Best in Fest

Leslie LaPage

Host Leslie LaPage, Director of LaFemme International Film Festival uncovers the Secrets of Filmmaking with her lineup of industry professional guests. In every episode you will learn things like how to make the most out of the film festival circuit, how to find a great distribution partner, how to attract A list talent, finding the perfect representation, the dirty little secrets of Hollywood and much more.

  1. 1d ago

    Can AI Replace Love? Lisa Steadman on Tainted Love, Rom-Coms & the Future of Relationships

    Can artificial intelligence give us the perfect relationship—or does perfection come at the cost of real human connection? In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with writer, director, producer, and bestselling author Lisa Steadman to discuss modern relationships, romantic storytelling, artificial intelligence, and her new festival short film, Tainted Love. A graduate of the USC screenwriting program, Lisa has built a wide-ranging creative career spanning film, television, publishing, branding, and digital media. She shares how she went from working in film production to helping build the Barbie Collector brand at Mattel, launching an influential breakup blog, and becoming the bestselling author of It’s a Breakup, Not a Breakdown. Lisa also opens up about how her own relationships shaped her writing, why she initially resisted writing romantic comedies, and how she learned to balance the fantasy of romance with the emotional truth of real-life relationships. In this episode: Lisa Steadman’s journey from USC Film School to professional screenwritingWhat film school does—and does not—prepare writers forHow she helped build Mattel’s Barbie Collector brandWhy she refused to sign away ownership of her creative ideasTurning a painful breakup into a successful blog and book careerHow personal relationships influence screenwritingWhy romantic comedies need both fantasy and emotional truthThe creative process behind Tainted LoveWhy people may choose AI companions over human relationshipsWhat artificial intelligence cannot replace about real loveHow AI could change screenwriting and independent filmmakingThe risks and opportunities AI creates for writersWhy filmmakers should stop waiting for permission and create their own workThe importance of collaboration in independent filmLisa’s dream of bringing her television series Lauren of Arabia to the screenIn Tainted Love, Lisa imagines a near future where AI companions look and behave like real people. During a neighborhood dinner party, a sudden blackout exposes who is human—and who is not—forcing the characters to confront the emotional consequences of choosing artificial perfection over genuine connection. The conversation also explores Lisa’s nuanced view of AI in Hollywood. She uses it as a creative assistant and believes it could help independent filmmakers reduce costs and green-light their own projects, but she remains concerned about protecting the heart, humanity, and creative livelihoods that only people can provide. Whether you are a screenwriter, filmmaker, author, romantic-comedy fan, or simply curious about the future of love and technology, this episode offers an entertaining and thought-provoking look at relationships in the age of artificial intelligence. Subscribe to Best in Fest for more conversations with filmmakers, writers, actors, producers, and entertainment professionals shaping the future of storytelling.

  2. Sep 1

    From Ukraine to Hollywood: Liliia Halushko on Acting, Resilience & The Impression

    What does it take to leave a successful career behind, move to Hollywood, and start building your dream all over again? In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with Ukrainian actress, model, dancer, songwriter, and television host  Liliia Halushko to discuss her journey from a small village in Ukraine to the international entertainment industry—and her latest suspense short film, The Impression. Liliya opens up about being bullied and deeply insecure as a child, finding confidence through dance, modeling, television, and performance, and eventually moving to the United States to pursue acting at a higher level. She explains why acting requires the same discipline as an elite sport and why talent alone is never enough without constant training and preparation. The conversation also explores her award-winning modeling career, her work as a television host and recording artist, and the personal experiences that inspired her to connect so deeply with The Impression. In this episode: How Liliya went from a small Ukrainian village to the entertainment industryOvercoming bullying, insecurity, and self-doubtHer experience studying television, cinema, and performance in KyivHow modeling and international competitions helped build her confidenceWhy acting should be treated like daily athletic trainingThe challenges of moving to Hollywood and rebuilding a careerWhat she learned from working in television, music, dance, and modelingHow her Ukrainian identity influences her creative workThe story behind the suspense short film The ImpressionWhy first impressions can be dangerously misleadingHow trust, fear, and ordinary moments can completely change a lifePreparing emotionally for a dramatic roleWorking with director Luke LaFontaine and a young child actorHer advice for performers trying to break into the entertainment industryWhy persistence and preparation create unexpected opportunitiesIn The Impression, Liliya plays a young immigrant mother who cannot find childcare before work and is forced to bring her son along on a train ride. A seemingly ordinary encounter with a stranger soon changes all of their lives, revealing how danger often arrives without warning—and sometimes behind a friendly smile. Liliya also speaks candidly about leaving family members behind in Ukraine, the emotional impact of war, and why she believes she can help her country by continuing to build her voice and career in the United States. Whether you are an aspiring actor, immigrant artist, filmmaker, model, or anyone working to overcome fear and pursue an ambitious dream, this episode offers an inspiring conversation about resilience, discipline, identity, and the courage to keep moving forward. Subscribe to Best in Fest for more conversations with actors, filmmakers, producers, writers, festival creators, and entertainment professionals from around the world.

  3. Aug 25

    Cruelty for Clicks: Fake Animal Rescues and Online Abuse with Nina Jackel and Kirk Murray

    What happens when animal cruelty becomes profitable content? In this powerful episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage speaks with journalist and animal advocate Nina Jackel and documentary filmmaker Kirk Murray about exposing animal abuse, confronting powerful technology companies, and using filmmaking as a catalyst for change. Nina is the founder of Lady Freethinker, a nonprofit media organization dedicated to exposing and preventing animal suffering around the world. After repeatedly discovering graphic animal-abuse videos on YouTube, she took the extraordinary step of challenging the platform and demanding greater accountability for the content generating views, engagement, and advertising revenue. Although the resulting lawsuit did not prevail in court, the campaign attracted widespread public attention and helped pressure YouTube to remove some of its most disturbing animal-torture content. Nina and Kirk also take listeners behind the scenes of their documentaries We Are Animals and Cruelty for Clicks, which investigate the many ways animals are exploited for entertainment, profit, donations, and social-media engagement. In this episode: How Lady Freethinker grew from an advocacy blog into a global animal-protection organizationWhy Nina Jackel decided to challenge YouTube over animal-abuse videosHow Section 230 protects social-media platforms from liability for user-generated contentWhy losing a lawsuit can still create meaningful public changeThe disturbing rise of staged animal-rescue videosHow fake shelters and rescue scams manipulate donorsWhy some creators deliberately place animals in danger before filming a “rescue”The hidden suffering behind exotic pets and viral animal videosHow documentary filmmakers investigate difficult and emotionally challenging subjectsThe importance of veterinarians, researchers, and experts in revealing cruelty that viewers may not recognizeHow filmmakers balance graphic subject matter with compelling storytellingWhy social-media companies must take greater responsibility for harmful contentHow audiences can recognize suspicious animal videos and avoid supporting exploitationFrom puppies deliberately placed in danger to wild animals treated as props, Cruelty for Clicks reveals how online attention can fuel a disturbing global industry. The conversation also examines less obvious forms of exploitation, including pet monkeys, exotic cats, wildlife content, factory farming, and misleading labels that allow cruelty to remain hidden from consumers. This episode is an essential listen for documentary filmmakers, animal advocates, journalists, nonprofit leaders, social-media users, and anyone concerned about the ethical responsibilities of major technology platforms. Subscribe to Best in Fest for more conversations with filmmakers, activists, producers, writers, and creative leaders using storytelling to expose injustice and inspire change.

  4. Aug 18

    How to Make Movies That Matter: Producer Ameet Shukla on Nonnas, Winner & Social Impact Storytelling

    How do you create movies that entertain audiences, attract major talent, and still make a meaningful impact on the world? In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with producer and One Community Head of Content Ameet Shukla for an in-depth conversation about social impact filmmaking, independent film production, finding powerful scripts, and building a sustainable career in Hollywood. Ameet discusses the creative strategy behind films including Netflix’s Nonnas, the politically charged dark comedy Winner, and the acclaimed true-story drama Freeheld. He explains why socially relevant movies cannot simply preach to audiences—they must first be entertaining, emotionally engaging, and driven by unforgettable characters. The conversation explores how producers identify a distinctive voice in a screenplay, balance artistic integrity with financing realities, and turn important social issues into stories audiences genuinely want to watch. In this episode: How Winner turned a politically divisive true story into a heartfelt comedyWhy complex characters are essential to impactful storytellingWhat producers look for when reading a screenplayHow Freeheld transformed a real-life fight for equality into a major feature filmWhy Netflix’s Nonnas connects through food, family, caregiving, and communityHow to include social impact themes without overwhelming the entertainmentThe current challenges facing independent film financingWhy mid-budget movies are becoming harder to produceHow tax incentives influence where films are shotWhat the Head of Content at a production company actually doesHow producers choose writers, directors, editors, and creative collaboratorsWhat One Community looks for in new film and television projectsWhy filmmakers should plan beyond their first movieHow technology has made filmmaking more accessibleThe importance of building a long-term creative career rather than chasing one breakthroughAmeet also shares practical advice for filmmakers, writers, and producers trying to get noticed. His central message is simple: keep creating, develop a recognizable voice, think strategically about your second and third projects, and make work that proves what you can do. Whether you are an aspiring producer, screenwriter, director, film student, or independent filmmaker, this episode offers an honest and valuable look at how meaningful stories move from the page to the screen. Subscribe to Best in Fest for more conversations with award-winning filmmakers, producers, actors, screenwriters, festival leaders, and entertainment industry professionals.

  5. Aug 11

    Oscar-Nominated Director Jonathan Heap on Hollywood & Directing Acto

    What does it really take to build a lasting career in Hollywood? In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage, founder of the La Femme International Film Festival, sits down with Academy Award-nominated writer, director, and producer Jonathan Heap for an in-depth conversation about storytelling, directing, editing, working with legendary actors, and surviving decades in the film industry. Jonathan shares the incredible story behind his Oscar-nominated short film 12:01 PM, the time-loop classic that helped inspire an entire generation of films, including the popularity of stories built around repeating timelines. He explains how the short evolved into a feature film, what he learned working with Donald Sutherland, Amy Irving, and Rob Lowe, and why trusting your instincts remains the most valuable tool a filmmaker can develop. The conversation also explores the realities of today's entertainment industry—from proof-of-concept short films and independent financing to directing actors, editing, test screenings, studio notes, and why great storytelling always starts with the script. Jonathan also discusses his latest festival short, Ghosts of '45, and his nonprofit work using film to create social impact. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, director, screenwriter, producer, film student, or simply love hearing behind-the-scenes stories from Hollywood professionals, this episode is packed with practical advice and decades of filmmaking wisdom. In this episode: • The story behind the Oscar-nominated short film 12:01 PM • How an Academy Award nomination changed Jonathan Heap's career • Directing Donald Sutherland, Amy Irving, Eric Roberts, and Rob Lowe • The secrets to getting authentic performances from actors • Why rehearsal is one of a director's greatest tools • How editing completely transforms a film • Using audience screenings to improve your movie • Turning a short film into a feature-length project • Why proof-of-concept films still matter • The current state of independent filmmaking and Hollywood • Advice every first-time filmmaker should hear • Why great films begin with great scripts

  6. Aug 4

    How Women Are Changing the Film Industry. Directors, Producers & Cinematographers Speak Out

    Welcome to Best in Fest, where host Lili Masztar-Hazi moderates a powerful panel discussion recorded at the inaugural La Femme International Film Festival Europe in Budapest. Award-winning filmmakers, producers, directors, cinematographers, actors, and industry leaders come together to discuss what it's really like to build a career as a woman in today's film industry. From Hollywood to Europe, they share personal stories about overcoming bias, creating opportunities, mentoring the next generation, balancing motherhood with filmmaking, and why collaboration—not competition—is shaping the future of cinema.  In this episode you'll learn:  How women are breaking barriers in the film industry  The realities of directing, producing, acting, and cinematography  Why mentorship and community are essential for long-term success  The challenges of gender bias, pay equity, and representation  Motherhood, career growth, and navigating creative leadership  How film festivals help launch careers and build international networks  Why women are creating their own opportunities through producing and independent filmmaking  Advice for aspiring filmmakers looking to build lasting careers Featuring insights from Leslie LaPage, founder of the La Femme International Film Festival, alongside acclaimed filmmakers and creatives including Petra Körner, Dorka Gryllus, Yvonne Terek, Judit Romwalter, and other accomplished women working across every corner of the film industry. Together they explore how filmmaking is evolving—and what still needs to change.  Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, film student, producer, writer, actor, cinematographer, or simply passionate about cinema, this conversation offers practical career advice, inspiring personal stories, and an honest look at the future of women in film. Subscribe to Best in Fest for more conversations with award-winning filmmakers, festival founders, producers, directors, actors, and creative leaders from around the world.

  7. Jul 28

    Different Paths to Success in the Film Industry : Award-Winning Filmmakers Share Their Career Journeys

    In this episode of Best in Fest, host Lili Masztar-Hazi brings together an inspiring panel of award-winning filmmakers, directors, producers, writers, sustainability leaders, and production designers to discuss the unexpected journeys that shaped their careers. From changing careers later in life to overcoming rejection, launching independent production companies, attending film school, working on major studio productions, and finding success through international film festivals, each guest shares honest insights into what it really takes to build a career in filmmaking. In this episode, you'll discover: • How successful filmmakers found their unique career path • Whether film school is necessary for a career in film • The value of persistence, networking, and creative partnerships • Lessons from directors, producers, writers, and production designers • How sustainability is transforming modern filmmaking • Behind-the-scenes stories from independent films and major studio productions • The challenges of financing, producing, and distributing films • Advice for emerging filmmakers navigating today's industry • Why there is no "right" way to become a filmmaker Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, film student, producer, writer, cinematographer, or simply passionate about cinema, this conversation offers practical advice and inspiring stories from professionals who have forged their own paths in one of the world's most competitive creative industries. Subscribe to Best in Fest for more conversations with award-winning filmmakers, festival directors, producers, actors, screenwriters, and industry leaders from around the world.

  8. Jul 21

    How do you actually break into the film industry?

    In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage brings together an extraordinary panel of award-winning directors, producers, cinematographers, and film professionals from around the world to reveal how they built successful careers in filmmaking—and what aspiring filmmakers need to know to do the same. From self-taught directors to internationally acclaimed producers, these guests share honest stories about rejection, persistence, networking, film school, mentorship, funding, and finding your place in one of the world's most competitive industries. In this episode, you'll learn: • How successful filmmakers got their first break • Is film school worth it—or can you succeed without it? • The importance of networking and building creative relationships • How producers, directors, and cinematographers build lasting careers • What award-winning filmmakers wish they knew when they started • How to overcome rejection and keep creating • Why storytelling matters more than expensive equipment • Advice for women working in the film industry • How international co-productions and film festivals open career opportunities • The mindset required to survive—and thrive—in independent filmmaking Featuring insights from acclaimed filmmakers whose work has premiered at Cannes, Berlinale, Venice, and major international film festivals, this conversation offers practical advice for filmmakers, film students, writers, producers, actors, cinematographers, and anyone dreaming of a career in movies. Whether you're making your first short film, pitching your first feature, or looking to grow your filmmaking career, this episode is packed with real-world lessons from professionals who've done it. Subscribe to Best in Fest for more conversations with award-winning filmmakers, festival directors, screenwriters, actors, producers, and industry leaders from around the globe.

See All (285)

4.6
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Host Leslie LaPage, Director of LaFemme International Film Festival uncovers the Secrets of Filmmaking with her lineup of industry professional guests. In every episode you will learn things like how to make the most out of the film festival circuit, how to find a great distribution partner, how to attract A list talent, finding the perfect representation, the dirty little secrets of Hollywood and much more.

Information

  • Creator
    Leslie LaPage
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    285
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Best in Fest
  • Show Website
    Best in Fest