The No Film School Podcast

392
TV & Film #234

A podcast about how to build a career in filmmaking. No Film School shares the latest opportunities and trends for anyone working in film and TV. We break news on cameras, lighting, and apps. We interview leaders in screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, and producing. And we answer your questions! We are dedicated to sharing knowledge with filmmakers around the globe, “no film school” required.

Recent Episodes
  • What We Lose If We Don’t Preserve Film
    May 1, 2025 – 36:57
  • What It Takes to Make a First Feature
    Apr 28, 2025 – 01:21:23
  • Studio Strategy & Indie Grit in the Wake of ‘Sinners’
    Apr 24, 2025 – 59:04
  • The Secret to a Calm Film Set with Director Mimi Cave
    Apr 18, 2025 – 01:03:32
  • Why Playing It Safe Will Ruin Your Movie — Blumhouse Hit Director Christopher Landon on Drop
    Apr 11, 2025 – 59:44
  • What They Don’t Tell You About Editing a Feature with 'Sacramento' Editor
    Apr 3, 2025 – 01:01:37
  • How Real Is STAY IN LA? Plus Sundance DPs on Landing Jobs & Getting Shots
    Mar 27, 2025 – 01:09:52
  • Filmmaker’s Guide to SXSW: Tips, Takeaways & Tough Lessons
    Mar 21, 2025 – 01:11:20
  • Blueprints for Making Films Outside of the System
    Mar 13, 2025 – 01:11:42
  • Crafting Connection: The Editors Behind 'Daughters'
    Mar 6, 2025 – 01:02:04
  • Amazon Captures Bond and a Producer on Producing
    Mar 3, 2025 – 01:06:50
  • How ‘The Substance’ Editor Trimmed the Fat of the Hit Body Horror Flick
    Feb 27, 2025 – 49:21
  • This 30 Min Oner Short Played Sundance & Slamdance
    Feb 21, 2025 – 38:49
  • Why This ‘Last Showgirl’ Producer Thinks Indie Cinema Still Has Legs
    Feb 13, 2025 – 01:05:34
  • How ‘Companion’ Director Drew Hancock Built His Career on Reps & Luck
    Feb 6, 2025 – 57:29
  • How Sundance Didn't Die
    Jan 30, 2025 – 01:20:10
  • ‘Back in Action’ Director Seth Gordon: Get Lost in One Detail at a Time
    Jan 30, 2025 – 54:50
  • SXSW Vets Teach Rookies How to Fest
    Jan 25, 2025 – 01:07:55
  • How Filmmakers Are Coming Together Amidst the LA Fires
    Jan 15, 2025 – 19:55
  • How Leaving LA Led to a 40 Theater Release With a First Script
    Jan 10, 2025 – 01:06:12
  • John August Wants to Make Your (Screenwriting) Life Easier
    Jan 2, 2025 – 51:31
  • James Mangold Unwraps the Craft of "A Complete Unknown"
    Dec 25, 2024 – 44:01
  • How The ‘Los Frikis’ Directors Injected Dark Humor, History, and HIV into Their Film
    Dec 24, 2024 – 38:39
  • Invisible Work of Producers Plus Sundance Slate 2025
    Dec 19, 2024 – 01:18:23
  • Lie Your Way to the Top, FYC, Festival Purgatory & the Indies
    Dec 12, 2024 – 01:30:53
  • Programmers & Filmmakers on the State of Shorts
    Dec 5, 2024 – 01:06:42
  • How Director David Gordon Green Reverse-Engineered ‘Nutcrackers' Plus Major Movie Monologues
    Nov 29, 2024 – 53:04
  • WWII Recap & 'Best Man’s Ghostwriter' Creator Matthew Starr
    Nov 21, 2024 – 48:42
  • Editing Duplass Episodic 'Penelope' & Film Industry Outside of NY & LA Feat. Celia Beasley
    Nov 14, 2024 – 01:03:21
  • Microbudget Filmmakers Are Not Okay (But Thanks for Asking) — Advice & Support from AFF Filmmakers
    Nov 7, 2024 – 01:19:31
  • How Indie Body Horror Comedy 'Booger' Director, Editor & Lead Meld Minds
    Oct 31, 2024 – 59:00
  • From Madagascar to Hollywood with Director Andrew Kightlinger; Plus, 'Don't Move' Directors’ Microbudget to Sam Raimi-Produced Journey
    Oct 25, 2024 – 01:32:03
  • Why Writer-Director Hallie Meyers-Shyer Wrote ‘Goodrich’ for Only Michael Keaton
    Oct 21, 2024 – 01:00:54
  • Navigating Austin Film Fest; DP Mihai Malaimare Jr.: From Film School to Francis Ford Coppola
    Oct 18, 2024 – 01:05:25
  • Applying for Your O-1 Visa To Work in Film and TV
    Oct 14, 2024 – 56:13
  • How to Scale Video Editing With an AI Storytelling Partner
    Oct 8, 2024 – 47:43
  • Bad Shabbos' Editor Talks Mental Health in Post & How Doc Informs Narrative
    Oct 7, 2024 – 51:26
  • Death of Pilot Season, Big Pivots & Max Lugavere's Deeply Personal, Long-Game Doc ‘Little Empty Boxes’
    Oct 4, 2024 – 01:26:11
  • The State of Spec Scripts, ‘The Substance’ & Panama Filmmaking
    Sep 27, 2024 – 01:37:29
  • Why Indie Film Distribution Is About To Go Punk Rock
    Sep 19, 2024 – 01:22:08
  • Imagery, Fall Fest Sales & Director Niclas Larsson on His 'Mother, Couch!' Production Book
    Sep 18, 2024 – 01:14:46
  • We’re All Halfway Through Writing a Short Film That We Will Direct
    Sep 13, 2024 – 01:12:43
  • Why A LUT Will Save Your Movie (Kinda)
    Sep 12, 2024 – 48:00
  • How ‘Continue’ Director Nadine Crocker Turned Rejection Into Two Lionsgate Features
    Sep 9, 2024 – 01:05:34
  • Back-To-Back Microbudgets, Folk Filmmaking & the Micro-Budget Chain Reaction Feat. ‘Peak Season’ Directors
    Sep 7, 2024 – 01:03:53
  • Why Producer Ken Kao (Cuckoo, The Nice Guys, Mid90s) Wants More Mid-Budget Films
    Aug 30, 2024 – 56:37
  • Crafting Tension: ‘Spermworld’ & ‘How To Blow Up a Pipeline’ Editor Explains
    Aug 23, 2024 – 44:52
  • Rebuilding the Film Industry, Closure, Plus a $400 Doc Short
    Aug 20, 2024 – 01:19:14
  • 'DÌDI (弟弟)’ Director Sean Wang & Editor Arielle Zakowski on Kid Talent, Short Turnarounds & Angst on the Big Screen
    Aug 15, 2024 – 44:25
  • Want To Make Worldbuilding Movies? ‘Borderlands’ EP Emmy Yu on Development, Production & Why VFX Should Be Onboard ASAP
    Aug 8, 2024 – 57:59
Recent Reviews
  • richard4044
    A mixed bag
    The episodes that are good are very good. The episodes that talk about how many bangers Ben Affleck has made in a row are very bad. A pod that mostly makes you very glad you aren’t spending your life making hot garbage.
  • Luke DePron
    GREAT SHOW for Aspiring Filmmakers!
    If you’re an aspiring film-maker, and interested in learning about how to navigate the film industry, The No Film School Podcast is exactly what you’re after. From industry expert interviews, to up-and coming directors they cover everything from writing, production, to the business side of the industry. Be sure to check out GG’s conversation making her first feature as well -> It’s an inspiring conversation about writing your project and getting it made on your own. A MUST LISTEN! Luke
  • Cuaran14
    Good stuff
    Especially enjoying the BTS content of GG Hawkins film.
  • 097752006
    Stop Interrupting The Guest
    I just finished listening to the recent Blacklist episode. Enjoyed it overall but Jason Hellerman needs to let the guest finish speaking.
  • NBAfan1880
    I thought it was about filmmaking
    Too much personal opinion on politics.
  • Jessy817
    Long Time Listener
    First time reviewer. I’m a working screenwriter (who didn’t go to film school), and I’m constantly turning to this podcast to improve my craft—and expand my horizons on all things film. They never disappoint and offer up incredible advice while keeping a tone that’s grounded and approachable. I never miss an episode ❤️
  • La Escuelita
    Good People
    Always good vibes with this show. I appreciate yall.
  • MegaPhilip
    Good stuff
    Went back to listen to the John Carroll Lynch episode to prep for an interview with him and it was great!
  • Fard2500
    Thank you GG, Charles and the rest of the crew!
    Your podcast is the one thing during the week that I can always take something away from listening. It’s just a breath of fresh air, it’s honest talk and it inspires me sometimes when I don’t want to do the work. Thank you for thinking like a filmmaker, relating to us like a filmmaker, but most of all thanks for just giving us a positive place to go and listen - not to be preached at but respected as equals who want to explore the same kinds of joy and rewards of a wonderful craft. Keep up the great work!!! U Guys Rock!
  • Lightsong11
    Bad Hosting
    Good content but host interrupts way too much!
  • OfficiallyJustise
    Can’t tell the difference between film and politics
    I don’t even really disagree with their politics, but that’s not why I’m here. Way too much politics mixed in. Don’t care to hear people’s politics, agree or not. Just want to speak about the business and learn.
  • JLAVELLE
    Such great content!
    I am loving this podcast. As an actor we don’t often see what goes on on the other side of the table. Listening to this podcast is insightful and compelling - it’s fascinating to know how we actors fit into this collaborative puzzle. Can’t wait to make my way through all of this great content.
  • mbcauley
    Great discussions on industry news and indie filmmaking tips!
    I really enjoy this show. It gives a great overview of a range of topics useful for filmmakers, and more specifically indie filmmakers. It’s fun to hear the hosts discuss industry news and tech, but even more interesting is when they go on a deep dive into a filmmaking topic like screenwriting or getting your movie financed in today’s world.
  • Spencer Sherry
    You’ve got yourselves a deal
    5 stars in exchange for wielding the power of your microphone? Sold. “My name is Spencer Sherry, I’m making a Stephen King film out of a story that’s never been adapted before: The Monkey, and you can follow along with this exciting and unique opportunity at @themonkeyshort on Instagram or Facebook.” Thanks fellas! Keep up the good work; I enjoy your content very much!
  • edwthree
    The perfect show for anyone in film/tv
    Documentary filmmaker/editor of Mission Man Media - who also has some availability in the spring to edit your doc - would not be the filmmaker he is without the No Film School podcast and website. And speaking of websites, be sure to find Mission Man Media at a website near you. (Seriously the insight and experience and passion and desire to pass all that on to others makes this maybe the most important podcast for content creators out there. I never miss an episode.)
  • Amigo '88
    Good Show - Now Read
    Congrats on a good show. Now you have to read that even though you have known Peter K longer and talk to him more, you have always liked me more. I’ll be listening!
  • Matthew Koos
    The best!
    These guys are great. I learn so much with every episode.
  • Shaloub
    Love this stuff
    Inject it into my veins with the peanut butter and insulin that keeps me alive. Great interviews with the greats, like Jonathan Frakes. I would love to also hear interviews with John De Lancie and Eric Menyuk. But until then I will re-listen to the Frakes interview. Great content. Indispensable for seasoned and unseasoned filmmakers alike.
  • 1111111111111111)77!6,(&
    Good podcast
    Good podcast to learn about film
  • THEwildSTALLION
    If you are gonna "discuss" politics, at least be fair...
    I came to this podcast for completely different reason. Silly me, I thought I might learn something from intelligent filmmakers on the topic of, well... filmmaking. But on my very visit, browsing through your episodes, I found one on the Gina Carano news. Let me be clear, I listened to the episode because (as someone who wants to be open minded) I am always interested to hear various perspectives on a topic. Well first, I have to say that you pretty much lost all credibility the moment someone said "we don't have a radical left in America". This made it clear from the beginning that you guys have no objectivity whatsoever. There are ALWAYS extremes and if you look left and don't see anyone over there, maybe it's because you are SO FAR LEFT. And that's fine, I'm not here to complain that you are left. I'm here to say that if you are going to talk about an OBVIOUSLY political topic with THREE people on the podcast -- you can't be bothered to find ONE with a differing viewpoint? Talking about Gina Carano's new film projects at the Daily Wire, someone on the podcast said "It's surprising to me that there are conservative sites out there that have the means to fund a project of that scale". THIS is the point -- you have the smallest sliver of a perspective (whatever the media spoon feeds you) with NO IDEA how many people out there disagree with you, and you laugh off the idea of Carano making a movie with a conservative organization as a joke, or even that Disney should be worried about the money of the people upset that Carano was fired. Talk about an echo chamber. I'm moving on to more insightful podcasts.
  • NHRobynT
    Interesting and Inspirational
    I’m not a filmmaker or writer but found this very interesting and inspirational. I so loved the movie “Peanut Butter Falcon”. I went two days in a row to see it at the theater. Finding out about all the sacrifices and hard work it took to get it made and on a national stage is heartwarming. Happy it made it to my small community in NH. I’m so looking forward to your next project. I’m also very mad that the award shows seemed to ignore the film. I think it should have won best screenplay at a minimum. Zac should have been nominated as best supporting actor. Loved the story behind meeting Zac also and writing the screenplay for him. Keep up the amazing work & thank you for your Stories and passion!
  • Transmogrification
    Love the Show, Dislike the Ads
    Long-time listener. I have learned a ton from the NFS podcast. I dislike the ads and their placement that for me kills the vibe of the podcast. Have you considered a subscription model like Patreon? Keep reaching out to our heads and touching our hearts!
  • Jmartinbal
    Best Filmmaking Podcast
    Had been looking for a comprehensive filmmaking podcast for a while and No Film School fits that perfectly. During Covid with less projects going on, it’s also been great to stay up to date and feel supported by other filmmakers in the community. George and Charles, you guys are awesome!
  • mixedvisions
    Awesome
    Amazing Podcast
  • Catt0016
    I used to look up to you
    -but your talk about film and women, show me you have little friends of color. Your concerns are white and fearful without looking at a larger paradigm. Screw your menial seminars. Stop being racist and bring people of color into your work.
  • WyattMazetis
    Love the new host.
    The show has consistently been great for years. But the new host may just be the best change they made. Extremely excited for future episodes.
  • JV editor
    If you listen to 1 filmmaking podcast make it NFS!
    I have subscribed to six filmmaking and camera equipment podcasts over the past 3 years and especially enjoy the recent new format hosted by Charles Haines. Found with nofilmschool, I can now listen to a single program and get the latest gear news, learn about what's trending in the industry, and be entertained. I relied on NFS for insight on purchases of cameras, lenses, audio gear and lights. And Charles actually convinced me to NOT spend money now on gear that is not essential. Hosts are talented and include a USC Film School MFA grad who is a film school professor in New York. SUBSCRIBE!
  • evanmainrocks
    Weird echo
    Love the show! Sometimes when Im listening theres a weird echo like a bleed or delay where I can hear the start of a sentence twice? Might wanna look at your effects chain or track alignment
  • DeeDee9000
    Stop the jimjohnjim joke please
    Good podcast but hearing that joke for the 1000th time is making me want to unsubscribe
  • jaycobkelly
    Entertaining and informative every week!
    Getting in the habit of listening to the NFS podcast on my way to work has easily made Mondays and Thursdays my favorite days of the week. I love the whole ensemble -- great information and really charming banter. Indie Film Weekly episodes are always my favorite, but I'm really digging Jon's first short series! I'd be happy to see it get bumped up to a 5-parter.
  • JaredTraum
    Shows are Too Long
    Good info, but the shows are waaaay too long. Make your podcast in bite size chunks. Keep the show to 20 minutes.
  • Karston fox
    Great For Any Filmmaker Big or Small
    I listened to the first podcast that came up and I learned more from that 30min than I’ve learned in whole years or at least it was more valuable than a lot of things I’ve already learned. I’m no big filmmaker, in fact I’m pretty young, but I’ve been at it for a while and this will for sure help me. I can’t wait to listen more!!
  • JoeRich1
    Love it
    Jimjohnjimjohnjimjohnjim
  • James Kriha
    Keep your politics out of it!
    Just lost a subscriber. Don’t assume everyone agrees with your politics.
  • foodboggle
    filmmaker and long-time listener
    The NFS podcast is the best, most relevant podcast for filmmakers making work at any budget. The show listens to its audience and the hosts hit a pitch perfect tone and keep things real without jargain. Weekly segments that focus on the various aspects of production and industry tend to be helpful.
  • EsspieB
    Phenom Resource ✨
    With my background in studio side of filmmaking , I’ve learned a whole new world as I navigate through the indie space from this very intelligent podcast!
  • jess jack @studiofest
    Look forward to each week
    These guys are each a wealth of knowledge. Great new addition Erik! Liz I always appreciate your sense of humor and fresh perspective. John your vulnerability as a new filmmaker is refreshing and allows for questions others are thinking. Charles you are a wiz. Thanks for all your stellar work and thorough reporting.
  • b.rocker
    Thank God for this Podcast
    I look forward to listening to this Podcast because it encourages me to believe that it is possible to make films that I am passionate about. So grateful for this Podcast.
  • FranzSalvatierra
    must-listen for filmmakers
    The interview podcasts are amazing and every regular episode brings such informative new information and thoughts about filmmaking
  • Weston Downing
    Trust me, it’s not basic
    This is not a basic “no film school” genre for quick tips and tricks. It helps grow you as a filmmaker and a business professional. Love it!
  • ReidMP
    My constant in all things filmmaking
    This podcast is absolutely amazing. So much info packed into each episode. Thank you for this resource!
  • JamaalQB
    Disappointed it's not professionally produced
    I like the content... once the show finally gets to it. The "nofilmschool" producers should find a "noradioschool" guide to writing for and producing an audio interview show.
  • Cul8rRunner
    Very helpful interviews
    This podcast really helps me to figure out what indies are worth seeing and which new directors to be on the lookout for. The interviews are very helpful and interesting. It doesn't blow my mind like some other podcasts do, but it's always worth a listen.
  • JBrango
    A Sea of Insight
    First let me say the quality is refreshing. And you would expect as much from people who work in the film industry. At times much of their pieces are scripted but that is very nice to have in a time where people tend to ramble off topic rather frequently. But when they do go off script they are entertaining and enjoyable with their banter. Quality aside, I have to say that I have never left any of their podcasts without learning something of value. Whether you are a DP, Director, Gaffer, Actor, or what have you, listening to this podcast will deepen your understanding of the industry and open your eyes to new approaches to your own projects.
  • Andy555555555
    Diverse Content
    Great podcasts for filmmakers (in school or not). Strong interviews with all types of industry professionals, coverage of film festivals, film news about the changing industry, gear releases, and helpful tips from the hosts about making stronger films.
  • A902450928543
    Jumped the shark
    These guys just used the phrase "check your privilege" un-ironically. Holy crap. The girl (although very well-spoken) has WAY too much lip-smacking mouth noise. Apparently they just decided to slam the right side of the EQ to the sky. It's past syllabance at this point... nails on a chalkboard. The interviews are generally great. The content and flow is great. Just make sure you set a custom EQ with the high-end nuked.
  • Chadzilla3
    Awesome show; awesome theme song!
    Love the news and the interviews... but I want to know what the themesong is! :D It is great! Super hard to get questions answered though. :(
  • Pandalux
    Evan Approves
    One of my favorite podcasts!
  • sethburke
    Film news during traffic
    I usually don't have time to read stories online, so for me this podcast is ideal. Also, it gives me something to do while sitting in the lovely LA daily commute.
  • Bravheart1723
    Great interviews, practical advice
    Great interviews, content and articles on website are filled with tried and tested advice. !
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