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The Alberta Screen Impact - AMPIA
S2: Ep 2 - Banff Special Edition - Inside Banff with Minister Tanya Fir, Global Connections, Local Impact
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Film, TV, Music, and More: How Alberta is Building a Creative PowerhouseIn this special Banff World Media Festival edition of the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast, hosts Brent Kawchuk and Justine Gamez Huckabay sit down with the Honorable Tanya Fir, Alberta’s Minister of Arts, Culture, and Status of Women. From her roots as a self-proclaimed “high school drama nerd” to her leadership in shaping Alberta’s creative economy, Minister Fir shares her vision for a vibrant, inclusive, and globally recognized screen industry.
Recorded against the backdrop of one of the most influential gatherings in the media world, this conversation explores In this Episode:
- The value of Banff as a “reverse trade mission” bringing global media executives to Alberta’s doorstep.
- Recent enhancements to Alberta’s Film and Television Tax Credit, including incentives for rural production and new eligible genres like reality and game shows.
- How scholarships and targeted programs are opening doors for women and emerging talent in technical and applied arts.
- The connection between film, television, and music and how the upcoming Alberta Music Commission will create new creative synergies.
- Alberta’s commitment to fostering industry collaboration, training pipelines, and opportunities that keep local talent working and thriving at home.
From global studio meetings with companies like Amazon, Sony, and Paramount to celebrating the power of Alberta’s local producers, this episode offers insight into how cultural policy, industry partnerships, and creative ambition come together to shape the future of Alberta’s screen scene.
Whether you’re a seasoned producer, a first-time filmmaker, or simply curious about how Alberta is positioning itself on the world stage, this conversation will inspire and inform.
Contact
The Honorable Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women, Government of Alberta
- Website: https://www.alberta.ca/arts-culture-and-status-of-women.aspx
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tanyafirMLA
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tanyafirab
- X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/tanya_fir
This podcast is brought to you by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA), championing Alberta’s screen sector for over 40 years through advocacy, industry events, and professional development. Learn more or become a member at ampia.org.
Help amplify Alberta’s screen industry: rate, review, subscribe, and download the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast on your favourite platform.
Share this episode with your network and keep the conversation going.
CREDITS
Hosted by: Justine Gamez Huckabay & Brent Kawchuk
Thank You to Our Supporters
- Presented by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA)
- Produced in collaboration with Metamorphosis Media Group
- Studio space and internship support provided by Mount Royal University, Broadcast Media Studies
- Mount Royal University Students:
Editors & Camera – Kade Stevens, Victor Labeaume; Set Photographer – Maia Mabiasen
- Promotional support courtesy of the Alberta Film Commission
- Series trailer edited by Kade Stevens, Mount Royal University
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S2: Ep 4 - Banff Special Edition - Strengthening National and Regional Connections with Andrew Addison
27:43|In this special Banff World Media Festival edition of the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast, hosts Brent Kawchuk and Justine Gamez Huckabay sit down with Andrew Addison, Senior Vice President of Communications and Marketing at the Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA). Andrew shares a national perspective on how Alberta fits into Canada’s evolving screen industry and why IP ownership, collaboration, and professional development are crucial to future growth.In this Episode:CMPA’s role in connecting Canadian producers with global partners and opportunities.Why intellectual property ownership is the cornerstone of building sustainable production companies.Insights from the Online Streaming Act (Bill C-11) and CRTC hearings.Strengthening pipelines between provincial and national organizations.How Alberta’s emerging producers can connect, collaborate, and compete nationally.ContactAndrew Addison Website: https://cmpa.caInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_cmpa/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/the_cmpa This podcast is brought to you by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA), championing Alberta’s screen sector for over 40 years through advocacy, industry events, and professional development. Learn more or become a member at ampia.org.Help amplify Alberta’s screen industry: rate, review, subscribe, and download the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast on your favourite platform.Share this episode with your network and keep the conversation going.CREDITSHosted by: Justine Gamez Huckabay & Brent KawchukThank You to Our SupportersPresented by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA)Produced in collaboration with Metamorphosis Media GroupStudio space and internship support provided by Mount Royal University, Broadcast Media StudiesMount Royal University Students: Editors & Camera – Kade Stevens, Victor Labeaume; Set Photographer – Maia MabiasenPromotional support courtesy of the Alberta Film CommissionSeries trailer edited by Kade Stevens, Mount Royal University
S2: Ep 3 - Banff Special Edition - National Funding, Alberta Opportunities with Rod Butler on the CMF
26:29|In this special Banff World Media Festival edition of the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast, hosts Brent Kawchuk and Justine Gamez Huckabay speak with Rod Butler, Vice President of Content and Regulatory at the Canada Media Fund (CMF). From kids’ content to Indigenous storytelling and emerging tech, Rod shares how the CMF is adapting funding strategies to meet changing industry needs while ensuring Alberta creators have the resources to thrive.In this Episode:How the CMF is evolving to meet industry shifts, from streaming to global competition.Key funding programs Alberta producers should know about, including the Broadcaster Envelope and English Regional Production Bonus.Strategies for supporting vulnerable genres and underrepresented voices.CMF’s approach to AI, immersive media, and emerging technologies.Why partnerships with organizations like AMPIA are key to national impact.ContactRod ButlerWebsite: https://cmf-fmc.caInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cmf.fmc/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/cmf_fmcThis podcast is brought to you by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA), championing Alberta’s screen sector for over 40 years through advocacy, industry events, and professional development. Learn more or become a member at ampia.org.Help amplify Alberta’s screen industry: rate, review, subscribe, and download the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast on your favourite platform.Share this episode with your network and keep the conversation going.CREDITSHosted by: Justine Gamez Huckabay & Brent KawchukThank You to Our SupportersPresented by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA)Produced in collaboration with Metamorphosis Media GroupStudio space and internship support provided by Mount Royal University, Broadcast Media StudiesMount Royal University Students: Editors & Camera – Kade Stevens, Victor Labeaume; Set Photographer – Maia MabiasenPromotional support courtesy of the Alberta Film CommissionSeries trailer edited by Kade Stevens, Mount Royal University
S2: Ep 1 - Banff Special Edition - How Jenn Kuzmyk Shapes Canada’s Media Conversations
24:50|In this special Banff World Media Festival edition of the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast, hosts Brent Kawchuk and Justine Gamez Huckabay speak with Jenn Kuzmyk, Executive Director of the Banff World Media Festival and Publisher of Playback. Recently named to the Hollywood Reporter’s inaugural list of the most powerful women in Canadian entertainment, Jenn has been instrumental in transforming Banff into a hub where creative and business leaders from around the globe connect, collaborate, and chart the future of media.In this Episode:Why “Flip the Script” became this year’s festival theme and what it signals about industry change.How Banff blends creative and business communities to spark career-defining opportunities.Global trends influencing programming, from international co-productions to audience demand for local stories.The impact of signature programs like Diversity of Voices, the Spark Accelerator, and the Indigenous Screen Summit.Career-making stories from the festival floor and why access is Banff’s biggest value.ContactJenn Kuzmyk, Executive Director of the Banff World Media FestivalWebsite: https://banffmediafestival.playbackonline.caInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/banffmedia/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennkuzmyk/This podcast is brought to you by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA), championing Alberta’s screen sector for over 40 years through advocacy, industry events, and professional development. Learn more or become a member at ampia.org.Help amplify Alberta’s screen industry: rate, review, subscribe, and download the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast on your favourite platform.Share this episode with your network and keep the conversation going.CREDITSHosted by: Justine Gamez Huckabay & Brent KawchukThank You to Our SupportersPresented by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA)Produced in collaboration with Metamorphosis Media GroupStudio space and internship support provided by Mount Royal University, Broadcast Media StudiesMount Royal University Students: Editors & Camera – Kade Stevens, Victor Labeaume; Set Photographer – Maia MabiasenPromotional support courtesy of the Alberta Film CommissionSeries trailer edited by Kade Stevens, Mount Royal University
S2: Trailer - Banff World Media Festival Special Edition
01:00|The Alberta Screen Impact Podcast is back with a Banff Special Edition, recorded live at the Banff World Media Festival.This special four-part series brings you exclusive conversations with industry leaders and decision-makers, including:The Honourable Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of WomenJenn Kuzmyk, Executive Director, Banff World Media FestivalRod Butler, Canada Media Fund (CMF)Andrew Addison, Canada Media Producers Association (CMPA)Together, they explore Alberta’s role in the global creative economy, key funding programs, co-production opportunities, and the growing power of cross-sector collaboration.Hosted by Justine Gamez Huckabay and Brent Kawchuk, and produced by Metamorphosis Media Group.The first episode drops Thursday, October 2nd.This podcast is brought to you by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA), championing Alberta’s screen sector for over 40 years through advocacy, industry events, and professional development. Learn more or become a member at ampia.org.Help amplify Alberta’s screen industry: rate, review, subscribe, and download the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast on your favourite platform.Share this episode with your network and keep the conversation going.CREDITS Hosted by: Justine Gamez Huckabay & Brent Kawchuk Thank You to Our SupportersPresented by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA)Produced in collaboration with Metamorphosis Media GroupStudio space and internship support provided by Mount Royal University, Broadcast Media StudiesMount Royal University Students: Editors & Camera – Kade Stevens, Victor Labeaume; Set Photographer – Maia MabiasenPromotional support courtesy of the Alberta Film CommissionSeries trailer edited by Kade Stevens, Mount Royal University
S1 E9: The Final Step - Calgary International Film Festival’s Importance to Alberta’s Film Ecosystem with Katherine Penhale
35:39|In this episode of the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast, we sit down with Katherine Penhale, Executive Director of the Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF). Katherine shares her remarkable journey from a last-minute venue coordinator in 2016 to leading one of Canada’s most celebrated festivals through its 25th anniversary and beyond. She dives into the strategic vision behind CIFF’s Constellation Plan, challenges with Calgary’s venue infrastructure, the importance of filmmaker experience, and her mission to ensure cinema remains vibrant in the city’s core. Whether you’re a filmmaker, industry professional, or festival fan, this episode offers a masterclass in leadership, adaptability, and the power of community-driven film culture.In this episode:Katherine shares how she went from working her first CIFF shift at age 20 to becoming Executive Director and spearheading its 25th anniversaryThe story behind the Constellation Strategic Plan and how it’s solving Calgary’s DCI projector and cinema infrastructure crisisWhy streaming can't replace the magic of the in-person film experienceCIFF’s dual identity: a filmmaker-first and audience-first festivalTips for emerging filmmakers submitting to CIFF and how to stand outThe importance of fit when submitting to festivals and why every film has oneA look ahead at new venue activations, potential pitch competitions, and more for CIFF 2025The Alberta Spirit Shorts showcase and what makes it the most joyful night of the festivalWhat Katherine is watching now and why she always runs the mics at local screeningsContactsGuest: Katherine PenhaleTitle: Executive Director, Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF)Website: https://www.ciffcalgary.ca/Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-penhale-380303138/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katherine_at_ciff/This podcast is brought to you by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA), championing Alberta’s screen sector for over 40 years through advocacy, industry events, and professional development. Learn more or become a member at ampia.org.Help amplify Alberta’s screen industry: rate, review, subscribe, and download the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast on your favourite platform.Share this episode with your network and keep the conversation going.CREDITSHosted by: Justine Gamez Huckabay & Brent KawchukThank You to Our SupportersThis podcast is proudly presented by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA)Produced in collaboration with Metamorphosis Media GroupStudio space and internship support provided by Mount Royal University, Broadcast Media StudiesPromotional support courtesy of the Alberta Film CommissionSeries trailer edited by Joe Media GroupWe’re grateful to these organizations for helping bring Alberta’s screen stories to life and into the world.
S1 E8: Unscripted Grit, Scripted Vision - Kaitlan Stewart on Making TV That Matters
37:48|In this episode of the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast, we sit down with Kaitlan Stewart, founder of Fenix Film & Television and executive producer of the hit docuseries Push (CBC Gem) and Only Up (Super Channel). Kaitlan pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to bring a series from concept to screen. She shares how to build pitch-ready ideas, partner with showrunners, cast compelling talent, and navigate the changing demands of unscripted and scripted television. Whether you’re emerging or experienced, this is a behind-the-scenes look at producing with purpose, tenacity, and vision.In this episode:Kaitlan shares how she launched Fenix Film & Television in 2019 and built an award-nominated, multi-genre slateThe origin stories of Push (CBC) and Only Up (Super Channel)—and what it took to get them greenlitWhy casting strong on-screen talent is non-negotiable in unscripted TVHow partnerships with established showrunners and production companies help new producers level upPitching tips: what makes a project stand out to Canadian and U.S. buyersWhy “leaving your ego at the door” is essential for cold outreach and growthHow Kaitlan and Fenix prioritized accessibility and inclusion in all aspects of PushThe “chicken and egg” challenge of creating sizzle reels vs. leading with a clear, paper-based visionWhat she learned from trade missions, mentorships, and making the leap into international marketsAdvice for emerging producers and students trying to build real connections in the industryContacts:Guest: Kaitlan StewartTitle: Executive Producer, Founder of Fenix Film & TelevisionWebsite: https://www.fenixfilmtv.ca/Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitlan-stewart-0129085b/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fenixfilmtv/This podcast is brought to you by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA), championing Alberta’s screen sector for over 40 years through advocacy, industry events, and professional development. Learn more or become a member at ampia.org.Help amplify Alberta’s screen industry: rate, review, subscribe, and download the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast on your favourite platform.Share this episode with your network and keep the conversation going.CREDITSHosted by: Justine Gamez Huckabay & Brent KawchukThank You to Our SupportersThis podcast is proudly presented by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA)Produced in collaboration with Metamorphosis Media GroupStudio space and internship support provided by Mount Royal University, Broadcast Media StudiesPromotional support courtesy of the Alberta Film CommissionSeries trailer edited by Joe Media GroupWe’re grateful to these organizations for helping bring Alberta’s screen stories to life and into the world.
S1 E7: Volume, Vision & Viability - Bruce Harvey on Building a Sustainable Production Career
39:53|In this episode, seasoned producer Bruce Harvey (Champlain Media West) offers a no-nonsense look into sustaining a career in screen production. From navigating the shrinking mid-budget space to producing over 30 films a year, Bruce shares lessons learned, the realities of volume production, and advice for emerging talent who want to move beyond passion projects into a viable long-term career in film and TV.In This Episode:Bruce’s career journey from entertainment law to large-scale productionThe model behind Champlain Media West and how it’s evolvedProducing for streamers like Lifetime and TF1: timelines, budgets, expectationsWhy “one or two indie films” isn’t a career and how to scale sustainablyChallenges of today’s market: reduced mid-budget content, streamer contraction, and shrinking broadcaster opportunitiesWhy film schools, peer networks, and consistent crews are the secret sauce to production volumeTips for building production relationships, managing burnout, and directing with professionalismThe difference between real opportunity and unsustainable one-offsAdvice for students, emerging directors, and those trying to break into the businessGuest Contact:Guest: Bruce Harvey – Head of Production, Champlain Media WestWebsite: https://champlainmedia.com/This podcast is brought to you by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA), championing Alberta’s screen sector for over 40 years through advocacy, industry events, and professional development. Learn more or become a member at ampia.org.Help amplify Alberta’s screen industry: rate, review, subscribe, and download the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast on your favourite platform.Share this episode with your network and keep the conversation going.CREDITSHosted by: Justine Gamez Huckabay & Brent KawchukThank You to Our SupportersThis podcast is proudly presented by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA)Produced in collaboration with Metamorphosis Media GroupStudio space and internship support provided by Mount Royal University, Broadcast Media StudiesPromotional support courtesy of the Alberta Film CommissionSeries trailer edited by Joe Media GroupWe’re grateful to these organizations for helping bring Alberta’s screen stories to life and into the world.
S1 E6: Behind the Buy - Sharon Stevens of Hollywood Suite on Programming, Passion, and Persistence
33:08|In this episode, Sharon Stevens, Vice President of Programming at Hollywood Suite, offers rare behind-the-scenes insights into what it really takes to get a project greenlit. With over 20 years of industry experience, Sharon shares how passion, persistence, and great storytelling drive selection and how filmmakers at every level can position themselves for success. From genre trends to pitch tips to financing advice, this episode is packed with practical wisdom for Canadian creators navigating the road to broadcast.In this episode:The power of persistence: how one producer turned 12 rejections into a greenlight and a festival hitSharon’s insights into how Hollywood Suite curates Canadian films across their four decade-themed channelsWhat Hollywood Suite actually looks for in a pitch, from story strength to script polish to financial strategyThe importance of relationships: why networking (in person or virtually) is key to long-term successCommon mistakes filmmakers make and how to avoid themAdvice for new filmmakers on reaching out via cold emails and initiating meaningful conversationsEmerging vs seasoned talent: why Hollywood Suite prioritizes the story over the résuméHow Sharon’s team supports co-productions, early-stage projects, and second-window partnershipsContactsSharon Stevens, Vice-President, Programming at Hollywood Suite Inc.Website: https://hollywoodsuite.ca/Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenssharon/This podcast is brought to you by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA), championing Alberta’s screen sector for over 40 years through advocacy, industry events, and professional development. Learn more or become a member at ampia.org.Help amplify Alberta’s screen industry: rate, review, subscribe, and download the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast on your favourite platform.Share this episode with your network and keep the conversation going.CREDITSHosted by: Justine Gamez Huckabay & Brent KawchukThank You to Our SupportersThis podcast is proudly presented by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA)Produced in collaboration with Metamorphosis Media GroupStudio space and internship support provided by Mount Royal University, Broadcast Media StudiesPromotional support courtesy of the Alberta Film CommissionSeries trailer edited by Joe Media GroupWe’re grateful to these organizations for helping bring Alberta’s screen stories to life and into the world.