The Filmmaking Stuff Podcast

Film Set Secrets: When Working for Free Makes Sense

Should you work for free as a PA? In this episode, I share why early set experience can be more valuable than the paycheck, how to approach those first jobs strategically, and when to start demanding proper pay. Perfect for anyone trying to break into the film industry.

Minimum Guarantees in Film: Advance or Illusion?

What’s the truth about minimum guarantees in film distribution? In this episode, we break down why MGs are really just advances, why small MGs can hurt your film with bad terms, and why revenue splits often put more money back in your pocket. Learn how to avoid the MG trap and focus on deals that truly benefit your movie.

The Truth About Streaming Platforms for Indie Films

What are the best—and worst—streaming platforms for indie films right now? In this episode, I share real-world data from my distribution company to reveal where indie films actually make money. From Amazon’s reach to Tubi’s AVOD surprises, plus why Plex and YouTube sometimes outperform expectations, you’ll get a clear breakdown of what’s working and what’s not. Perfect for any filmmaker looking to maximize revenue.

Sales Agents Explained: How Movies Actually Get Sold at Film Markets

In this episode, I explain what sales agents actually do for your movie at film markets like AFM, Cannes, and Berlin. From sending lineups weeks in advance to pitching buyers face-to-face, I break down the real process so you understand how films get sold—and why the final decision always comes down to the buyer.

TVOD, SVOD, AVOD: The Filmmaker’s Crash Course on VOD Windows

TVOD, SVOD, and AVOD explained.In this episode, I break down the three main types of video on demand, what each one means, and why the order of release windows is crucial to maximizing your revenue. Whether you’re an indie filmmaker or just curious about how movies make money today, this is your crash course on the new world of VOD.

Film Market Networking Secrets: Tips for Cannes, EFM & AFM

Networking at film markets like Cannes, EFM, or AFM doesn’t have to be intimidating. In this episode, I share practical tips from over two decades of experience: how to break the ice, when to pitch (and when not to), and the simple strategies that make people actually want to connect with you. If you’ve ever felt awkward walking into a market, this episode is your roadmap to networking with confidence.
https://cart.filmmakingstuffhq.com/movie-meeting-mastery-secure-order/
 

Why Most Indie Films Don’t Make Money (And How Yours Can)

Most indie films fail financially—but not for the reasons you think. In this episode, I break down the genres that sell, the ones that don’t, and why marketing can matter more than the movie itself. If you want your film to have a real shot at making money, this is a must-listen.

Pitch Deck Pitfalls: 3 Mistakes That Kill Film Investor Interest

Your pitch deck can make or break your film financing. In this episode, I share the three biggest mistakes filmmakers make with their decks—too much text, too flashy, and too long—and show you exactly how to fix them so investors actually want to read and engage.
http://www.movieplanpro.com
 

Avoiding the Worst Film Contract Traps in Distribution

In this episode, I cover the three biggest mistakes filmmakers make when signing distribution agreements—long contracts, inflated expenses, and unfair splits. If you want to keep control of your film and maximize revenue, this is a must-listen.

Branding Your First Feature: How to Launch a Filmmaking Career

Your first feature film matters more than you think. In this episode, I share why branding yourself in one genre—horror, comedy, drama, action—sets the foundation for your career. Learn how shorts prepare you for features, why consistency builds recognition, and how to avoid the trap of spreading yourself too thin.

Micro-Budget Filmmaking: Turning Pennies into Production Value

Want to know how to make a micro-budget film look like it cost $1 million? In this episode, I reveal the simple but powerful strategies—big set pieces, smart casting, and professional sound—that can transform your indie film into something that looks like a blockbuster.

Film Financing Secrets: The 3 Things Every Investor Looks For

What do film investors really want? In this episode, I share the three things every investor looks for: excitement, the filmmaking experience, and a chance at revenue. If you’re raising money for your film, this is essential listening.

How to Secure Movie Funding in Advance

Learn how to sell your film before you even shoot it through pre-sales. I break down what works in today’s tougher market, why legitimate cast is king, and how distributors and sales agents can boost your financing game.

Film Festival Secrets: Getting Your Indie into the Majors

Getting into major film festivals like Sundance, Cannes, or Toronto isn’t about luck—it’s about connections. In this episode, I reveal the exact ways to make sure your film gets seen by the right people.

How to Talk to Sales Agents Without Sounding Like a Rookie

Learn how to approach film sales agents and distributors without sounding like a rookie. In this episode, I share insider tips from AFM, EFM, and Cannes—from the exact question you should ask to why a killer trailer will make or break your pitch. Whether your film is finished or still in pre-production, these steps will help you make connections and set up real opportunities.

Choosing the Right Film Festivals for Your Indie Film

Submitting to film festivals without a strategy is the fastest way to burn cash. In this episode, I explain how to choose the right festivals for your indie film, why big festivals like Sundance are a long shot, and when you’re better off skipping festivals entirely and heading to film markets instead. Perfect for indie filmmakers looking to save money and actually reach an audience.

Private Equity Investors: The Real Key to Indie Film Financing

What is a private equity investor, and why are they the ultimate key to financing your indie film? In this episode, I explain the difference between equity investors and other types of funding like soft money, tax credits, and loans. You’ll learn why private equity is about more than money—it’s about giving someone an exciting experience they can’t get anywhere else, and how to make your project irresistible to the right investor.

What Is a Minimum Guarantee in Film Distribution?

If you’re selling your movie and hear the term MG (Minimum Guarantee), you need to know exactly what it means—and what it doesn’t. In this episode, I break down how MGs work, the pros and cons, and how to avoid the classic “paid once” mistake many indie filmmakers make.
Perfect for filmmakers navigating their first distribution deal or weighing an MG versus a revenue split.

The Three Things That Sell Your Film at Any Market

🎬 What Sales Agents Really Want When You Pitch Your FilmPitching at a film market? You’ve got seconds to make a first impression. In this episode, I break down the three things every sales agent looks for: recognizable cast, a marketable genre, and a professionally cut trailer. The trailer alone can tip the scales—good or bad. Don’t blow your shot.
Listen in and learn how to stand out in a crowded market.

The Investor Waterfall: What Smart Filmmakers Use to Raise Money

In this episode, I break down the investor waterfall—how film investors get paid and what every business plan needs to include. I walk through the standard model (120% return + 50/50 split) with a clear $1M example. Whether you're raising from one investor or five, this is essential knowledge if you want to close real money.
🎧 Learn the basics of film finance in plain English—and why this one piece can make or break your deal.