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Welcome to Decorating the Set: From Hollywood to Your Home with Beth Kushnick!  Anyone who watches TV or movies knows that the film industry has been rocked in recent years. By strikes, by decreasing budgets, and by jobs going overseas. To say nothing of a global pandemic. And while we have heard the stories of how celebrities are coping, not nearly enough attention has been paid to the "collateral damage" of these increasingly frequent work stoppages, the below the line workers and third-party vendors that rely on a robust film industry to survive.



As we approach the 1-year anniversary of the start of The Writers Guild of America strike, this week's episode of Decorating the Set takes a look at the state of the industry and how people are getting through “The Great Contraction”.  Joining Beth and Producer Mike is RJ Rappaport, owner of RJR Props in Atlanta, Georgia. As a major vendor of props and soundstage space rental, RJ was the perfect guest to speak to about trying to survive during this crucial time in the television and film industry.



The Interview with RJ begins at Time Code: 4:05

GUEST BIO: RJ RAPPAPORT







RJR Props is a provider of props, equipment, set dressing and fake cash used in feature films, television series, commercials, advertising campaigns and music videos. RJR Props has supplied feature films such as The Bear, The Hunger Games, Ant-Man, Spider-Man and The Fast and the Furious, as well as the piles of cash seen in the TV series “Ozark.”



RJR Props provides Tens of Thousands of Props to Feature Films, Television, Commercials, Advertising campaigns, Music Videos, Theater, Conventions, Exhibits, Shows and Private Events.  We have a huge assortment of props, and many of them are working, practical and rigged to work for Television and Film.



RJR Props is located in Atlanta, GA. The owner and President has experience in Television & Flim, Electronics, Medicine, Aircraft Avionics, Engineering, Military and Computer Systems. Our team members have experience in prop making, construction, electronics, aircraft, electronic design, playback, playback graphics and more. We have rented and built thousands of props for production over the years. Thanks for your support!



Learn more at RJR Props and Set Dressing Services – www.rjrprops.com



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For over 35 years, Beth Kushnick has created character-driven settings for countless award-winning television series and feature films. As a Set Decorator, she's composed visuals that both capture and enhance any story. Now, she wants to help you capture and enhance YOUR story.



Join Beth and her co-host, Caroline Daley, each week as they go behind the scenes of Hollywood’s magic, and give you approachable, yet sophisticated tips to realize the space that best expresses who you are.



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Follow Beth Kushnick on Social Media: 

Instagram: @bethkushnick

Twitter: @bethkushnick

Website: DecoratingTheSet.com

Beth is the Decorator By Your Side and now, you can shop her Amazon Store! CLICK HERE!



Follow Caroline Daley on Social Media:

Twitter: @Tweet2Caroline

Website: PodClubhouse.com

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Credits:

"Giraffes" by Harrison Amer, licensed by Pod Clubhouse.



This is an original production of Pod Clubhouse Productions, LLC. Produced,

Beacon 23 Season 2 Episode 3 "Iris" - Ellen Wong as Iris. Image by MGM+. Copyright 2024.



Get ready for another enlightening episode of 3 Hosts in a Beacon, where this week we dive into "Beacon 23" Season 2, Episode 3, titled "Iris." Join Paul, Inez, and Gabby as they unpack the introduction of the diligent and witty new beacon keeper, Iris, played by Ellen Wong. Iris brings a breath of fresh air to the series, along with a sense of dedication and humor that rejuvenates the storyline.



The episode splits its focus between Iris's meticulous life on Beacon 67 and her efforts to salvage Beacon 23, which Halan has inadvertently turned into a chaotic mess in his attempt to revive Harmony. Iris's arrival marks a pivotal turn in the season, as she not only begins restoring order but also breathes new life into the interactions on-screen.



Our hosts are unanimous in their enthusiasm for Iris's character, appreciating her smart and humorous approach to the dire situations at hand. Tune in as Paul, Inez, and Gabby explore how Iris’s addition shifts the dynamics of the show, offering both in-depth analysis and predictions for the future of "Beacon 23." Don't miss out on their engaging discussions and unique takes on the newest beacon keeper in space!






























Beacon 23 Season 2:

1 | 2



Beacon 23 Season 1:

1+2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7



Hosts:

Paul: X | Insta

Inez: Insta

Gabby: Insta

Shogun Season 1 Episode 9 "Crimson Sky". Image by F/X. Copyright 2024.



In this week’s exploration of F/X's "Shogun," we delve into "Crimson Sky," the ninth episode of the season that unexpectedly shifts from the anticipated military theme to a more personal sacrifice. The title, previously hinted at as a strategic operation, takes on new depth as we witness Mariko's profound sacrifice for Lord Toranaga. This poignant moment opens up a rich field of discussion about loyalty, duty, and the hidden meanings within the show.



Paul, with his keen insights into the source material, highlights the deviations and parallels between the episode and James Clavell’s original work, adding a layer of depth to our understanding. Meanwhile, Gabby and Inez energize the conversation with their analysis of the episode's symbolism, particularly focusing on the poetic expressions delivered by Mariko, which may hint at broader themes of destiny and honor.



The trio's dynamic discussion not only dissects the narrative twists of the episode but also speculates on the title's implications, exploring whether "Crimson Sky" refers to the bloodshed of sacrifice or a metaphorical dawn of new beginnings. Join us for this compelling analysis, where we unravel the layers of storytelling woven into this dramatic episode.



#Shogun #CrimsonSky #ShogunFX

Others in this Series:

Eps 1&2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8

Hosts:

Paul: X | Insta

Inez: Insta

Gabby: Insta

Beacon 23 Season 2 Episode 2 "Purgatory". Harmony (Natasha Mumba) during her debriefing. Image by MGM+. Copyright 2024.



This week on "3 Hosts in a Beacon," we're dissecting the latest Beacon 23 episode titled "Purgatory." Tune in as Paul, Inez, and Gabby explore the intriguing parallels between Harmony's AI limbo and a corporate HR department—a clever satire that's not lost on us! As Harmony navigates a tribunal of AIs, her actions ripple back to the beacon, where Halan grapples with isolation and mounting despair.



Inez dives deep into the episode's satirical take on corporate culture, drawing comparisons that resonate with anyone who's ever felt scrutinized by the powers-that-be. Gabby revels in the surreal settings of Harmony's digital purgatory, while Paul connects the dots to some classic Star Trek TNG episodes, appreciating the blend of humor and philosophical depth.



Don't miss our thoughts on how Harmony's mysterious influence from AI limbo (or purgatory - get it?)  affects Halan, who, after tearing up the beacon, discovers he's not as alone as he thought. Join us for laughs, insights, and a deep dive into the dark yet surprisingly whimsical world of Beacon 23.


























Beacon 23 Season 2:

1



Beacon 23 Season 1:

1+2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7



Hosts:

Paul: X | Insta

Inez: Insta

Gabby: Insta

Shogun Season 1 Episode 8 "The Abyss of Life". Image by F/X. Copyright 2024.



In this week’s episode, we dissect "The Abyss of Life," the eighth installment of the season from F/X's "Shogun." This episode takes us deep into the emotional and political turmoil following the death of Toranaga’s son, Nagakado, in Edo. As Toranaga faces the consequences of his surrender to the council of regents—an act that could lead to the demise of his entire clan—the episode also showcases his strategic ruthlessness, highlighted by the harrowing sacrifice of his trusted general, Hiromatsu.



Meanwhile, Blackthorne makes a pivotal decision, aligning himself with Yabu, setting the stage for future alliances and conflicts. Paul, Inez, and Gabby delve into the complex themes of loyalty and betrayal woven through the episode, examining how each character's decisions reflect broader themes of power and survival.



The hosts bring their unique perspectives to the table, unpacking the dense narrative and exploring the implications of each twist. They discuss the emotional weight of the funeral, the shock of Hiromatsu’s sacrifice, and the strategic shifts that redefine the power dynamics within the series.



Join us for an engaging analysis of "The Abyss of Life," where we explore the depths of loyalty and betrayal in a world where every choice carries the weight of life and death.



#Shogun #TheAbyssOfLife #AbyssOfLife #ShogunFX

Others in this Series:

Eps 1&2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Hosts:

Paul: X | Insta

Inez: Insta

Gabby: Insta

Welcome to Decorating the Set: From Hollywood to Your Home with Beth Kushnick!  This is a very special episode of Decorating the Set because Beth (and Producer Mike) sit down with Beth's mentor and dear friend, the Emmy-nominated Production Designer, Stephen Hendrickson. Having worked in the industry for over 40 years, Stephen did it all and truly, knows everything there is to know about production design. This episode is one you'll listen to multiple times, just to soak in all the knowledge Stephen has to offer.



The Interview with Stephen begins at Time Code: 11:47

GUEST BIO: STEPHEN HENDRICKSON







Stephen Hendrickson is a production designer and art director, active in film since the early 1980s. He has worked on such productions as Wall Street, Arthur, Muppets Take Manhattan, Cashmere Mafia, Castle, The Good Wife, The Good Fight, and EVIL.



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For over 35 years, Beth Kushnick has created character-driven settings for countless award-winning television series and feature films. As a Set Decorator, she's composed visuals that both capture and enhance any story. Now, she wants to help you capture and enhance YOUR story.



Join Beth and her co-host, Caroline Daley, each week as they go behind the scenes of Hollywood’s magic, and give you approachable, yet sophisticated tips to realize the space that best expresses who you are.



###

Follow Beth Kushnick on Social Media: 

Instagram: @bethkushnick

Twitter: @bethkushnick

Website: DecoratingTheSet.com

Beth is the Decorator By Your Side and now, you can shop her Amazon Store! CLICK HERE!



Follow Caroline Daley on Social Media:

Twitter: @Tweet2Caroline

Website: PodClubhouse.com

###



Credits:

"Giraffes" by Harrison Amer, licensed by Pod Clubhouse.



This is an original production of Pod Clubhouse Productions, LLC. Produced, engineered and edited at Pod Clubhouse Studios. For more information, visit our Website.