-life balance is crucial and often requires external support and intentional decision-making Post-COVID market uncertainty has changed buyer behavior, resulting in clients being more cautious with budgets and requiring more certainty from creatives When building a personal brand, focus on being visible and leveraging your existing network rather than waiting for perfection For multi-passionate creatives, identify your "zone of genius" to determine where to focus your energy and how to package your various skills Values-based decision-making helps creative professionals avoid burnout and make choices that align with their priorities Quote "I'm catering to the people that have been playing in commercial production for at least 5 to 10 plus years... if you want to stand out, you need to start acting like it... decide that you're that person already, and then that personal development is going to play into your professional development." Links & Resources Lisa on Instagram: @LisaMarieShires Upcoming program: "The Unforgettable Filmmaker" - focusing on confidence and leadership Recommended Book: "The Big Leap" by Gay Hendricks MORE ABOUT “NO SET PATH”
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| 08 Apr 2025 | Scrappy, Smart, and Successful: Creative Wins with Less | 00:05:52 | |
Episode Summary: What You’ll Learn: Why creatives often overestimate what they need to succeed How The Ride of Your Life was made with minimal resources—and still turned heads Three mindset traps that keep people stuck: Lack of real effort The distorted influence of social media Fear of failure and judgment A powerful quote from 10x Is Easier Than 2x to reframe your creative risk-taking Mentioned in the Episode: 📖 Book: 10x Is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan Stay Connected: Support the Show: | |||