Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Damien Swaby
  • 5.0 (11)
  • FILM INTERVIEWS
  • MONTHLY

Step into the world of independent film with Filmmaking Conversations with Damien SwabyFrom established industry voices to the filmmakers of tomorrow, Damien Swaby opens up conversations that spark ideas, share experiences, and celebrate creativity in all its forms. Each episode offers listeners both inspiration and practical takeaways, leaving them better equipped to bring their own stories to life.With a loyal and growing audience of passionate filmmakers and film lovers, Filmmaking Conversations has become a trusted space for authentic dialogue and fresh perspectives on the art of storytelling. Join us—and discover why this podcast is resonating with the community shaping the future of film. Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network 

  1. 23 HR AGO

    Ep 288: Stuart Dryburgh, ASC-The Poetry of Cinematography

    Podcast Show Notes In this expansive and intimate conversation, Damien Swaby welcomes legendary cinematographer Stuart Dryburgh for a masterclass in visual storytelling, collaboration, and creative longevity.Born in the UK in 1952 and raised largely in New Zealand, Stuart’s early life was shaped by both migration and discipline. He earned a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Auckland, a foundation that continues to inform his sensitivity to structure, space, and composition within the frame.Stuart began his career working on early New Zealand films such as Goodbye Pork Pie and Smash Palace, before spending several years as a gaffer — an experience he credits with giving him a deep, practical understanding of light. By the mid-1980s, he transitioned fully into cinematography, shooting short films, music videos, and commercials.A pivotal turning point came with his collaboration with director Jane Campion on the television miniseries An Angel at My Table, followed by The Piano — a film that earned Stuart an Academy Award nomination for Best Cinematography in 1994 and cemented his international reputation. The conversation traces his move from New Zealand to the United States after projects like Once Were Warriors, and his evolution into a globally sought-after cinematographer. His credits include The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, Bridget Jones’s Diary, and more recently high-profile series such as Fallout for Jonathan Nolan at Amazon and East of Eden as a limited series for Netflix.Throughout the episode, Stuart speaks candidly about: How architecture shaped his visual thinkingWhy working as a gaffer was essential to his developmentBuilding trust-based relationships with directorsResisting the urge to impose a “signature style”Letting emotion, performance, and light guide the cameraAt its core, this episode is a meditation on restraint, intuition, and the quiet decisions that shape unforgettable images. A must-listen for cinematographers, directors, and anyone drawn to the invisible art of cinema. https://www.stuartdryburgh.com Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en

    1hr 4min

  2. 12 APR

    Ep 287: From Snowboarding Injury to Global Brand Storytelling with Darren Rayner

    🧾 Episode Show Notes In this episode, Damien sits down with filmmaker and creative studio founder Darren Rayner to explore how action-sports filmmaking shaped modern social media storytelling — and how brands can scale content without losing their voice. Darren discusses: 🎬 The origin of Magnafire Why a serious snowboarding accident changed his career directionMoving from athlete to filmmakerBuilding a studio focused on outdoor sport and wellness storytellingTransitioning from feature-length action-sports films to short-form digital content📱 Social-first storytelling for brands What brands still misunderstand about TikTok and Instagram videoWhy discovery strategy comes before productionHelping organisations grow audiences without losing authenticityTurning brand identity into performance-driven social content📈 Scaling audiences on social platforms Growing Arc’teryx from zero to hundreds of thousands of TikTok followersBalancing trend-driven content with long-term brand positioningWhy social storytelling shouldn’t feel like advertising🧗 Filming athletes and working with global brands Producing content with limited access windows (sometimes just 25 minutes)Why preparation is everything when directing elite athletesLessons learned from a 12-year collaboration with Red BullWhy athletes are culture drivers — not just subjects🎥 Documentary instincts inside branded filmmaking Capturing real stories vs constructing marketing narrativesWhy audiences respond more strongly to observed storytellingHuman-led content in the age of generative AI video🤖 AI inside modern filmmaking workflows Using AI for pre-production speed and clarityRemoving unwanted visual elements during post-productionCleaning audio captured in outdoor environmentsWhy Magnifier avoids fully generative video pipelines📐 Vertical vs cinematic framing challenges Shooting simultaneously for horizontal and vertical formatsPractical strategies directors can apply immediatelyWhy filmmakers must adapt to social-first viewing behaviourW: https://www.magnafiremedia.com/about/ 🎙️ About the PodcastFilmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby explores the craft, business and creative journeys behind today’s filmmakers, directors, editors and visual storytellers working across cinema, broadcast and digital platforms. Call to Action.  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling. Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swabyhttps://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en

    47 min

  3. 3 APR

    Ep 286: Translating Human Performance for the Camera: Fitness and the Future of Storytelling

    Episode Show Notes: In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, Damien speaks with Domenic Angelino, an exercise science specialist, public health expert, and digital fitness innovator working at the intersection of research, technology, and human performance.Currently serving as Chief Fitness Scientist at FitCraft, Domenic leads the science behind gamified fitness experiences while continuing to push forward the integration of AI and digital health tools into everyday training and wellness.With experience spanning academic research, startup consulting, curriculum development, public health programs, and global fitness media, Domenic has contributed to projects reaching millions—from education systems to fitness apps and YouTube channels generating over 50 million views.In this conversation, Domenic shares insights into: How science is reshaping the future of fitnessThe growing role of AI in training and health trackingWorking across research labs, startups, and public health initiativesConsulting for fitness platforms and performance organizationsWriting textbooks, children’s books, and educational curriculumSupporting underserved communities through physical activity programsBridging academia and industry innovationWhy evidence-based training matters more than everThis episode explores how fitness science, storytelling, education, and technology intersect to shape healthier futures worldwide. https://domenicangelino.com/ https://bsky.app/profile/domenichealth.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/domenicangelino/ https://www.instagram.com/domenichealth/ Call to Action.  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling. Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swabyhttps://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en

    58 min

  4. 26 MAR

    285: Inside White With Fear: Emmy-Winning Producer Andrew Goldberg on Media and Politics

    What role does fear play in shaping political narratives—and who benefits from it? In this episode, Emmy Award–winning investigative producer Andrew Goldberg joins the podcast to discuss his documentary White With Fear, a powerful examination of how racial anxiety has been strategically used in American political messaging over the past half-century. We explore how documentary storytelling can unpack complex national myths, why public television still matters in today’s media landscape, and what it takes to build projects supported by hundreds of institutions and partners worldwide.Along the way, Andrew reflects on: the research process behind White With Fearhow political messaging around race evolved from the late 20th century to todaywhy documentary filmmaking remains a critical civic toolthe responsibility of public-interest storytellingthe challenges of making investigative work accessible to broad audienceswhat global audiences misunderstand—and do understand—about American politicslessons from producing long-form journalism for PBS and major broadcast outletsThis conversation looks beyond headlines to examine how narratives are constructed, circulated, and remembered—and why understanding them matters now more than ever. https://www.whitewithfear.com Call to Action.  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling. Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swabyhttps://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en

    58 min

  5. 10 MAR

    Ep 284: From Imagination to Screen: Michael Kellman’s Path to Say Less

    Episode Guest: Michael Kellman Host: Damien Swaby Born in Los Angeles, Michael Kellman has been passionate about storytelling and performance from an early age. With interests spanning film, television, theatre, comedy, and live performance, Michael has spent years developing his voice as a creative storyteller.In this episode, Michael shares insights into his creative journey as a writer, director, and performer, and discusses the making of “Say Less,” his debut feature film. We explore: Michael Kellman’s early passion for film and performanceThe path to becoming a writer and directorLessons learned while making a debut feature filmThe creative and logistical challenges of independent filmmakingThe vision and inspiration behind Say LessAdvice for aspiring filmmakers pursuing their first projectAbout the Film – Say Less Say Less marks Michael Kellman’s debut feature film, representing years of creative work and dedication to storytelling. WATCH THE FILM: https://deref-mail.com/mail/client/oXGiw0646Lc/dereferrer/?redirectUrl=http%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0GK2LN25C Call to Action.  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling. Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en

    57 min

  6. 9 MAR

    Ep 283: Shirley Billigmeier on Food, Creativity, and the Body’s Natural Signals

    Show Notes Creative careers often demand everything from us—long hours, emotional investment, and intense focus. But how often do we consider how our relationship with food affects our creativity, energy, and wellbeing? In this episode, we speak with Shirley Billigmeier, founder of the Innergetics Process, about transforming our relationship with eating. With more than 50 years of experience in holistic wellness, Shirley shares how tuning into genuine hunger and respecting the body’s signals can lead to lasting change—without dieting, guilt, or restriction. This conversation is especially relevant for filmmakers, artists, and creatives who often struggle with irregular schedules and stress around health and food. What We Discuss Why many creatives struggle with eating patterns and energyThe difference between dieting and conscious eatingHow to recognize genuine hunger signalsWhy willpower and restriction often failThe philosophy behind the Innergetics ProcessReconnecting with the body’s innate wisdomFinding balance between creativity, work, and wellbeingHow a healthy relationship with food can support creative longevityAbout the Guest: Shirley Billigmeier is a holistic wellness coach, author, speaker, and body image specialist with more than five decades of experience helping individuals transform their relationship with food. She is the author of Inner Eating and the founder of the Innergetics Process, a program designed to help people reconnect with their body’s natural signals and develop a sustainable, healthy approach to eating.Her work has been featured in numerous publications and she continues to guide individuals through courses and coaching focused on mindful eating and holistic wellness. Learn more: www.innergetics.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innergeticsmethod/ Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en

    52 min

  7. 24 FEB

    Ep 282: The Emotional Language of Film: Rachel Deutsch in Conversation

    Show Notes Rachel Deutsch is a filmmaker whose work explores relationships, identity and memory through emotionally grounded storytelling.  After studying acting at New York University, she transitioned into directing and went on to train at the American Film Institute, where she developed a body of short films defined by careful performances and a strong sense of visual atmosphere.In this episode, Rachel discusses the evolution of her creative voice — from performance training and experimental theatre to narrative filmmaking — and reflects on how her background as an actor informs the way she directs. She describes her approach to working with performers, building scenes through emotional intention rather than rigid instruction, and collaborating closely with cinematographers to translate feeling into images. Rachel also reflects on the practical side of filmmaking — rehearsal methods, planning visual language, and developing projects independently — offering insight into the realities of building a career as a director. At the centre of the discussion is her AFI thesis project, a film rooted in personal experience and family history. The project draws on her mother’s confrontation with illness and civic life in Oklahoma, blending intimate storytelling with broader social themes. Topics Covered Transitioning from acting to directingTraining at NYU and AFIClowning and performance techniqueDirecting actorsEmotional realism in filmIndependent filmmakingVisual storytellingCollaboration with cinematographersPersonal storytelling in cinemaDeveloping a first feature filmW: https://www.racheldeutsch.com Film Links Carelessly There (Short Film) Until I Met You - Short Film by Rachel Deutsch Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en JEWFACE is a bold, dark comedy about a Jewish-American bisexual woman who believes re-breaking her teenage rhinoplasty might restore her lost identity—now crowdfunding to bring this provocative, funny, and urgently human story to life. Check out the link: JEWFACE

    57 min

  8. 18 FEB

    Ep 281: Lauren Hansson of Sheppard on Navigating Entertainment Law

    In this episode, Damien sits down with entertainment attorney Lauren Hansson to explore her journey into the legal side of film and television. Lauren shares: How she discovered her passion for lawWhy internships were key to finding her nicheHer experience at Warner Bros. AnimationWhat it’s like working with independent film producers and financiersThe realities of entertainment law beyond the glamorAdvice for aspiring lawyers interested in media and entertainmentLauren also breaks down the importance of relationship-building in the entertainment industry, how negotiation strategy differs in creative spaces, and why adaptability is essential in a field that’s constantly evolving. She offers practical insight into protecting intellectual property while still supporting the creative vision — a balance every entertainment lawyer must master. This episode offers an inside look at the intersection of creativity and contracts—and what it truly takes to protect stories behind the scenes. 🎧 Whether you’re a law student, creative professional, or film enthusiast, this conversation provides valuable insight into the legal engine that powers the entertainment industry. Website: https://www.sheppard.com/people/lauren-hansson Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en JEWFACE is a bold, dark comedy about a Jewish-American bisexual woman who believes re-breaking her teenage rhinoplasty might restore her lost identity—now crowdfunding to bring this provocative, funny, and urgently human story to life. Check out the link: JEWFACE

    51 min
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About

Step into the world of independent film with Filmmaking Conversations with Damien SwabyFrom established industry voices to the filmmakers of tomorrow, Damien Swaby opens up conversations that spark ideas, share experiences, and celebrate creativity in all its forms. Each episode offers listeners both inspiration and practical takeaways, leaving them better equipped to bring their own stories to life.With a loyal and growing audience of passionate filmmakers and film lovers, Filmmaking Conversations has become a trusted space for authentic dialogue and fresh perspectives on the art of storytelling. Join us—and discover why this podcast is resonating with the community shaping the future of film. Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network 

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