CUT! The Podcast

In this insightful interview, filmmaker Natalie Erika James shares her journey from film school to Sundance success, exploring her unique approach to horror, industry insights, and the evolution of her voice across two Sundance films, Relic and Saccharine. Discover how her cross-cultural background influences her storytelling and what’s next in her career.Keep the conversation going:Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontentTikTok - @cut.the.podYouTube - @UndertowContentWeb - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/Credits:Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowneProduced by Ashlee RussellEditorial Direction & Marketing by Ruth BaileyMusic by Genevieve PatrickArtwork by Fifth Studio Design Co

In this episode, Josie Fite shares her journey from making films with just a DSLR and cardboard in her living room to developing her feature film, "I'm Your Baby." She discusses the importance of instinct, personal storytelling, and the power of community and collaboration in indie filmmaking.Fundraising party RSVP link: https://partiful.com/events/neEVcFljWQdP90TqUNaQ/editIYB website: imyourbabymovie.comSocials: @imyourbabymovie 

In this episode, Amanda's longtime Hollywood pal and publicist to the stars, Chris Rossi shares his unfiltered journey from stage dancer, teenage talent agent to a force for good in LA PR circles. From hustling in talent and product placement in his early days to navigating today’s rapidly evolving media landscape, Chris breaks down what it takes to stay relevant—and indispensable. Spoiler alert - Chris has lived a life - jamming with James Taylor in his lounge room as a kid, say no more right?We also dive into how publicity has transformed in the age of social media and AI, why relationships still matter more than ever, and the strategies for building trust in one of the most competitive industries.Whether you’re an aspiring publicist, manager, or creative, this conversation is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and playing the long game.Learn more from Chris' playbook via @status_pr & check out his website: https://www.statuspr.com/Keep the conversation going:Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontentTikTok - @cut.the.podYouTube - @UndertowContentWeb - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/Credits:Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowneProduced by Ashlee RussellEditorial Direction & Marketing by Ruth BaileyProduction & Edit by Olivia DevinLA Production by Ray TaylorMusic by Genevieve PatrickArtwork by Fifth Studio Design Co

Here's a career journey we all want to hear! Get to know Hollywood rising star - actress Shannon Gisela! In this episode she gives us the inside story to being cast in brand new Peacock Original series M.I.A, her experiences with independent filmmaking, Sundance, and the evolving landscape of the industry. This episode offers valuable perspectives on authenticity, community building, and strategies for emerging actors and directors. You heard from us first! Shannon's definitely one to watch!Follow Shannon: its_shannyg Check out Shannon in M.I.A. on Peacock in the US starting May 7th! It premiered at the Miami Film Festival just a few days ago. Read more in this article outlining the details of Paramount purchasing the distribution rights internationally.Catch up on Shannon's early Indie Screen success via Chasers.Stay across the director Shannon has worked a lot with: Erin Brown Thomas Plus Shannon also has a hand in this animated series for Netflix: Strip Law starring among others, Severance star, Adam ScottKeep the conversation going:Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontentTikTok - @cut.the.podYouTube - @UndertowContentWeb - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/Credits:Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowneProduced by Ashlee RussellEditorial Direction & Marketing by Ruth BaileyProduction & Edit by Olivia DevinMusic by Genevieve PatrickArtwork by Fifth Studio Design Co

Discover how vertical storytelling is revolutionizing content creation, production efficiency, and industry opportunities through the insights of producer and innovator/founder of short reels co: Reelarc, Guy Chachkes. Learn about the patterns and techniques that make vertical drama compelling and how creators can harness this format for long-term success.Follow @a_producer_guy or @reelarc or check out his IMDB profile to see his upcoming or past projects : https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2372460/Companies that Guy mentions as key to the vertical format history: Reel Short: https://www.reelshort.com/ Crazy Maple Studios https://crazymaplestudios.com/ Keep the conversation going:Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontentTikTok - @cut.the.podYouTube - @UndertowContentWeb - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/Credits:Hosted by Amanda Browne @a.m.andabrowneProduced by Ashlee RussellEditorial Direction & Marketing by Ruth BaileyProduction & Edit by Olivia DevinMusic by Genevieve PatrickArtwork by Fifth Studio Design Co

In this engaging conversation, Dane Cody, a seasoned production sound mixer, shares insights into the intricacies of sound recording in film. He discusses his experiences working on various projects, including the recent blockbuster film Anaconda starring Hollywood's comic elite Jack Black and Paul Rudd, and emphasizes the importance of building rapport with crew members. Dane elaborates on the technical aspects of his role, the significance of capturing authentic dialogue on set, and the challenges of working in diverse environments. He also offers valuable advice for aspiring sound professionals and highlights the need for innovation in sound setups. Throughout the discussion, Dane reflects on his journey in the industry, the pressures of filmmaking, and the importance of collaboration and trust among departments.PLUS: Dane mentions a specific microphone technique: Decca Tree, find out more about its origins and applicaations via https://www.vaia.com/en-us/explanations/engineering/audio-engineering/decca-treehttps://tapeop.com/interviews/46/microphones-decca-tree-technique

Amanda says goodbye to previosus co-host Nell Nakkan as they reflect on the past 2 seasons that build the foundation of CUT the Podcast as we know it today.Ashlee Russell is introduced as Amanda's cofounder of Undertow (the company behind CUT!) and together the two preview what the foundations of Undertow as a production company is about as well, we tease a few of the international guests you can look forward to seeing on this seasons podcast themed: a love letter to the industry. The discussion provides a sneak peek into Undertow's upcoming in-house production slate, and some of the projects the team is working on.Get ready for an amazing season filled with industry tips and tricks, and the success and failures that helped our guests make it to where they are today.Keep the conversation going:Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontentTikTok - @cut.the.podYouTube - @UndertowContentWeb - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/Credits:Hosted by Amanda BrowneProduced by Ashlee RussellEditorial Direction & Marketing by Ruth BaileyProduction & Edit by Olivia DevinSocials by Camila BoccalandroMusic by Genevieve PatrickArtwork by Fifth Studio Design Co

Steph Troost is back on CUT! - Joining Amanda for a comprehensive debrief on her recent trip to the European Film Market (EFM) in Berlin, together they recall the industry insights, market dynamics, and practical tips that can help filmmakers and producers aiming to succeed in international markets. Here's a few of the topics covered:What is EFM Berlin and how does it differ from Berlinale and Cannes?Market vibe and industry sentiment: optimism despite global challengesHow to effectively network: timing, face-to-face meetings, and follow-up strategiesMaterials to prepare: scripts, pitch decks, teasers, and subtitlesThe importance of realistic financial planning and understanding government incentivesThe rise of co-productions in Europe and the impact on project developmentPractical tips for emerging filmmakers: cold pitching, business cards, and early engagementNext steps post-market: refining projects, re-evaluating strategies, and leveraging industry dataKeep the conversation going:Instagram - @cut.pod, @undertowcontentTikTok - @cut.the.podYouTube - @UndertowContentWeb - undertowcontent.com/cutthepodcast/Credits:Hosted by Amanda BrowneProduced by Ashlee RussellEditorial Direction & Marketing by Ruth BaileyProduction & Edit by Olivia DevinSocial Media by Camila BoccalandroMusic by Genevieve PatrickArtwork by Fifth Studio Design CoEFM Official Website - https://www.efm-berlinale.deWomen in Film and TV Australia - https://www.wift.orgScreen Australia - https://www.screenaustralia.gov.auCannes Film Festival - https://www.festival-cannes.comBerlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) - https://www.berlinale.de