Bleav No Script No Problem

Back by Unpopular Demand

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 3 May 2026 05:03:00 +0000

Emmy-nominated director and editor GREG TILLMAN tells me about his gripping and essential Netflix documentary - "Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror" - and I elucidate the reasons I took a break from the podcast, including producing an unforgettable dating show in India.

Greg also shares some keys to his successful career as an editor, which led to his opportunities to direct. He also describes stories working on projects like "Waco: American Aftermath" and "Brockmire". Listen anywhere you get podcasts or watch on YouTube. Follow me on Instagram or Threads @stevemberkowitz or email me here: NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com. Thanks!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Netflix documentary "Daughters" from director Natalie Rae is a triumph of spirit and style. Plus, "the coconut milk is off" on White Lotus, and AOC fights the oligarchy

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sat, 19 Apr 2025 21:49:20 +0000

This week, I have an emotional chat with director NATALIE RAE about her beautiful, award-winning NETFLIX documentary, "DAUGHTERS," which won two awards at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, was shortlisted for the 2025 Oscars, and is now up for a Peabody. Listen as Natalie tells me about the 8 long years it took her and co-director ANGELA PATTON to make "Daughters" and what it felt like to finally get into Sundance and then sell the project to Netflix after hearing "no" so many times. Find out how Natalie's music video background inspired and influenced her to mix camera formats and develop a unique look to the film.

"Daughters" chronicles how a group of young girls and their incarcerated fathers prepare for and then attend a "daddy-daughter-dance." Because these fathers almost never see their daughters, this singular event is incredibly special for all involved. Check out the Daughters Trailer and watch the film now only on Netflix.

Plus, I give you my take on the "White Lotus" season finale. "The Coconut Milk was off." And I share some footage from my trip to the LA "Fighting Oligarchy" rally. Listen to the full episode anywhere you get podcasts or watch it on my YouTube channel.

My Website

My YouTube Channel

Brent Freeburg's GoFundMe for his recovery after a stroke

GoFundMe for Jessica Honeycutt to help her fight against cancer

GoFundMe for documentary filmmaker Tracy Droz Tragos

GoFundMe for producer Laura Korkoian

GoFundMe for editor and producer Buzz Chatman

GoFundMe producers Dustin and Erin Rubin

GoFundMe for producer/director CJ Russo

for Black Families Impacted by LA Wildfires

Fundraisers for Hollywood Crew Members Affected by LA Fires

Wildfire Relief Fund 2025

Los Angeles Fire Department

Other organizations to donate to

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oscar-nominated documentary "The Perfect Neighbor" puts Florida's "Stand Your Ground" law on trial in director Geeta Gandbhir's powerful new film

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Wed, 2 Apr 2025 16:48:00 +0000

This week I talk to Emmy and Peabody award-winning filmmaker GEETA GANDBHIR about two of her latest documentary projects: "Eyes on the Prize III," which is streaming now on MAX, and "The Perfect Neighbor," which just won best directing for a U.S. documentary at the Sundance Film Festival. Listen as Geeta describes her early inspirations, working with the great Spike Lee and the esteemed Sam Pollard and how those experiences shaped her into the filmmaker she is today.

Geeta explains the importance of MAX's six-part civil rights-focused docu-series, "Eyes on the Prize III," at this moment in our nation's perilous history and why her independent doc, "The Perfect Neighbor," about Florida's controversial "stand your ground" law is exactly the type of story streamers need to make more of. Geeta also provides some terrific advice for young filmmakers that is definitely worth listening to. You can find the episode anywhere you get your podcasts, including on YouTube. Links to my website and YouTube channel are below. Thanks!

My Website

My YouTube Channel

Adolescence Behind the Scenes

Brent Freeburg's GoFundMe for his recovery after a stroke

GoFundMe for Jessica Honeycutt to help her fight against cancer

GoFundMe for documentary filmmaker Tracy Droz Tragos

GoFundMe for producer Laura Korkoian

GoFundMe for editor and producer Buzz Chatman

GoFundMe producers Dustin and Erin Rubin

GoFundMe for producer/director CJ Russo

for Black Families Impacted by LA Wildfires

Fundraisers for Hollywood Crew Members Affected by LA Fires

Wildfire Relief Fund 2025

Los Angeles Fire Department

Other organizations to donate to

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Filmmaker Alexandra Lacey revisits the 2011 Joplin tornado in Netflix's "The Twister: Caught in the Storm"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 02:00:55 +0000

This week, I chop it up with filmmaker ALEXANDRA LACEY, the writer and director of "The Twister: Caught in the Storm," a coming-of-age NETFLIX documentary about the devastating 2011 tornado in Joplin, Missouri, told from the perspective of a group of young people, who encounter the extreme power of a rare EF-5, mile-wide monster tornado on high school graduation day. This catastrophic event ravaged Joplin, and yet its community overcame, rebuilt, and became an enduring symbol of hope. The film features adrenaline-inducing real-life footage, filmed by people in Joplin, taking us into the eye of the storm. Here is the The Twister: Caught in the Storm trailer

Listen as Alex explains the painstaking effort that went into creating the sound and look of this epic documentary, so the audience can truly appreciate what the people of Joplin experienced on that fateful day, which changed all of their lives forever. Alexandra also details why she chose a group of then teenagers as her main participants in the documentary and how resilient the citizens of Joplin are. Stream the doc now on Netflix and watch my interview with Alex on my My YouTube Channel or just listen to it anywhere you get podcasts

Thanks!

Adolescence Behind the Scenes

Brent Freeburg's GoFundMe for his recovery after a stroke

GoFundMe for Jessica Honeycutt to help her fight against cancer

GoFundMe for documentary filmmaker Tracy Droz Tragos

GoFundMe for producer Laura Korkoian

GoFundMe for editor and producer Buzz Chatman

GoFundMe producers Dustin and Erin Rubin

GoFundMe for producer/director CJ Russo

for Black Families Impacted by LA Wildfires

Fundraisers for Hollywood Crew Members Affected by LA Fires

Wildfire Relief Fund 2025

Los Angeles Fire Department

Other organizations to donate to

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

National Geographic Explorer and wildlife filmmaker Malaika Vaz is blazing her own trail

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 11:45:13 +0000

This week, I chat with the adventurous National Geographic Explorer, TV host, and wildlife filmmaker MALAIKA VAZ, the co-founder and CEO of Untamed Planet, a production company dedicated to making incredible environmental documentary films and nonfiction series that will impact and educate the public. Malaika was named to Forbes' 30 Under 30 list and won Best On-Screen Talent at the 2024 Wildscreen Awards. Malaika's amazing work has taken her across some of the most hostile terrain on all seven continents - including hiking across glaciers in the Antarctic, filming undercover with criminal syndicates and diving with tiger sharks. Listen as we discuss how she got started making films at such a young age, why she has chosen to focus on wildlife and the environment with her films, what it means to be a National Geographic Explorer, and how she goes about telling environmental stories differently than celebrities like Al Gore and Leo DiCaprio. You can also watch the show on YouTube.

Below are some links to GoFundMe pages for folks who have lost their homes as well as some other ways to donate to people or groups in need due to the wildfires. I've also included a link to a GoFundMe for a camera operator I worked with named Brent Freeburg. A few weeks ago he suffered two strokes. If you are able, please give these folks a few bucks. Thanks!

Brent Freeburg's GoFundMe for his recovery after a stroke

State of Create Report

GoFundMe for documentary filmmaker Tracy Droz Tragos

GoFundMe for producer Laura Korkoian

GoFundMe for editor and producer Buzz Chatman

GoFundMe producers Dustin and Erin Rubin

GoFundMe for producer/director CJ Russo

for Black Families Impacted by LA Wildfires

Fundraisers for Hollywood Crew Members Affected by LA Fires

Wildfire Relief Fund 2025

Los Angeles Fire Department

Other organizations to donate to

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

America Loves Serial Killer Docs with Showrunner and Director Amy Goodman Kass

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 06:11:14 +0000

America loves true crime documentaries... especially if they are about serial killers. This week, I chat with true crime aficionado AMY GOODMAN KASS about her latest project, ""RICHARD RAMIREZ: THE NIGHT STALKER TAPES," which she executive produced and directed for PEACOCK, and we discuss why our country is obsessed with the stories of the worst of the worst. We dig into how Amy was able to take never-before-heard audio tapes from the notorious Night Stalker and bring them to life. Listen as Amy also shares her experiences working on other critically acclaimed projects like Showtime's "Love Fraud" and "Hollywood Black" (MGM+) and explains why it's important to explore other genres outside of true crime.

And of course, we take a trip down memory lane and reminisce about our times attending the one and only Washington University in St. Louis.

Lastly... Below are some links to GoFundMe pages for folks who have lost their homes as well as some other ways to donate to people or groups in need due to the wildfires. If you are able, please give these folks a few bucks. Thanks!

GoFundMe for documentary filmmaker Tracy Droz Tragos

GoFundMe for producer Laura Korkoian

GoFundMe for editor and producer Buzz Chatman

GoFundMe producers Dustin and Erin Rubin

GoFundMe for producer/director CJ Russo

for Black Families Impacted by LA Wildfires

Fundraisers for Hollywood Crew Members Affected by LA Fires

Wildfire Relief Fund 2025

Los Angeles Fire Department

Other organizations to donate to

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oscar-nominated "Sugarcane" documentary with co-directors Emily Kassie and Julian Brave NoiseCat

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 20:53:00 +0000

In this episode, I talk to filmmakers EMILY KASSIE and JULIAN BRAVE NOISECAT, who are nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Documentary Feature category for their incredible documentary film, "SUGARCANE," which hails from National Geographic Documentaries.

"Sugarcane" chronicles a groundbreaking investigation into decades of systemic abuse at Indigenous boarding schools in Canada. Listen as I talk to Emily and Julian about how they were able to embed with the participants of the film for 160 days of shooting. Learn how the co-directors raised money to make their first documentary feature and how Julian balanced participating on camera with his father while also co-directing with Emily. We also dig into their bold stylistic and story choices, as this film looks and sounds unlike any of the other Oscar nominees. Watch "Sugarcane" on Hulu, Nat Geo, or Disney+ and catch our interview anywhere you get podcasts, including YouTube.

Additionally... Below are some links to GoFundMe pages for folks who have lost their homes as well as some other ways to donate to people or groups in need due to the wildfires. If you are able, please give these folks a few bucks. Thanks!

GoFundMe for documentary filmmaker Tracy Droz Tragos

GoFundMe for producer Laura Korkoian

GoFundMe for editor and producer Buzz Chatman

GoFundMe producers Dustin and Erin Rubin

GoFundMe for producer/director CJ Russo

for Black Families Impacted by LA Wildfires

Fundraisers for Hollywood Crew Members Affected by LA Fires

Wildfire Relief Fund 2025

Los Angeles Fire Department

Other organizations to donate to

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Glitter and Greed filmmakers plus Hollywood responds to the devastating wildfires

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 04:56:32 +0000

This week, I chat with award-winning filmmakers MARY ROBERTSON and ARIANNA LAPENNE, the creative forces behind AMAZON PRIME VIDEO'S four-part documentary series, "Glitter and Greed: The Lisa Frank Story." Listen as Mary and Arianna explain how and why they investigated the rise and fall of this famously colorful but internally and privately troublesome company. As director, Arianna takes us inside her creative process of how she shaped the unique interview looks, which help drive the series and illustrate who these former employees really are. Plus, Mary discusses why her company - MAXINE PRODUCTIONS - likes these types of nostalgic documentaries that shine a light on certain issues that may not have been so obvious back then.

Lastly, I discuss the effects of the horrendous wildfires that are destroying the Pacific Palisades and Altadena in the Los Angeles area. While I am safe, several of my former colleagues and friends have lost their homes. It is the most destructive and devastating fire in my 20 years of living in LA. Below are some links to GoFundMe pages for folks who have lost their homes as well as some other ways to donate to people or groups in need due to the wildfires. If you are able, please give these folks a few bucks. Thanks!

GoFundMe for documentary filmmaker Tracy Droz Tragos

GoFundMe for producer Laura Korkoian

GoFundMe for editor and producer Buzz Chatman

GoFundMe producers Dustin and Erin Rubin

Fundraisers for Hollywood Crew Members Affected by LA Fires

Wildfire Relief Fund 2025

Los Angeles Fire Department

Other organizations to donate to

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gladiator 2 editor Sam Restivo takes us inside the edit bay of the hit sequel

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sat, 4 Jan 2025 21:37:58 +0000

Gladiator II co-editor SAM RESTIVO joins "No Script No Problem" to talk about cutting the massive action sequel to the Academy-Award winning film and how he came to collaborate with legendary director RIDLEY SCOTT for the 5th time. Listen as Sam shares intimate details of how he and co-editor Claire Simpson cut critical scenes in the film, working with over 10 cameras on some scenes and heavy VFX at times to bring this epic movie to life. Sam brings us amazing stories from inside the edit bay and on the set of this hit film, which has grossed over $435-million at the global box office so far.

In the interview, Sam also explains how he got his start in the industry and worked his way diligently up the Hollywood ladder to be able to edit a blockbusters like Gladiator II and Napoleon. He provides some valuable advice for anyone working their way up in the entertainment industry. Sam and I also discuss the ongoing debate about AI's presence in Hollywood. And lastly, I give you my take on Netflix's foray into broadcasting NFL games on Christmas Day. Thanks for listening! You can also watch on YouTube.

Gladiator II Trailer

The Berk Report

My Instagram

Connect with me on Bluesky

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Directors Ricki Stern and Jesse Sweet explore the murky parole system in their HBO documentary "Nature of the Crime"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 07:55:09 +0000

This week on "No Script No Problem," I chat with award-winning filmmakers RICKI STERN and JESSE SWEET, the directors of the fascinating new HBO documentary, "NATURE OF THE CRIME," which chronicles the emotional journeys of three inmates, as they try to make parole while serving long prison sentences for serious offenses. Listen as they describe a tough 4-year production process and how they were able to get access to the prisons. Plus, Ricki and Jesse describe the struggle to balance the sensitivity with victims of the crimes along with the effort to tell a unique story about the quest for a second chance. Lastly, we discuss the state of documentaries today and what AI's role might be in the future of nonfiction. Listen to the episode anywhere you get podcasts and stream "Nature of the Crime" on MAX. You can check out the trailer below. Thanks!

Nature of the Crime trailer

My website

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

AI in entertainment, Comcast spins off its cable networks, and Tyson v. Paul

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 24 Nov 2024 02:39:45 +0000

This week, I'm joined by Aisha Corpas Wynn, one half of "The AI Chicks", and the hosts of the "AI Powered by People" podcast - Chad Reynolds and Sarah Nagle - for a riveting discussion about how AI is affecting the entertainment industry now and what effects it might have in the future. Chad is a CEO of Vurvey AI, and Aisha provides some outstanding insight on how the technology is working inside Hollywood today. If you are interested or worried about how AI will affect your job or your endeavors, listen to this episode.

I also dig into the earth shattering move by Comcast to spin off a slew of its cable companies into a new entity. What does this mean for news? What about Bravo? And I give you my two cents on the disastrous Jake Paul v. Mike Tyson event. Listen anywhere you get podcasts and watch on YouTube. Email any questions you have here: NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com

My Website

AI Powered by People Podcast

Vurvey AI company website

The AI Chicks Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Filmmaker Natalie Hewit discusses her epic and innovative Nat Geo documentary "Endurance"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 4 Nov 2024 19:02:46 +0000

In this episode of No Script No Problem, BAFTA-nominated filmmaker NATALIE HEWIT joins the show to talk about her new epic Nat Geo documentary, "ENDURANCE," which deftly chronicles the inspiring stories of two landmark expeditions in Antarctica - the original by Ernest Shackleton in 1914 and the modern-day search for his sunken ship. Natalie shares some riveting details of what it was like to be on the boat with the crew searching for the shipwreck Endurance while filming in below freezing temperatures. She also describes some of the groundbreaking AI technology they used to bring Shackleton's voice into the film.

If you love adventure and defying the odds, this is a documentary you will love. You can watch it on Nat Geo, Disney + and Hulu. Listen to my interview with Natalie anywhere you get podcasts and watch it on YouTube.

Some other topics I discuss include:

Comcast's possible spinoff of its cable assets
Governor Newsom's proposal to increase the film tax credit in California
Netflix's 3rd quarter earnings

Links below for more information:

Newsom proposes an increase in tax credit

Comcast could spin off cable assets

Endurance Trailer

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Documentary filmmaker Amy Nicholson gets personal with her latest film, "Happy Campers"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 15 Sep 2024 22:45:32 +0000

This week on No Script No Problem, I talk to documentary filmmaker Amy Nicholson about her new feature doc “Happy Campers,” which chronicles the final days at a waterfront Virginia trailer park that welcomes all with a smile… until developers come in, buy up the property, and kick the folks who've loved the place for generations out.

Listen as Amy explains how she lived in the trailer park during production and how she felt when capitalism collided with this loving community. Amy also explains how she got the film made, which was not easy, and gives some advice for young filmmakers. You can watch "Happy Campers" via video on demand on platforms like Apple TV+ and Amazon. Here's the trailer.

Listen to NSNP anywhere you listen to podcasts and watch the show on YouTube. Thanks!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

"Quiet on Set" filmmakers discuss their shocking, Emmy-nominated docuseries about child actors at Nickelodeon

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 21:07:46 +0000

This week I chat with award-winning filmmakers Mary Robertson and Emma Schwartz to discuss their Emmy-nominated, critically acclaimed, and hugely popular MAX and Discovery ID docuseries - "Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV," which sheds light on the troubling experiences of child actors in the entertainment industry, particularly those who worked on popular Nickelodeon shows produced by powerful showrunner Dan Schneider. Emma and Mary explain how they brought the project together and the keys to getting this very sensitive information from folks who were hesitant to talk. We also discuss why these types of projects are so important.

The groundbreaking series set the internet ablaze with revelations of a toxic environment on set that included a voice coach getting arrested for sexually abusing one of the young stars. Dozens of former child stars have spoken out both during the series and since causing a reckoning in Hollywood and forcing the industry to make changes.

Afterwards, I discuss the recent slew of insane announcements in entertainment, including a famous chicken restaurant entering the streaming wars and journalists declaring cable TV dead.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Executive Producer Barry Levy discusses his new superhero Apple TV+ series "ME," White dudes zoom for Harris, and Reality TV struggles

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 5 Aug 2024 21:17:37 +0000

This week I'm joined by Barry L. Levy, the creator, showrunner and executive producer of the new Apple TV+ original coming-of-age superhero series, “ME”. The show revolves around 12-year-old Ben Vasani, who is struggling at a new school with his new blended family when his life gets even more complicated. Ben discovers that he can transform into anyone he meets. As a shapeshifter, Ben must figure out who he is and who he wants to be.

We get into how he sold an original series in the time where IP is everything and platforms are hesitant to buy new ideas. We also talk about his visions of an "Apple Cinematic Universe" and how he crafted the characters based on people he knows in real life. Plus, I get into the struggles in reality TV and the industry at large. Listen to the episode anywhere you get your podcasts and check out "ME" on Apple TV+. You can find the trailer below along with my website. Thanks!

ME Trailer

My Website

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Horror author Chris Panatier and hip-hop filmmaker Sacha Jenkins

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 01:58:38 +0000

A little horror and a little hip-hop in this two-interview episode of No Script No Problem. I'm joined by award-winning documentary filmmaker SACHA JENKINS to discuss his amazing film, "ALL UP IN THE BIZ," about the late rapper BIZ MARKIE, and I talk to author CHRIS PANATIER about his riveting new horror novel, "THE REDEMPTION OF MORGAN BRIGHT." Check out the All Up in the Biz Trailer and watch the documentary on Showtime or Paramount +. Or maybe it's Paramount + with Showtime. Something like that. Biz's hit "Just a Friend" is one of the top 100 greatest hip-hop songs of all time, and his humor was groundbreaking to the genre. I talk to Sacha about the legacy Biz leaves behind and his influence on hip-hop.

Chris talks about his evolution as an author and his attraction to the horror genre. His journey from civil litigator to full-time writer is inspiring and definitely worth hearing. The book is scary and gripping. If you like thrillers or horror, this is for you. You can buy The Redemption of Morgan Bright on Amazon here.

Send any questions you have here: NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com

Thanks!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Netflix's Dan Rather Documentary; Unscripted Struggles; the Chiefs' Kicker Controversy; and the WNBA Season Tips Off

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Wed, 22 May 2024 09:20:49 +0000

In this episode, I chat with Jeff Hasler, executive producer of the new NETFLIX documentary, "RATHER," which chronicles the career and life of the legendary newsman, DAN RATHER. We discuss the 4-year process to get the film made and how Dan changed journalism during his long tenure at CBS. Jeff and I also break down some of the struggles producers and production companies face right now in the unscripted TV industry, and he reveals how Original Productions' new FAST Channel is a way his company is pivoting during these challenging times.

I also talk to sports reporter EMILY BICKS of Heavy Sports about the controversial commencement speech by Harrison Butker, the kicker of the Kansas City Chiefs. Bicks covers the Chiefs and provides some critical insight on the issue. We also chat about Caitlin Clark's first week in the WNBA, which was a bit bumpy, and what kind of a marriage Netflix and the NFL will have on Christmas Day.

Thanks for listening. Send any questions you have here: NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com and you can find me on social media here

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sports writer Emily Bicks talks NFL draft; Plus, the battle for NBA broadcast rights and Paramount's predicament

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 3 May 2024 03:42:57 +0000

In this episode, I chat with sports reporter Emily Bicks of Heavy Sports about the NFL draft and the surprises and decisions that have fans, players and insiders talking. We break down the Atlanta Falcons' selection of Michael Penix Jr., the New York Giants' choice of Malik Nabers, and the trade between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills, which has given Patrick Mahomes a potentially dangerous weapon in Xavier Worthy.

Emily Bicks covers the Buffalo Bills, Seattle Seahawks, and Kansas City Chiefs for Heavy Sports and has interviewed some of the biggest stars in sports, including Shaquille O'Neal, Jerry Rice, and Stefon Diggs. With a passion for delivering breaking news and in-depth analysis, Emily provides readers with the latest updates on player performances, team dynamics, and off-field controversies. Her expertise and experience make her a valuable voice in the world of sports journalism. Check out her reporting on Heavy Sports in the link below.

Emily Bicks - Heavy Sports

I also examine the chaos at Paramount Global as they deal with the firing of Bob Bakish and the uncertainty of a merger or buyout. And finally, I share my thoughts on the battle for NBA broadcast rights, as Amazon emerges with streaming rights.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Filmmakers Rachael Dyer and Scott Ruderman Talk "Pay or Die," and Hollywood Faces a Harsh Reality

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 02:35:27 +0000

I chat with filmmakers Rachael Dyer and Scott Ruderman about their PARAMOUNT + documentary "Pay or Die," which explores the skyrocketing prices of insulin in the United States and the impact on individuals and families. The co-directors discuss the genesis of the project and Scott's deeply personal connection to the issue. They highlight the stranglehold of the pharmaceutical companies on insulin prices and prescription medications as a whole. We also discuss the challenges of making and selling impact and issue-based documentaries today. Lastly, Scott and Rachael offer some advice for aspiring doc filmmakers. You can watch the trailer in the link below and see the film on Paramount +.

Pay or Die Trailer

Pay or Die Film on Paramount +

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Director Eva Orner Tackles Controversial Fashion Brand "Brandy Melville" in new HBO Documentary

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 11:35:59 +0000

Academy Award winning filmmaker Eva Orner joins the show to discuss her riveting new HBO documentary, "Brandy Hellville and the Cult of Fast Fashion," which is streaming now on MAX. She discusses the challenges of exposing a global, popular and successful... but extremely toxic fashion brand like Brandy Melville and the role of social media in its success. Eva also addresses the lack of accountability from the CEO of Brandy Melville and the responsibility of parents in supporting their young daughters, whom make up a majority of the Brandy Melville employees.

Eva also delves into the fast fashion industry as a whole and the exploitation and environmental damage it causes. She further highlights the importance of consumer awareness and the need to buy less. Additionally, we discuss how she became interested in documentaries and the power they have to bring about change. Lastly, Eva teases her upcoming documentary on the Ohio State wrestling scandal, which is executive produced by George Clooney.

Find the trailer to "Brandy Hellville and the Cult of Fast Fashion" below. Watch the film on HBO or MAX and listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Brandy Hellville Trailer

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Filmmaker Deborah Riley Draper Talks "James Brown: Say It Loud" and AI Invades Hollywood

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Tue, 5 Mar 2024 21:29:15 +0000

Filmmaker Deborah Riley Draper discusses her experience directing the four-part documentary series on James Brown, titled "JAMES BROWN: SAY IT LOUD," which you can watch on A&E, the A&E app, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. She shares her excitement in being chosen for the project and emphasizes the importance of putting blackness at the center of the storytelling. Draper explains her detailed approach to the storytelling process, using primary source material and James Brown's own words and music to create an authentic and powerful narrative. Plus, Draper explains the challenges of addressing James Brown's flaws and legal troubles in the documentary, while still celebrating his career and legacy. Check out the film's trailer below. All that plus I talk about the emergence of AI in entertainment. Listen anywhere you get podcasts. Thanks!

Trailer for "James Brown: Say It Loud"

Where to watch the documentary

My Website

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Director Kyra Knox Talks "Bad Things Happen in Philadelphia"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Tue, 9 Jan 2024 07:44:29 +0000

In this episode, I talk to award-winning producer/director Kyra Knox about her dynamic feature documentary debut "BAD THINGS HAPPEN IN PHILADELPHIA," which is executive produced by former NBA superstar, Allen Iverson. In "Bad Things," Kyra explores the gun violence problems of her hometown, Philadelphia, and the nonprofit organizations and residents, who are trying to stop the tragedies that are poisoning the City of Brotherly Love.

Hear how Kyra made her first feature doc come to life with a lot of hard work and a little help from her friends. And find out how she was able to get NBA Hall-of-Famer Allen Iverson to come onboard as an executive producer and what doors that opened up for the project. You can watch "Bad Things Happen in Philadelphia" on Fox Soul and Amazon Prime Video. Check out the trailer below.

I also discuss some of the issues plaguing the reality TV industry and the rising prices of streaming services. Please make sure to subscribe, download, and rate. My website is below. Thanks for listening!

Bad Things Happen in Philadelphia Trailer

My Website

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Inside the Netflix Data Dump, Christmas Giving, and Maria Baltazzi Discusses Her New Book

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 02:39:27 +0000

My guest is Maria Baltazzi - an author, Emmy-winning TV producer, wellbeing teacher, world traveler, and luxury travel designer who specializes in transformative adventures. We discuss her new book, "Take a Shot at Happiness: How to Write, Direct & Produce the Life You Want," which is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, GoodReads, and pretty much anywhere you get books. Check out Maria's website below to buy the book for someone yourself or someone you care about.

One of the original producers on CBS's hit reality show, "Survivors," Maria is an incredibly talented storyteller. We discuss how her work in TV and her world travels inspired her to write this book, which provides 8 Happiness Essentials that can create a happier, more fulfilling life. We chat about how important travel is to finding happiness. And Maria knows. She has walked over 7500 miles to raise funds for charity, including marathons on all 7 continents, climbed the 15,000-foot trail to Machu Picchu, summited Mt. Kilimanjaro twice, and trekked to Everest Base Camp.

I also share my initial reactions to Netflix's surprise release of their "engagement numbers," which reveal what shows and movies are receiving the most hours of viewing. I'm still going through the 18,000 titles and it's really fascinating... if you're into this sort of thing. In the first half of 2023, about 21% of their shows were watched less than 150,000 hours. But on the flip side, “The Night Agent,” a series that debuted globally March 23, racked up 812 million hours viewed by the end of June and finished first. More to come in future episodes.

Lastly, as we near the end of the year, I recommend 3 organizations to donate to. Take a look at the websites below if you need the information.

Maria's Website

Buy Maria's Book on Amazon

Variety Goes Inside the Netflix Numbers

My Website

My Threads

The Cameron Boyce Foundation

Cure Epilepsy

The Epilepsy Foundation

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Filmmaker Sonia Kennebeck Talks "Reality Winner" and Shohei Ohtani is a Dodger

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sat, 16 Dec 2023 23:56:48 +0000

Award-winning filmmaker Sonia Kennebeck joins me on the No Script No Problem Podcast to discuss her new film, "Reality Winner," which you can and should watch on AppleTV+ and Amazon Prime. Filmed over 5 years, "Reality Winner" is a riveting, present-tense documentary about the young NSA whistleblower of the same name, who exposed Russian interference in U.S. elections... and went to jail for it. Sonia digs in like only she can and reveals how one document and one brave decision changed Reality's life and her family's lives... forever. Check out the trailer for the film below.

I also discuss the domino effect of Shohei Ohtani's record-breaking $700-million contract with the Dodgers and give my 2 cents on the NBA's first-ever in-season tournament. Listen to the No Script No Problem Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Bleav.com, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Send any questions you have to NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com.

Reality Winner Trailer

Sonia's website

My website

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

No Script, Lots of Problems! Plus, Tim Duffy Teaches Us to Meditate

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 04:57:43 +0000

This week, I talk to producer, creative executive, entrepreneur and meditation teacher Tim Duffy, who shares some amazing tools and tips to overcome the anxiety, stress, anger, frustration, worry, and disappointment that comes in the crazy world we live in today. I also dig into the latest efforts to unionize reality TV, which is very complicated, and how streaming costs are going to keep rising and rising. Plus, I address the struggles we are facing in unscripted TV amidst the rising costs of streaming and the slow decline in broadcast viewing.

For information on Tim's meditation practices or to reach him, check out his website: https://www.timduffymeditation.com

And check out the amazing food biz he and his brother created as well. https://yumcrunch.com

Find me on social media here:

And if you're looking for a transcript of the episode, here it is:

00:00:00:09 - 00:00:22:21
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Welcome to another episode of the No Script No Problem Podcast on Bleav, the number one podcast network for professionals. Do you believe? Now, if you enjoy this show, please remember to subscribe and rate it with five stars. It's available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon music, and anywhere else you listen to podcasts. You also find it on Bleav.com and @bleavpodcasts.

00:00:23:01 - 00:00:48:12
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Follow me on social media, Twitter and Post News. It's @SteveBerkowitz and on Instagram and Threads @stevemberkowitz and also on Mastodon, Spill, Facebook, Snapchat and LinkedIn. If you're interested in advertising on the show, please contact believe at Leave dot com. All right, let's get started. I've got a terrific guest coming up who is going to calm your nerves and give you some great advice to weather the storm during these stressful times.

00:00:48:12 - 00:01:22:02
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
But before I chat with him, it's time for a little reality check. For the first time ever, linear TV viewership made up less than half of all TV usage in a measurement month. That is according to Nielsen's. The Gauge report for July broadcast TV accounted for only 20% of viewing and cable TV 29.6%. It was a record lows and down 5.4% and 12.5% respectively, versus the same period last year.

00:01:22:05 - 00:02:00:17
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
YouTube and Netflix lead the way in terms of your streamers. Streaming viewing rose 2.9% from June to July 2023 and was up 25.3% over the past year, accounting for 38.7% of total TV usage. That's huge. Now, the thing that's kind of interesting is that one of the shows that has kind of really given Netflix this bump, you know, a 4.2% increase in TV share over the course of June is Suits, which was a cable shows on USA Network right from 2011 to 2019.

00:02:00:17 - 00:02:21:03
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
So it's pretty wild that this show, which picked up 4000000000 minutes of viewing in one week, was on USA and virtually no one was talking about it during its nine season. I mean, a nine season run is incredible, but it wasn't like it was, you know, winning Emmy after Emmy. It wasn't a succession, you know, it wasn't a Breaking Bad.

00:02:21:05 - 00:02:52:08
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
And now it's like you look at comments people are making online and it's like suits. You'd think it's, you know, the greatest show ever. So it shows to me that it's not that people don't like broadcast programing, it's not that people don't like cable programing. They just prefer watching things on Netflix. They prefer watching things on YouTube. Now, the big irony here is that the average cost of subscribing ad free to a major streamer has jumped almost 25% in the last year.

00:02:52:08 - 00:03:20:04
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
That's according to the Wall Street Journal. All right. So after years of cheap monthly fees, right, that we all loved when we first got Netflix or we first got Apple TV Plus right where we first got that wonderful bundle of Hulu and Espn+. Right. And Disney Plus, that's all gone. Everybody wants to make money. Now. All the streamers need to make money, but they are now testing our loyalty, testing customer loyalty.

00:03:20:04 - 00:03:50:14
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
And they are all raising their prices. An average assortment of the top U.S. streaming services will be worth $87 a month come this fall, while an average cable package will be $83. All right. So just like we just talked about how streaming has surpassed broadcast and cable in viewers right now, the whole point of streaming, we didn't want to pay as much as cable.

00:03:50:14 - 00:04:16:05
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Now it's all shifting back and we're suddenly paying more money for streaming than we are for cable. Disney is raising its prices for Disney Plus and Hulu, and that follows on the heels of Peacock NetFlow, X, Max, Paramount Plus and Apple TV Plus All have raised their prices recently. It's going to keep happening. They're going to keep doing this until Wall Street is happy.

00:04:16:05 - 00:04:48:08
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
The business model hasn't worked unless you're Netflix. This is also why you're seeing a huge increase in free ad supported television. Fast channels. Right to Be is a perfect example to be doing well. Moving on to the wild world of reality television, former Real Housewives of New York star Bethenny Frankel, she's causing quite a stir, talking to dozens of reality TV talent, trying to get them to unionize and get involved in potential litigation as well.

00:04:48:10 - 00:05:22:20
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
She is encouraging reality TV stars to boycott along with SAG, is asking for residuals on her shows. You know, she thinks reality TV stars should get residuals, just like actors and actresses. We have talked about reality TV. You unions for as long as I can remember. But what she's doing is going a step further. Bethenny is throwing accusations around at Bravo about a so-called cover up, you know, during an incident that happened on set.

00:05:22:20 - 00:05:46:05
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
And she's hired two very high powered lawyers. They're accusing NBCUniversal, the parent company of Bravo, of exploitation and abuse. Among other things, they've asked NBC's lawyers to preserve discovery as part of their investigation session. It's getting kind of ugly. I can't speak to anything that has to do with the litigation or any of these things that they're accusing NBC or Bravo or the producers of doing.

00:05:46:05 - 00:06:13:01
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
But I can say that unionization when it comes to reality TV is complicated. That is a very nuanced topic that I've talked to dozens of producers and friends about. And I think Bethenny has some valid points when she talks about working hours and base pay rates. Those are valid points. But there are so many layers that come into play when you're talking about reality TV.

00:06:13:06 - 00:06:37:24
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
You know, she makes a point about, you know, I think she said, you know, she only made seven grand for her first season on The Housewives. Well, Raquel, you know, as it turns out from Vanderpump Rules, made $361,000 this past season. You know, Vanderpump Rules huge hit, their biggest season ever, nominated for an Emmy. But that's a ton of money, I think, when you're talking about reality TV, it's such a diverse genre.

00:06:38:01 - 00:07:05:14
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
You can't pay a contestant on The Bachelor or Survivor the same as you do a housewife in a small ensemble cast or you can't pay the same for a designer on HGTV as much as you do a family member on a TLC show or you do you pay the same for a guy who's on a boat on Deadliest Catch as you do somebody who's competing for love on 90 day fiance.

00:07:05:16 - 00:07:26:22
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
So the genre so diverse that it's really hard to just throw numbers in there. You know, for a first season show. I think there's a lot of things that you need to take into consideration. But I do think rules and regulations are a good thing. And I think it's it's very valid to bring this up that we need to have that discussion.

00:07:26:22 - 00:08:15:07
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
I don't know if a union is the right thing, but I certainly feel like a little bit more firm. Ground rules are good thing. I would be remiss, though, if I didn't mention that producers have no union as well in unscripted television. So no insurance, no overtime and no residuals, and that often goes unmentioned. It would be amazing to get residuals when the networks run reality shows all day long on E, Bravo, MTV, Lifetime, etc. In fact, the writers on Ridiculousness are asking to join the WGA, I believe, as they should, because that show runs night and day on MTV and those folks are literally writing jokes as lead ins to the clips.

00:08:15:07 - 00:08:42:13
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
You know, other clip shows like America's Funniest Home Videos, 2.0, those writers are in the WGA. There's no reason why the folks on ridiculousness should be as well. But as you kind of can tell, it's a complicated issue. All right. Well, stick with reality TV, because why not? An article this past week and deadline had a lot of folks worried and a lot of people in reality TV are freaking out.

00:08:42:13 - 00:09:18:13
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
The headline to the article reads Doom and Gloom in Unscripted TV Producers battled challenging conditions As mid-sized firms face layoffs. It appropriately addresses the, quote, Slow down of green lights and cost cutting and quote, within the platforms and networks and how it has led to a slew of layoffs and a dearth of work in unscripted TV. The article references this drought hitting reputable companies like being a murray half yard hot snakes, high noon and propagate all very good companies.

00:09:18:16 - 00:09:45:08
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
One unscripted producer told DEADLINE, quote, It's the toughest time to be in unscripted that I can remember, unquote. Another said it was a, quote, brutal moment. I would agree. I would agree with both those producers. We all remain hopeful that things will rebound. I'm not going to hold my breath, but I will continue to tread water, keep my head above that water.

00:09:45:10 - 00:10:11:00
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Nobody should feel alone, though. That is for sure. If you're struggling out there, you're worried, Hang in there, man. And that's why I got Tim Duffy coming up in a minute. Tim Duffy is my guest. Tim Duffy is an extremely talented producer, creative executive. He's an entrepreneur here, he is a founder and he is a seasoned teacher of meditation and mindfulness.

00:10:11:02 - 00:10:46:15
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
And that is why I wanted him to come on the podcast, right? So along with being co-founder of Yum Crunch and Ugly Brother Studios with his brother Mike. Tim is a peak performance and productivity specialist who combines 15 years of teaching meditation with 20 years in the C-suite to help executives, employees and organizations thrive. Now, as you'll hear, his style modernizes the ancient teachings of mindfulness and adapts them for modern professionals.

00:10:46:16 - 00:11:11:08
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
So with all the chaos going on in both the entertainment industry and in the world at large, I think he's the perfect guest. So sit back, find a quiet place, relax. Tim's got some words of wisdom for you. Enjoy. Well, welcome back to the podcast, my friend, Mr. Tim Duffy. A lot has changed since the last time we talked.

00:11:11:11 - 00:11:35:20
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
We talked last time about mindfulness. But you are now big into this world of mindfulness and meditation. You're now, I would call you a guru in this space. And this amidst your your role on world shifts and being, you know, being a founder, being a co-CEO with your brother in that space, in this crazy world that we're in right now with media and entertainment.

00:11:35:20 - 00:12:02:01
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
And I've talked about that on the podcast before, how, you know, everybody's kind of stressed out. I thought it was perfect for you to talk about kind of the way you deal with the stresses of this world with mindfulness meditation. So talk to me a little bit about when when the craziness comes into your world, whether it's as a dad or as an executive, how do you use mindfulness, how to use meditation to handle all the insanity that comes into the world?

00:12:02:03 - 00:12:17:13
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
First of all, thank you for calling me a guru, which means teacher, right? Which is true. I am a meditation teacher, but in our Western culture it also means douche bag. So do not call me a guru.

00:12:17:15 - 00:12:21:22
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Let me rephrase. You are not a guru. What's a better word? It's a better word.

00:12:21:24 - 00:12:28:02
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
I'm. I am a mindfulness teacher. I've been teaching mindfulness for the past 15 years.

00:12:28:04 - 00:12:36:07
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Okay, I agree. I will take back Guru and I will just say mindfulness Teacher. Instructor. Yes. Okay.

00:12:36:09 - 00:13:05:04
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Do the woo woo of the mindfulness community is so funny to me, right? Because like, the thing about mindfulness is it's, it's a practice that we can learn and it doesn't really take any special skills. Every single human being on earth has the ability to be mindful. And the the my particular set of circumstances brought me to mindfulness because of my own friend's anxiety and depression.

00:13:05:06 - 00:13:32:13
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And when I was growing up, I had this kind of pervasive sense that I was not well. I had a fear of death, a constant fear of death when I was growing up, a general kind of like unsatisfactory ness that was like the foundation of my experience and the world outside of my internal world didn't quite know about it, right?

00:13:32:13 - 00:14:01:08
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
I wasn't like talking about it because I was, you know, a young man with the bravado of youth and I was seemingly doing pretty well in school and and in my work life. When I went to college, my freshman year, I was a psychology major. I wanted to work with kids. And I took this class called New Directions in Psychotherapy from this old hippie dude named Norman Bradford.

00:14:01:10 - 00:14:12:07
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
He had he was like a he was he looked like a guru. He had flowy white hair, a long flowing, like Z.Z top beard.

00:14:12:13 - 00:14:14:05
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Oh, yeah. Oh, yeah.

00:14:14:07 - 00:14:44:18
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And he was just a hippie who was obsessed with creating different avenues towards wellness that weren't solely dependent on the methods of Western psychology and science. Right. Which is, of course, the language of the West is material science. So he kind of he started this class called New Directions in Psychotherapy. And every single week all we did was a new kind of meditation.

00:14:44:20 - 00:15:11:06
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And one week we'd be climbing up a tree outside and just sitting in a tree and listening to the wind. And another week we would be listening to poetry, and another week we would be doing African drumming, you know. So this was the privileged life of, you know, a private college in Baltimore called Gautier, where I discovered these traditions.

00:15:11:06 - 00:15:53:22
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And I never looked back. I'd meditate, meditated every single day. Since then, I've accrued well over 10000 hours of meditation time in my life. I sit every single morning for about an hour in the morning. Meditation for me and mindfulness have become really kind of the backdrop against which absolutely everything that I experience is experienced. So that kind of dual path, right, of like growing up in the world, getting jobs and careers, and also simultaneously having this meditation practice in my life.

00:15:53:24 - 00:16:33:13
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
It was the the job and the career and the life and the death and the sickness. All of that was grist for the mill, for the meditation practice, right? We don't recede back into a cave and become a monk for ten years. Although that exists, most of us actually have to pay the bills. Right, And has a great teacher, a guru named Ram Dass, that he said, Remember your true nature, which is awareness itself and your Social Security number.

00:16:33:15 - 00:16:59:13
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And so it's the pairing of these these two things where mindfulness can really help us thrive amidst whatever is happening. And I and there's a lot happening in our lives right now. Steve. You know, not just in a post-pandemic world of how do we we're continuing to figure out how do we exist together, how do we re socialize?

00:16:59:13 - 00:17:10:22
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
We're pretty far on the other side of this. Yet a lot of folks are still trying to figure out, you know, how do I get out of the loneliness cycle? How do I socialize?

00:17:10:24 - 00:17:36:20
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
I think that's a great point. The re socialization, at least for me, you know, being on set, being around friends was something that you took for granted in 2019, right up until the pandemic. And then we all became Zoomers In one of your posts that I saw you, you were kind of saying when you were I think your point was that meditation and mindfulness is for everybody.

00:17:36:20 - 00:17:47:04
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
What do you feel like if you're a beginner? What is kind of that that first problem or that the first issue that people have with meditation or mindfulness?

00:17:47:06 - 00:18:36:07
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
I think we step back even further and we go, Well, why do we need meditation and mindfulness, right, to develop an adversarial relationship with meditation and mindfulness is just a continuation of the reason why we come to meditate, meditation and mindfulness, right? Which is because we suffer the foundation of mindfulness, which of course is pulled from Buddhism. It's kind of the secular, if you will, set of practices that we're born out of a Buddhist tradition, of course, which was preceded by Hindu tradition and the Buddha, he said, We suffer because we are attached.

00:18:36:09 - 00:19:10:24
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And it begs the question, well, what are we attached to? And the answer to that is we're attached to permanence. We believe that things are going to stick around. They're going to stay that our our lives are going to stay the same when things are going really well. We want things to change when things aren't going well, but when things are going really well, we don't want things to change.

00:19:11:01 - 00:19:50:15
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
So we suffer for things to change when things aren't going well. That means that when things are going well, they also have to change. This is the nature of our human life. We are born into this body and we get sick and we age and we die eventually. This is the starting point for why we suffer. We rage against the machine of our own human body and our attachment to being young or being pretty or being thin.

00:19:50:17 - 00:20:31:12
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Right is creating harm in our lives. Being human is a sexually transmitted disease that always ends in death. What did the Buddhist doctor write on the death certificate as the cause of death birth? That makes sense. Yeah, right. So we we somehow think that we're going to evade this reality. Everything changes. Impermanence is a fundamental law of being human.

00:20:31:14 - 00:21:00:22
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And this is why we ask the question, how can I decrease my suffering? What is it that can come into my head that I can bring into my life and provide myself with some sense of relief? And to begin the process of relief is to acknowledge the fundamental truth of our existence, that it changes, that everything is impermanent.

00:21:00:24 - 00:21:33:08
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And I think this is very much on display in the entertainment world for us right now. The old ways of living, of the consistency of getting a job, the consistency of a paycheck, right, the consistency of the big media machine, knowing how to monetize itself and thriving, you know, and yet simultaneously continually pissing all over the people and the companies that are feeding the machine of media.

00:21:33:10 - 00:22:13:19
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Right. We're in two of our deals are in strike mode right now, negotiating with this incredibly ill defined impermanent force called big media, who in and of itself, big media, doesn't know how to make a solvent business? How are we negotiating with a business that doesn't know how to monetize itself? Right. It's essential that we stand up and present ourselves back to big media and say we deserve to be paid, we deserve to be treated in equitable way.

00:22:13:21 - 00:22:48:23
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
But at the same time, how are we negotiating with the machine that doesn't know how to run it? So at the core of the mindfulness, teaching is a is a concept that was derived from the US government. The Army College, I believe, created a term called VUCA at the end of the Cold War to kind of define know what is this thing that we're feeling in a term as a as a global community.

00:22:49:00 - 00:23:26:22
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And VUCA was developed and it stands for volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity, right? So volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity. Doesn't that sound familiar? In a word, impermanence And two words don't know. We don't know what's going to happen. We don't know what our future holds, right? We hold on to the past and we bring it into the present as concepts in our minds.

00:23:26:24 - 00:23:51:13
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And we we we carry this kind of this weight as we age. And this weight is like a suit of armor, right? The suit of armor somehow going to protect us because don't we know so much? I know who I am. I know what my skills are. I know what my what my future holds because of all these other things that I've done in my past.

00:23:51:15 - 00:24:21:22
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
No, you don't. It could all end like that. And in fact, it does over and over and over again. We do not know what the future holds. The past is helpful in some regard in the present, but it cannot predict the future. And in fact, both the past and the future can only be experienced in the present moment.

00:24:21:24 - 00:25:09:04
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
The past as a concept in the mind. The future is a concept in the mind, and both exist only in the present moment. So what are we to do in this mind that is constantly future in itself and freaking out? And sometimes we call this anxiety. And what do we do with the present moment in mind that is also regretting things from the past, bringing statements about the solidity of what was into the present moment, which is not solid at all, at least from a mental perspective, which is the only perspective we have.

00:25:09:06 - 00:25:40:06
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
So what are we to do? One of the core practices in mindfulness is derived from, again, the Buddhist teachings in mindfulness communities. There's what's called the Three Jewels, the Buddha, which is like the teacher, the idealized kind of like being, so to speak, that knows how to relate to life from the perspective of wide open space, right? That still human, but also resting in awareness from a place of non reactivity.

00:25:40:08 - 00:26:13:23
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
The teachings themselves. Dharma right, is the second jewel, which is the kind of wisdom that we as human beings, the great wisdom, traditions of the world, be them, you know, the Christian desert fathers, the second and third century, the Kabbalah teachings from Judaism, Sufi teachings from Islam, right? Native American teachings about the oneness of humanity and the interconnect and the interconnectedness of us as animals with animals and the earth around us.

00:26:13:23 - 00:26:37:07
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
These are the great wisdom teachings of humanity, and they are not particular to any religion. So we have the kind of idealized human over here as the first jewel, and then we've got the second joy, which is the great wisdom traditions of the world. And then the third jewel is what you're building. And it's called Sangat, which means community.

00:26:37:09 - 00:27:10:20
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
So every time you put out a podcast, you invite your world of people in to the shared experience of being together. And when they bring that shared experience in, they're sharing the 10,000 joys and the 10,000 sorrows. As my teacher, Jack Cornfield says, together, every person that listens to your podcast right now has a set of impermanent characteristics by definition that are rising up in their lives.

00:27:10:20 - 00:27:41:03
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
They've got the transition of life, they've got a baby being born or a parent or a family member dying. They've just gotten a new job or a raise or they just got fired and they no longer have income. All right. Their digest ing the food from lunch that will give them the energy to write the emails this afternoon.

00:27:41:05 - 00:28:22:23
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Right. This is all just process. We are interconnected with the world around us and Sangat is representative of community. And Vivek Murthy, the surgeon general, he writes about the epidemic of loneliness. If I don't think we should all jump in to becoming meditators and following a particular religion or or, or a particular way of viewing the world first, I think the first thing we should do is find a friend and have a conversation and then maybe find another friend and have another conversation.

00:28:23:00 - 00:28:42:04
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
I think to recognize the suffering that exists in our world and to begin to alleviate that suffering, we should start by actually connecting with other human beings and saying, yes, I'm here for you. And by the way, also, I need help. Can we talk? Can we communicate?

00:28:42:06 - 00:29:02:15
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
I can relate to everything you're saying. And I'm I'm curious. Do you do you kind of utilize your meditation and your mindfulness, like in the morning? Do you do it right away? Or how does it kind of on a practical level, come into play for you personally? How have you found it to be effective in your life?

00:29:02:21 - 00:29:26:05
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
There are two methods that I utilize in my life that are available to all of us. One is called formal meditation. We develop a ritual of sitting down in a particular way under particular circumstances that create a bit of a ritual that's signified to the body and to the mind. Now is the time when I'm going to do this, like sitting down for a meal.

00:29:26:07 - 00:29:54:17
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Some people say grace, some people hold hands, some people take a big, deep breath. Some people just dive right in and eat a meal together. It's about ritual to kind of establish that this is the safe container for this particular experience. That's what formal meditation is. And so I'll sit formally every single morning, but then periodically on an as needed basis, I'll also sit and meditate.

00:29:54:19 - 00:30:23:19
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And I begin by saying, okay, now is the time when I'm going to meditate. The second style of practice, which is called informal practice or in your life meditation. And this is like microdosing right throughout the day and all you're doing with informal meditation and is, you know, in in modern neuroscience tells us that we have a top down model of the world.

00:30:23:19 - 00:31:11:19
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
What does that mean? It means that the mind is how we experience our lives. That and this is not a an overexaggeration or some kind of spiritual statement. Actually, modern neuroscience tells us that we actually are only capable of processing our experience through the mind, right? So we're not directly experiencing anything. Our mind is interpreting data as it comes through each of the five sense doors telling a story about that data and asking the question, does it match up with previous information If it does not match up with previous information, three things can happen.

00:31:11:21 - 00:31:41:16
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
One, it just gets bored and moves on because it's nothing special is happening to it feels some sort of threat and it freaks out and turns into anxiety or depression. Three It gets invigorated because of the novelty of whatever this new story is coming in and that says need more, need more, need more, right? These are the three possibilities that we experience all day long, every day as pleasant, unpleasant or neutral.

00:31:41:18 - 00:32:04:07
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Right? And so mindfulness allows us to kind of experience drop into a sense and set of awareness to a place of awareness of just about our. Does this feel pleasant? Does it feel unpleasant or am I neutral? Right? We can ask that question all day long. Am I feeling pleasant to my feeling unpleasant, or am I feeling neutral?

00:32:04:09 - 00:32:27:13
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And it can be that simple. You can just drop that question in to the zoom that you're having while you're pitching your show. Is this pleasant? Is this unpleasant or is it neutral? You can drop it into the tasting of an orange. You can drop it into the experience of sitting with your partner and having a conversation about their workday.

00:32:27:15 - 00:33:07:24
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
You can drop it into the experience of laying down at night to go to bed all day long. These three filters, so to speak, of mind, are categorizing our experience. And when we become mindful of just this simple method, pleasant, unpleasant, neutral, we loosen the grip of of reactivity so that when something is unpleasant, for instance, someone cutting us off in traffic, we're not freaking out, honking on the horn and screaming at them and creating harm in the world.

00:33:08:01 - 00:33:34:04
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
We just have that little gap, a tiny little gap where we go unpleasant. Welcome back. Unpleasant, You know, or that person on social media that Facebook person on social media that always spouts crazy political bullshit and you're like typing up your response and you're like, citing reference points from, you know, all of your, you know, your bubble of information.

00:33:34:04 - 00:33:35:04
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Yes.

00:33:35:06 - 00:33:40:18
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
You've got the article ready to post straight into the comment. Yes, I've been there.

00:33:40:20 - 00:34:13:15
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
I've been there, too. I went on Facebook for like eight years because of this. And I came back to Facebook from the perspective of pleasant, unpleasant, neutral, right When I read someone's post that spouting some idiot bullshit that I view as idiot bullshit and I'm typing up my response. I know that I've been caught, I've been hooked into reactivity and what am I doing on Facebook if I feed the war right?

00:34:13:17 - 00:34:55:12
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
How are we contributing to the benefit of humankind when we feed the war? There's a place for thoughtful opposition, right? But we can't get into the place of action of speaking and acting to the benefit of ourselves and other human beings. Unless we have a firm foundation of I know what's going on in my internal world, what is going on in my internal world, I activated, I am pissed off, I am typing this and my job is to make that person look like an idiot in front of all their friends that never, ever, ever works.

00:34:55:14 - 00:35:34:04
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
There's a beautiful book called How Minds Change from an author named David McCranie, who did who explored the massive transition in California's view, both politically and culturally, about gay marriage. In 2008, 70% of the population was opposed to gay marriage. In 2008, 70% of the population was for gay marriage. What happened in ten years time for that shift?

00:35:34:06 - 00:36:06:07
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
David McRaney talks about this. And at the core of it, spoiler alert is a method of investigation that political activists use called deep canvasing. And at the core of deep canvasing is deep listening, right? So when we come at a person with whom we disagree from the perspective of war, they will come at us with the perspective of war.

00:36:06:09 - 00:36:27:17
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
But when we come at a person with whom we disagree from the perspective of I care about you and your experience in your life matter and I want to listen to you, and that doesn't mean that I have to agree with you, but it does mean that I will respect you and listen to you. That's where real change starts to happen.

00:36:27:21 - 00:36:54:03
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And that is the change that occurred in ten years time. With regard to gay marriage in California. Throughout our experience as human beings, there's that's part of the Dharma, right? That's human wisdom not coming from religion, not coming from tech, but just coming from one individual to another individual and saying, I care about you. I don't want to perpetuate the war.

00:36:54:03 - 00:37:22:13
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
I genuinely want to connect with you. I want to build community. Our sangha is all beings on earth, and if we exclude one, we might as well exclude all of us. And it's from this perspective that we can actually take action and advance forward as a species to the benefit of ourselves and others. That's what mindfulness allows us to do.

00:37:22:15 - 00:37:28:14
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And there's tons of practices that we can explore and methods that we can explore.

00:37:28:16 - 00:37:50:00
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
So let's break down. You talk about kind of like the little moments of where you can bring thoughtfulness into your day and you use the example of somebody cut you off or somebody you know on social media. But let's talk about your on set and you have a disagreement with whether it's a colleague or a, let's say, talent.

00:37:50:02 - 00:38:08:02
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
How do you how would you or how have you kind of had that ability to go pleasant, unpleasant, right. And use some mindfulness to get yourself into a better place when you're having a disagreement or a bad moment on set?

00:38:08:04 - 00:38:37:21
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
But one method that we can use is to acknowledge I love this maxim. If you can name it, you can work with it, right? And absolutely everything in our internal world is workable, right? Part of the foundation of what I help other peoples discover about themselves is our internal world is is like a dictator. Unless we recognize that the dictator doesn't need to lead the way.

00:38:37:21 - 00:39:12:11
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Right? The dictator is just an aspect of being human. It's called mind. And we all have this mind and it's a bunch of thoughts that proliferate in certain situations, paired with physical experience in the body. And when we push the dictator in a particular direction, the dictator fights back. So but we gently name the internal experience and we call it anger, for instance, and we just gently name it and we develop an attitude.

00:39:12:13 - 00:39:35:12
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Anger is unpleasant in the body, although it can be pleasant, seemingly pleasant for some people. Right. And there's no denying that either. Right? Some of us do feel that sense of anger. But on the other side of anger, when there's action and and it harms other people and ourselves, we have regrets. So we drop in to the space of saying anger is present quickly, just quickly write it.

00:39:35:14 - 00:40:23:08
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Anger, I name it. Anger is present. Take a big deep breath. Thank you. Host of Game Show or actor. I hear what you're saying. And we decide within ourselves in that moment that we are not the constricted accumulation of change yield energy that is that needs to be right. All that congealed, constricted energy is present in our system as anger, and we watch it from the perspective of awareness from the witness, we say welcome back.

00:40:23:08 - 00:40:50:19
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Anger gently in our mind as an attitude. Welcome back. Anger. I know you. I've worked with you before. You will continue to be present on and off for the rest of my life. So let's be friendly here and you're welcome to come and go as you please. Anger right? I'm not going to fight you. Anger. But what I will do is I will receive you in the wide open space of awareness and I will know your character mystics.

00:40:50:21 - 00:41:27:13
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Because when we feel anger in our body, it's never about the other person. It's never about the external situation. Anger is always us meeting ourselves in our internal experience. Always. There's never, ever, ever a situation where anger is caused by someone else. It's caused by the feeling we have when we encounter that extreme external force. It's our relationship to that external force that creates harm in our lives.

00:41:27:15 - 00:41:50:23
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
So and it's our relationship really ultimately to the only force that forces that there are in our experiences, which are internal, the only thing we can ever experience in our awareness is the internal. So we say, welcome back, anger is present, take a big ass deep breath, recognize Anger's presence in our lives. Get better at recognizing when anger is present.

00:41:50:23 - 00:42:32:05
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And from that place of recognition and wide open spaces, awareness, we go now I will respond. Right. And if we can respond from the place of helpfulness, then great. We can respond from the place of neutrality and not causing harm. Great. If we respond from the place of harmfulness, that's okay too, because it gives us yet another opportunity to recognize anger's presence in our life and to relate to it in a in a more constructive, helpful way.

00:42:32:07 - 00:42:52:07
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
We're not receding into the cave and becoming a monk. We're living our lives and we're growing with the experiences of our lives so that we can act and speak to the benefit of self and other. This is an ideal idealized state, and that's what we're talking about.

00:42:52:09 - 00:43:19:12
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Another scenario you and I both know you put your heart and soul into developing a project. A lot of people are trusting you. You have talent, you've told them that we're know, we're pushing this forward and they're trusting you, your partners trust you. You've spent a lot of time on this and nobody wants it.

00:43:19:14 - 00:43:22:03
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Yeah.

00:43:22:05 - 00:43:45:11
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
How do you how do you use your skills to kind of not feel tense and to not feel like it? Let me now say empty, but to not feel like all that time energy in a lot of cases as a freelancer, money that was all a waste.

00:43:45:13 - 00:44:13:17
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Thank you for that question. It's a great and important question for those of us that generate from our internal experiences, ideas and concepts that we believe the world should love. My father said to me long ago when I first moved to Los Angeles, he said, If you have just one good idea, you ain't worth shit, right? I love that.

00:44:13:17 - 00:44:44:19
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And what it does is it just creates a sense of humor around it. Okay? Like, yeah, it's just one idea. You know? That being said, when we spend money and time and energy and relationships trying to get someone to finance that idea, the sting persists. So how do we relate to that Sting One way to relate to the sting is to recognize VUCA, the nebulosity of why things don't work, right?

00:44:44:20 - 00:45:27:11
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
There is a network of complexity within the entertainment industry right now, and as it's been the case, you know, forever, but it's particularly apparent in today's world. We referenced it earlier as VUCA, but what is NEBULOSITY? Why did someone pass on that idea? Why didn't it work? It's in some ways it's a fool's errand, right? So we acknowledge the nebulosity of why a thing didn't work as a can, as an aspect of the experience of creating something and putting it out into the world, and then the world saying no to it.

00:45:27:13 - 00:45:58:13
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And we try to hold it a little less tight, right? We try to release the fist, the grip, so to speak, around what we believe to be a perfect idea that someone should buy and and give us money for right. And we reset our relationship to the idea and to the process of pitching from the firm Foundation of I don't know.

00:45:58:15 - 00:46:30:09
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Right. We reset. There we go. I don't know. It's nebulous. I done there. I could try to pursue all the different patterns and paths and understand all the different forces of the hundreds and thousands of people that participate in the thing. No process or I could just say nebulous, I don't know. And then I come back to the idea and from the place of a calmer, less attached position to the idea, we can then begin to refine the idea.

00:46:30:15 - 00:47:06:10
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
We can start having conversations with other folks about the idea. It might be time to just drop the idea and come up with something completely different. But often isn't it really that there's something very interesting that many people responded to when you pitched the idea? But and that thing was what everybody kept talking about, and it was maybe a particular character that you wrote about or a particular style of hero's journey in the story that, you know, began with the ending first or whatever.

00:47:06:12 - 00:47:31:21
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And we say, All right, what was the world telling me about this process that actually was kind of consistent across some of these communications that I had that I can actually lift up that aspect of the thing that I created and perhaps reform it and add new, fresh elements and perspectives into it. In Silicon Valley, this is called the pivot.

00:47:31:23 - 00:48:00:23
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
You know, I've gone through multiple stages of investment for my businesses. I've watched three startups in my time in Silicon Valley, especially in Pre-seed investment. They're not investing as much in the idea as they are investing in the individuals, right? They're seeing people, founders of businesses as folks that can adapt. And here is the great word overused but still relevant.

00:48:01:02 - 00:48:34:14
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Pivot, right? What have we learned from the path we've taken to today and how do we apply those learnings to the benefit of ourselves and others with regard to this particular idea moving forward? We cannot adapt and pivot if we are stuck in the place of no one gets me or that idea was awesome and I should keep pitching that exact idea as the same way I pitched it that everybody passed on 100 times.

00:48:34:16 - 00:49:04:08
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Our life is a process. Ideas are conceptual, just like your belief that Steve is a person who is permanent and independent, when in fact really all you are is a process that's evolving over time because of impermanence concepts we bring out into the world and we try to sell our impermanent By their very nature. Children grow up because of impermanence.

00:49:04:08 - 00:49:15:01
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
We don't want babies to stay, babies for babies to stay, babies which sleep in a sea of babies who can't figure it out. And then there's poop everywhere, all over the world. Yeah.

00:49:15:01 - 00:49:17:11
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
You know, I don't think anybody wants that.

00:49:17:13 - 00:49:42:17
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Our ideas are like babies. We want them to grow up and to evolve. We don't want to stop them dead in their tracks. So we hold our ideas the way we hold a newborn baby. We feed it and we love it. And at a certain point, you've got to let the baby go. But also at a certain point, when the baby becomes a 14 or a 15 year old, you got to figure out what the baby's you.

00:49:42:19 - 00:49:56:12
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Right. And what the world is telling you about your 14 year old and how do we support the 14 year old to proliferate forward in the process of itself? It's the same thing with ideas.

00:49:56:14 - 00:50:02:04
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
I think that's a great analogy because you can only take care of so many kids.

00:50:02:06 - 00:50:07:14
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
You got to let some of those kids go. Some of your kids are assholes, right? Yeah.

00:50:07:16 - 00:50:17:02
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
You can't take care of all of them. You start to, you know, you get to the Elon Musk stage. I mean, you're not the richest guy in the world. You got like ten kids. You can only take care of so many.

00:50:17:02 - 00:50:19:04
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
So yeah, you can't rename all your kids.

00:50:19:04 - 00:50:31:03
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Ex Exactly So I think that's a great analogy as each, each concept is, is a little baby and then it grows up and you got to let some of them go at some point. I think that's that's a great analogy.

00:50:31:08 - 00:50:35:20
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
This is the law of impermanence and it's so helpful in every aspect of our lives.

00:50:35:22 - 00:50:59:01
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Yeah. How do you, what, what advice would you give for somebody who's kind of nervously waiting to figure out what their role is in this kind of changing media ecosystem? That's kind of a vague question, but, you know, you and I both know if you're under 30, you're watching TikTok and YouTube and Netflix and pretty much that's it.

00:50:59:03 - 00:51:21:21
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
And if you are somebody who gets their work in the more legacy or traditional media, the cable networks or the broadcast, well, you know, life's going to be changing. And I think that's a big part of the problem with, you know, what's happening right now is people are watching content in a different way. We're still making content in a certain way.

00:51:21:21 - 00:51:45:01
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Not as many people are going to movies with the exception of Barbie and Oppenheimer. So I think we're kind of stuck in this mode of, okay, what do I do now? What do I do now? And you're right, everything you just said is right. How do you pivot? What kind of advice would you give to somebody who's in that kind of anxious mode of, okay, well, where do I fit in?

00:51:45:03 - 00:52:15:18
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Wow, what a beautiful question. I give this advice to people all day long. So, as you know, Steve, I've pivoted. I've been teaching meditation for 15 years to my friends throughout the entertainment community. And about a year and a half ago, the demand got so great and I was saying no, far too many people that I just decided that I needed to open up my my own life to support other people.

00:52:15:18 - 00:52:44:13
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
So I, I work with executives and producers and and businesses to answer this question of how do we move forward and success in the face of VUCA, Volatility, uncertainty, complexity, ambiguity. So the first thing we do is we acknowledge VUCA. We don't know what is to come.

00:52:44:15 - 00:53:22:07
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
We step back into awareness and we recognize let's talk about an individual, right? So we'll call this individual Bob. Bob is a show runner who's been extremely successful for 15 years. He's worked on many shows and he's not had a job for a year and a half. Bob is an expert in storytelling, but Bob is relying on external forces to validate his expertise.

00:53:22:09 - 00:53:53:20
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
He's saying, I'm going to wait for those forces to signal back to me that I'm okay and that my belief in myself as being essential to the success of those external forces, big media production companies, television companies that I am essential to their success, then they will come around to me as a key element that will help them regain their success in their own worlds.

00:53:53:22 - 00:54:32:14
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Bob needs to recognize that VUCA is actually happening for them as well, and so he needs to step back and say, What is it that I'm hanging on to? What we often are hanging on to is a sense of fixed identity. We believe ourselves to be a certain thing. I am a showrunner, I am X, I am what I am a husband.

00:54:32:16 - 00:55:05:00
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
I am a father. I am smart, I am, I am. Whatever it is that I've perpetuated throughout my life and felt as if I could rest in that identity. But what is that identity and where is that identity? Upon further review, we begin to understand that that identity is in our minds. It lives in the abstractions of mind.

00:55:05:02 - 00:55:37:24
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
It lives in the non tangible abstraction of awareness, its thoughts, its physical feelings in awareness. It's tension, it's contraction. But yet on my LinkedIn page, it says all these things, right? Well, my LinkedIn page should be all you need to know about why you should hire me and why you should use me to solve your problems. Big Media.

00:55:38:01 - 00:56:01:16
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And we look a little deeper at our LinkedIn page and we remove our connection and our attachment to the identity of our LinkedIn page. We can start to see actually a pattern. What is that pattern? When we remove our attachment to us being a particular way, the pattern is actual skills that are useful and viable in the world.

00:56:01:16 - 00:56:41:15
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Storytelling, for instance, for Bob, is not what's going away. Stories will forever be what makes us human. There will always be demand for stories, and arguably there is more of a demand than ever for story. It's just that we are attached to the old delivery systems. So when I step back in my LinkedIn identity and I go, okay, maybe that my stories and my belief that my stories are valuable to Netflix or Amazon or to, you know, CBS or whatever, maybe I step back from that and go, Well, what is living underneath that?

00:56:41:15 - 00:57:06:14
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
I'm a fucking Ph.D. in storytelling, right? And then I start thinking, Well, what else is in my resume? Well, I've always wanted to work with kids or I've always wanted to work in the wellness industry, or I've always wanted to work in. I'm obsessed with a guy. What is going on in the world, Right? A growth industry, by the way.

00:57:06:16 - 00:57:33:16
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And then we start to ask the question, what? I have this kind of life earned PhD in storytelling. What if I just disentangled it from the delivery systems with which I've grown attached to which I've grown attached? And I ask the question, are there other delivery systems that will allow me to use these skills in ways that people and businesses will benefit?

00:57:33:18 - 00:58:01:04
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And the answer is hell yes, there are. In fact, there's more opportunity than ever for people like us. We've been telling stories our whole lives. The only obstacle towards our ability to do so is our attachment to our own identity. Our ego. We have to let go, drop back into awareness and reposition ourselves from the perspective of, Oh, I actually have a choice.

00:58:01:06 - 00:58:51:04
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And in fact it's infinite. But I do not have choice if I believe myself to be this label in this world. And I can only exist in that as this label in this particular world dropped the labels dropped the world's reassess, and from the place of wide open space reemerge into the world and take action. Have conversations with folks, put the word out there that you're an expert storyteller to 50 brands that you're interested in working with, all of whom in today's world are likely to need some form of expert storytelling in order for their brands to evolve to meet the needs of their clients and their customers.

00:58:51:06 - 00:59:30:15
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
So that is what that's the advice that I give and it's the advice I took my sales man. You know, I haven't launched three startups because because I felt so comfortable that television was going to give me everything that I needed. I disentangled myself from the belief that television was the only way, and I've reconfigured my own relationship to the skills that I have developed over time and redeployed them back out into the world by communicating with my sangha, with my community, which is much larger than it ever was.

00:59:30:17 - 00:59:41:01
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
And why? Because I actually engaged and I asked questions and I said hello and hey, I need help, or Hey, can I help you?

00:59:41:03 - 01:00:06:10
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Dude, that's awesome. I think that's great advice. I think that is advice that a lot of people, myself included, could use. All right. Before I let you go, I have to ask you how you're feeling about your Philadelphia Eagles coming up this season. I mean, look so close last year. Is this a Super Bowl year for the Eagles?

01:00:06:12 - 01:00:27:02
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Around the birth of my second child, I had to let go of the identity as an Eagles fan. So, like so right now I have three kids now, a three and a half year old talk about letting go. So every time I engage somebody that talks about sports, I go sports. Yay! And I don't really know what's going on in the sports world.

01:00:27:04 - 01:00:37:23
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
I frankly, I barely watched any Eagles games last year. Super Bowl was great, by the way. Philadelphia had a great year last year's Super Bowl, World Series, MLS Championship.

01:00:37:23 - 01:00:41:10
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
That's true. I forgot to ask. Yeah, I've got to ask about the Phillies. Yeah.

01:00:41:12 - 01:01:10:03
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
The only reason I know any of that is because everyone that I used to connect with about sports from Philly was talking about it on social media. My son. Right. My community. Yes. And I couldn't I couldn't I had to pay attention when folks when they got to the to the championship games. But prior to that, frankly, I was like, you know, I've got to change a diaper.

01:01:10:05 - 01:01:32:04
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Okay. I don't know what's going to happen this year, but I can't wait to connect with with more people and maybe watch more games. And but I'm not going to stay attached to it. And now come really doesn't matter to me that much. It's really just about being able to see the joy in other people's faces. I was at Disneyland the week after the Eagles lost the Super Bowl last year.

01:01:32:04 - 01:02:09:13
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Right, with my kids. My kids were on a ride and we were with a bunch of other people. They went over to California Adventure and I hadn't bought the two pass ticket or whatever. So I'm like, You guys go over there, I'm going to hang back at Disneyland and I'm just going to get quiet. So I quite literally like the week after the Eagles lost the Super Bowl and I quite literally picked a bench at the entryway to the park and I put my earbuds in and I sat down and I started to meditate because I knew they would be gone for about an hour.

01:02:09:15 - 01:02:41:22
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
So I'm sitting there, the weirdo sitting on the bench with a blank look on his face, just experiencing the presence of what was happening in front of me. And what started to happen in front of me was that bastard Patrick Mahomes and a parade of celebration. Oh, wow. Oh wow. That I had no idea was about that. And down Main Street, Disney starts happening in front of my face meditating.

01:02:41:23 - 01:03:17:03
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Wow, I have an Eagles hat off, right? And you know what? And instead of you know, and I say bastard, like, obviously. But like, what I witnessed was joy everywhere around me, right? A sea of the colors of the opposition, so to speak. And the man that right. It was Patrick Mahomes. I'm talking about it. Yeah. So. And the man that won the game literally walking directly in front of me as I'm meditating and I didn't feel hate and I didn't feel angst and I didn't feel anxiety.

01:03:17:03 - 01:03:34:14
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
I felt joy because I was witnessing the joy of all these other human beings. I think that's the way we should live in the sports world, you know, And I think that's the way we should live in our lives. If we can feel joy for others, then we can actually feel joy for ourselves because everything is an internal experience.

01:03:34:14 - 01:03:50:17
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
So when we feel joy for ourselves or for others, what are we actually doing? We're encountering ourselves in a joyful state, right? Waking up to that reality is a game changer. And I think mindfulness meditation can help folks in that regard.

01:03:50:19 - 01:03:58:11
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Yeah, I concur. All right. Last thing, tell me a little about Yum Crunch, your company that you have with your brother Mike.

01:03:58:13 - 01:04:18:24
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
So Yum Crunch is a you know, we've won some Emmys for the food content that we've made over the years, nominated for nine Emmy and five James Beard Awards. We won two Emmys a couple of years back. Again, this is about the pivot, right? This is what's available to us. We looked at our skills and we're like, we have all these chef relationships.

01:04:18:24 - 01:04:42:18
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
We have the ability to tell extraordinary food stories. Well, one of the frustrations that we experience with our food shows was big media wasn't giving our viewers the opportunity to eat what they see. So we created Young Crunch to solve that problem. So we work with some of the world's best chefs and influencers to create content that you can taste in.

01:04:42:18 - 01:05:23:12
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Go to Yum Crunch dot com. You can follow us on all of our socials at Yum Yum Crunch y you and Drew and see and experience the stories that we tell and have the opportunity to buy what you see. My consultancy is Tim Duffy Meditation Ecom. I specialize in science and mindfulness based peak performance for executives and producers and companies to re approach their lives from a firm foundation of being awake to the assets that they have available to themselves.

01:05:23:14 - 01:05:49:20
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Acknowledging the difficulties but not wallowing in the difficulties. Right. How do we advance forward in our lives if we're stuck in the old habits of mind, we can actually thrive when we let go of the old habits of mind, and we recognize the true potential of what we all bring to this earth to one another. So that's what I'm setting out to do with Tim Duffy, meditation Icon.

01:05:49:22 - 01:05:53:22
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Tim, thank you for doing the podcast one more time. I appreciate it, brother.

01:05:53:24 - 01:05:57:10
GUEST: TIM DUFFY
Thank you so much. Much Love to You have a beautiful day.

01:05:57:12 - 01:06:31:19
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
Before I go, I'll recommend a couple documentaries for you. Feel up sports. Give Johnny Football a watch. That's the Johnny Manziel documentary on Netflix. Remember Big Johnny, Texas A&M, huge superstar, won the Heisman, then a lot problems when he got to the NFL. Very fun, very entertaining. And another one to check out the YouTube effect. It is a comprehensive deep dive doc by Alex Winter really shows you how powerful YouTube is and will continue to be.

01:06:31:21 - 01:07:03:01
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
All right. That is going to do it for another episode of No Script, No problem for everybody listening. Please remember to subscribe, download and show it five stars. It's available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Amazon and tune in. You can also find it at Wycombe and I Believe podcast. Follow me on Twitter and Post News @SteveBerkowitz and on Instagram and threads @SteveMBerkowitz and also on Mastodon Spill, Facebook, Snapchat and linked and yes, seriously, TikTok coming for you.

01:07:03:03 - 01:07:16:06
HOST: STEVE BERKOWITZ
You can also email me any questions. You have the No script no Problem podcast at gmail.com. If you’re interested in advertising on the show, please contact Bleav.com. Thank you for listening. Until next time, I'm Steve Berkowitz for No Script. No problem.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Billy Rainey, Industry Chaos, and Barbenheimer

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 06:51:05 +0000

This episode, I talk to former MTV creative executive, producer, and director Billy Rainey - one of the driving creative forces behind the hidden camera prank show, "Punk'd." He pulls back the curtain on some of his favorite pranks from the smash hit and reveals how the show got off the ground after a very rough and litigious start. Billy and I also discuss some of the issues facing the entertainment industry today and I share my thoughts on the strikes and the Barbenheimer phenomenon. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts. A transcript of the episode is below. Thanks!

https://berkreport.files.wordpress.com/2023/08/billy-rainey-episode-transcript.txt

https://berkreport.com/shows/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-berkowitz-5a09ab8/

https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-no-script-no-problem/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Spinning Gold with Brad Bogart

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sat, 20 May 2023 02:08:42 +0000

I chat with talented producer BRAD BOGART in a wide-ranging discussion covering everything from creating TLC's hit "OutDaughtered" to finally making the feature film, "Spinning Gold," the biopic about his legendary father, Neil Bogart.

Listen as Brad shares stories from behind the scenes of the film and talks about making the movie with his brothers - Tim and Evan - as well as the long road it took to get it made. We also chat about his new weight loss series on TLC and reminisce about our time working together on OutDaughtered.

In "SPINNING GOLD," Neil Bogart launches Casablanca Records in the 1970s, giving rise to such musical acts as Donna Summer, Parliament, Gladys Knight, the Isley Brothers, the Village People, Bill Withers and KISS. Along with a rag-tag team of young music lovers, Casablanca Records rewrites history and changes the music industry forever. Some of today's hottest music stars are playing the icons including Grammy and Golden Globe nominee Wiz Khalifa as George Clinton, Jason Derulo as Ron Isley of the Isley Brothers, Pink Sweat$ as Bill Withers, Grammy Award nominee Tayla Parx as Donna Summer and multi-Grammy winner Ledisi as Gladys Knight.

Make sure to watch "Spinning Gold" on one of the following platforms: Amazon Video, Universal on Demand, Vudu, DIRECTV, AMC on Demand, and YouTube.

SPINNING GOLD TRAILER

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mljzHokm17I

SPINNING GOLD FULL MOVIE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_UiTeYatVg

https://digitalmoviedeals.nbcuniversal.com/products/spinning-gold

FOLLOW ME HERE:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-berkowitz-5a09ab8/
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2089323/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0
https://twitter.com/steveberkowitz
https://berkreport.com
https://www.instagram.com/stevemberkowitz/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hannah Ha Ha

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 02:49:03 +0000

In this NSNP episode, I chat with filmmakers Jordan Tetewsky and Joshua Pikovsky about their debut feature film, "HANNAH HA HA." I'm also joined by the star of the indie darling, HANNAH LEE THOMPSON. Hear how they took a short film and expanded it into a feature that is a NY Times critics pick and the winner of the best narrative feature prize at the 2022 Slamdance Film Festival. Hannah Ha Ha Puts New Twist On Old Coming-Of-Age Tale, setting up a sweet and realistic movie about finding oneself and figuring out how much the opinions of others matter. The movie is out in theaters now and will then head to Fandor. Find theater info, the movie trailer, and other info below.

THEATER INFO: NYC
AMC Empire 25 (2/10 – 2/16) (Q&A 2/10 and 2/11)
Alamo Lower Manhattan (2/13 – 2/15) (Q&A 2/14)

LA
AMC Americana at the Brand (2/10 – 2/16)
Alamo Downtown LA (2/13 – 2/15)

https://linktr.ee/hannahhahamovie

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/09/movies/hannah-ha-ha-review.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HnTac2VhNg

https://slamdancechannel.com/films/hannah-ha-ha/61ae80355dd06f34d7007f51

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On Sacred Ground

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 09:54:36 +0000

This episode, I talk REBECCA and JOSH TICKELL ("Kiss the Ground") and WILLIAM MAPOTHER ("Lost") about their powerful new environmental thriller, "ON SACRED GROUND." Josh and Rebecca directed the film and William stars in this drama, which is inspired by real events surrounding the 2016 protests over the Dakota Access Pipeline at Standing Rock Reservation. Josh and Rebecca are veteran documentary filmmakers but this is their first narrative feature. We discuss the pressure they faced and why they chose to make this story their first scripted film.

"On Standing Ground" is inspired by Josh's actual experiences at Standing Rock and follows the colliding paths of a journalist (Mapother) searching for the truth and an oil man (David Arquette) determined to get the pipeline built and oil flowing. Amy Smart also stars. Check out the trailer and website below and see the film in theaters or on demand now.

"ON SACRED GROUND" TRAILER

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F64dUVAaQV8

WEBSITE

https://www.onsacredgroundmovie.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Director Rachel Lears and Alexandra Rojas Talk "To the End"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 18 Dec 2022 04:23:03 +0000

In this episode, I talk to award-winning director RACHEL LEARS ("Knock Down the House") about her riveting new climate crisis documentary, "TO THE END," and one of the film's stars, ALEXANDRA ROJAS, the executive director of Justice Democrats. Filmed over 4 tumultuous years, "To the End" captures the emergence of a new generation of environmental leaders and the movement behind the most sweeping climate change legislation in U.S. history. The film follows four dynamic young women— Representative ALEXANDRIA OCASIO-CORTEZ (AOC), activist Varshini Prakash, climate policy writer Rhiana Gunn-Wright, and political strategist Alexandra Rojas— as they grapple with new challenges of leadership and power and work together to defend their generation’s right to a future.

As Rachel and Alexandra tell me, these bold leaders went from street protests to the halls of Congress, fighting to shift the narrative around climate, revealing the crisis as an opportunity to build a better society. Check out the film's trailer and website below. It's in theaters now so go see it!

https://www.totheendfilm.com

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cv2jtKboDi0

MY SOCIALS:

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Award-winning filmmaker Rory Kennedy discusses her Netflix documentary, "The Volcano: Rescue from Whakaari"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 01:43:20 +0000

Emmy-winning documentary filmmaker RORY KENNEDY joins the podcast to chat about the new film she's directed, "THE VOLCANO: RESCUE FROM WHAKAARI," which premieres December 16, 2022, on NETFLIX. The feature doc chronicles the tragic events surrounding a sightseeing trip to a remote island off the coast of New Zealand in 2019, where 47 tourists and guides became trapped by a volcanic eruption. Rory does a fantastic job with minute-by-minute iPhone footage, stylish recreations and intimate interviews with individuals who were there, as you really see humanity at its most resilient. Listen to the interview and watch the doc on Netflix. Trailer below.

"THE VOLCANO: RESCUE FROM WHAKAARI" - TRAILER & INFO

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnxGV9RQutE

https://www.indiewire.com/2022/11/the-volcano-rescue-from-whakaari-trailer-leonardo-dicaprio-1234786172/

MY SOCIAL MEDIA

https://twitter.com/steveberkowitz

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Filmmaker CJ Russo Explores the Cannabis Industry in "Lady Buds"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 07:46:40 +0000

In this episode, I chop it up with filmmaker CJ RUSSO, the visionary behind the wonderful documentary feature film, "LADY BUDS," which tells the story of 6 courageous women who come out of the shadows of the CANNABIS underground to forge a path to legalization, battling deep-pocketed corporations as they risk everything to make their American Dream come true in the market they helped create. This film has heart, humor, and grit. CJ talks to me about how she brought it to life over 4 years and had to gain the trust of the cannabis community, which doesn't always welcome outsiders.

You can watch "Lady Buds" on STARZ, AMAZON PRIME, YouTube, VUDU, GOOGLE PLAY, ITUNES, and MICROSOFT. Trailer below as well as some great news for CJ regarding a scripted spin on the "Lady Buds" story. Listen to this episode of "No Script, No Problem" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn, and Google Podcasts. Thanks! 🙏

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxYoD1xDD7c

https://deadline.com/2022/02/lady-buds-cannabis-doc-spinoffs-1234958078/?fbclid=IwAR1fAwf28jPgkNgjFTo64UlkZBlXNYmVVrij7OjH5dsyQop8sivkoZ_iypg

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oscar-nominated Director Matt Ogens Talks "Audible"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 02:22:40 +0000

The 2022 Academy Awards are set for March 27th, and my guest - MATT OGENS - will be there with his film - "AUDIBLE" - nominated for an Oscar in the category of Best Documentary Short. Streaming now on NETFLIX, "Audible" is a cinematic and immersive coming of age documentary film, which takes you inside a high school football season with the Maryland School for the Deaf, introducing the world to some incredibly talented and resilient student-athletes who face many obstacles — on and off the field.

Twelve years in the making, Matt, a Maryland native, talks about how special and personal this project is to him and how this is much more than a "sports doc." We also discuss the stylistic choices he made to develop a sense of intimacy and how he made "sound a character." Along with Ogens, acclaimed "Friday Night Lights" director PETER BERG serves as an executive producer on the project, so don't be surprised if you feel some of those "clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose" chills when you watch "Audible." Check out the film on Netflix now and let's root for Matt on the 3/27/2022 at the Academy Awards! Trailer below.

Trailer for "Audible" on Netflix

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5htMIBhdGk

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Filmmaker Alexandra Dean Reveals the "Secrets of Playboy"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Wed, 9 Feb 2022 00:05:00 +0000

In this episode, I talk to award-winning director and executive producer ALEXANDRA DEAN about her shocking and powerful 10-part A&E documentary series, Secrets of Playboy, a no-holds-barred exposé on the Playboy empire and legendary founder Hugh Hefner. The series paints a damning portrait of Hefner, the pipe-smoking, silk pajama-wearing mogul, who once was a famed champion of women's rights and the sexual revolution. As Alex tells me on the podcast and you can see in the docu-series, several former Playmates claim Hefner raped, coerced and dominated them, allowing his friends and celebrities (among them Bill Cosby) to do likewise, and fashioned a cult-like environment to satisfy his incessant appetite for sex and power.

Alex talks to me about her investigative process, specifically how she uncovered the dark side of the Playboy Mansion, as numerous former Playmates and employees revealed tales of abuse and cover-ups to keep scandals out of the press. We also discuss the role that E!'s reality show, "The Girls Next Door" played in perpetuating the myth of Hugh Hefner and building up the Playboy facade. Check out the trailer below and watch the series on Mondays on A&E. Listen to our conversation on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. Thanks! 🙏

"Secrets of Playboy" - Trailer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YuWdBMon3EU

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Filmmakers Marilyn Agrelo, Trevor Crafts and Ellen Scherer Crafts Talk "Street Gang: How We Got to Sesame Street"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 3 Jan 2022 01:57:00 +0000

In this episode, I talk to the talented filmmakers of the wonderful HBO documentary, "STREET GANG: HOW WE GOT TO SESAME STREET," a fascinating film that gives a rare window into the early days of the groundbreaking TV series, “Sesame Street,” revealing the creators, artists, writers and educators, who together established one of the most influential and enduring children’s programs in television history. My guests are the fantastic director of the documentary, Marilyn Agrelo, and two of the producers, Trevor Crafts and Ellen Scherer Crafts - both of whom put years into making this film happen. The trio explains how Sesame Street is as relevant today as it was when it began in 1969, and we discuss the many important barriers it broke, becoming an essential part of our culture and national dialogue.

“STREET GANG: HOW WE GOT TO SESAME STREET” is on HBO and HBO Max. Find links to the trailer below and their website. You can hear the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Bleav.com, and TuneIn. See my website below as well. Email questions and suggestions to: NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com 📧 Thanks! 🙏

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQEFS6aKXCU&t=1s

https://www.hbo.com/movies/street-gang-how-we-got-to-sesame-street

https://berkreport.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Director Jody McVeigh-Schultz Talks HBO's "The Murders at Starved Rock"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 02:35:00 +0000

In this episode, I chat with director/editor/producer JODY MCVEIGH-SCHULTZ about his outstanding 3-part HBO true crime documentary series, “The Murders at Starved Rock,” which explores the 1960 brutal murders of three women at Starved Rock State Park in LaSalle, Illinois, and the decades of questions and doubts left in their wake. 🎥 Jody tells me about the pressures of directing his first TRUE CRIME docu-series and how he brought his own style and POV to it but also makes sure to give true crime fans what they want and maintains the HBO standards. 📺 🙌 We discuss how they made this a story as much about generational trauma as it is about the search for truth and who is guilty. Of course, I also had to ask Jody about his time editing DRUNK HISTORY, one of my favorite guilty pleasures. He shares some fun insights from that experience. 😂

You can watch “The Murders at Starved Rock” on HBO and HBO Max and you can hear my interview with Jody and all eps of "No Script, No Problem" on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. See links below to the trailer of the HBO docu-series as well as where to find me on social media. Email any questions you have here: NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com

Thanks! 🙏

https://www.hbo.com/murders-at-starved-rock

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVZL2pAnaZU&t=2s

https://berkreport.com

https://twitter.com/steveberkowitz

https://www.instagram.com/stevemberkowitz/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Academy Award-Winning Filmmaker Eva Orner Talks "Burning" and "Bikram"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 23:53:00 +0000

In this episode, I chat with Academy and Emmy Award-winning film producer and director EVA ORNER, whose incredible works include “Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator” on Netflix, “Burning” on Amazon Prime, "Chasing Asylum," "Out of Iraq," "Taxi to the Dark Side" (she won an Oscar for producing this), and "Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson." Listen as Eva shares some fascinating details about the making of her amazing documentary, "Burning," which takes an unflinching look at the unprecedented and catastrophic Australian bushfires of 2019-2020, known as ‘Black Summer.’ Eva exposes the Australian government's negligence and disregard for climate change, as she documents the deadly effects of fire after fire throughout Australia over the decades. The film tackles the climate crisis head-on and leaves viewers longing for and demanding political change.

Watch "Burning" on Amazon Prime now. There's a link to the film and the trailer below. We also discuss Eva's powerful feature doc about the criminal yoga guru, Bikram Choudhury, which is streaming on Netflix. Her passion for uncovering wrongdoing and shining a light on critical societal issues comes through again here, as it has throughout her career.

Listen to the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. Please remember to subscribe, download, and rate the show with 5 stars. 📧 questions or suggestions to: NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com

Thanks!

https://www.amazon.com/Burning-EVA-ORNER/dp/B09M45NHTX

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTfyD7ALJtU

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Emmy-winning Filmmaker Erika Cohn Talks "Belly of the Beast"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Wed, 1 Dec 2021 05:25:00 +0000

In this episode, I'm psyched to chat with Peabody and Emmy Award-winning director/producer ERIKA COHN, who Variety recognized as one of 2017’s top documentary filmmakers to watch. We discuss her powerful, shocking and incredibly impactful feature doc, "BELLY OF THE BEAST," which exposes modern-day eugenics and illegal sterilizations in California prisons.

Erika explains how she filmed Belly of the Beast over seven years and was able to gain such extraordinary access and intimate accounts from currently and formerly incarcerated people. She shares insight of how patience, passion and determination helped her and her team achieve change in the system and reparations for the victims of forced sterilizations. And the film even boasts a theme song from the one and only Mary J. Blige!

You can find info on Erika and Belly of the Beast below as well as where to find me on social media. Please remember to subscribe, download, and rate "No Script, No Problem" with 5 stars. You can find it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher and TuneIn. Thanks! 🙏

ERIKA'S WEBSITE: https://www.idlewildfilmsinc.com

BELLY OF THE BEAST TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoD7VgFl9EI

MY WEBSITE: https://berkreport.com

MY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/steveberkowitz

MY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/stevemberkowitz/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Award-Winning Filmmaker Sonia Kennebeck Talks "Enemies of the State" and "United States vs. Reality Winner"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sat, 13 Nov 2021 23:58:00 +0000

In this episode, I'm honored to have the award-winning documentary filmmaker SONIA KENNEBECK as my guest, as we discuss 3 of her incredible films: "Enemies of the State," "United States vs. Reality Winner," and "National Bird." In the 3 films, Sonia investigates the critical topics of government surveillance, national security, and the role of the whistleblower in a powerful and necessary way. We talk about how Sonia adjusted in real time during the filming of "Enemies of the State" to several twists and turns in the story. We also get into why she thinks the story of whistleblower Reality Winner needs more attention and why her story is important for all Americans. And of course, we chat about "National Bird," which focuses on the controversial drone program and premiered at the Berlin Film Festival 2016 and was also selected for Tribeca, Sheffield, and IDFA. You can find info on Sonia and her films below as well as where to find me on social media. Please remember to subscribe, download, and rate "No Script, No Problem" with 5 stars. You can find it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher and TuneIn. Thanks! 🙏

SONIA'S WEBSITE: https://www.codebreakerfilms.com

WEBSITE FOR "ENEMIES OF THE STATE": https://www.enemiesofthestate.movie

WEBSITE FOR "NATIONAL BIRD": http://nationalbirdfilm.com

MY WEBSITE: https://berkreport.com

MY TWITTER: https://twitter.com/steveberkowitz

MY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/stevemberkowitz/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Filmmaker Rebecca Halpern Talks About Her New Documentary "Love, Charlie"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 19:48:29 +0000

Love this episode! Producer/Director/Filmmaker REBECCA HALPERN joins "No Script, No Problem" to talk about her new documentary film: "Love, Charlie: The Rise and Fall of Chef Charlie Trotter," which premieres 10/18/21 at the Chicago Film Festival. 🎥 Halpern, a Chicago native, makes her feature doc debut with a complex and nuanced portrait of the legendary chef, Charlie Trotter, who could be a hopeless romantic, who mentored dozens upon dozens of young talents, who is lauded as a wonderful friend and a dedicated father — but could also be enigmatic, mercurial, hot-tempered and dismissive of anyone he felt couldn’t meet his impossibly high standards. Rebecca explains the challenges of making her first film during the pandemic and how she adapted her style and approach but was still able to accomplish her goals. A veteran of true crime, Rebecca talks about how she used her unscripted TV skills as she makes the transition to feature docs. Check out the amazing review "Love, Charlie" received in the Chicago Sun Times below and listen to the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. Thanks! 🙏

https://chicago.suntimes.com/movies-and-tv/2021/10/12/22714995/love-charlie-review-trotter-documentary-chef-chicago

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Anchor Entertainment's Ethan Goldman talks "Rebel Hearts," Dan Rather documentary, and selling docs today

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Thu, 7 Oct 2021 03:03:02 +0000

If you love docs, this is a great episode for you. My guest is award-winning producer ETHAN GOLDMAN, the founder and president of Anchor Entertainment, a production company that collaborates with documentarians and filmmakers to create timely, character-driven content for premium networks and platforms. 🎥 Ethan and I talk about Anchor's incredible feature doc, "Rebel Hearts," which is currently streaming on DISCOVERY +. We also discuss their upcoming documentary about legendary newsman DAN RATHER and why that is such an important project to make at this moment in time.

Ethan also explains what he looks for in a documentary, what it takes to sell a doc today, and provides some advice for young non-fiction filmmakers. 🎞 Please remember to subscribe, download, and rate with 5 stars. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. Email questions to: NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com 📧

Thanks! 🙏

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Executive Producer Patty Ivins Specht Talks "Aly Raisman: Darkness to Light"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 01:29:03 +0000

Veteran executive producer, director and content creator PATTY IVINS SPECHT joins "No Script, No Problem" to discuss her compelling new 3-part documentary special, "ALY RAISMAN: DARKNESS TO LIGHT," which premieres on both LIFETIME and HULU Friday, September 24th. 📺 Specht serves as executive producer and director for this timely and powerful project, as Raisman, the gymnastics gold medalist and world champion, just testified in front of the US Senate about the FBI's failures in her sexual abuse case. Specht tells us this documentary is designed to raise awareness about sexual abuse across all ages and backgrounds while supporting survivors. The special follows Raisman as she meets with individuals who have suffered abuse and discusses their trauma while sharing her story.

Listen as Patty describes what it was like working with Aly and how she approached this project from a unique POV. Here's the teaser for "Aly Raisman: Darkness to Light": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1oc-sT8nJc 🎥

We also discuss Patty's career, which includes reality TV hits like "The Simple Life" and "Dress My Nest." And of course, we chat about the 2021 Emmys. Please subscribe and download the show. You can find it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. 🎙

Thanks! 🙏

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Westbrook Studios' Head of Unscripted Sahara Bushue Talks Pitching, Working with Will & Jada, her Favorite Moments at NBC, and Keys to her Career

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 2 Aug 2021 23:12:21 +0000

The super talented and hilarious Sahara Bushue joins the "No Script, No Problem" podcast to talk about her exciting role as Senior Vice President and Head of Unscripted at Westbrook Studios, a subsidiary of Westbrook Inc., the media company founded by Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith to empower artists to tell stories that connect with a global audience. 🙌

After working for 12 years at NBC, rising all the way to SVP of Alternative Development & Current Programming, Sahara is now on the selling side at Westbrook Studios. She reveals what it's like being on the other end of a pitch and how her time as a buyer is helping her in the new job. Sahara also shares some of her favorite moments from her time at NBC, including a wild story from the set of "America's Got Talent," as well as the best and worst pitches she's ever heard. Listen for all of this and more on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and Tuneln. Thanks! 🙏

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Leftfield Pictures Co-President Shawn Witt Talks "Alone," "Counting Cars," Development Strategy, and TRL

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sat, 31 Jul 2021 21:33:21 +0000

If you're a fan of HISTORY CHANNEL's hit survival series "ALONE," you'll love this episode of the "No Script, No Problem" podcast. 🎙 SHAWN WITT, the Co-President of Leftfield Pictures and an executive producer on the series, breaks down how the show came about, how it's produced, and the keys to casting these incredibly unique individuals. We also chat about Shawn's development strategy in today's always changing entertainment landscape with new streamers popping up all the time. And we get into how Shawn's time as an internal producer at MTV during the "Total Request Live" days helped to hone his skills and create some unforgettable memories. Listen in as Shawn pulls the curtain back to share some stories from BTS of both Alone and TRL. You can find NSNP on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. Thanks! 🙏

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Executive Producer Trip Taylor Talks "Jackass," "Nitro Circus," "Bad Grandpa" and More

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Wed, 30 Jun 2021 09:41:44 +0000

It's hard to believe that iconic prank and stunt show "JACKASS" has been a part of our lives for over 20 years! 🤕 With "Jackass 4" ready to hit theaters this fall, I chatted with Executive Producer TRIP TAYLOR about the keys to the franchise's lasting success, his favorite pranks, working with Johnny Knoxville, the most disgusting and shocking moments, and how the series has evolved over the years from MTV into full length films on the big screen. 🎥 🍿 Trip also executive produces the NITRO CIRCUS franchise with Travis Pastrana so we discuss what it's like to produce a show where someone could literally die and the type of stress and excitement that brings. 🏍

As you can imagine, Trip has some insane and hilarious stories to share from his 21 years with Jackass. Learn how Johnny Knoxville tore his urethra, how they kidnapped Brad Pitt, and why it's not a good idea to wear a fart helmet. 🪖 Definitely an episode you wanna check out. 🙌🎙

Plus, make sure to check out the Jackass Shark Week Special on Discovery Channel Sunday, July 11, at 10 p.m. ET/PT 🦈👍📺

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Filmmaker Kim A. Snyder discusses "Us Kids," her award-winning documentary about the Parkland school shooting

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 20:02:36 +0000

In this episode of "No Script, No Problem," I'm joined by award-winning filmmaker KIM A. SNYDER, director of "US KIDS" - an incredible documentary about the 2018 school shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, and the subsequent student-led worldwide March for Our Lives movement, which became the largest youth protest in American history. Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival, "Us Kids" is an insightful, rousing coming-of-age story of a generation of youth leaders determined to take the reins and fight for justice at a most critical time in our nation’s history.

Listen in as Kim, who won a Peabody Award for her previous documentary "Newtown," reveals how she gained access and trust with the students, traveled the country chronicling the work of the activists for months, and found a way to tell a traumatic story with passion and sensitivity. You can watch "Us Kids" on all Video On Demand platforms. The website and trailer are below.

"Us Kids" Official Website

https://uskidsfilm.com

"Us Kids" Trailer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8xAjFPBg-c&t=2s

Listen to NSNP on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trailblazer Studios SVP Ashleigh DiTonto Talks Tulsa Docs, Pitch Strategies, and the Pros & Cons of WFH

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 21:31:26 +0000

Trailblazer Studios SVP of Development Ashleigh DiTonto joins me to discuss the company's TWO powerful documentaries about the 1921 Tulsa Massacre. DiTonto serves as executive producer on both projects and we chat about how each came about, why they are different, and why it's so important to tell these stories. You can watch "Rise Again: Tulsa and the Reds Summer," directed by Dawn Porter, on Nat Geo and Hulu. Additionally, "The Legacy of Black Wall Street" is directed by Deborah Riley Draper as a 2-part doc for OWN and is streaming now on Discovery +. 🎥

Ashleigh and I also talk about how Trailblazer, which is based in North Carolina, stays competitive with bigger production companies in LA and NY. And as a bonus, she describes how she went from working behind the scenes in porn (yes, seriously) to working at a network to developing reality TV & game shows to producing premium docs. This is a good story, trust me. 👍

Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, and TuneIn. Thanks! 🙏

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mental Health, the WarnerMedia-Discovery Merger, and Improving Inclusion in Entertainment

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 7 Jun 2021 02:50:17 +0000

We cover a lot of topics in this episode, as I welcome back RI-KARLO HANDY, the CEO of Sunwise Media and the founder of the HANDY FOUNDATION. We discuss inclusion and diversity in entertainment, mental health awareness, the massive merger between WarnerMedia and Discovery, and the importance of telling the true story of the 1921 Tulsa Massacre. A year ago, Ri-Karlo came on the show after his post looking for Black editors went viral. Now, he's back to talk about what has changed since then and what his foundation is doing to provide more opportunity and mentorship for people of color, who are looking to break into the entertainment industry.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Into the Shark Tank with Supervising Producers Mindy Zemrak & Sami Aziz

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 31 May 2021 03:07:59 +0000

SHARK TANK superfans - this episode is for you! I chat with supervising casting producer, MINDY ZEMRAK, who has been working the 4-time-Emmy-winner since season 1, as well as supervising producer, SAMI AZIZ. They take us behind the scenes, as the hit ABC show gears up for what will be season 13 this fall. If you've ever had an idea for a product you thought should be on Shark Tank, listen and hear what Mindy looks for in those initial casting calls. She's the first step to getting your product in front of the Sharks!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

HBO Max's "Generation Hustle" Puts Scams in the Spotlight

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 9 May 2021 18:12:51 +0000

Executive Producer and showrunner ANGIE DAY is one of the smartest people I've worked with in my career. In this episode, I chat with Angie about her latest project, HBO Max's "GENERATION HUSTLE," a captivating, shocking and important 10-part documentary series, which shines a light on the world of scams, con men, pyramid schemes, gaslighting, hustlers, and get rich quick schemes.

Filmed during the pandemic, Angie explains how they managed to pull off a complicated, highly stylized docu-series with multiple directors and crews filming simultaneously in dozens of locations. And this eye-opening series covers a crucial topic - how anyone can believe a charismatic individual or big, visionary idea that ends up being a dangerous, often costly scam.

We also discuss Angie's diverse career, as she has also executive produced the sitcoms, "Odd Mom Out" on Bravo and "Donny!" on USA. Find out how she is able to produce effectively in both scripted and unscripted television, something that's not easy to pull off.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Comedy to Comic Books to Reality TV, Adam Freeman Makes It Happen 🙌📺🎤🎥

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 08:03:34 +0000

This is one of my favorite interviews from "No Script, No Problem." If you're looking for stories about Mariah Carey, Tara Reid, or Gene Simmons - this is the episode for you! 🎙 I chat with the multi-talented ADAM FREEMAN, who somehow finds a way to balance his work as President of Creative at Thinkfactory Media ("Mama June Not to Hot"; "Marriage Boot Camp"; "Gene Simmons Family Jewels") 🎥 with his work as a standup comedian and successful writer of comic books (The Highwaymen) & graphic novels. 🦸‍♂️

Adam also shares some wild stories from his decade working at MTV, where he produced iconic shows like "Total Request Live" and "Spring Break". 📺 Adam's drive to create is extraordinary, and he reveals some of his inspirations and keys to his creative process. Give it a listen 🎧 🙏

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Keeping Up With The Kardashians Comes to a Close After 20 Iconic Seasons of Reality TV 📺 🙌💰

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 19 Apr 2021 04:24:45 +0000

After 14 years and 20 seasons on E!, the epic reality TV series KEEPING UP WITH THE KARDASHIANS is finally coming to an end. In this episode of "No Script, No Problem," I talk to FARNAZ FARJAM CHAZAN, an executive producer who has been on the show since season 1 and seen it grow from a filler in the lineup to a mega-hit to a cultural phenomenon. 🎥 💎

FARNAZ is currently the executive vice president of current programming at Bunim-Murray Productions, the company behind KUWTK, and has gone from showrunning the series to now working as the creative executive overseeing it for the company. The show and the family have become and forever will be a big part of her life. Listen as she shares some of her wildest and fondest memories from the show as well as some regrets she has, what she'll miss the most, what it was like dealing with KANYE WEST, and what she thinks the legacy of Keeping Up With The Kardashians will be. 📺

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Filmmakers Taylor Morden & Zeke Kamm Discuss Their Documentary "The Last Blockbuster"

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 01:04:56 +0000

If you're like me and you remember the days of renting videos at the iconic BLOCKBUSTER VIDEO, then you will love this episode of "No Script, No Problem." 🎙 Filmmakers TAYLOR MORDEN and ZEKE KAMM join NSNP to chat about their terrific Netflix documentary, "THE LAST BLOCKBUSTER," which chronicles the dramatic rise and fall of Blockbuster Video and how the one final store in Bend, Oregon, keeps the spirit of a bygone era alive. 📼

Taylor and Zeke share some fascinating details from their 4-year journey to make this film, including: how they shot the movie, financed it, got distribution, and managed to get it on NETFLIX. Plus, the guys provide some very valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers on how to make an independent film. 🎥

The film is cleverly narrated by Lauren Lapkus and includes some fantastic celebrity interviews with Adam Brody, Ione Skye, Doug Benson, Paul Scheer, Kevin Smith, Jamie Kennedy and Ron Funches. Listen to the podcast and then watch "The Last Blockbuster" on Netflix... or vice versa. 😎

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Emmy-winning Producer Russ McCarroll: From the Today Show to Network Executive to CEO of His Own Company

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 2 Apr 2021 02:15:48 +0000

This episode is a fantastic behind the curtain look at a number of nonfiction hits with some fascinating stories from a veteran producer and creative executive. My guest is Russ McCarroll - an Emmy award-winning producer, who is now the CEO and founder of Pocket Square Productions. Prior to that, Russ spent time as a senior vice president of development at both Discovery Channel and the History Channel. And all that came after his time working on NBC's Today show. Some of his many credits include: Sell this House, The Fieldhouse, Alone, The Men Who Built America, Top Gear USA, Mountain Men, Sons of Liberty, Gangland, The World Wars, The Liberator and Knightfall.

Russ shares some incredible insight from his illustrious career, which has entered a new phase, as he runs his own production company with the pressure of selling shows in a competitive environment. We chat about some of his new series like "The Fieldhouse" and "Sell This House" as well as some of his biggest hits from the History Channel: "Alone" and "The Men Who Built America". Plus, he reveals what it was like filming in the White House with Presidents Obama and George W. Bush. You don't want to miss this one!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

🎙 New Teaser - Welcome to No Script, No Problem! 📺 🎥

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 17:43:06 +0000

A fresh teaser for ya! "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM" is the podcast that takes you behind the curtain of non-fiction entertainment like never before with insight from some of the best in the business of documentaries, reality TV, competition shows, true crime, game shows, docu-series, and much more. From "Big Brother" to "The Last Dance" to "Love is Blind" to "All In"… If it’s non-fiction, we’ll get into it. 📺

I’m your host – STEVE BERKOWITZ. I’m a 15-year veteran producer of unscripted television with shows like Extreme Makeover Home Edition, Battlebots, OutDaughtered, The Rachel Zoe Project and Friday Night Tykes among my credits. I also used to be a small-town sports reporter in a previous life. 😬🤦‍♂️🏀 🏈 (Yes, seriously) So, I’ve interviewed thousands of incredibly talented and fascinating people from all walks of life – including dozens of high-profile celebrities, personalities, and athletes. 🎥 🎤

Each episode, I talk to some of the most gifted individuals working in non-fiction entertainment today as well as elites in industries like comedy, writing, sports, business, medicine, and law because, at the end of the day, I’m a storyteller. If you enjoy No Script, No Problem, please subscribe, download and rate the show. It’s available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and TuneIn. You can also find it on Bleav.com and @BleavPodcasts. You can follow me on Twitter and Clubhouse @steveberkowitz and on Instagram @stevemberkowitz. Email any questions or suggestions to NoScriptNoProblemPodcast@gmail.com 📧

If you’re interested in advertising on this show, please contact Bleav at Bleav.com. Thanks for supporting the show! 🎙 🙏

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Filmmaker Elizabeth Lo Talks About Her Movie "Stray" 🐕 and the State of Docs Today 🎥

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 22:16:05 +0000

If you like documentaries, give this episode of "No Script, No Problem" a listen. My guest is award-winning filmmaker ELIZABETH LO, whose debut feature documentary, "STRAY," won the Top Jury Prize at Hot Docs and was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award, a Critics Choice Award, and two Cinema Eye Honors after premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2020. A rising star, Elizabeth has been featured in Filmmaker Magazine’s 25 New Faces of Independent Film, DOC NYC’s 40 Under 40 List, Cannes Lions’ New Directors Showcase, and the artist academics of Locarno Film Festival and New York Film Festival. She tells me about the long 2-year journey making "Stray" in Turkey and the difficult creative choices she had to make throughout the filmmaking process. Elizabeth has some valuable advice for anyone developing or making their own content as well. For information on "Stray," go to - https://www.straymovie.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How "The Real World" Changed TV Forever 📺

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 07:31:54 +0000

If you enjoy unscripted TV of any kind today, you owe a big thanks to the original reality show - MTV'S "THE REAL WORLD," which premiered in 1992. In honor of Paramount + streaming "THE REAL WORLD HOMECOMING: NEW YORK," my guest is George Verschoor, who produced and directed seasons 1-4 of "The Real World" and is a true pioneer of unscripted television. George gets emotional talking about what it was like to return to the original loft with the season 1 cast, where he and the show's creators launched the series 30 years ago. He also reflects on some of his most powerful memories from the groundbreaking reality series, including what it was like to film with season 3's Pedro Zamora just before he passed away from AIDS. We also chat about our time working together on Extreme Makeover Home Edition. Give it a listen and check out "The Real World Homecoming: New York" on Paramount +

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Abby Greensfelder Talks Everywoman Studios, Say Yes to the Dress, and Taking Risks in Reality TV

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sat, 6 Mar 2021 03:33:27 +0000

Executive Producer and creative executive Abby Greensfelder joins "No Script, No Problem" to talk about her groundbreaking new production company: EVERYWOMAN STUDIOS, a purpose-built media company whose mission is to tell female-focused stories that might not otherwise be told, and that can have a positive impact on our culture. She also shares some details from the one-of-a-kind development system they have at Everywoman Studios, known as "Propelle," which is a female-focused accelerator program with the goal to bring more female creators into the non-fiction ecosystem and have more diverse voices making content. And of course, we chat about Abby's monster hit from her time at Half-Yard Productions - TLC's "SAY YES TO THE DRESS". Give it a listen!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

90 Day Fiancé: The Gift That Keeps on Giving for TLC

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Thu, 18 Feb 2021 12:31:37 +0000

If you are one of the millions of 90 Day Fiancé fans out there, then you'll love this episode of "No Script, No Problem!" The dating franchise, which has spawned over a dozen spinoffs, is a juggernaut for TLC, leading the cable network to unprecedented ratings success. I'm joined in this episode by Gabriela Tavakoli Bailey, the VP of Production at TLC and an Executive Producer on 90-Day Fiancé and several of its spinoffs, including: 90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After, 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days, 90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way, The Family Chantel, and Darcey & Stacey. Gaby breaks down what makes the franchise so popular and pulls back the curtain on some of her favorite moments and characters. She also gives us a preview of 3 exciting new spinoffs: Love Games, 90 Day Bares All, and 90 Day: The Single Life. Get the inside scoop on all things "90 Day" with this special episode of NSNP.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Creating Content and Filming Reality TV in the Age of Covid

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Tue, 9 Feb 2021 01:48:41 +0000

On this episode of "No Script, No Problem," I'm joined by two of the best directors of photography / directors in the unscripted genre: JASON "NINJA" WILLIAMS ("The Challenge," "Love and Listings," "The Rap Game") and DAVE THIES ("Peanut Butter Falcon," "Rob Dyrdek's Fantasy Factory," "One Man Army"). 🎥

We talk about the adjustments that camera crews and directors are making during the pandemic to film safely while still getting the same fantastic product on screen. 😷 📺

We also discuss how they achieve a distinct style and/or look while still capturing great story. Dave and Ninja also provide fantastic advice for young, aspiring camera operators and/or directors in the unscripted genre. 🎞

Oh, and Dave shares a pretty hilarious Kanye West story. Def worth a listen. 🎙

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Emmy-Winner David Collins Talks Legendary, Queer Eye, Equal, and Jodie Foster

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 31 Jan 2021 17:27:55 +0000

On this episode of "No Script, No Problem," DAVID COLLINS, the Emmy award-winning Creator and Executive Producer of the critically acclaimed hit NETFLIX series QUEER EYE and the Co-Founder of Scout Productions, talks about some of the biggest moments in his illustrious, award-winning career, which all began in Cincinnati, Ohio. David shares some incredible stories about starting out and working his way up in the industry with legends like JODIE FOSTER and ERROL MORRIS. He also pulls the curtain back and reveals how the idea for Queer Eye came about. That's a story you don't wanna miss. Naturally, David and I also discuss some of his big projects, like LEGENDARY, HBO Max's voguing competition series, THE QUEST, a fantasy reality/scripted hybrid on Disney +, and EQUAL, a powerful four-part docu-series on the history of the LGBTQ+ movement on HBO MAX. You get all that plus some extremely valuable pearls of wisdom from one of the best in the unscripted genre. Give it a listen.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Supper Club's Brian McGinn Talks Chef's Table, Amanda Knox, and Trial by Media

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 24 Jan 2021 06:27:57 +0000

My guest on this episode of "No Script, No Problem" is BRIAN MCGINN, an Emmy-nominated director, writer, producer, show-runner, and the co-founder of the production company SUPPER CLUB. Brian is best known for directing, writing and producing the powerful NETFLIX documentary "Amanda Knox," executive producing and directing the incredibly stylish Netflix food docu-series "Chef's Table," and executive producing and directing the Netflix legal docu-series "Trial By Media." We get into all these projects in detail, including how he sold Chef's Table, whether he thinks Amanda Knox is guilty, and what the media's role is on court cases. Brian also shares some details from Supper Club's upcoming slew of shows for DISNEY +.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Carlos King: A Force to Be Reckoned with in Reality TV

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sat, 16 Jan 2021 01:31:27 +0000

If you love female ensemble docu-soaps, this is a great episode to listen to. Executive Producer CARLOS KING, the CEO of Kingdom Reign Entertainment, joins "No Script, No Problem" to talk about his new unscripted series on OWN, "Belle Collective," as well as his other hits like "Love & Marriage: Huntsville" (OWN), "Behind Every Man" (OWN), and "Hollywood Divas" (TV One). Carlos also talks about his emergence as one of then top producers in REALITY TV, his powerful social media presence, the importance of his faith, and the responsibility he feels being the face of his production company.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Paul DiMeo Talks Extreme Makeover Home Edition, Building Wild, and Reality TV

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 1 Jan 2021 00:10:23 +0000

PAUL DIMEO, a talented and hilarious carpenter and host, who starred for 9 seasons on the Emmy-winning EXTREME MAKEOVER HOME EDITION for ABC and 2 seasons on BUILDING WILD for NAT GEO, joins "No Script, No Problem" to chat about his experience on these 2 dynamic renovation shows and what he takes away from his years building homes, schools and cabins for others. Paul also shares his fond and funny memories of auditioning to be a cast member on Extreme Makeover Home Edition back in the early 2000s and what it was like to make the pilot episode, not knowing the show would be a hit at all. Have a safe NYE and a great 2021, everyone!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WE tv's Ashley McFarlin Buie Talks Love After Lockup, Beyond the Pole, and Keeping the Faith

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 25 Dec 2020 05:19:09 +0000

If you're a fan of shows like LOVE AFTER LOCKUP, BRAXTON FAMILY VALUES or GROWING UP HIP HOP, this episode of the "No Script, No Problem" podcast is for you. Ashley McFarlin Buie, the Vice President of Development for WE tv, joins the show to discuss the cable network's growing and diverse slate, which also includes the edgy docu-series, BEYOND THE POLE. Ashley also reflects on how her time as an executive producer on reality TV shows like SOUTHERN CHARM NEW ORLEANS and GIRLS' CRUISE and how that has shaped her as a network executive. Lastly, Ashley shares her riveting and inspiring personal story of overcoming a daunting and scary medical challenge she faced in her life. That alone is worth a listen. Trust me.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Archie Gips Talks McMillions, Wahlburgers, Unrealistic Ideas, and his Hopes for 2021

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sat, 19 Dec 2020 02:47:35 +0000

If you liked the HBO Emmy-nominated documentary series, McMillions, and/or A&E's hit family docu-sitcom Wahlburgers, give this episode of "No Script, No Problem" a listen. Executive Producer ARCHIE GIPS joins NSNP to share some behind the scenes stories from these incredible hits. Gips also breaks down how he and his partners at UNREALISTIC IDEAS - Mark Wahlberg and Stephen Levinson - are dealing with the pandemic and how he handles the stress of running a production company at this difficult time. Additionally, Archie discusses his rise in the industry from being a writer/director to working on early unscripted shows like Blind Date to being a showrunner on celebrity driven series like Braxton Family Values and Wahlburgers.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

HGTV Exec Loren Ruch Talks Finding New Talent, Working with the Bradys, and Home Renovation Ratings Success

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 29 Nov 2020 02:20:19 +0000

Despite sagging ratings for many cable and broadcast networks, HGTV is thriving. A VERY BRADY RENOVATION attracted more than 28 million total viewers and averaged a 1.59 live plus three-day rating among P25-54! The series also was nominated for an Emmy! CELEBRITY IOU attracted more than 25.7 million total viewers in its first season! And RENOVATION ISLAND attracted more than 22 million total viewers during its 11-week run. How are they doing it? Well, HGTV Group Senior Vice President of Production & Development LOREN RUCH joins this episode of "No Script, No Problem" to talk about the network's ratings success, the evolution of their programming, the type of designers & contractors they look for, the keys to great home renovation shows, and what fans of HGTV can expect in the near future.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Business of Reality TV with Asylum's Ryann Lauckner

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Thu, 19 Nov 2020 15:50:47 +0000

Since its inception, REALITY TV has been the "Wild West" of the entertainment industry - not just creatively but also on the business side. And with the streaming wars going full blast amidst a global pandemic, the industry is changing quicker than ever before. RYANN LAUCKNER, the President & Chief Strategy Officer at Asylum Entertainment Group, joined "No Script, No Problem" to chat about these changes and more. We talk about the lasting effects "working from home" may have on the entertainment industry and how her company has adjusted to the challenges of Covid. We also discuss the best ways for production companies to support producers, the influence of new streamers, and how Asylum has made podcasting part of their business. Asylum, The Content Group, and its partners have produced such shows as: TLC's "Doubling Down with the Derricos," Bravo's "To Rome For Love," Oxygen's "In Ice Cold Blood," and "Eli Roth's History of Horror" on AMC.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Producer Eric Evangelista Talks TLC's "Return to Amish," Netflix's "Deaf U," and Keys to Pitching Shows

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Tue, 10 Nov 2020 18:59:56 +0000

Innovative producer and creative executive ERIC EVANGELISTA, the Co-president of Hot Snakes Media, joins "No Script, No Problem" to talk about his company's fascinating new NETFLIX docu-series, "DEAF U" as well as their long-running hit on TLC - "RETURN TO AMISH" (formerly "BREAKING AMISH"). Eric and I also discuss his keys to pitching shows, what it's like running a production company with his wife, Shannon, and the death of QUIBI. Check it out!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Evolution of the Docu-Soap with Alex Baskin

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 11 Oct 2020 06:13:06 +0000

Evolution Media Co-President ALEX BASKIN joins "No Script, No Problem" to talk about some of the company's biggest hits, such as: The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, The Real Housewives of Orange County, Vanderpump Rules, Botched, and The Hills: New Beginnings, as well as the keys to making a successful DOCU-SOAP these days. He reveals some of his favorite moments from both of their Housewives series and talks about the process of rebooting MTV's "The Hills."

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ugly Brother's Tim Duffy Talks Top Elf, Life After Spike, Working with Family, and Mindfulness

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 2 Oct 2020 08:09:00 +0000

Could you run a company with your sibling? How do you handle stress at work, especially during the pandemic? What's it like working with Santa Claus ? 🎅 🤶 🤷‍♂️👍

I get into these burning topics and much more with TIM DUFFY, the Co-President of UGLY BROTHER STUDIOS and former development executive at Spike (now Paramount Network; soon to be Paramount Movie Network), in this episode of "No Script, No Problem." Our candid, wide-ranging discussion covers everything from how Ugly Bros. is getting back to work with the new Covid-19 protocols to his disappointment with what's happened at Viacom since his departure to how he uses mindfulness to cope with the stress of producing reality TV. Tim also reveals what it's like working with his twin brother, Mike. Finally, Tim tees up what we can expect from the second season of Nickelodeon's Christmas competition series, "Top Elf".

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Lifetime EVP Gena McCarthy Talks Surviving Jeffrey Epstein, Married at First Sight and Swipe Swap

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sat, 19 Sep 2020 23:27:46 +0000

In a must-listen-to episode, Gena McCarthy - the EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT and HEAD OF PROGRAMMING for LIFETIME UNSCRIPTED and FYI - joins "No Script, No Problem" to chat about their powerful docu-series, SURVIVING JEFFREY EPSTEIN, and their long-running relationship series, MARRIED AT FIRST SIGHT. Gena also teases an exciting new Lifetime project with SARAH JESSICA PARKER, explains what people should be pitching her, and reveals the worst pitch she's ever heard. You don't want to miss that. Trust me. 😊

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Showrunner Spotlight: Sean Rankine Talks Basketball Wives, Iyanla: Fix My Life, and Rap Game

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 00:07:58 +0000

Veteran executive producer SEAN RANKINE joins "No Script, No Problem" to chat about the upcoming season of OWN's hit series, "IYANLA: FIX MY LIFE" and share his keys to bringing out the best in talent like Diddy, Shaunie O'Neal, Yolanda Hadid, Iyanla Vanzant and Jermaine Dupri. Sean also details his philosophy on show running, how he balances chaos and story on set, the turning point in his career, and how he tries to keep things positive on his shows. From "Basketball Wives" to "Making the Band" to "The Rap Game" to "College Hill" and "Iyanla: Fix My Life" - Sean has a resume filled with hits, and we are lucky he is sharing some pearls of wisdom on NSNP.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Talking Development with History Channel's Amy Savitsky

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Wed, 26 Aug 2020 14:25:02 +0000

AMY SAVITSKY, Senior Vice President, Development and Programming at HISTORY CHANNEL, joins "No Script, No Problem" in a riveting discussion about what gets a show a greenlight, what makes a good pitch, why there are so many shows in ALASKA, and what she's looking for as a buyer in the time of a global pandemic. We examine her exciting, unique journey as a creative executive from Discovery Health to Discovery Channel to TLC, A&E and now landing at History at such a pivotal time for our nation. We get into the stories behind some of the biggest, most explosive series she's helped develop, such as: "MY 600-POUND LIFE," "LEAH REMINI: SCIENTOLOGY AND THE AFTERMATH," and "THE MURDER OF LACI PETERSON." And I couldn't talk to a History Channel exec without discussing "ALONE!"

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

MTV's "The Challenge" is the Reality Show That Keeps on Giving

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Wed, 19 Aug 2020 23:48:57 +0000

In an age where TV shows are lucky to get a second season, it's incredible to think that MTV's "THE CHALLENGE" just finished its 35th season with a 36th coming up. Executive Producer JULIE PIZZI, the President of Entertainment and Development at Bunim-Murray Productions, joins "No Script, No Problem" to chat about the keys to success of their long-running hit series, which she has been a part of for 12 seasons. Julie also reveals how "TOTAL BELLAS" and "KEEPING UP WITH THE KARDASHIANS" are managing to film during the pandemic, what it's like producing LAVAR BALL, and how development is changing for her team.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Arthur Smith Talks Titan Games, Ninja Warrior and 20 Years of Reality TV Hits

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 9 Aug 2020 21:42:20 +0000

Legendary unscripted producer ARTHUR SMITH - the Chairman of A.Smith and Co. and the Chairman of Tinopolis USA - joins "No Script, No Problem" for a wide-ranging discussion, as his company approaches its 20-year-anniversary. We chat about working with DWAYNE JOHNSON on THE TITAN GAMES, AMERICAN NINJA WARRIOR'S evolution from Japanese fringe sensation to an American fitness phenomenon, and the genius of GORDON RAMSAY on HELL'S KITCHEN. Arthur also reveals how his company is finding a way to film during the pandemic and what to expect from their exciting, upcoming gospel music series on NETFLIX with PHARRELL.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ri-Karlo Handy Talks Diversity in Hollywood After Facebook Post Goes Viral

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 19:59:43 +0000

Editor, producer, director and CEO of Sunwise Media, RI-KARLO HANDY, joins "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM" to talk about the firestorm of controversy surrounding his Facebook post on June 16th looking for "black union editors" and what's transpired since then, including a renewed push for more diversity and inclusion throughout not just REALITY TV but the ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY as a whole. Also, producer TIFFANY MILLS returns to NSNP, as we discuss TYRA BANKS taking over as host of "DANCING WITH THE STARS" and COLIN KAEPERNICK'S new overall deal with DISNEY.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Queer Eye and the Magic of the Makeover

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 22:12:53 +0000

Showrunner extraordinaire JEN LANE of the NETFLIX smash hit "QUEER EYE" joins "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM" to discuss the keys to the success of the two-time Emmy-winning transformation series, her favorite moments on set and the show's cultural relevance at a time of great division in America. Plus, Jen talks about the chemistry between the FAB 5, the immense amount of work that goes into making the show and how they are handling the pandemic.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From True Crime to Renovation to Podcasts, Producer Nancy Glass Can Do It All

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Wed, 1 Jul 2020 07:33:21 +0000

Super Producer NANCY GLASS joins "No Script, No Problem" to talk about her rise from host and reporter to owning her highly successful Glass Entertainment Group, which has pumped out hits like "The Vet Life," "Pool Kings," "Tanked," "Manson: The Women," "Method of a Serial Killer," "Desert Flippers," "Kemper on Kemper: Inside the Mind of a Serial Killer," "Hit Properties with Nathan Morris," and "Pope: The Most Powerful Man in History." Nancy shares some incredible stories about interviewing Jeffrey Dahmer, exploring the Catholic Church's archives, and she even gives us a preview of her upcoming series on Abraham Lincoln for CNN.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Race and Reality TV

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 19 Jun 2020 16:24:18 +0000

Four of the top producers in REALITY TV join host Steve Berkowitz for a candid discussion about RACE in the unscripted genre and the powerful, dramatic, life-changing events taking place in our country right now. CARLOS KING (Styling Hollywood, The Real Housewives of Atlanta), JODI BASKERVILLE (The Bachelor, The Bachelorette), TIFFANY MILLS (Rhythm and Flow, Love and Hip Hop: Atlanta) and SUN DE GRAAF (Summer House, Vanderpump Rules) each provide tremendous insight and share personal experiences about racial issues they've dealt with in our industry and where they believe this movement in our nation will go from here. Recorded on 06/10/20.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Big Brother and the Art of the Reality Competition Series

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 1 Jun 2020 06:31:18 +0000

Veteran "BIG BROTHER" Co-Executive Producer HEATH LUMAN - one of the top challenge producers in unscripted television - joins "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM" to talk about what makes a great REALITY COMPETITION SERIES and how he and his team pull off such incredible and innovative games on CBS's long running summer smash hit. *Note: This episode was recorded a couple wks ago prior to the protests of the past few weeks.*

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sacha Jenkins and the Rise of a Documentary Filmmaker

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Mon, 1 Jun 2020 00:06:51 +0000

Acclaimed producer, journalist, musician, author and documentary filmmaker SACHA JENKINS talks with host Steve Berkowitz about the explosion of DOCUMENTARIES in recent years and why they've become so popular. The talented director of "FRESH DRESSED" (CNN), "WORD IS BOND," and "WU-TANG CLAN: OF MICS AND MEN" (Showtime) breaks down his unique evolution as a storyteller, the keys to his success as a filmmaker, and what we can expect from his upcoming RICK JAMES doc.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Unmasking Fox's Smash Hit - The Masked Singer

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Fri, 1 May 2020 02:45:30 +0000

Showrunner extraordinaire IZZIE PICK-IBARRA joins "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM" to talk about her journey from producing hits overseas in England to bringing DANCING WITH THE STARS to life here in the U.S and now running Fox's ratings juggernaut, THE MASKED SINGER. We chat about the costumes, clues, celebrities and why The Masked Singer has become a favorite among American families. Izzie also has plenty of amazing stories to share - from having someone hold costumes hostage to people throwing meat at contestants - it's an episode REALITY TV fans will love.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dating Shows: The Lighthearted Way

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 15:30:42 +0000

On this episode of "No Script, No Problem," host Steve Berkowitz is joined by the co-presidents of LIGHTHEARTED ENTERTAINMENT, JEFF SPANGLER and ROB LAPLANTE, producers of such hits as MTV's "ARE YOU THE ONE?" and OWN's "READY TO LOVE". The talented duo explain how they are adapting to the pandemic, describe what goes into making a successful relationship show, and share some great stories from VH-1's "DATING NAKED." Plus, Rob talks about his time producing "THE APPRENTICE" with TRUMP.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How Below Deck Mediterranean Became a Hit for Bravo

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 00:27:55 +0000

BELOW DECK MEDITERRANEAN showrunner NADINE RAJABI joins host Steve Berkowitz on this special COVID-19 episode of "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM." The duo discuss why the nautical docu-soap has become a big hit for BRAVO, how she's running the show during the "shelter in place" situation, and how the coronavirus will affect the entertainment industry. Plus, Nadine describes her wild journey from comedian and writer to one of the top executive producers in REALITY TV.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Finding the Funny in Reality TV

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Thu, 12 Mar 2020 10:43:31 +0000

In this episode of "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM," host Steve Berkowitz has a lively chat with showrunner and writer, TODD HURVITZ, about a wide array of topics, including: mustaches, singing in the shower, tasing LaToya Jackson, creating comedy in reality TV, pranking celebrities on "PUNK'D" and pranking students - with celebrities - on his new NICKELODEON series, "THE SUBSTITUTE."

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Dating Shows to Supernanny: A Lifetime of Reality TV

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Tue, 25 Feb 2020 19:53:52 +0000

In this episode of "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM," host Steve Berkowitz chops it up with CAT RODRIGUEZ, the VP of Unscripted Development and Programming at LIFETIME. The duo discuss what makes a successful dating show, the SUPERNANNY reboot, MARRYING MILLIONS, Steve's need for therapy, Cat's move from producer to network executive, and their admiration of Netflix's documentary series, "DON'T F**K WITH CATS."

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Extreme Makeover Home Edition is Back!

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 16 Feb 2020 18:14:24 +0000

On this episode of "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM," host Steve Berkowitz breaks down the reboot and revival of legendary renovation and transformation show, EXTREME MAKEOVER HOME EDITION, with the show's executive producer and showrunner, BRADY CONNELL. The two discuss how the show has changed, moving from ABC to HGTV and with a brand new cast of designers, but how the feel-good core of the program has stayed the same.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Travel, Food and Transformation in Reality TV

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Wed, 29 Jan 2020 18:52:01 +0000

In this episode of “NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM,” veteran producer and current Paramount Network executive CHAZ GRAY joins host STEVE BERKOWITZ to discuss the evolution of travel, food, transformation and competition television. From his early days producing "AMAZING RACE" to his time as showrunner on "TOP CHEF" to his role now overseeing "BAR RESCUE," Chaz shares some terrific stories and insight, as he has traveled the world and worked with some of the best talent in reality TV... and even Nancy Pelosi.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Erin Ryder Talks Ghosts, Monsters, UFOs and Reality TV

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 12 Jan 2020 22:10:33 +0000

In this episode, producer, explorer, and paranormal expert ERIN RYDER joins "No Script, No Problem," as we examine the rise of ghost hunting, monster chasing, mystery solving, and UFO searching in REALITY TV. Ryder – the former co-host of “DESTINATION TRUTH” – is a veteran of several paranormal shows and shares numerous tales of escaping death, breaking bones, and even getting stuck on the Great Wall of China.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Teaser: Welcome to No Script, No Problem

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Tue, 24 Dec 2019 18:01:59 +0000

Welcome to "NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM," the show that takes you behind the curtain of unscripted television like never before with insight from some of the best in the business of reality tv, documentary series, competition shows, social experiment, and game shows. Host STEVE BERKOWITZ is a 15-year veteran producer of unscripted TV with shows like "Extreme Makeover Home Edition," "The Rachel Zoe Project," and "Battlebots" and "OutDaughtered" among his many credits.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Punk’d and the Reality TV Reboot

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 22 Dec 2019 16:54:30 +0000

In this episode of “NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM,” host Steve Berkowitz examines the unscripted sub-genre of prank shows and hidden camera reality TV with producer and developer Matt Mazzant, who discusses his days as a writer, producer and prankster on “Punk’d,” a game-changing show, originally on MTV that is being rebooted for Quibi.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Wild World of Reality TV Development

noscriptnoproblempodcast@gmail.com (Bleav Podcast Network) — Sun, 22 Dec 2019 16:02:20 +0000

In this episode of “NO SCRIPT, NO PROBLEM,” host Steve Berkowitz breaks down the dynamic and unpredictable landscape of selling UNSCRIPTED TV shows today with one of the REALITY TV industry’s best developers and sellers, Madison Merritt, the SVP of Alternative Programming at eOne in the U.S. The duo talk about the keys to getting a sale, the importance of attaching talent, and the evolution of pitching over the years.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.