Best Dustin Elkin Media Podcasts (2025)

1
The Power of Preserving Family Legacies with Heritage Films 42:49

12d ago42:49

42:49

In this conversation, filmmaker Chance McClain sits down with host Candice Bloch and shares his journey from a diverse creative background to founding Heritage Films, a company dedicated to creating personal legacy documentaries. He discusses the importance of storytelling, connecting generations, the emotional impact of capturing family histories,…

1
Woman of Vision Honoree Talks Latest Project with Co-Creators 32:32

26d ago32:32

32:32

In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with three WIFV members about their independent feature film, THE OTHER YOU, and how the movie went from an idea during the pandemic to its premiere during the DC Independent Film Festival in March 2025. The surreal comedy sheds light on how a wife and mother tries to find time to work on her writing when a…

1
Editing Your Career: A Conversation with Dustin Elkin 29:23

1M ago29:23

29:23

Host Tara Jabbari interviews editor Dustin Elkin who has worked in Los Angeles and Chicago for clients such as CBS, Mattel, Hallmark, and Bally’s. During their conversation, Dustin shares the importance of networking, his work ethic, and why he is a fan of utilizing AI for his work - including for his own podcast, The Video Editing Guru Podcast. Co…

1
Host Special: Celebrating 100 Episodes! 53:47

2M ago53:47

53:47

In this celebratory 100th episode of MediaMaker Spotlight, our three hosts - Candice, Sandra, and Tara - reflect on their journey, the evolution of the podcast, and the impact of Women in Film & Video. They discuss the transition to video content, the diverse range of topics covered, and the importance of networking within the industry. The convers…

1
Producing Decades of Hollywood Blockbusters 40:18

2M ago40:18

40:18

In this episode, host Candice Bloch interviews William Fay, a seasoned producer and motion picture executive, discussing his extensive career in the film industry. Bill, known for producing and executive producing many notable projects through the years such as Independence Day, The Patriot, 300, The Hangover, The Town, and more, elaborates on the …

1
Words of War: Refusing to Silence Press Freedom (Part 2) 37:09

3M ago37:09

37:09

In this second episode of a special two-part series, host Sandra Abrams chats with Maxine Peake about her portrayal of Anna Politkovskaya, a Russian-American journalist, in the film Words of War. Maxine shares what it was like to play the real life reporter, wife, and mother of two who risked her life to uncover the truth about the Chechen War. Ann…

1
Words of War: Refusing to Silence Press Freedom (Part 1) 28:27

3M ago28:27

28:27

In this first episode of a special two-part series, host Sandra Abrams chats with Mark Maxey, WIFV board member and producer of a new geo-political thriller, WORDS OF WAR. The film tells the story of Russian-American journalist, Anna Politkovskaya, who was assassinated on October 7, 2006 for uncovering the truth about the Chechen War. The film open…

1
Greenlighting Sustainable Eco-Friendly Productions 28:30

4M ago28:30

28:30

Ahead of Earth Day, host Candice Bloch interviews Kat Friis, an Emmy award-winning producer and founding member of Green the Bid, a grassroots, non-profit industry organization that aims to shift the media production industry to zero-waste, minimal carbon, sustainable and regenerative practices. The two discuss the importance of sustainability in t…

1
S2E13: Effortless Creativity with Adobe Firefly: Boosting Your Workflow and Visuals 4:05

4M ago4:05

4:05

In this episode of "The Video Editing Guru", host Dustin introduces Adobe Firefly to listeners as an essential tool for creatives in the video editing world. He details how Firefly, a generative AI engine, allows users to create images, text effects, and design elements, thus enhancing their projects and speeding up their workflow. Dustin discusses…

1
Indie Filmmaking in Remote Areas & Communities 38:39

4M ago38:39

38:39

Host Tara Jabbari has a conversation with Catherine Haigh and Hannah Congdon to explore the journey of creating their documentary, Women Behind the Wheel, which focuses on women's empowerment in remote communities. They highlight the importance of research, language, cultural challenges, and community support as they share their experiences connect…

1
MediaMaker Spotlight Trailer 2:24

4M ago2:24

2:24

MediaMaker Spotlight, the official podcast of the DC-based non-profit, Women in Film & Video, features conversations with industry professionals on a range of topics of interest to screen-based media makers. It's a must-listen resource for filmmakers of all interests and experience levels! Through fun and inspiring interviews with award-winning cre…

1
Practicing Safe Sets: Improving Production Health & Safety 34:15

5M ago34:15

34:15

Dr. Paul Heinzelmann of the documentary feature, Safe Sets, and Becky Morrison of the production company, The Light, sit down with host Candice Bloch to discuss humane production practices. They explore the systemic issues affecting health and safety on set, alarming statistics regarding mental health, and the historical context of production pract…

1
New Doc Feature: Who the Hell is Regina Jones? 35:07

5M ago35:07

35:07

Host Sandra Abrams chats with publishing trailblazer Regina Jones and Soraya Sélène, one of the co-directors of the new documentary, “WHO THE HELL IS REGINA JONES?” The film tells the remarkable story of Jones’s journey from being a financially struggling young mother of five to witnessing the Watts Rebellion in 1965 to creating and running SOUL ne…

1
Actor Carl Lumbly Reflects on Alias, Captain America, & More 32:11

6M ago32:11

32:11

In this episode, host Tara Jabari interviews actor Carl Lumbly, known for his roles in Captain America, Alias, Doctor Sleep, and more. They discuss Lumbly's portrayal of Isaiah Bradley in the latest Captain America: Brave New World, a character rooted in historical injustices faced by African Americans, and the thematic elements of love and sacrifi…

1
Host Special: Love, Laughs, and the Rom-Com Genre 46:40

6M ago46:40

46:40

It’s time for another all-hosts special! Hosts Sandra, Tara, and Candice chat all about romantic comedies ahead of Valentine’s Day. We discuss some of our favorite films, actors, and tropes within the ubiquitous rom-com genre, while also sharing some fun facts. You’ll love hearing the banter about meet-cutes and steamy scenes, and you may even disc…

1
Stories that Reframe Aging and Celebrate Older Women 34:15

6M ago34:15

34:15

Documentary filmmaker Melissa Davey sits down with host Candice Bloch in this episode to discuss her filmmaking journey and her latest film, Climbing Into Life. The film is about the remarkable story of Dierdre Wolownick, an accomplished writer, artist and musician who got into rock climbing later in life and, at age 66, became the oldest woman to …

1
Art Amidst Adversity: A Journey from Ukraine to Venice 32:53

7M ago32:53

32:53

In this episode, host Tara Jabbari speaks with Zhanna Ozirna, a Ukrainian filmmaker whose first feature film premiered at the Venice Film Festival. They talk about the inspiration behind her film, the importance of art showcasing challenges like war, winning the Biennale Cinema Competition, plus much more. The film, Honeymoon (English title) is abo…

1
September 5: Inside the Day of Terror That Changed Live TV 17:05

7M ago17:05

17:05

In this episode, host Candice Bloch has a brief chat with Director Tim Fehlbaum and actors Leonie Benesch and Ben Chaplin of the film September 5. They talk about some of what went into producing the film, which unveils the decisive moment that forever changed media coverage and continues to impact live news today. Set during the 1972 Munich Summer…

1
Making Films That Highlight Shared Humanity 28:32

8M ago28:32

28:32

In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with Monda Raquel Webb, former EVP of WIFV (and still a board member), and winner of the 2024 Trailblazer Award from the African American Women in Cinema of New York City. Webb is a book author, filmmaker, and performance artist. As an independent storyteller, she is dedicated to telling stories hidden in t…

1
An Actor’s Career Retrospective and Observations 36:21

8M ago36:21

36:21

During a virtual press junket for 2024’s summer blockbuster, Borderlands, actor Benjamin Byron Davis spoke with host Tara Jabbari to discuss his role in the film, plus his experience working in over 50 projects ranging from Gilmore Girls to Guardians of the Galaxy. They talked about what makes a successful and worthwhile colleague in the film indus…

1
Creating Visual Alchemy & Continuity Through VFX Editorial 43:49

9M ago43:49

43:49

VFX editor and DC native, Anedra Edwards sits down with host Candice Bloch to give us a peek behind the curtain of visual effects magic. Anedra shares her knowledge from over 15 years of experience in VFX and picture editing for film and TV, working with world’s biggest entertainment companies including Marvel, Netflix, HBO, BET, Discovery, NatGeo,…

1
Woman of Vision: Sylvia Bugg 32:07

9M ago32:07

32:07

In this episode, host Sandra Abrams sits down with another of WIFV’s 2024 Woman of Vision honorees, Sylvia Bugg. As the Chief Programming Executive and General Manager of General Audience Programming for PBS, Bugg shares insight into why she is a life-long learner, how her previous experience at Discovery and CPB shaped her, and what leadership ski…

1
American Masters: Creative Spark with Minnie Driver 31:26

9M ago31:26

31:26

Today, we’re sharing a special episode from our friends at PBS’ Webby Award-winning podcast American Masters: Creative Spark. Join host Joe Skinner as he speaks with Oscar-nominated actress Minnie Driver about how she took on the role of one of the most powerful women in history. She talks about the joy of acting in period pieces, and reminds us to…

1
The Magic Makers: A Conversation with a VFX Producer 20:58

10M ago20:58

20:58

Host Tara Jabbari talks all about visual effects with Leah Orsini, a VFX Producer with over 20 years of experience. Leah shares how she started in production and moved to be a VFX Producer, and talks about projects she worked on such as The Gilded Age, Blindspot, Mr. Robot, Falling Skies, and Split, among others. You’ll learn about the difference b…

1
Behind the Mix: Exploring Audio Excellence 43:47

10M ago43:47

43:47

Great sound is the mark of a quality project. In this episode, host Candice Bloch has a conversation with Charlie Hewitt of Mirror Studios to discuss all things audio post and sound design. From the difference between audio mixing and audio mastering, to layering in all the right sound effects at all the right levels, to the new frontier of fully i…

1
Lessons in Filmmaking with What Went Wrong Podcast 41:22

11M ago41:22

41:22

The What Went Wrong podcast series brings you behind-the-scenes of films from massive flops to record-breaking blockbusters to shed a light on what it really takes to make a film. The show’s hosts, Lizzie Bassett and Chris Winterbauer speak with Tara Jabbari about what they learned about what it really takes to make a film, why James Cameron punche…

1
Join the Celebration: Women in Film & Video Turns 45! 29:14

11M ago29:14

29:14

Women in Film & Video (WIFV) is turning 45! To mark the occasion, there’s going to be a big dance party on Friday, September 13. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with WIFV Board President Connie St. John to learn more about the organization and the celebration. They discuss how this amazing non-profit got started back in 1979, how it serve…

1
Host Special: Renaming, Recasting, Rebranding 43:37

12M ago43:37

43:37

In this special all-host episode, we are thrilled to debut our new podcast name, MediaMaker Spotlight! During their conversation, hosts Sandra Abrams, Candice Bloch, and Tara Jabbari explain the story behind our rebranding and how making the announcement inspired us to chat about some memorable Hollywood renames and recasts in television shows and …

1
Two Thumbs Up: How Siskel & Ebert Shaped Film Critiquing 46:44

12M ago46:44

46:44

In this episode, host Sandra Abrams has a conversation with Matt Singer - film critic, editor, podcaster, and author- about his new book, “Opposable Thumbs: How Siskel & Ebert Changed Movies Forever.” The book offers an insightful and funny look into the iconic pair of film reviewers and their combative style, and shares details about how their THU…

1
Addressing Representation & Belonging With Molly McGlynn 28:52

1y ago28:52

28:52

In this episode, host Tara Jabbari sits with writer and director Molly McGlynn to talk about her new film, “Fitting In.” The comedic coming-of-age drama, starring Maddie Ziegler and Emily Hampshire, is a semi-autobiographical story about Molly’s journey with MRKH Syndrome. Molly shares the challenges but also the support she had while sharing such …

1
Giving Screenplays New Life With Immersive Audio Dramas 38:25

1y ago38:25

38:25

More stories get written than make it to screen, so what becomes of these lost narratives? In this episode, host Candice Bloch sits down with producer James Walker to dive into a project he and his company, Velocity Studios have embarked upon to revive some of these scripts in an exciting new way. You’ll learn how they produce immersive experiences…

1
Woman of Vision: E. Samantha Cheng 41:12

1y ago41:12

41:12

In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with WIFV’s 2024 Women of Vision honoree E. Samantha Cheng about her long resume in the media world. She is a writer, director, and producer that has worked in New York City and London before making the DMV home. Her passion and support of the Asian American community has formed the foundation of her work w…

1
Discussing Film Portrayals with The Bechdel Cast Podcast 46:17

1y ago46:17

46:17

In this special double-host, double-guest episode, hosts Tara Jabbari and Candice Bloch sit down with Caitlin Durante and Jamie Loftus, the co-hosts of the popular podcast, The Bechdel Cast. The quartet of podcasters discuss The Bechdel Cast, a weekly podcast from iHeartRadio, that dives into the representation of women and other underrepresented g…

1
Bridgerton on Netflix: Behind the Scenes of Season 3 51:38

1y ago51:38

51:38

Lady Whistledown has news: Dearest Gentle Listener - Bridgerton is back! The Regency period romantic drama from Shonda Rhimes dropped on May 16 on Netflix. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with many members of the talented production team to learn how Season 3 came together. Sandra discusses the music with Oscar-winner Kris Bowers, the war…

1
Bringing Action to Life with Stunts and Motion Capture 45:24

1y ago45:24

45:24

Professional stuntwoman, motion capture performer, and champion martial artist, Thekla Hutyrova sits down with host Candice Bloch for a fun conversation all about bringing action to our screens - on film, television, and in video games. Thekla has worked on films such as Alita: Battle Angel, Logan, and Deadpool 2, shows such as Agents of S.H.I.E.L.…

1
"Women of Valor" Doc: Orthodox Women Find Their Voice 28:27

1+ y ago28:27

28:27

Israeli director, Anna Somershaf sits down with host Sandra Abrams in this episode to talk about her award-winning feature documentary, Women of Valor. The film follows the odyssey of Esty Shushan, an orthodox mother and wife, as she seeks to change the law for Haredi women to be elected representatives to Israel's Knesset. Over a five year period,…

1
Crafting Comedy: A TV Writer's Journey 26:06

1+ y ago26:06

26:06

Up-and-coming television comedy writer, Julia Lindon sits down with host Candice Bloch in this episode to chat about her journey in writing. You’ll learn more about the dynamics of the writers’ room, hear stories about leveraging connections to get in the door, and get a glimpse into the process of honing her comedy chops and bringing stories to th…

1
"Oscar Wars" Author Talks 94 Years of Golden Moments 31:05

1+ y ago31:05

31:05

In this episode, Michael Schulman, author of "Oscar Wars: A History of Hollywood in Gold, Sweat, and Tears'' sits down with host Tara Jabbari for a conversation about notable Oscars moments and their larger significance. Michael shares how voting works for the Academy Awards, and the two discuss how the famous ceremony is a lens into how Hollywood …

1
Reality TV: Our Hosts Take a Candid Look 39:20

1+ y ago39:20

39:20

In this episode - our first with a video companion - join all three of our hosts on a journey through the dynamic world of American reality TV. We explore its origins, cultural impact, and evolving genres. From the groundbreaking series "The Real World'' to the global phenomenon of "Keeping Up with the Kardashians," we unpack how these shows reflec…

1
PBS’s Grantchester Star Talks Disability and Acting (Rerun) 33:06

1+ y ago33:06

33:06

People with disabilities have been historically underrepresented in the entertainment industry. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with U.K.- based actress, writer, and disability advocate, Melissa Johns. Johns explains how she landed the role as the brainy Miss Scott in the British detective series, Grantchester, where her disability (born …

1
The Rewarding Chaos of Live Broadcasting (Rerun) 41:29

1+ y ago41:29

41:29

You’ve only got one chance to get it right when the broadcast is live. In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with Remote Operations Manager, Pam Chvotkin all about the fast-paced and intense world of live event coverage. Pam has years of broadcast production experience ranging from professional sports, to concerts, competitions, awards shows, a…

1
Two Thumbs Up For Film Critics (Rerun) 57:31

1+ y ago57:31

57:31

Thumbs up, thumbs down? Five stars (or are four stars the highest number?)! In this episode, host Tara Jabbari speaks with film critics to discuss how viewing films has changed over the last few years. When is it worth going to the movie theater? Where should we look to know what’s worth seeing? What’s the difference between Rotten Tomatoes versus …

1
Accessing the Marginalized So We're All Seen & Heard (Rerun) 32:33

1+ y ago32:33

32:33

Making a career pivot after 15 years in one job takes guts and some financial planning. Then add to the mix several disabilities and it sounds impossible. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams talks to filmmaker, advocate, and podcaster, Ariel Baska. Ariel shares how she made the leap to a new film career in a niche genre: Queer Horror, and founded t…

1
Exceeding Indie TV Show SEXPECTATIONS (Rerun) 36:47

1+ y ago36:47

36:47

In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with the creative team behind the hit indie TV show, ‘Sexpectations.’ Writer Jenna St. John and Director Kevin Good shed light on how they took the series from story concept through production, post-production, and eventually out to audiences on major streaming platforms. They talk about their multi-year jo…

1
Woman of Vision: Abby Greensfelder (Rerun) 35:20

1+ y ago35:20

35:20

Abby Greensfelder has an instinct for developing not only iconic cable shows such as, “Say Yes to the Dress,” but also documentaries featuring icons Megan Rapinoe and Alicia Keys. In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with the indie filmmaker and native Washingtonian, ahead of the World Premiere of UNCHARTED at the Tribeca Film Festival in June…

1
Casting the Best Performers for Your Project (Rerun) 32:06

1+ y ago32:06

32:06

Originally released Oct 1, 2023 The choice of who is cast in a role can make or break a performance. In this episode, host Candice Bloch talks with casting director Anne Chapman all about the art and business of casting a project. Anne draws on her decades of professional experience casting projects of all sizes and styles as they discuss the metho…

1
An In-Depth Focus on Cinematography (Rerun) 23:17

1+ y ago23:17

23:17

Originally released on Oct. 8, 2023 What is the difference between a cinematographer, camera operator, and director of photography? Has there been more gender diversity behind the scenes? What is the difference between filming on digital versus film? These questions and more are covered in this episode as host Tara Jabbari speaks with the award-win…

1
The Art of Production Design (Rerun) 35:44

1+ y ago35:44

35:44

Originally released Nov. 12, 2023 Screen-based media by its very nature, relies on visuals. And as stories unfold on set, the art department is key in not only building those sets, but making them look the part for the world being created. In this episode, host Candice Bloch sits down with Betsy Zuck, an experienced Production Designer, Set Decorat…

1
How 52 Literary Gems Became Films We Love (Rerun) 29:46

1+ y ago29:46

29:46

Originally released on Sept. 14, 2023 Love the movie? Read the book before it’s banned! In this episode, host Sandra Abrams chats with Kristen Lopez, author of "But Have You Read the Book? 52 Literary Gems That Inspired Our Favorite Films” in association with Turner Classic Movies. Kristen knows her topic as creator of the Ticklish Business podcast…

1
Shimmy Isaacs of Netflix South Africa's Unseen (Rerun) 42:01

1+ y ago42:01

42:01

Originally released May 14, 2023 In this episode, host Tara Jabbari sits down with actor Shimmy Isaacs on location in Cape Town, South Africa to talk about her Netflix hit crime thriller, Unseen. They discuss the show, Shimmy's acting journey in drama and comedy, her writing process, her time in the USA, and how the arts is a universal language. Yo…

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Dustin Elkin Media Podcasts

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