The MAKE IT Podcast

Chris Barkley & Nicholas Buggs
  • 5.0 (101)
  • FILM INTERVIEWS
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

The MAKE IT podcast salutes the Indie Film Creative. Join us for candid conversations with seasoned pros who share advice, knowledge, and industry insights to fast-track the journey of aspiring film professionals. Discover inspiration and guidance tailored for your cinematic path. Enjoy the journey? Dive deeper at www.themakeitpodcast.com and follow us on Instagram and X @_makeitpodcast.

  1. Nick's Favorite Story 2025: The Power of Belief: How One Father Changed a Filmmaker's Life

    13H AGO

    Nick's Favorite Story 2025: The Power of Belief: How One Father Changed a Filmmaker's Life

    Hello, Hello! In this episode, Nick shares his favorite moment from a conversation with filmmaker Brad Starks, in which they explored Brad's family history and his father's professional football career. The segment features Nicholas surprising Brad with detailed statistics about his father, Marshall "The Bull" Starks' football achievements, creating an unexpectedly emotional moment. Brad opens up about how his father's belief in him shaped his creative journey from aspiring fashion photographer to filmmaker. Products, software, websites, people, or places mentioned: Brad Starks (filmmaker/guest) Marshall "The Bull" Starks (Brad's father, professional football player) New York Jets (NFL team) Central States Football League OJ Simpson Harper's Bazaar magazine GQ magazine Vogue magazine Italian Vogue magazine Pop Warner football system We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters.  So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://themakeitpodcast.store Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    11 min
  2. Chris' Favorite Clip from 2025: What Happened When Leonardo DiCaprio Read My Script Page by Page?

    1D AGO

    Chris' Favorite Clip from 2025: What Happened When Leonardo DiCaprio Read My Script Page by Page?

    Hello, Hello! In this episode, screenwriter Adam Tex Davis shares a career-defining moment when Leonardo DiCaprio was reading his dark comedy script "The Garden of Eden" in real-time. Davis describes the nerve-wracking experience of getting play-by-play updates as DiCaprio read through his screenplay, culminating in a meeting request from the A-list actor. The story takes a humorous turn when Davis nearly misses his big break because of a hotel's dress code that bans shorts. Enjoy! Products, software, websites, people, or places mentioned: Adam "Tex" Davis (screenwriter) Leonardo DiCaprio (actor) "Just Friends" (film) "The Garden of Eden" (screenplay/film) Leonardo DiCaprio's dad and manager Russian pirate sites PG-13 vs R-rated content We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters.  So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://themakeitpodcast.store Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    4 min
  3. Our Favorite Show Tropes 2025: Greetings, Backgrounds, and Bragging Rights!

    2D AGO

    Our Favorite Show Tropes 2025: Greetings, Backgrounds, and Bragging Rights!

    Hello, Hello! In this episode, we share our favorite tropes of the year from our annual clip show! We celebrate their signature "Hello! Hello!" greeting tradition, with Producer Papa Bear joining them to reflect on recurring themes from the year. The episode showcases memorable segments, including discussions about Nicholas's name meaning, his Lego creations, and Papa Bear's challenging trivia questions. Products, software, websites, people, or places mentioned: Lego/Legos Coco (Disney movie) Marilyn Monroe Sugar skulls El Rancho Hotel Hawaiian names (Kakane Omalu, Kai) Major League Soccer NBA CIA Jupiter Bruce Valance Greek language/culture Chinese calendar We are humbled by the community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters.  If you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or leaving a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://themakeitpodcast.store Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    14 min
  4. 427 - The Annual Clip Show: Our Favorite Show Moments From 2025

    5D AGO

    427 - The Annual Clip Show: Our Favorite Show Moments From 2025

    This episode is brought to you by Notion Agent, the AI that doesn’t just help with work – it finishes it. Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at notion.com/makeit to support your work and ours!  This episode is brought to you by Factor. No prep, no cooking. Just dietitian-approved, chef-prepared meals delivered to your door and ready to eat in 2 minutes. Go to https://factormeals.com/makeit50off and use the code MAKEIT50OFF to get 50% off your first Factor box, PLUS free breakfast for 1 year. Hello, Hello!  In this episode, we share our annual clip show featuring the best moments, conversations, and segments from 2025. We reflect on our incredible guests throughout the year, showcasing memorable clips including Adam "Tex" Davis's Hollywood hotel story, Brad Starks's emotional backstory, and Dominic Hoffman's powerful love poem. We celebrate the year's highlights while looking ahead to exciting changes and partnerships coming in 2026. We also talk about: • Producer Papa Bear's increasingly difficult trivia questions in the "Things We Should Know" segment  • Nicholas Buggs's custom Lego creations that serve as his podcast background  • The evolution of their signature "Hello! Hello!" greeting throughout the year  • Easter egg backgrounds that Producer Papa Bear creates specifically for each guest  • The meaning behind Nicholas's name and how it relates to his life purpose of serving others People, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned: Adam "Tex" Davis - screenwriter of "Just Friends" Brad Starks - filmmaker and producer Dominic Hoffman - voice actor and poet Adam Schomer - documentarian ("Selling Superman") Leonardo DiCaprio The Adventures of Mr. Obadiah Oldbuck (1842 comic book) The Yellow Kid comic Blanton's bourbon Belvedere vodka We are humbled by the community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters.  If you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or leaving a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://themakeitpodcast.store Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    56 min
  5. Avatar: Fire and Ash | The Human Heart in Conflict: James Cameron's Philosophical Approach to Filmmaking

    6D AGO

    Avatar: Fire and Ash | The Human Heart in Conflict: James Cameron's Philosophical Approach to Filmmaking

    WHAT IS FILM BRIEF? Blending journalism with artistry, Film Brief transforms film analysis into an engaging and informative listening experience. The goal is to reveal what makes each movie or series resonate—on screen and behind the scenes. For listeners, it’s not just a review; it’s an exploration of the art of filmmaking. BRIEF: In this episode, Nick provides an in-depth film brief on "Avatar: Fire and Ash," James Cameron's latest return to Pandora that explores themes of family, vengeance, and survival in a world on the brink of rebirth. The discussion covers the film's emotional core, focusing on finding one's place in the world while examining Cameron's continued exploration of the collision between technology and nature, empire and culture. Nick analyzes the performances of Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Steven Lang, and Una Chaplin, and discusses the film's critical reception and potential for awards. TAKEAWAYS: • The evolution of Pandora as a setting from untouched Eden to a world in unrest • Jake Sully and Neytiri's family dynamics as they transport their children to safety • James Cameron's thematic philosophy centers on "the human heart in conflict with itself." • The film's technical innovations in underwater performance capture and large format 3D imaging • Critical reception patterns, including praise for world-building and debate over runtime and thematic ambition MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Avatar: Fire and Ash (film) James Cameron (director) Sam Worthington (actor - Jake Sully) Zoe Saldana (actress - Neytiri) Steven Lang (actor - Quaritch) Una Chaplin (actress - Varang) Avatar: The Way of Water (previous film) Pandora (fictional world in Avatar) Na'vi (fictional species in Avatar) Ebook: "Mastering Film Marketing" The MAKE IT Podcast We are humbled by the community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. If you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or leaving a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    6 min
  6. #15 SUMMARIES | Motke Dapp: What Kills More Independent Films Than Bad Reviews or Low Budgets?

    JAN 7

    #15 SUMMARIES | Motke Dapp: What Kills More Independent Films Than Bad Reviews or Low Budgets?

    Hello, Hello! In this episode, we explore the remarkable journey of writer-director Motke Dapp as he transitioned from rock musician to novelist to filmmaker, ultimately creating his feature film "Another Version of You." The conversation reveals the brutal realities of independent film distribution and the critical difference between intentional filmmaking craft and simple content creation. We dive deep into what Dapp calls the "fourth phase" of filmmaking - distribution and ROI - which often becomes the graveyard for talented indie filmmakers. We also talk about: • The "Colorado anomaly" that gave Dapp mandatory film education through weekly movie theater visits during his childhood  • His intensive "personal film school" period, where he created seven films in one year, including his first feature  • The concept of "the thing" - that mysterious magnetic quality certain actors possess that draws audiences in  • Specific strategies for supporting independent films, including the importance of reviews and avoiding engagement with negative trolls  • The heartfelt tribute to actress Brittany Belland, who appeared in both of Dapp's features before tragically passing away People, Places, Products, and References Mentioned: Motke Dapp (filmmaker/director) Ryan Hartsock (collaborator) Micah Simms (cinematographer) Brittany Belland (actress) "Another Version of You" (film) 48 Hour Film Project Belmont University Grand County, Colorado Sidney Lumet's "Making Movies" (book) "Parasite" (film) "Call Me By Your Name" (film) Ryan Reynolds/"Van Wilder" Adam Driver/"Girls" Brad Pitt motke.net We are humbled by the community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters.  So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://themakeitpodcast.store Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    13 min
  7. Perfect Pairing: “PERSONA” Actress & Producer Shanti Lowry on Race, Art, Authenticity and Making Movies on Your Own Terms

    JAN 6

    Perfect Pairing: “PERSONA” Actress & Producer Shanti Lowry on Race, Art, Authenticity and Making Movies on Your Own Terms

    Hello, Hello! Today, we are bringing you a Perfect Pairing. What is a Perfect Pairing? It’s a former guest who pairs perfectly with our latest guest. So today’s perfect pairing is the one and only Actress and Producer Shanti Lowry. We think she is a perfect pairing with Tia A. Smith; they are both women on the move, moving trains, each one of them doing big things in the industry. So, enjoy today’s episode with Shanti Lowry, and we will have a new episode for you this Friday. Talk soon. --- In this episode of The MAKE IT Podcast, we welcome actress and producer Shanti Lowry to discuss her journey in independent filmmaking. Shanti shares insights about her first feature film, "Persona," a thriller that explores the experiences of women of color in challenging circumstances. The conversation delves into the complexities of film production, personal identity, cultural experiences, and the challenges of independent filmmaking. We also talk about: • The evolution of dance in popular culture and music videos • Experiences of mixed-race and biracial individuals navigating cultural identity • The impact of stereotypes and racism in personal and professional spaces • The role of creativity and authenticity in artistic pursuits • Strategies for supporting and uplifting marginalized communities Products, software, websites, people, or places mentioned: • Shanti Lowry • Nicholas Buggs • Christopher Barkley • Gravitas (film distributor) • PERSONA (film) • Bounce TV • BET • Michael Jackson • Madonna • Halle Berry • Tia and Tamera Mowry • Omar Gooding • Cuba Gooding Jr. • Earth, Wind and Fire • NSYNC • Bentley Kyle Evans • Rob Marshall • Vincent Paterson • Network of Time (website) • MAKE IT x Cotton Bureau (merchandise site) We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters.  So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast Subscribe to our newsletter at www.bonsai.film/subscribe Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    1h 48m
  8. Making It: Creating Films That Heal and Liberate with Tia A. Smith

    JAN 5

    Making It: Creating Films That Heal and Liberate with Tia A. Smith

    Hello, Hello! Make It friends and family, Chris here to announce that starting today, with the episode you are about to hear, we’ll be publishing our segments and bonus content on this feed daily.  Why are we doing this? Because there’s a good chance you’re already listening to our episodes over the span of the week, we decided to publish our segments from each long-form episode to make it easier for you to enjoy the entire thing.  Also, Nick and I are always looking for new ways to spice things up, meet our audience in the middle, and improve the show for you. There you have it, daily goodness in segments and bonus content from Make It.  Of course, we’ll still be releasing long-form episodes every two weeks on Friday—that hasn’t changed. Thanks as always for your support, and be sure to let us know what you think on any of our platforms at Beacons. --- Filmmaker Tia A. Smith shares her powerful definition of "making it" as creating work that heals, uplifts, and liberates audiences while building a communal filmmaking experience. She emphasizes her commitment to telling transformative stories that allow people to see themselves, forgive themselves, and dream again. The conversation concludes with Tia discussing her vision for creating legacy art that outlives herself and her goal of building a global creative footprint with complete creative autonomy. We also talk about: • The importance of bringing your community along in the filmmaking journey • Creating films that transform and change lives rather than just entertain • Building integrity and freedom into creative work • The significance of audience ownership in storytelling • Developing a global creative presence as a filmmaker Products, software, websites, people, or places mentioned: • Talented Sol • "The Heir" short film (currently in film festival circuit) • Tia's Instagram: @mztiasmith We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters.  So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT All Links: https://themakeitpodcast.store Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-make-it-podcast/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    8 min
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5
out of 5
101 Ratings

About

The MAKE IT podcast salutes the Indie Film Creative. Join us for candid conversations with seasoned pros who share advice, knowledge, and industry insights to fast-track the journey of aspiring film professionals. Discover inspiration and guidance tailored for your cinematic path. Enjoy the journey? Dive deeper at www.themakeitpodcast.com and follow us on Instagram and X @_makeitpodcast.

Information

  • Creator
    Chris Barkley & Nicholas Buggs
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    471
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Bonsai Creative Enterprises, LLC 2026
  • Show Website
    The MAKE IT Podcast