Hollywood Rebooted Podcast with Billy Barnes

Thnklab Productions

The Hollywood Rebooted podcast, hosted by award-winning filmmaker Billy Barnes, offers a raw and unfiltered look at the grit, grind, and gear fueling the modern film industry. Barnes, known for his "Swiss Army Knife" approach to production, sits down with the visionary men and women behind your favorite shows—from award-winning editors and producers to celebrated actors and directors. Together, they peel back the curtain on the "New Hollywood" landscape, where traditional gatekeepers are being bypassed in favor of DIY mentalities and self-distribution. The show explores the reality of making the leap to long-form storytelling in an era where personal branding and creative independence are just as vital as a polished reel. Designed as both a roadmap and a masterclass, the podcast serves as an essential resource for those looking to break into the industry or veterans aiming to pivot within a rapidly shifting studio system. By highlighting practical strategies for maintaining creative momentum and navigating the business of independent production, Hollywood Rebooted empowers creators to take control of their own narratives. Whether you are curious about the technical nuances of a sound mix or the strategic complexities of marketing a digital series, Billy Barnes provides the insights necessary to stay relevant and thrive in the future of filmmaking. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episodes

  1. Hollywood Rebooted Podcast | Euphoria Editor Aaron I. Butler

    2D AGO

    Hollywood Rebooted Podcast | Euphoria Editor Aaron I. Butler

    In this episode of Hollywood Rebooted, we sit down with the visionary editor behind some of the most visually stunning projects in modern television: Aaron I. Butler, ACE. We dive deep into the science of storytelling, exploring how pacing and rhythm are used as tools to emotionally hook an audience and keep them on the edge of their seat. Aaron pulls back the curtain on his creative shorthand with Sam Levinson, explaining how their collaborative process defines the unique, visceral "feel" that has made Euphoria a cultural phenomenon. Plus, stay tuned for some exclusive behind-the-scenes stories! Aaron shares what it was really like celebrating at the Season 3 premiere party, including his fun interactions with Zendaya and Alexa Demie. In this episode, we discuss: The psychology of the "emotional hook." Translating Sam Levinson’s vision from script to screen. The technical challenges of editing Euphoria’s most intense sequences. Exclusive stories from the Season 3 premiere. About Aaron I. Butler Aaron I. Butler is an award-winning editor known for his ability to blend raw emotion with cinematic flair. Beyond his iconic work on Euphoria, his impressive IMDB credits include: The Idol (TV Series) I Am Burt Reynolds (Documentary) L.A. Burning: The Riots 25 Years Later Under the Electric Sky Paper Tigers Connect with Us Subscribe for more deep dives into the film industry! Follow Hollywood Rebooted on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodrebootedpodcast/ Connect with Aaron I. Butler https://www.instagram.com/aaronibutler/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 12m
  2. Hollywood Rebooted Podcast | Transformers ONE Actor Jason Konopisos Alvarez

    FEB 23

    Hollywood Rebooted Podcast | Transformers ONE Actor Jason Konopisos Alvarez

    What does it take to survive and thrive in Hollywood for over two decades? 🎭 In this episode of the Hollywood Rebooted Podcast, we are joined by the incredibly versatile Jason Konopisos-Alvarez. From his early days in cult classics to voicing iconic villains in major franchises, Jason has navigated the highs, the lows, and the complete transformations of the film industry. Jason shares his unique perspective on the "DIY" filmmaking era and how a modern actor must balance live-action performance with the booming world of voice acting and motion capture. We discuss: The Cult Classic Legacy: What it was like filming Idiocracy and watching it become a cultural phenomenon years later. Finding the Voice: His experience bringing Shockwave to life in Transformers One and joining James Gunn’s DCU in Creature Commandos. The Long Game: Honest insights into the 10-year "grind" and how he stayed motivated before his recent breakthrough roles. The Indie Spirit: Why projects like The Unexpecteds represent the future of collaborative, creator-driven filmmaking. Featured Filmography & Roles: Transformers One (Shockwave / Guard 2) The Unexpecteds (Jordan De Alvarez) Creature Commandos (Congorilla / Pilot) Idiocracy (Supporting) Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay (Supporting) Eyes of Wakanda (Ferro) Starfield (Alban Lopez - Video Game) King of the Hill (Various Voices) Muppets Most Wanted (Co-Star) The Last Lullaby (Supporting) Jason’s journey is a masterclass in resilience and adaptation. Whether you're an aspiring actor or a fan of the franchises he’s helped build, this conversation offers a deep look into the craft and the business of being a working actor today. Follow Jason Konopisos-Alvarez: https://www.instagram.com/jason_konopisos/ Subscribe to Battery Not Included: https://www.instagram.com/batterynotincludedpodcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 10m
  3. Hollywood Rebooted Podcast | Robocop Actor Yvette Nipar

    FEB 16

    Hollywood Rebooted Podcast | Robocop Actor Yvette Nipar

    Is the "Old Hollywood" officially gone? 🎬 In this episode of the Hollywood Rebooted Podcast, we sit down with the incredible Yvette Nipar. With a career spanning decades—from her iconic roles in RoboCop: The Series and 21 Jump Street to her extensive work in film and television—Yvette has seen the industry transform from the inside out. Today, she’s pulling back the curtain on what it’s actually like for a veteran actor to navigate the modern landscape. We dive deep into: The Evolution of the Set: How the shift from "Studio System" vibes to the current era has changed the craft. The DIY Movement: Why Yvette is embracing the "Do-It-Yourself" filmmaking spirit and why it’s no longer optional for actors. Adaptation vs. Survival: Practical advice for seasoned pros and newcomers alike on staying relevant in a digital-first world. Behind-the-Scenes Stories: Memories from her time on some of the biggest shows of the 80s and 90s. Yvette brings a rare blend of veteran wisdom and fresh, gritty determination. If you’ve ever wondered how the stars of your favorite classics are reinventing themselves for the streaming and indie era, you don’t want to miss this conversation. Follow Yvette Nipar: https://www.instagram.com/yvettenipar/ Subscribe to Battery Not Included: https://www.instagram.com/batterynotincludedpodcast/ #YvetteNipar #RoboCop #21JumpStreet #IndieFilmmaking #ActorLife #HollywoodEvolution #BatteryNotIncludedPodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    55 min
  4. Hollywood Rebooted Podcast | Lone Star 911 Actor Brian Michael Smith

    FEB 9

    Hollywood Rebooted Podcast | Lone Star 911 Actor Brian Michael Smith

    In this episode of Hollywood Rebooted Podcast, we sit down with the powerhouse that is Brian Michael Smith (9-1-1: Lone Star). Brian’s path to becoming a series regular wasn't an overnight success, it was a masterclass in persistence, craft, and authenticity. We trace his steps from his roots in Michigan to the high-stakes acting scene in New York City, and finally, his move to Los Angeles. 📌 In This Episode, We Discuss: The Early Days: How a kid from Michigan set his sights on the arts. The NYC Grind: Brian’s transition from being an acting teacher and mentor to landing his first big breaks. The Breakthrough: His journey through recurring roles on hit shows like ]9-1-1: Lone Star – He stars as firefighter Paul Strickland (Series Regular). Queen Sugar – He played Toine Wilkins, a police officer and close friend of the Bordelon family (Recurring). The L Word: Generation Q – He appeared as Pierce Williams, a political strategist (Recurring). After – He played the role of Jeremy Washington. Blue Bloods – He appeared in multiple episodes as Officer Buckley. Guest & Additional Appearances Chicago P.D. – Roland Garrett (Episode: "Snitch") Girls – Cop 1 (This was his first speaking credit in 2015) Homeland – EMT Nate Law & Order: Special Victims Unit – ConElectric Worker #2 Paul Strickland & Lone Star: What it’s like portraying a fan-favorite character on a massive network drama. Advice for Actors: The mindset shift required to go from "working actor" to "series regular." 🔗 Connect with Brian Michael Smith: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_brianmichael/ ⚡ Support Battery Not Included: If you enjoyed this episode, please Like, Subscribe, and hit the Notification Bell! It helps us keep the battery charged and bring you more conversations with the industry's best. Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/batterynotincludedpodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/braythirteen/ #BrianMichaelSmith #911LoneStar #ActingJourney #BatteryNotIncluded #ActorLife #HollywoodStory #TransVisibility Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    56 min
  5. Hollywood Rebooted Podcast | Directing Your 1st Feature Michael Delano

    FEB 2

    Hollywood Rebooted Podcast | Directing Your 1st Feature Michael Delano

    Is the "Director’s Dream" still alive in 2026? 🎬 In Hollywood Rebooted Podcast, award-winning filmmaker Billy Barnes sits down with Michael Delano, producer, director, and the visionary founder of Cotu Media. Transitioning from shorts to a feature film is the hardest leap a filmmaker can make. Michael breaks down the practical roadmap for directing your first feature, how to maintain creative momentum in a rapidly shifting "New Hollywood" landscape, and why your personal brand is just as important as your reel. 📌 In This Episode: The First Feature: Step-by-step advice on making the jump to long-form storytelling. Navigating New Hollywood: How to stay relevant and moving forward in the current industry climate. Marketing Yourself: Modern strategies for young directors to get noticed by producers and investors. The Cotu Media Story: Michael’s journey founding a production powerhouse. 🚀 About the Guest: Michael Delano is a seasoned producer and director known for his ability to merge high-level artistry with savvy business strategy. As the founder of Cotu Media, ( https://www.cotumedia.com/ ) he has become a leading voice for the next generation of creators. 🎙️ About the Podcast: Battery Not Included is hosted by Billy Barnes, an award-winning filmmaker dedicated to pulling back the curtain on the grit, the grind, and the gear that fuels the film industry. 🔗 Connect with Us: Follow Battery Not Included Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/batterynotincludedpodcast/ Follow Billy Barnes: https://www.instagram.com/braythirteen/ Follow Michael Delano/Cotu Media: https://www.instagram.com/cotumedia/ https://www.instagram.com/yasodic/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 14m
  6. Hollywood Rebooted Podcast | 3x Emmy Award Winner Eddie Perez

    JAN 26

    Hollywood Rebooted Podcast | 3x Emmy Award Winner Eddie Perez

    Welcome to the series premiere of the Hollywood Rebooted Podcast! In our first-ever episode, award winning Director / Host Billy Barnes is joined by industry legend Eddie Perez. With over 30 years of experience, Eddie is a 3-time Emmy Award winner, a SAG Award winner, and currently serves as the Governor for the Stunts Peer Group at the Television Academy. From his iconic 9-season run as the Stunt Coordinator for Shameless to his work on blockbusters like Deadpool, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Wakanda Forever, and Sicario, Eddie has seen—and done—it all. In this episode, we dive deep into: Breaking In: How to actually start a career as a stunt actor today. The Evolution of Action: What the industry was like in the "wild west" days versus now. The AI Revolution: How Artificial Intelligence is changing stunt work and what the future holds for human performers. Behind the Scenes: Stories from the set of Shameless and working on massive film franchises. Whether you're an aspiring performer or a die-hard movie fan, this masterclass in action filmmaking is not to be missed. 🎥 Featured in this Episode: Shameless (Showtime) Deadpool Snowfall Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Captain America: The Winter Soldier Star Trek Into Darkness 🔗 Connect with Us: Follow Eddie Perez: www.instagram.com/iameddieperez/ Follow Battery Not Included Podcast on Instagram: www.instagram.com/batterynotincludedpodcast/ Follow Billy Barnes on Instagram: www.instagram.com/braythirteen/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 15m

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

The Hollywood Rebooted podcast, hosted by award-winning filmmaker Billy Barnes, offers a raw and unfiltered look at the grit, grind, and gear fueling the modern film industry. Barnes, known for his "Swiss Army Knife" approach to production, sits down with the visionary men and women behind your favorite shows—from award-winning editors and producers to celebrated actors and directors. Together, they peel back the curtain on the "New Hollywood" landscape, where traditional gatekeepers are being bypassed in favor of DIY mentalities and self-distribution. The show explores the reality of making the leap to long-form storytelling in an era where personal branding and creative independence are just as vital as a polished reel. Designed as both a roadmap and a masterclass, the podcast serves as an essential resource for those looking to break into the industry or veterans aiming to pivot within a rapidly shifting studio system. By highlighting practical strategies for maintaining creative momentum and navigating the business of independent production, Hollywood Rebooted empowers creators to take control of their own narratives. Whether you are curious about the technical nuances of a sound mix or the strategic complexities of marketing a digital series, Billy Barnes provides the insights necessary to stay relevant and thrive in the future of filmmaking. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.