Let's talk about Verticals

Michaela Bergmann

A Podcast with people who are part in the vertical industry, whether actors, producers, directors, fans, streaming platforms, etc. Everyone is welcome to talk with me about the big, wide world of verticals. About life with and in this world, its bright and dark sides. Be excited for wonderful real talk paired with humor, charm but the necessary seriousness 🎙️

  1. 109 - Jake Hobbs - Acting, AI & the Future of Verticals...

    -3 j

    109 - Jake Hobbs - Acting, AI & the Future of Verticals...

    🎙️ This week on Let's Talk About Verticals, I'm excited to welcome actor Jake Hobbs! 🎬 In this episode, we dive into Jake's journey into the world of vertical dramas—how he landed his first roles, what drew him to this unique format, and what he's learned along the way. We also talk about his experiences on set, the people he's worked with, and what he enjoys most about bringing these fast-paced stories to life. ✨ But this conversation goes far beyond Jake's career. We also have a very open and honest discussion about the current state of the vertical industry and the challenges many actors and creatives are facing today. From the increasing role of AI 🤖 and its impact on creative jobs, to changes in script development ✍️, fewer productions being greenlit, and the growing uncertainty surrounding acting opportunities, we don't shy away from the difficult topics. Instead, we explore what these changes mean for the future of the industry and the people working in it every day. Of course, it's not all about the challenges. ❤️ Jake also shares what gives him hope, the changes he'd love to see, and why he still believes the vertical industry has enormous potential. We talk about the importance of strong storytelling, investing in talented writers and actors, and building a sustainable future for this rapidly evolving genre. This is one of those conversations that feels both honest and hopeful—a candid look behind the scenes of an industry that's changing faster than ever. 🎧 Whether you're a fan of vertical dramas, an aspiring actor, or simply curious about where this industry is headed, this episode is one you won't want to miss! Some Verticals with Jake Hobbs: Mommy Hold on I Brought Daddy to Save You (Goodshort) My Big Sister Strikes with Her Mafia Dynasty (Goodshort) Twins Hide and Seek After One Night (Goodshort) When I Was Gone, He Went Mad (Playlet) My Teenage Great-Grandma (Netshort) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new

    1 h 15 min
  2. 108 - June Recap: Wrapping Up the First Half of the Year...

    -6 j

    108 - June Recap: Wrapping Up the First Half of the Year...

    🎉 After celebrating the 100th episode of the podcast with the Ladies, it's officially time to release our 10th Monthly Recap! 🥂 Ten Monthly Recaps mean ten honest, unfiltered conversations about everything that happened in the world of Verticals over the past month—and all the stories surrounding the industry. As the first half of 2026 comes to an end, we're wrapping it up with our June Monthly Recap! 📱✨ Join us as we look back at the biggest releases, industry news, surprising announcements, our personal highlights (and disappointments 😅), and, of course, we crown our favorites of the month. As always, expect plenty of laughs, different opinions, and the kind of authentic conversation you've come to expect from the Ladies. 💜 Curious about what didn’t quite impress us in June — and what completely stole our hearts? Then you’re in exactly the right place for my monthly roundtable with the ladies! Joining the discussion: * Michaela (Host) @lets_talk_about_verticals * Aline @i.love.verticals * Dalia @verticalfilmslover * Caitlyn @verticait * Sarah @escapismviaverticals Our Monthly Recap gives you direct insight from the audience perspective on what truly stood out… and what definitely didn’t. This month’s categories: 🎭 Actor/Actress of the Month 🎬 Supporting Role of the Month 💫 Chemistry of the Month 🏆 Vertical of the Month 💩 Crap/Disappointment of the Month 📱 App of the Month A refreshingly entertaining yet critically reflective conversation you don’t want to miss 🎙️✨ Enjoy listening! #podcast #new #verticals #bts #community

    1 h 42 min
  3. 107 - Makenna Ginn - Strong Women, Vertical Dramas & Werewolves...

    27 juin

    107 - Makenna Ginn - Strong Women, Vertical Dramas & Werewolves...

    🎙️ From the theater stage in Seattle to the world of Vertical Dramas – this week, actress Makenna Ginn joins the podcast! We dive into her journey from studying theatre at Loyola Marymount University to working in film, television, and the fast-growing world of Vertical Dramas that captivate millions of viewers worldwide. 📱🎬 Makenna shares what makes acting for vertical content so unique, why emotional authenticity and perfect timing are everything, and why she's passionate about playing strong, powerful female characters. One thing is certain: she's notthe actress who enjoys getting slapped in every Vertical! 💥💪 She also talks about her love for comedy, film production, and the Vertical series she co-wrote with Haley Lohrli—a project they're now determined to bring to life. ✍️🎥 One of the funniest stories? During her very first werewolf Vertical, she had absolutely no idea it was a werewolf story until shortly before filming wrapped! 🐺😂 And yes... crying on command for 150 minutes straight? Makenna has mastered that skill. 😭🎭 Of course, we couldn't end the conversation without discussing two very important topics: her pasta-making skills 🍝 and her singing 🎤—and let's just say... that's a story you'll have to hear for yourself! This is an inspiring conversation about creativity, determination (or, as Makenna might call it, a little bit of healthy stubbornness 😉), and building a career in an ever-changing entertainment industry. ✨ Enjoy the episode! Some Verticals with Makenna Ginn: Wait! Our Great Grandma Is 18 Years Old? (Dramabox) The Day the Champion Racer Lost His Bride (Reelshort) Love and Bloodlust at Vampire Academy (Dramabox) The Man Who Stands Beside You (Loveshots) The Real Heiress Strikes Back (Flareflow) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new

    1 h 7 min
  4. 106 - Erik Fellows - Let's Talk About Hollywood, Love & Verticals...

    24 juin

    106 - Erik Fellows - Let's Talk About Hollywood, Love & Verticals...

    In this episode of Let's Talk About Verticals, I sit down with actor and producer Erik Fellows to discuss his remarkable journey through the entertainment industry. From his early days as a model to building a successful career in Hollywood, Erik shares valuable insights on perseverance, passion, and staying committed to your dreams. 🎬🌟 Known for his work on Days of Our Lives, The Bay, and numerous film and television projects, Erik opens up about the realities of life as an actor, the lessons he's learned along the way, and what continues to inspire him after more than two decades in the industry. 🎥🎭 ❤️ One of the most memorable moments of our conversation is Erik's incredible love story with his wife. In fact, he believes their story deserves its own Vertical, as it perfectly captures the emotional depth, twists, and authentic storytelling that make the format so compelling. 📱💕🎞️ Join us for an inspiring conversation about Hollywood, resilience, relationships, and the future of storytelling in the vertical era. 🚀✨ 🎧 Listen now and discover why some stories are meant to be told vertically! Some Verticals with Erik Fellows: Mafia King's Sweet Captive with Triplets (Goodshort) The Mafia King Kept Me in the Dark (Dramabox) Contract Marriage with the Arms Tycoon (Dramawave) Merry Christmas, Don Moretti (Dramawave) When Broken Hearts Beat Again (DreameShort) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new

    1 h 14 min
  5. 105 - Brian O'Shea - The multilingual vertical Batman...

    20 juin

    105 - Brian O'Shea - The multilingual vertical Batman...

    🎙️🌍 Ever wondered what my podcast intro sounds like in Mandarin? Thanks to Brian O'Shea, now I know! 😄 Brian is truly multilingual and has lived and worked in so many different countries that this episode is filled with fascinating cultural influences from around the world. 🌏✨ Compared to some others, Brian found his way into the vertical drama space relatively late. As he explains, that was mainly because he didn't take it too seriously at first. Coming from a traditional acting background 🎭, his passion has always been rooted in classic film production and storytelling. What Brian loves most are authentic, character-driven stories with real depth. 🎬❤️ And if those stories could somehow include martial arts 🥋, that would be the ultimate jackpot for him! Brian also has plenty of film ideas and story concepts waiting inside his creative mind. Packed with superheroes, ambitions, and special abilities 🦸‍♂️⚡, they could easily become exciting vertical dramas—especially ones that don't rely on the endless banquet scenes 🍽️😂 that he recently had the pleasure (or challenge!) of filming in abundance. Along the way, we strike an exclusive deal 🤝, I put his German language skills to the test 🇩🇪, and we investigate a very important question: why does he currently speak so many languages from countries that also happen to have famous mafia organizations? 😅🕵️‍♀️ The result is a wonderfully diverse, funny, and delightfully chaotic conversation full of unexpected stories and plenty of laughs. 🎉🎧 Sit back, relax, and enjoy this entertaining episode! 🚀✨ Some Verticals with Brian O’Shea: When No wasn’t enough (DramaNow) A Lawyer's Forbidden Love for a Killer (Dramashorts) My Big Sister Strikes with Her Mafia Dynasty (Goodshort) Falling for the Wrong Bride (MyDrama) Back Off! I'm the CEO's Sister (Dramabox) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new

    1 h 12 min
  6. 104 - Nick Garabedian - Chef Energy & Vertical Tropes...

    17 juin

    104 - Nick Garabedian - Chef Energy & Vertical Tropes...

    Food brings people together 🍝✨ — and when someone also genuinely loves cooking (and is really good at it 👀), that alone is enough material for an entertaining podcast episode. But since Nick Garabedian @nick_garabedian has so many more talents beyond the kitchen, you already know this episode is packed with fun, laughter, and great conversations 🎙️🔥Since the role of the (hot) chef has officially made its way into the Vertical world 🍳🎬, we obviously had to talk about why Nick still hasn’t been cast in what feels like his perfect role. Instead, we dive into the opportunities he still sees within the Vertical space, the first scripts he’s already started writing himself ✍️, and of course all the classic tropes we know and love.And yes… the iconic towel drop has definitely become part of the Vertical universe by now 🫣😂 — but thanks to Nick, I still learned something completely new: apparently “abs doubles” are a real thing. HOW crazy is that please?! 😭💪Is Nick ready to travel? Oh, absolutely 🌍✈️ Especially if it’s for a Vertical shoot. Europe is still missing from his Vertical Bingo Card, and who knows… maybe that would even convince him to come back to Germany for another legendary battle with a „Schweinshaxe“ 🇩🇪🍖😅All that and so much more in today’s episode — enjoy listening! 🎧💫Some Verticals with Nick GarabedianWarning! The Greatest Demon Hunter is Out! (@dramabox_official)Being Fired? Now I'm Out of Their League! (@dramabox_official)Falling for the Pretender (@flareflowapp)Christmas Awakening I See Your Countdown (@dramawave_official)Moving on from My Bodyguard (@dramawave_official)#podcast #verticals #community #bts #new

    1 h 11 min
  7. 103 - Arno Horn - Think Big & sail the Vertical Seas...

    13 juin

    103 - Arno Horn - Think Big & sail the Vertical Seas...

    After the “Kiss of the Pirate King” week at the end of April — where I already had the chance to talk to several cast members — another member of the pirate crew joined me: actor Arno Horn ⚓🏴‍☠️ Together we returned to the pirate ship once more and sailed straight back into the rough Vertical seas 🌊 For Arno, playing Jericho was a small comeback after 2024, especially since sadly we didn’t get to see him in any Vertical productions throughout 2025. We talked about what it felt like to return — and to jump right back in with such an unusual and wild Vertical project 🎬 Just like Nick, Arno had dreamed of being a pirate ever since he was a child 🏴‍☠️ So naturally, getting to live out that dream was something truly special. And getting paid while sailing the open sea? Even better 😄⚓ Of course I also had to ask him whether he’d be ready for a second part — and what wishes I should pass along to Scotty Mullen 👀 After Nick asked for “more rum” 🥃 and Emma wanted “a sword and fight scenes” ⚔️, Arno immediately decided to think a little bigger 😉 Think big seems to be the motto here — and Scotty’s notebook of ideas keeps getting longer and longer 📝😂 We also talked about Arno’s beginnings in the Vertical world — experiences that almost made him lose interest in Verticals altogether. Thankfully, that didn’t happen 🙏 We also discussed future roles, story ideas, and possible projects. And honestly… if I ever manage to raise the money, Scotty and Dylan are going to have A LOT of work ahead of them 😅🎥 Good news for me though: I even managed to get Arno to promise he’d appear in one of my Verticals for free 😎🔥 A fantastic conversation full of pirates, cowboys 🤠, lawyers ⚖️, and so much more.  And if you want to find out which secret Arno revealed to me exclusively… then you definitely don’t want to miss this episode 👀✨ Enjoy listening! 🎧 Some Verticals with Arno Horn: Kiss of the Pirate King (MyDrama) My Call Boy Billionaire Daddy (Dramabox) Say You Remember, Say You Love (Sereal+) After Divorce: I Become Heiress (Dramabox) Mason I + II (CandyJar) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new

    1 h 19 min
  8. 102 - Brittany Pirozzoli - Roller Skates, Rigatoni & Strong Female Leads 🛼🍝...

    10 juin

    102 - Brittany Pirozzoli - Roller Skates, Rigatoni & Strong Female Leads 🛼🍝...

    You can become friends over the most random things — and in Brittany Pirozzoli @britzoli I definitely found my “Rigatoni BFF” 🍝💛
Want to know the story behind it? Well… it’s a long one, and you can hear all about it in this podcast episode 🎙️✨Of course, we’re not just talking about food (even though Rigatoni plays a very important role 😄). We also dive into what else connects us: the world of Verticals 🎬📱Female roles in vertical productions can still be… complicated. Women are often portrayed as weak or helpless characters, which isn’t always easy for powerhouse Brittany to play 💥 She loves giving her characters a little more intelligence, strength, and personality — even if clients don’t always appreciate those creative choices 👀And what about real-life equality on vertical sets? Unfortunately, there are still major issues, especially when it comes to the huge pay gaps between men and women. Brittany shares her personal experiences and talks openly about what she hopes will change in future productions 🎭⚖️Strong roles for a strong woman? Absolutely. Give this woman a sword ⚔️, put her in a pirate outfit 🏴‍☠️, or let her play a 1200-year-old vampire queen with superpowers 🧛‍♀️✨ — she is READY.⚠️🚨Tiny trigger warning before you listen:
There’s a very real chance you’ll end up craving Rigatoni 🍝 and have ABBA’s “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” stuck in your head for the rest of the day 🎶😂
And according to Brittany: don’t forget your roller skates 🛼A podcast episode full of fun, creativity, laughter, and great conversations — definitely not one to miss 💫🎧Some Verticals with Brittany PirozzoliEnough, No More Mrs. Nice Wife (@dramabox_us)Billionaire Daddy, You Have Sextuplets! (@flareflowapp)Confessions of a Vegas Showgirl (@reelshortapp)Sexy Principal's Bloody Game (@momeshortdramas)#podcast #verticals #community #bts #new

    1 h 23 min

À propos

A Podcast with people who are part in the vertical industry, whether actors, producers, directors, fans, streaming platforms, etc. Everyone is welcome to talk with me about the big, wide world of verticals. About life with and in this world, its bright and dark sides. Be excited for wonderful real talk paired with humor, charm but the necessary seriousness 🎙️