Producer's Cut

Erin Ziccarelli

Your backstage pass to the business of the silver screen!

  1. Feb 26

    Unveiling the Mysteries of the American Southwest: A Dive into J.R. Blomberg’s Navajoland

    In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with accomplished author J.R. Blomberg about his new novella, "Navajoland." This captivating story not only engages readers with a thrilling adventure but also offers profound insights into the heritage and spirituality of the Navajo Nation. Blomberg’s unique storytelling approach and personal connection to the land make this narrative truly special. Exploring the Setting: The American Southwest serves as more than just a backdrop in "Navajoland"; it is a character in its own right. Blomberg’s personal connection to the region and the Navajo Nation is palpable, as he reflects on his heritage and the deep bond between the people and the land. He describes his experiences with his family's Native American roots, sharing how this background influences his work. The spirituality of the indigenous cultures resonates throughout the novella, where land is seen not as property but as a living entity one is accountable to. Character Development: At the heart of the story is Ryder Meskell, a protagonist grappling with a painful past and a supernatural lineage. Blomberg crafted Ryder as a character who embodies the struggle between legacy and burden. Initially believing he was abandoned by his father, Ryder wrestles with his identity, labeled as "hoke'e" by his peers, which translates to "left behind." As the narrative unfolds, Ryder learns that what he inherited is not merely a mystery to solve but a responsibility he must embrace. This internal conflict drives the story, making it more than just a treasure hunt—it’s an exploration of self-discovery. The Intersection of Thriller and Spirituality: Blomberg consciously integrates elements of Native American spirituality into his narrative, treating these beliefs with the respect they deserve. He avoids turning their traditions into mere spectacle, instead presenting them as a worldview that emphasizes balance and guardianship. The protagonist's journey of rediscovering these values mirrors the audience's experience, as they engage with the themes of heritage, responsibility, and the quest for meaning. A Unique Format: "Navajoland" is not just another novella; it marks the beginning of an anthology series where each story stands alone yet is interconnected through recurring themes. Blomberg’s choice of novella format allows him to deliver cinematic pacing while ensuring depth in character development. He aims for readers to complete the novella in under three hours, experiencing the story much like a film. This innovative approach to storytelling invites readers to immerse themselves fully in the narrative. Influences and Inspirations: When discussing his writing influences, Blomberg highlights the works of iconic filmmakers like Steven Spielberg and James Cameron. Their ability to create tension through geography and character depth inspires his narrative style. Furthermore, modern storytellers like Taylor Sheridan, known for works like "Wind River" and "Yellowstone," have shaped his view of integrating landscape into storytelling, ensuring the setting becomes a vital part of the narrative. Marketing Strategy: In an age where the publishing landscape has shifted, Blomberg adopts a savvy marketing strategy by leveraging platforms like Amazon. His pre-order campaign aims to build momentum and engage potential readers early. He recognizes the importance of discoverability in the digital age and strategically aligns "Navajoland" with readers of thriller and western genres, ensuring it reaches its target audience.

  2. Feb 7

    The Inspirational Journey of Ben Kjar: Overcoming Challenges Through Wrestling

    Introduction: In a world where obstacles can often feel insurmountable, the story of Ben Kjar shines as a beacon of hope and resilience. Born with a rare condition that could have easily defined him, Ben chose instead to rise above his challenges and become a world champion wrestler. In this blog post, we delve into the fascinating journey of how this powerful story came to life, as discussed in a recent podcast featuring filmmaker Tanner Christensen. Section 1: The Spark of Inspiration The idea for the documentary "Stand Out" was ignited nearly 30 years ago during a simple basketball game. Tanner Christensen recalls, "I was at a rec basketball game with my dad, T.C. Christensen, when I first saw Ben Kjar. He stood out for a couple of reasons—his unique appearance and his magnetic personality. Everyone seemed to gravitate towards him." This initial encounter laid the groundwork for what would become a groundbreaking film. Section 2: The Long Road to Development Fast forward to four years ago, Tanner and his team stumbled upon an old note that mentioned Ben's potential as a movie subject. "We came across that piece of paper and thought, this is the best idea we have. We need to tell Ben's story," Tanner shared. After reaching out to Ben, who had been approached by other filmmakers in the past but never felt it was the right fit, they began to collaborate on bringing his life story to the screen. Section 3: Choosing the Right Format One of the pivotal decisions in the filmmaking process was opting for a documentary format rather than a traditional narrative film. Tanner explained, "The Kjar family had an incredible amount of archival material documenting Ben's life. It was so well-preserved that it added authenticity to the story. Seeing the real Ben going through these experiences made it powerful." This choice allowed audiences to connect with Ben's journey on a deeper level. Section 4: Acquiring Rights and Building the Team Securing rights to Ben's story was the first step in the development process. Tanner stated, "Ben's community is incredibly supportive. Once he decided to tell his story, everyone rallied around him." Alongside Tanner was a talented production team, including his father, T.C. Christensen, whose extensive experience in filmmaking proved invaluable. Tanner shared, "TC has been in the industry for nearly 50 years, and his ability to stretch a budget while maintaining quality is unparalleled." Section 5: Collaboration with Industry Legends The team also included Jared Hess, a well-known filmmaker. Tanner and Jared had a long-standing friendship, and when Tanner sought feedback on an early cut of the film, Jared's positive response led to his involvement in the project. "I had no idea he would want to be part of it. His praise for the early cut was encouraging, and we decided to bring him on board to help navigate the industry aspects of the film," Tanner recounted. Conclusion: Key Takeaways The journey of creating "Stand Out" is a testament to the power of storytelling and community support. Ben Kjar's life is a reminder that with determination and the right support, one can overcome even the toughest challenges. This inspiring documentary not only showcases Ben's wrestling achievements but also highlights the importance of collaboration and authenticity in filmmaking. Tags: Inspirational Stories, Documentary Filmmaking, Overcoming Challenges, Ben Care, Wrestling, Community Support, Film Production, Authentic Storytelling.

  3. Jan 28

    Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Casting in Hollywood w/ Paisley Baker

    Introduction: In the ever-changing world of Hollywood, casting has become a dynamic field that continuously adapts to new trends and technologies. In this insightful podcast episode, casting expert Paisley Baker shares her journey from theater to the heart of Hollywood casting, offering valuable insights into the importance of guilds, the impact of COVID-19 on the casting process, and what casting directors are truly looking for in auditions. Main Content: 1. **Paisley Baker’s Journey to Casting** Paisley Baker’s career path is a testament to the unpredictable nature of Hollywood. Beginning as a theater major, she soon found herself in Los Angeles, eager to explore new opportunities. Her journey took a significant turn when she assisted on a friend’s short film. This experience opened doors for her, leading to roles working with Emmy and Oscar-winning producers. One pivotal moment included fixing a broken copy machine, which led to an unexpected job interview for a Disney kid's show. This story illustrates how seemingly small actions can have a significant impact on one’s career trajectory. 2. **The Importance of Guild Membership** Baker highlights the value of being involved in industry guilds such as the Television Academy, Casting Society of America, and the Screen Actors Guild. Membership in these organizations not only provides networking opportunities but also enhances one’s credibility and access to resources. Joining SAG was a proud moment for Baker, as it allowed her to participate in award voting and connect with peers. The Television Academy further expanded her network, allowing her to interact with professionals from various facets of the industry, emphasizing the importance of community in a siloed profession. 3. **Shifts in the Casting Process** The COVID-19 pandemic brought about unprecedented changes in the casting landscape, pushing the industry into the realm of self-taping. Baker explains that while casting was evolving before the pandemic, the necessity of self-tapes during COVID highlighted the importance of adapting to technology. She reflects on the days when auditions were submitted via VHS and notes how the rise of social media has changed the way talent is discovered. Despite the challenges, Baker believes that self-taping can be beneficial, allowing actors to perform multiple takes without the stress of in-person auditions. 4. **What Casting Directors Look For** In today’s casting process, Baker emphasizes the need for a positive energy and the ability to act, but she also points out that casting directors are looking for authenticity and connection. The shift to virtual auditions means that casting directors are now viewing performances on small screens, which requires actors to adjust their performances accordingly. Baker encourages actors to communicate their limitations and be prepared to adapt to the new norms of self-taping, underscoring the importance of flexibility in this evolving landscape. Conclusion: Paisley Baker’s insights into the casting process reveal the complexities and transformations that have shaped Hollywood today. Her journey from a theater major to a respected casting professional serves as an inspiration to those aspiring to enter the industry. With the rise of technology and the importance of guilds, actors must embrace change and remain adaptable to thrive in this dynamic environment. The key takeaways from this discussion highlight the significance of networking, the benefits of guild membership, and the evolving expectations of casting directors in a post-COVID world. Tags: casting, Hollywood, career development, guilds, self-taping, COVID-19, acting tips, auditioning, casting director insights, entertainment industry.

  4. Jan 21

    Independent Filmmaking: Challenges and Innovations w/ Ally May

    Introduction: In a world where stories often reflect the complexities of human experience, Allie’s journey from screenwriter to director is a testament to resilience and creativity. Following a life-altering stroke, she found a new passion in filmmaking, nurturing her voice and vision through the lens of trauma and transformation. This blog post dives into her inspiring story, her approach to filmmaking, and the evolving landscape of the film industry post-COVID. The Beginning of a New Journey Allie’s journey began with a deep-rooted love for writing and cinema, but a stroke in 2017 dramatically altered her path. Initially a screenwriter, Allie lost her ability to write post-stroke, leading her into a period of depression. Encouraged by her husband, she took a leap into film school at the San Francisco Film School, where she discovered her passion for directing. "The second I saw actors performing my words at auditions, I was hooked on directing," she reflects. Allie’s resilience and determination not only helped her reclaim her creative voice but also defined her unique storytelling style that often features strong female leads overcoming adversity. Navigating COVID-19: Rising Above Challenges As the pandemic hit, the film industry faced unprecedented challenges. Allie, however, found a silver lining by forming a women’s film collective, which became a lifeline for her creative endeavors. "We meet every week to talk about our goals and what we’ve accomplished," she shares. This collective not only fostered friendships but also provided essential support and collaboration opportunities, allowing her to continue creating during a tumultuous time. Allie managed to produce a short film outdoors under strict safety guidelines, demonstrating her adaptability and commitment to her craft. Dandelion Wishes: A Production Company with Purpose Allie established her production company, Dandelion Wishes, to facilitate her filmmaking ambitions. With plans to produce her first feature film, "Strangled," she explains the importance of having an LLC for raising investment funds. While her short films have yet to generate profit, Allie emphasizes that the focus of creating short films is not monetary gain but honing her skills and telling meaningful stories. "You make short films to sharpen your tools and keep creating," she asserts, highlighting the significance of storytelling in her life. The Art of Casting and Directing As a director, Allie sees herself as the CEO of her projects, blending her unique brand with the stories she tells. Her narratives often center around women rising from the ashes of trauma, a theme that resonates deeply with audiences today. Allie reveals, "There’s a deep well of stories about women and the ways we have been affected by trauma but also how we rise from it." The casting process, particularly in the post-COVID landscape, has evolved dramatically. With the rise of electronic submissions, Allie finds new opportunities to connect with talent, making the casting process more accessible and diverse. Conclusion: Key Takeaways Allie’s journey through adversity showcases the transformative power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit. By embracing her challenges, she has carved a niche in the film industry, advocating for underrepresented voices and sharing impactful narratives. Key takeaways from Allie’s experience include the importance of community support, the value of continuous learning through creation, and the need to adapt to the evolving landscape of the film industry. Tags: #filmmaking #womeninfilm #resilience #storytelling #independentfilm #filmcollectives #DandelionWishes #trauma #transformation #casting

  5. Jan 14

    Building a Sustainable Film Ecosystem w/ Daren Smith

    In this conversation, Erin Ziccarelli and Daren Smith discuss the evolution of indie film production through the lens of the Producer Fund. Daren shares insights on creating a sustainable ecosystem for indie films, focusing on investor engagement, audience targeting, and innovative marketing strategies. He emphasizes the importance of community and alignment with investors, as well as the structural aspects of the Producer Fund that differentiate it from traditional funding models. The discussion also touches on Daren's vision for future projects and the impact of family-friendly films in the market. Takeaways The Producer Fund aims to create a sustainable indie film ecosystem.Daren emphasizes the importance of aligning interests between filmmakers, investors, and audiences.Community engagement is crucial for successful film marketing.Investors are looking for meaningful media that uplifts and changes people for the better.The structure of the Producer Fund allows for diversified investments across multiple films.Daren's marketing strategy focuses on building relationships and community involvement.Email engagement is significantly more effective than social media for investor communication.The goal is to create family-friendly films that resonate with a broad audience.Daren's vision for 2026 includes multiple film projects and increased investor commitments.The journey of entrepreneurship in film involves continuous pitching and relationship building.

  6. Jan 8

    Producer's Cut Episode 49 - Paul Zeidman

    My interview with Paul Zeidman is now live! Paul breaks down his background in writing, podcasting, and producing short films. Check out his interview for a behind-the-scenes look at the Creative Writing Life podcast and his latest short film, Shecky! Click here to support Paul's Shecky post-production crowdfunding tier: https://lnkd.in/gQGzTyvy. Shecky is 73% funded - check out his reward tiers and help reach the finish line!!!

  7. 11/23/2025

    Producer's Cut Episode 48 - Israel Brooks

    My second interview with Israel Brooks is now live! It was a pleasure to have him back for another chat about international production and Fast Fire Films 2.0. Check out his interview for ways to incorporate technology into your production process and more on: ·       Securing sponsorship/product placement ·       Direct-to-consumer release for your film ·       Production company scaling ·       Distribution in-house

  8. 11/12/2025

    Producer's Cut Episode 47 - René Estes

    My interview with Rene Estes is now live! She is the founder of the Video Mentor and shares her perspective on media strategy and entrepreneurship. Check out her interview for more on the intersection of media and technology, including: ·       Mission and vision behind the Video Mentor ·       Trends in social media marketing ·       Identifying your audience ·       Filmmaking for emerging artists

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About

Your backstage pass to the business of the silver screen!

Information

  • Creator
    Erin Ziccarelli
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    54
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Erin Ziccarelli
  • Show Website
    Producer's Cut