JDH the Podcast

JDH - The Podcast
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Welcome to JDH the Podcast — an unfiltered deep dive into filmmaking, entertainment, and the creative process from every angle imaginable. Hosted by John David Harris, writer/director of the independent feature film HOSTAGE, this podcast goes beyond surface-level conversations to explore the realities of storytelling, independent film production, directing, writing, acting, industry politics, streaming culture, marketing, controversy, and everything in between. No topic is off limits. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a film fanatic, or someone fascinated by the entertainment world behind the curtain, JDH the Podcast delivers honest conversations, behind-the-scenes insight, and raw discussions you won’t hear anywhere else. 🎬 Filmmaking. Entertainment. Culture. Creativity. Chaos. This is JDH the Podcast.

  1. 2d ago

    JDH talks with Adam Kennedy - Independent Filmmaker Spotlight

    In this conversation, Adam Kennedy discusses his journey into filmmaking, starting from his early inspirations to his current projects. He shares insights on the challenges of transitioning from short films to feature films and the complexities of film distribution. Takeaways Filmmaking journey is non-linearImportance of understanding contractsChapters 00:00 The Beginning of a Filmmaking Journey13:40 Transitioning to Feature Films28:31 Distribution Challenges and Experiences

  2. Oct 10

    JDH talks with Vlad Chesa - Independent Filmmaker Spotlight

    The conversation features filmmaker Vlad Chesa discussing his journey in filmmaking, from his early experiences on set in Romania to his current work in the UK. He shares insights on storytelling, collaboration, and the challenges of finding investors and distribution for films. The conversation explores the evolving landscape of independent filmmaking, focusing on distribution methods, the impact of digital platforms like YouTube, and the challenges and opportunities faced by filmmakers today. Vlad Chesa shares insights on his current projects, including a series he is developing, and discusses the significance of resilience and creativity in navigating the industry. Takeaways Filmmaking is a collaborative artStorytelling is central to filmmaking Independent filmmaking is thrivingResilience is key to success Chapters 00:00 Vlad Chesa's Filmmaking Journey10:57 The Art of Storytelling in Film16:59 Collaboration and Roles in Filmmaking23:14 Navigating Film Distribution Challenges25:19 Evolving Distribution Methods29:30 The Power of YouTube and Social Media32:31 Creative Freedom in Writing35:55 The 48-Hour Film Challenge44:10 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers46:26 Future Aspirations in Filmmaking#JDHthepodcast #Romania #london #indiefilm #48hourfilmcontest #filmmaker #writer #director #producer #editor #crew #spotlight #podcast #UK #UKfilm #romaniafilm

  3. Oct 6

    JDH talks with Emmett Loverde - Independent Filmmaker Spotlight

    The conversation features Emmett La Verde discussing his journey in filmmaking, from his early experiences with Super Eight film in high school to his current projects, including his latest film 'Without a Name'. He shares insights on the evolution of filmmaking technology, the challenges of distribution, and the importance of collaboration on set. The conversation delves into Emmett Loverde's experiences as an indie filmmaker, discussing the financial aspects of filmmaking, the challenges of distribution, and his future projects. Emmett shares insights on working with actors, the evolution of the film industry, and his passion for creating diverse films. Takeaways Filmmaking has evolved significantlyDistribution challenges persist for indie filmmakers Indie filmmaking requires strategic budgetingDistribution channels are evolving rapidlyChapters 00:00 The Journey Begins: Early Filmmaking Experiences11:57 Transitioning to Feature Films: The Road Ahead23:54 Navigating Distribution: Lessons Learned29:30 Budgeting for Indie Films31:01 Navigating the Changing Film Industry32:59 Working with Established Actors36:54 Adapting Stage Plays to Film38:57 The Journey of 'Without a Name'39:50 Distribution Challenges and Strategies47:06 Future Projects and AspirationsIndependent filmmaker Emmett Loverde joins JDH to discuss his journey from shooting on Super 8 film and VHS cameras to writing and directing feature films. Emmett shares the stories behind films including Santa’s Letters, She’s Out of His Mind, Beauty, Brains and Personality, and Without a Name. They also get candid about the realities of independent film distribution—from film markets and difficult contracts to streaming platforms, Tubi, FilmHub, and Indie Rights. They also discuss financing indie films, working with actors and crews, the shift from film to digital production, and Emmett’s upcoming comedy The Maginot Line and punk-rock documentary project. If you’re an independent filmmaker, actor, or film fan interested in what it really takes to make and release movies, this conversation is for you. #IndependentFilm #IndieFilmmaker #FilmDistribution #Tubi #FilmHub #Filmmaking #FeatureFilm #MovieMaking #FilmDirector #IndependentCinema #Screenwriting #FilmIndustry #PodcastInterview #EmmettLoverde

  4. Oct 1

    JDH talks with Rome Davis - Comedian Spotlight

    Stand-Up Comedy, Creative Freedom & Going Independent | Rome Davis on JDH – The Podcast What does it take to build a career in stand-up comedy without waiting for Hollywood or the entertainment industry to open the door? On this episode of JDH – The Podcast, host John David Harris sits down with stand-up comedian and filmmaker Rome Davis for an honest conversation about the realities of comedy, developing original material, releasing independent comedy specials, and creating opportunities without relying on traditional industry gatekeepers. Rome shares how he first got into stand-up comedy, why he started taking comedy classes, and how years of open mics, testing jokes, and performing for different audiences helped shape his voice as a comedian. From an early PBS appearance to his independent comedy special Roe Shambeau, Rome explains what it takes to turn a passion for comedy into a growing independent career. 🎤 IN THIS EPISODE: • Breaking into stand-up comedy and finding your comedic voice • How open mics and years of performing develop better material • Creating and releasing independent stand-up comedy specials • Rome Davis and Roe Shambeau: taking control of your own content • Self-distribution, streaming platforms, and getting your comedy seen • Why exposure and audience growth can matter more than immediate revenue • Comedy culture, roasting, audience expectations, and creative freedom • Navigating controversy and the conversation around cancellation in comedy • Influences including Eddie Murphy, Richard Pryor, Keenen Ivory Wayans, and Paul Mooney • Building a career without depending entirely on agents, managers, or traditional gatekeepers • Rome’s ambitions in touring, sketch comedy, writing, and potentially appearing on Saturday Night Live (SNL) INDEPENDENCE, COMEDY & THE BUSINESS OF ENTERTAINMENT Rome’s journey highlights a challenge facing independent entertainers: making the work is only part of the equation. Finding an audience, getting distribution, and creating the next opportunity can be just as important. Whether you're an aspiring comedian, an independent filmmaker, a content creator, or simply a fan of stand-up comedy, this conversation explores what it means to take control of your creative career and build something on your own terms. 👇 WATCH, LIKE, COMMENT & SUBSCRIBE What do you think matters more for an independent comedian: getting a major industry deal or building an audience independently? Share your thoughts in the comments! Subscribe to JDH – The Podcast for conversations with comedians, filmmakers, actors, musicians, and entertainment industry voices discussing their journeys, creative process, and the realities behind the business. 🎙️ Hosted by John David Harris 🎬 A production of Antigone Productions #RomeDavis #StandUpComedy #JDHThePodcast

  5. Sep 26

    JDH talks with Patricia Hetherington - Independent Filmmaker Spotlight

    Patricia Heatherington shares her journey from aspiring filmmaker in New Zealand to establishing herself in the independent film industry in London. She discusses the culture of short film making, the challenges of promoting New Zealand films, and the opportunities for career development in the UK. Patricia also highlights the Action on the Side project and its role in networking and practical filmmaking experience. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including teaching and education in film, the inception of 'Action on the Side', the cost and accessibility of filmmaking, the evolution of filmmaking technology, the importance of traditional filmmaking techniques, the impact of AI on the film industry, virtual production and sustainability, the shift in media consumption and ownership, passion for short films, and the transition to feature films. Patricia Hetherington shares insights on these topics and discusses her future plans and projects. Takeaways New Zealand's independent film industry fosters a culture of short film making, driven by the need for filmmakers to go out and make films independently.The challenges of promoting New Zealand films and the cultural cringe associated with consuming American and British media have influenced the consumption of local films in New Zealand. The impact of AI on the film industry is a topic of concern, with a pushback against generative AI and a focus on using AI as a tool in filmmaking.The shift in media consumption and ownership, including a return to physical media and wired headphones, is influencing industry trends and responses.Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Action on the Side Project01:22 Early Filmmaking Aspirations and University Studies02:20 Involvement in the Music and Artists Social Club03:18 Culture of Short Film Making in New Zealand04:03 The 48-Hour Film Competition05:23 The Process of Making a Film in 48 Hours06:11 Challenges and Rewards of the 48-Hour Film Competition07:11 Cultural Cringe and Film Consumption in New Zealand08:10 Challenges of Promoting New Zealand Films09:02 Career Development and Transition to the UK11:27 Decentralization of the Film Industry and Opportunities12:18 Recognition of New Zealand Films Internationally13:16 Balancing Filmmaking with Day Job and Career Development14:10 Interest in Transitioning to Feature Films17:18 Action on the Side Project and Networking Opportunities19:50 Teaching Experience and Networking Opportunities20:19 Teaching and Education in Film22:14 Starting Action on the Side23:27 Cost and Accessibility of Filmmaking25:14 Evolution of Filmmaking Technology27:11 Importance of Traditional Filmmaking Techniques30:20 Impact of AI on the Film Industry32:30 Virtual Production and Sustainability37:49 Shift in Media Consumption and Ownership40:26 Passion for Short Films41:30 Transition to Feature Films42:31 Future Plans and ProjectsPatricia makes a compelling case for making films without waiting for permission. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, producer, screenwriter, actor, or creative professional, this conversation offers practical insight into building experience, creating opportunities, and finding your place in the independent film community. #Filmmaking #IndependentFilm #ShortFilms #FilmProduction #EmergingFilmmakers #FilmSchool #CreativeCareers #FilmIndustry #FilmProducer #Storytelling #48HourFilmChallenge #LondonFilmmaking #BehindTheScenes #FilmmakerTips #ActionOnTheSide

  6. Sep 21

    JDH talks with Dan Robins - Independent Filmmakers Spotlight

    How do you break into film when you have no real experience, no industry connections, and you're starting during COVID? Filmmaker and actor Dan Robbins joins JDH – The Podcast to talk about his unexpected path into filmmaking and acting — a journey that began when he stumbled across an old profile and an actual casting opportunity during the COVID era. Within just three days, Dan had taken new photos, written a bio, learned how to self-tape, submitted for roles, and landed his first film job. From there, the conversation dives into what really happens behind the casting process — including self-tapes, auditions, confidence, personality, collaboration, and what makes a performer stand out once they actually get on set. Dan also shares the story of his first film set: a Japanese-market fan film involving dialogue, wire work, stage combat, and firearms training — an intense introduction to filmmaking that left him feeling both grateful and completely out of his depth. JDH and Dan also compare the traditional audition process with today's self-tape culture and discuss why being comfortable, confident, collaborative, and enjoyable to work with can matter just as much as the audition itself. 🎙️ IN THIS EPISODE00:00 — JDH welcomes filmmaker Dan Robbins 00:27 — Leaving the corporate world during COVID 00:52 — The forgotten profile that opened the door to film 01:19 — New photos, a bio and the first auditions 02:13 — How casting has changed 02:42 — Learning self-tapes from scratch 03:49 — Dan's first film job: wire work, stage combat & firearms training 04:31 — Feeling completely out of your depth 04:51 — Why self-tapes can reduce audition nerves 05:18 — Confidence and why casting wants you to succeed 06:46 — Why personality and collaboration matter on set 🎥 ABOUT JDH – THE PODCAST JDH – The Podcast, hosted by filmmaker John David Harris, explores filmmaking and entertainment from every angle — from acting and directing to casting, producing, editing, cinematography, the business of entertainment and the unexpected stories behind the people who make it happen. No topic is off limits. If you're interested in filmmaking, acting, auditions, casting, independent film, self-tapes, behind-the-scenes stories, or the entertainment industry, subscribe and follow JDH – The Podcast for more conversations. 👍 Like the video if you enjoyed the conversation. 💬 What do you think casting really rewards — talent, confidence, personality, preparation, or some combination of all four? 🔔 Subscribe for more JDH – The Podcast interviews. #JDHThePodcast #DanRobbins #BreakingIntoFilm #Acting #Casting #SelfTape #Auditions #Filmmaking #IndependentFilm #FilmIndustry #ActorsLife #Filmmaker

  7. Sep 14

    JDH talks with Jaiveer Asthana

    The conversation covers the challenges and experiences of independent filmmaking, including the creative process, technical aspects, and industry dynamics. It also delves into the impact of regulations and trends on creativity and the changing landscape of the entertainment industry. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to the film industry, including the evolution of comedy, the changing landscape of horror movies, the impact of Hollywood on franchises like Marvel and Star Wars, the democratization of filmmaking, and the role of product placement in film financing. The discussion also delves into the challenges and opportunities for independent filmmakers in the current industry. Takeaways Independent filmmaking requires resourcefulness, creativity, and a willingness to take risks.Regulations and industry trends can impact creativity and the accessibility of filmmaking. Evolution of ComedyChanging Landscape of Horror MoviesImpact of Hollywood on FranchisesDemocratization of FilmmakingRole of Product Placement in Film Financing Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Independent Filmmaking03:01 The Evolution of Filmmaking Technology05:53 Challenges and Risks in Filmmaking08:57 Navigating Industry Regulations12:03 Impact of Trends on Creativity18:56 The Changing Landscape of Entertainment24:20 Evolution of Comedy25:26 Changing Landscape of Horror Movies26:20 Impact of Hollywood on Franchises27:15 Democratization of Filmmaking31:22 Role of Product Placement in Film Financing Most filmmakers are waiting for permission that will never come. Jay Astana is proof you can build a real career by grabbing a camera, making the thing, and refusing to let excuses win. JDH sits down with Jay, a sports therapist turned filmmaker, to unpack how he went from making short films with friends and martial artists to building a slate of three features, with a fourth on the way. In this conversation, they discuss: Why waiting for the right gear, money, or connections keeps creators stuckHow Jay used a Panasonic G7 and a DIY mindset to make finished filmsThe realities of low-budget filmmaking, including sound, permits, and guerrilla shootingWhy finishing and showing a film matters more than making it perfectHow YouTube, streaming, vertical video, and product placement are changing filmmakingThe decline of comedy and the changing entertainment industryHow independent filmmakers can build careers outside the traditional systemWhy creators need to stop talking about their ideas and start making themJay also shares his long-term goal of building a small production house in London to help new filmmakers create their first project and bring it to cinemas. Whether you’re an indie filmmaker, screenwriter, aspiring director, or creator with an unfinished idea, this conversation is a reminder that the best time to start is now. Stop waiting. Start shooting. #IndieFilmmaking #IndependentFilm #FilmmakingTips #LowBudgetFilmmaking #FilmMakers #AspiringFilmmaker #Screenwriting #Directing #FilmProduction #CreativeEntrepreneur #YouTubeFilmmaking #GuerrillaFilmmaking #ShortFilms #FeatureFilms #FilmmakerMindset

  8. Sep 8

    JDH talks with Apostoly Peter Kouroumalis (Toly A.K)

    The conversation delves into Tolie Peter's journey into filmmaking, from early influences to challenges in the film industry, and his approach to writing and filmmaking. It also explores the evolution of film production and distribution, as well as his genre preferences. Apostoly Peter discusses his approach to writing, the challenges of filmmaking, the impact of decentralization on the entertainment industry, and his future goals in the film industry. He also shares insights on financing, graphic novels, and experimental films. Takeaways Transition from other creative pursuits to filmmakingChallenges and experiences in the film industry The importance of planning the beginning, middle, and end when writing a storyThe impact of decentralization on the entertainment industry and the opportunities it presents for filmmakers Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Filmmaking00:53 Early Influences and Beginnings02:16 Transition to Film School and Career Start03:06 Challenges in the Film Industry06:04 Experience in Film Production08:04 Evolution of Film Production16:42 Distribution and Genre Preferences20:19 Writing Style and Filmmaking Approach21:10 The Art of Writing22:03 Exploring Different Genres23:45 Decentralization of the Entertainment Industry25:28 Challenges of Filmmaking30:43 Financing and Grants36:47 Graphic Novels and Experimental Films40:20 Perspectives on Filmmaking42:01 Future Goals

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About

Welcome to JDH the Podcast — an unfiltered deep dive into filmmaking, entertainment, and the creative process from every angle imaginable. Hosted by John David Harris, writer/director of the independent feature film HOSTAGE, this podcast goes beyond surface-level conversations to explore the realities of storytelling, independent film production, directing, writing, acting, industry politics, streaming culture, marketing, controversy, and everything in between. No topic is off limits. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a film fanatic, or someone fascinated by the entertainment world behind the curtain, JDH the Podcast delivers honest conversations, behind-the-scenes insight, and raw discussions you won’t hear anywhere else. 🎬 Filmmaking. Entertainment. Culture. Creativity. Chaos. This is JDH the Podcast.

Information

  • Creator
    JDH - The Podcast
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 JDH - The Podcast