MediaMaker Spotlight

Women in Film and Video (DC)
  • 5.0 (12)
  • ARTS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The biweekly podcast "MediaMaker Spotlight" features conversations with industry professionals speaking on a wide range of topics of interest to screen-based media makers. The series is a great resource for creators and collaborators who want to learn more about filmmaking, production, and all that goes into bringing projects to life. Our show is a great place to learn, find inspiration, discover communities of support, and celebrate our shared passion for film, television, video and visual storytelling in all formats and mediums. "MediaMaker Spotlight" is produced by the Women in Film & Video Podcast Committee. Learn more at MediaMakerSpotlight.com.

  1. From Juilliard to Pentagon Papers: Marcus Raskin’s Legacy

    FEB 1

    From Juilliard to Pentagon Papers: Marcus Raskin’s Legacy

    In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with Eden Raskin Jenkins about her documentary, NOTES OF A CITIZEN: THE MARCUS RASKIN STORY. It is the story about her father’s career before she was born. Through family and notable figures, she learns about his work in the Kennedy White House, his role with the Pentagon Papers, the FBI raided his office, and why he was on Nixon’s Enemies List. The episode also highlights the role of music based on her father’s studies at Julliard and the support she received from Women in Film and Video.  Learn more at marcusraskin.com Instagram: @edenraskinjenkins Instagram: @marcusraskinfilm Linkedin Support the show --- Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain! We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!

    37 min
  2. Diving into the Patience & Art of Underwater Cinematography

    JAN 18

    Diving into the Patience & Art of Underwater Cinematography

    Award-winning underwater cinematographer Roger Horrocks joins host Candice Bloch to discuss what it takes to capture the amazing underwater scenes we see in epic nature documentaries. Roger has worked on some of the most ambitious and acclaimed documentaries ever created, including My Octopus Teacher, Our Planet, Blue Planet 2, and Our Oceans. These projects have taken him all over the world, and earned numerous awards, including an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature, The Critics Choice Award for Best Cinematography, and a BAFTA for Best Cinematography. Roger shares about his journey into the world of underwater filmmaking and the unique challenges and techniques involved in capturing the beauty of life below the surface. He emphasizes the importance of safety, the specialized equipment used, and the patience required during long shoots. Roger also reflects on the lessons learned from the underwater world and the significance of crew dynamics in filmmaking. You’ll come away with an even greater respect and appreciation of the skill and commitment it takes to bring audiences these incredible glimpses into our oceans and their inhabitants. You can learn more about Roger Horrocks, his work, and his Ocean Footage Mastery mentorship program here: www.rogerhorrocks.com www.oceanfootagemastery.com www.linkedin.com/in/rogerhorrocks www.instagram.com/rogerhorrocks Support the show --- Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain! We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!

    43 min
  3. Exploring Identity Through Film with Sierra Urich

    JAN 4

    Exploring Identity Through Film with Sierra Urich

    In this episode, host Tara Jabbari interviews Sierra Urich, an interdisciplinary visual artist and filmmaker whose documentary, 'Joonam' explores themes of identity, displacement, and the immigrant experience. Sierra shares insights from her festival circuit journey, the significance of her family's story, and the challenges of filmmaking in an authoritarian context. The conversation highlights the universal nature of longing for home and the importance of cultural narratives in connecting diverse audiences. Sierra emphasizes the power of persistence in the independent film distribution process and the value of networking at film festivals. Learn more at: www.joonamfilm.com Support the show --- Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain! We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!

    31 min
  4. Host Special: A Lively Chat About Animated Films & TV

    12/21/2025

    Host Special: A Lively Chat About Animated Films & TV

    For the first time, our three hosts: Candice Bloch, Tara Jabbari, and Sandra Abrams share the same recording studio for an in-person chat about all things animation! The trio discuss their early memories of the animated category, some of their favorite films and animated TV shows over the years, different voice actors, and some history of this unique and enduring form of entertainment. Learn more about the hosts from this insightful debate as they share more about themselves, the wide range in animation styles, genres, and audiences, and some hot takes on the impact of different storylines. From early cartoons and shorts to modern CGI features for kids and adults alike, you’ll no doubt join in the feelings of nostalgia and enjoyment that animation has brought, and continues to bring to screens in your life. Happy Holidays from MediaMaker Spotlight! Support the show --- Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain! We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!

    34 min
  5. Fashions of Clueless & More with Costume Designer Mona May

    12/07/2025

    Fashions of Clueless & More with Costume Designer Mona May

    Iconic and prolific costume designer Mona May chats with host Candice Bloch to share about her journey becoming a prominent figure in the film industry. Considered the Queen of 90s Movie Fashion, Mona has created iconic looks for over 70 films and television shows. She is best known for her work on Clueless, as well as Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion, The Wedding Singer, Never Been Kissed, Enchanted, The House Bunny, and countless other films and shows. She discusses the influence of her diverse multicultural background on her colorful design aesthetic, the collaborative process of costume design, and the challenges of working within budget constraints. Mona reflects on her work on fun and feel-good films like Clueless and the importance of positive representation in media. You’ll also learn about her upcoming projects, including a book celebrating the lasting legacy and costumes of Clueless, in honor of the film’s 30th anniversary. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the significance of personal style and self-expression in fashion. The Fashion of Clueless, released in October 2025, is available wherever books are sold and would make a great holiday gift! To learn more about Mona May and her costume design work, visit https://www.monamay.com/  Follow her on Instagram @itsmonamay Support the show --- Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain! We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!

    43 min
  6. From Hollywood PR Executive to Bestselling Author

    11/23/2025

    From Hollywood PR Executive to Bestselling Author

    Host Sandra Abrams chats with former Hollywood PR executive, Libby Gill, about her book, MALIBU SUMMER, a rom-com story inspired by her life marketing high powered TV shows. Using her years of experience promoting shows produced by Universal, Sony, and Turner, including Dr. Phil, Libby knows how to create compelling characters with Hollywood as the backdrop. As Libby tells it, she had no intention of writing a fiction book. After leaving Los Angeles, she jumped into executive career coaching and wrote many non-fiction books on corporate leadership making this unexpected career switch. Libby also shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes from being in boardrooms with Hollywood suits, advice on making career changes, and how having a writing group makes a big difference for getting your project done! Malibu Summer is a fun read that would make a great holiday gift.  Learn more about Libby Gill at: https://libbygill.com/ and https://www.libbygillbooks.com/ Support the show --- Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain! We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!

    31 min
  7. The Beautiful Synergy of Concord Originals Music Docs

    11/09/2025

    The Beautiful Synergy of Concord Originals Music Docs

    Host Candice Bloch interviews Sophia Dilley, the Executive Vice President of Concord Originals, about the art of creating music documentaries. They discuss the origins of Concord Originals, the film and TV division of legendary music company Concord, and get into various projects already out (“Stax: Soulsville USA,” “Let the Canary Sing - Cyndi Lauper,” etc.) and some upcoming projects still in work. The two chat about the emotional power of music, the importance of authentic storytelling, keeping a north star of a story’s “why,” and the collaborative nature of documentary filmmaking. Sophia shares insights on the joys and challenges of working with archival footage, engaging with artists and rights holders, and adapting to the streaming landscape and modern audiences. They also touch on upcoming projects, including a biopic about Robert Johnson, branching more into theater productions, and the future of storytelling in the music industry. Learn more about Concord Originals and their projects here: https://concord.com/originals/ Support the show --- Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain! We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!

    34 min
  8. Slashing Rom-Com and Horror Tropes with Heart Eyes Writer

    10/26/2025

    Slashing Rom-Com and Horror Tropes with Heart Eyes Writer

    Host Tara Jabbari talks with Michael Kennedy, one of the screenwriters and executive producers of the rom-com slasher horror film, Heart Eyes. Released a week before Valentine’s Day in February 2025, Heart Eyes - directed by Josh Ruben and starring Olivia Holt and Mason Gooding - was met with positive reviews and grossed nearly $30 million in its first month. In their conversation, Tara and Michael discuss his experience writing solo versus with a writing partner. They talk about how each department on Heart Eyes incorporated various tropes, homages, and much more. In time for the Halloween season, Heart Eyes is now available to stream on various platforms, including Netflix.  Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cRzZcMlJh8 Support the show --- Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain! We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!

    28 min
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Trailer

5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

The biweekly podcast "MediaMaker Spotlight" features conversations with industry professionals speaking on a wide range of topics of interest to screen-based media makers. The series is a great resource for creators and collaborators who want to learn more about filmmaking, production, and all that goes into bringing projects to life. Our show is a great place to learn, find inspiration, discover communities of support, and celebrate our shared passion for film, television, video and visual storytelling in all formats and mediums. "MediaMaker Spotlight" is produced by the Women in Film & Video Podcast Committee. Learn more at MediaMakerSpotlight.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Women in Film and Video (DC)
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    153
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Women in Film and Video
  • Show Website
    MediaMaker Spotlight