Barely Living The Dream

Mel House

Filmmakers Mel House, Chris Warren, and Brittany Miles share their unfiltered, true stories about making their way through the independent film landscape.

  1. Sep 4

    How We Shot a Movie at 11,000 Feet With a Real Grizzly Bear | Jesse Stewart on Indie Filmmaking

    What does it take to make a feature film when you have just 11 days to shoot, no power or cell service, a location at 11,000 feet—and a real grizzly bear? In this conversation, filmmaker Jesse Stewart goes behind the scenes of Piggy Duster and breaks down the creative and logistical challenges of making an ambitious indie feature on his own terms. Jesse shares how his filmmaking journey began at Colorado Film School, led to award-winning short films and work in China, and eventually resulted in Piggy Duster. We dive deep into: 🎥 Creating a cinematic look on an indie budget — Why Jesse wanted Piggy Duster to feel like a “live-action anime” and how extensive lighting tests and color work helped create its distinctive visual style. 🏔️ Filming at 11,000 feet — No power, no cell service, limited batteries and media, extreme sunlight, and difficult terrain made every production decision count. 🐻 Working with a REAL grizzly bear — Jesse explains how the production combined a live bear, practical elements, puppetry and VFX—and what happened when the bear actually entered the tent. 🎭 Getting great performances through rehearsal — Jesse discusses working with Julia Ma and Brian Landis Folkins, including an extraordinary 8–12 minute campfire scene filmed as a single take. 🎨 The influence of Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli — Why Jesse believes filmmakers should trust audiences and allow them to sit with mystery instead of explaining everything. 🎬 The realities of indie filmmaking — From losing a third of the crew to COVID during an 11-day shoot to dealing with limited coverage and reshoots in post. 📣 Film festivals, marketing & distribution — Jesse offers candid advice about budgeting for festivals, marketing your own film, and why the Piggy Duster team ultimately chose to retain control of the movie rather than compromise its creative vision. This is a fascinating conversation about craft, risk, visual storytelling, collaboration, and what it really takes to make an independent film stand out. If you're a filmmaker, cinematographer, director, editor, or simply a fan of great independent movies, there's plenty here to learn from. For more information on the film/screenings visit http://piggyduster.com #IndieFilmmaking #Filmmaking #Cinematography #FilmProduction #JesseStewart #PiggyDuster #FilmmakingTips #IndependentFilm #Directing #BehindTheScenes

    How We Shot a Movie at 11,000 Feet With a Real Grizzly Bear | Jesse Stewart on Indie Filmmaking

  2. Aug 19

    Made in 16 Days: How Chris Hartwell Pulled Off Do No Harm With Harry Shum Jr.

    In this episode of Barely Living The Dream, filmmaker Chris Hartwell takes us behind the scenes of his first feature film, Do No Harm—a deeply personal project inspired by years of stories from his wife, a home health nurse, and his father, a doctor. Chris reveals how an eight-year journey turned into a 16-day feature film shoot in and around Houston, how he landed Harry Shum Jr. in the lead, and how Ronny Chieng joined the production on an incredible last-minute schedule. We also dive into: • The real-life healthcare experiences that inspired Do No Harm • How Chris and his team attracted major talent with a proof-of-concept film • The unbelievable story of getting Ronny Chieng into the movie with barely 48 hours to spare • Shooting a feature on Canon C70 cameras—and why knowing your camera matters more than having the most expensive gear • How a tiny indie crew created complex camera moves and lighting effects using DIY solutions • Why the film deliberately shifts between a documentary-like visual style and heightened, expressionistic imagery • The creative decision to have characters look directly into the camera during phone conversations • What Chris learned from watching dailies and listening to audience feedback • The long road from development and financing to Cannes, film festivals, and self-distribution • Why Do No Harm is ultimately about seeing both patients and healthcare workers as human beings who need compassion and care. Do No Harm went on to screen at Cannes, the Austin Film Festival, and other festivals before the team began pursuing a more direct distribution strategy. If you're a filmmaker, aspiring director, healthcare professional, or simply interested in how an ambitious independent feature gets made with limited resources, this conversation offers a fascinating look at what it takes to get a movie from an idea to the screen. For more information visit: https://donoharm-movie.com #DoNoHarm #IndieFilm #Filmmaking #HarryShumJr #RonnyChieng #IndependentFilm #FilmDirector #BehindTheScenes #HoustonFilmmaking #FilmProduction

    Made in 16 Days: How Chris Hartwell Pulled Off Do No Harm With Harry Shum Jr.

  3. Aug 7

    From Prison Break to Sinners: Dave Maldonado's Incredible Acting Journey | BLTD Episode 60

    What does it actually take to build a successful acting career in Hollywood? In this episode of Barely Living the Dream, actor Dave Maldonado shares the highs, lows, and unforgettable moments from a career that's taken him from independent films to major Hollywood productions. Dave discusses how he broke into the industry, the reality of making a living as a working actor, and what it was like sharing the screen with some of the biggest names in film. You'll hear behind-the-scenes stories from: * 🎬 Sinners * 🎬 Deepwater Horizon * 🎬 True Detective * 🎬 Prison Break * 🎬 Free State of Jones * 🎬 Trespass * 🎬 His & Hers * and many more. Dave also talks about: * His journey from community theater to Hollywood * Auditioning for major productions * Working with Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan * Lessons learned from Matthew McConaughey and Kurt Russell * Why small roles can lead to big opportunities * Staying motivated through years of rejection * The mindset required to sustain a long acting career Whether you're an aspiring actor, filmmaker, or simply love hearing behind-the-scenes stories from Hollywood, this conversation offers an honest look at what it takes to succeed in one of the toughest industries in the world. If you enjoy conversations with actors, filmmakers, and other creative professionals, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss a new episode. #Acting #Hollywood #Sinners #MichaelBJordan #RyanCoogler #TrueDetective #DeepwaterHorizon #Filmmaking #Actor #Podcast

    From Prison Break to Sinners: Dave Maldonado's Incredible Acting Journey | BLTD Episode 60

  4. Jul 24

    From Gaffer to Director: Ken Whiting on Making Rich Interior Lives | BLTD 59

    What does it really take to go from cinematographer to directing your first feature film? In this episode of **Barely Living the Dream**, filmmaker **Ken Whiting** shares the incredible journey behind his directorial debut, RICH INTERIOR LIVES. From working as a still photographer and gaffer to becoming a sought-after cinematographer on many projects (including MYSTERY SPOT), Ken explains how years behind the camera prepared him to finally step into the director's chair. We dive deep into: * 🎬 Transitioning from Director of Photography to Director * 🎥 The making of *Rich Interior Lives* * 💰 Producing a feature film on a micro-budget * 🎭 Rehearsing actors for over 250 hours before production * 🎞️ Lessons learned from the indie film festival circuit * 🎬 Building a trusted creative team * 🎭 Directing actors vs. directing the camera * 💡 Advice for aspiring filmmakers and first-time directors Ken also discusses the creative philosophy behind *Rich Interior Lives*, why character-driven storytelling matters, and how limitations can become your greatest creative strength. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, cinematographer, director, or simply love independent cinema, this conversation is packed with practical advice and honest insights from someone who's lived every step of the journey. Check out RICH INTERIOR LIVES here: https://tubitv.com/movies/100055629/rich-interior-lives If you enjoy conversations about filmmaking, independent movies, cinematography, directing, and the creative process, be sure to **Like**, **Subscribe**, and leave a comment with your biggest takeaway! #IndieFilm #Filmmaking #Director #Cinematography #IndependentFilm #FilmPodcast #RichInteriorLives #KenWhiting #FilmDirector #BehindTheScenes #Screenwriting #FilmFestival #BarelyLivingTheDream

    From Gaffer to Director: Ken Whiting on Making Rich Interior Lives | BLTD 59

  5. Jul 10

    We Pitched Jackie Chan... and It Actually Worked! | BLTD 58 with Lee Anthony Smith & Gregory Bradley

    What does it really take to break into Hollywood? In this episode of **Barely Living the Dream**, filmmakers and screenwriters **Lee Anthony Smith** and **Gregory J. Bradley** share the incredible true story of how two aspiring writers from Chicago went from film school and late-night writing sessions to landing major Hollywood deals. They reveal the behind-the-scenes journey that led to the action film **War**, starring **Jet Li** and **Jason Statham**, including the unexpected twists, heartbreaking setbacks, and hard-earned lessons that shaped their careers. In this episode, you'll discover: * 🎬 How they broke into Hollywood with no industry connections * 🥋 The unbelievable story of pitching Jackie Chan * ✍️ How *War* came together with Jet Li and Jason Statham * 🎥 What really happens after you sell a screenplay * 💰 Hollywood negotiations, studio politics, and creative battles * 🎭 Why great scripts often change before reaching the screen * 🎬 The highs and lows of building a career as a professional screenwriter * 🚀 Advice for aspiring filmmakers, writers, and storytellers Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, screenwriter, or simply love hearing incredible behind-the-scenes Hollywood stories, this conversation offers an honest look at what it takes to survive—and succeed—in the film industry. 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and share it with someone chasing their creative dream. Noir The Film on Youtube: @noirthefilm830 Greg's YouTube channel: @gregorybradley5630 #Hollywood #Screenwriting #JetLi #JasonStatham #WarMovie #Filmmaking #MoviePodcast #FilmIndustry #Writers #Screenwriter #ActionMovies #BarelyLivingTheDream #IndependentFilm #HollywoodStories

    We Pitched Jackie Chan... and It Actually Worked! | BLTD 58 with Lee Anthony Smith & Gregory Bradley

  6. Jun 26

    He Lost His Father to Suicide—Then Ran 250 Miles Heal | BLTD 57 with Daniel Herzog

    What happens when unimaginable loss becomes the catalyst for transformation? In this episode, filmmaker Daniel Herzog joins the show to discuss his powerful documentary Beautifully Broken, which follows ultramarathon runner Jared as he confronts the trauma of losing his father to suicide and channels that pain into purpose through endurance running and mental health advocacy. Daniel shares his filmmaking journey—from shooting skate videos and weddings to directing feature-length documentaries—and reveals the challenges of capturing a deeply personal story while documenting one of the most grueling ultramarathon races in the world. We discuss: * The making of Beautifully Broken * Mental health, grief, and resilience * The impact of suicide on families * Documentary filmmaking and storytelling * Ultramarathon culture and endurance sports * Finding purpose after tragedy * The power of vulnerability and personal growth This is an inspiring conversation about healing, perseverance, and the stories that connect us all. If you've experienced loss, struggled with mental health, or simply love great documentaries, this episode is one you won't want to miss. 👍 Like, Subscribe, and Share to help spread awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. For more info, or to request a screening, visit: https://www.beautifullybrokendocumentary.com #BeautifullyBroken #DanielHerzog #MentalHealth #SuicidePrevention #DocumentaryFilm #Ultramarathon #Resilience #Healing #Filmmaking #Podcast

    He Lost His Father to Suicide—Then Ran 250 Miles Heal | BLTD 57 with Daniel Herzog

  7. Jun 12

    Francis Ford Coppola Was His Mentor—Now He’s Making His First Feature Film!

    What does it really take to become a filmmaker? In this episode of Barely Living the Dream, filmmaker Jayson Johnson shares his incredible journey from growing up in Illinois to working for legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, making award-winning short films, and developing his first feature film, Roger and Me. Jayson discusses how a chance opportunity at Coppola’s winery changed the course of his life, the lessons he learned from crowdfunding, navigating film festivals, building a filmmaking career in the Bay Area, and why aspiring filmmakers should stop waiting for the perfect moment and just start creating. We also dive into: * Working with Francis Ford Coppola * Making short films on a shoestring budget * Film festival successes and failures * The realities of crowdfunding * Building a filmmaking network * Why Los Angeles wasn't the right fit * Creating films outside Hollywood * The inspiration behind his upcoming feature film Roger and Me * Advice for aspiring filmmakers in the age of AI Whether you're an indie filmmaker, screenwriter, content creator, or movie lover, this conversation offers an honest look at the challenges and rewards of pursuing a creative career. 🎬 Guest: Jayson Johnson 🎬 Production Company: Strike Five Films If you enjoy conversations about filmmaking, independent cinema, storytelling, and creative careers, be sure to like, subscribe, and share the podcast. #filmmaking #indiefilm #FrancisFordCoppola #screenwriting #filmfestival #indiefilmmaker #moviemaking #director #cinematography #podcast #creativecareer #shortfilms #featurefilm #storytelling #filmindustry

    Francis Ford Coppola Was His Mentor—Now He’s Making His First Feature Film!

  8. May 29

    How They Made an EPIC Zombie Western Sequel on a Tiny Budget | BLTD 55 with The Undead End!

    This week on the podcast, we sit down with the filmmaking team behind The Undead End — the long-awaited spiritual sequel to the cult indie zombie western The Quick and the Undead. Director/writer Gerald Nott, actor/producer Clint Hummel, and cinematographer Jonathan Stromberg break down how they spent nearly 3 years creating an ambitious post-apocalyptic feature with a tiny crew, limited resources, and a whole lot of passion. We talk about: * Making a sequel nearly 20 years later * Shooting a feature with a 4-person core crew * DIY filmmaking and building massive sets on a budget * Shooting in the California desert * Practical effects, virtual backgrounds, and indie VFX * Creating an original language for the film * Indie filmmaking during the Hollywood strikes * Festival plans and the future of the franchise * And the classic story of a bull nearly charging through set If you love indie filmmaking, post-apocalyptic movies, zombie westerns, practical effects, and hearing how ambitious movies actually get made — this episode is for you. For more info on the film, visit https://undeadend.com! #IndieFilm #ZombieMovie #Filmmaking #TheUndeadEnd #Podcast #BehindTheScenes #IndependentFilm #HorrorMovies #PostApocalyptic #DIYFilmmaking #ZombieWestern #FilmPodcast

    How They Made an EPIC Zombie Western Sequel on a Tiny Budget | BLTD 55 with The Undead End!
See All (62)

3.9
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Filmmakers Mel House, Chris Warren, and Brittany Miles share their unfiltered, true stories about making their way through the independent film landscape.

Information

  • Creator
    Mel House
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2026
  • Episodes
    62
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Barely Living The Dream