A Phil Svitek Podcast - A Series From Your 360 Creative Coach

Success isn’t built overnight—it’s the result of years of dedication, learning, and persistence. In this episode, I reflect on my 8+ years building my current creative path, stacked on nearly 20 years in entertainment. I share the lessons I’ve learned about honing your craft, studying the early careers of people you admire, and staying committed to the long game. If you’re ready to build a career...

Welcome to our 33rd episode in the monthly book discussion series hosted by Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) and myself, Phil Svitek. If books are your passion, you've come to the right place! In this episode, we delve into Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West which is a novel by Gregory Maguire that inspired the successful musical and now movie adaptation. Wicked is a darker an...

Ever wondered what an animation pipeline is and why it’s essential for creating great animation? In this episode, I break it all down: - What is an animation pipeline? A streamline process in place for your animated project (TV show or film). -Why is it so important? How a strong pipeline saves time, improves quality, and keeps projects on track. -How I built my own pipeline. Lessons learned from...

Discover my non-blockbuster anticipated movies hitting theaters in December 2024! • Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Spy, Assassin • September 5 • Y2K • Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim • Flow • Nickel Boys • A Complete Unknown • Babygirl • F. Marry. Kill. Let me know in the comments which of these you’re most excited to watch! Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe! Yours truly, Phil Svitek Filmmake...

Posters are a powerful tool to convey the spirit of a film. In this clip, we discuss the creative process behind designing posters for The Arbiters, covering everything from color schemes to character focus. Gain insights into effective poster design for animation! Watch the full LA Comic Con panel, The Film Animation Process: From Concept to Screen (LA Comic Con 2024 Panel), at https://youtu.be/S...

What are the main differences between producing animation and live-action films? Our panel dives into the unique challenges and rewards of each, sharing insights from their work on The Arbiters and beyond. A must-watch for filmmakers across both mediums! Watch the full LA Comic Con panel, The Film Animation Process: From Concept to Screen (LA Comic Con 2024 Panel), at https://youtu.be/Sa8uIhFbBLg...

Managing an animation project comes with unique challenges. In this clip, our panelists share advice for project managers overseeing animated productions, from scheduling to team coordination. Perfect for aspiring animation producers and managers! Watch the full LA Comic Con panel, The Film Animation Process: From Concept to Screen (LA Comic Con 2024 Panel), at https://youtu.be/Sa8uIhFbBLg . This...

Floor plans aren’t just for architects; they’re crucial for animators too. In this clip, we discuss how detailed scene layouts can streamline animation production, enhance spatial awareness, and improve story flow. Get tips for using floor plans in your projects! Watch the full LA Comic Con panel, The Film Animation Process: From Concept to Screen (LA Comic Con 2024 Panel), at https://youtu.be/Sa8...

Is college essential for a successful animation career? Our panelists weigh in, discussing the pros and cons of formal education versus self-study, and share their own journeys in the industry. Perfect for anyone considering a future in animation! Watch the full LA Comic Con panel, The Film Animation Process: From Concept to Screen (LA Comic Con 2024 Panel), at https://youtu.be/Sa8uIhFbBLg . This...

The animation industry is evolving rapidly. In this panel discussion, we explore current trends, challenges, and opportunities facing animators today. Get our panel’s take on where the industry is headed and how indie creators can thrive in this dynamic space. Watch the full LA Comic Con panel, The Film Animation Process: From Concept to Screen (LA Comic Con 2024 Panel), at https://youtu.be/Sa8uIh...

What elements make someone want to sign up to be part of your project? From clear concepts to creative vision, we share what we look for and how to capture attention in a crowded market. Watch the full LA Comic Con panel, The Film Animation Process: From Concept to Screen (LA Comic Con 2024 Panel), at https://youtu.be/Sa8uIhFbBLg . This session features: • Moderator: Candice Cruz (@CandiceCruz) •...

Creating a compelling world is key to any great story. In this clip, we share our world-building process for The Arbiters, including how we develop settings, cultures, and histories that add depth and realism to our animated universe. Learn our approach to immersive storytelling! Watch the full LA Comic Con panel, The Film Animation Process: From Concept to Screen (LA Comic Con 2024 Panel), at htt...

In today's digital world, location matters less for animation careers. Hear our panel’s thoughts on the rise of remote work and what it means for aspiring animators, no matter where they live. Learn how to tap into industry opportunities from anywhere! Watch the full LA Comic Con panel, The Film Animation Process: From Concept to Screen (LA Comic Con 2024 Panel), at https://youtu.be/Sa8uIhFb BLg....

Sound design and music bring animated worlds to life. In this panel clip, we explore the importance of audio in animation and share how we approach soundscapes and musical choices for The Arbiters. Discover how sound can transform the storytelling experience. Explore additional resources with our supplemental material: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Oy6Yv8EjyDSciPrtX9TBT8LAakyVpAeIlWdvNh_yT_s...

In animation, flexibility in voice acting can be the difference between good and great. Learn why having a 'menu' of voice options enhances character development and production, and hear insights from our panel on working with voice actors to elevate animated performances. Explore additional resources with our supplemental material: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Oy6Yv8EjyDSciPrtX9TBT8LAakyVp...

Storyboarding is a critical step in any animated film. In this panel clip, we walk through our approach to storyboarding for The Arbiters, covering how we capture scenes, develop pacing, and align our creative vision with production goals. Get a behind-the-scenes look at our process! Explore additional resources with our supplemental material: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Oy6Yv8EjyDSciPrtX9...

Looking to build the perfect team? In this clip, we share tips on finding and collaborating with talented animators, designers, and other creatives who can bring your vision to life. Discover where to look, what to look for, and how to build a strong team culture. Explore additional resources with our supplemental material: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Oy6Yv8EjyDSciPrtX9TBT8LAakyVpAeIlWdvNh...

What materials do you need to make a compelling pitch for an animated film? In this panel clip, we outline the must-have pitch assets that can make or break a funding deal, from character sketches to a storyboard. Learn what elements are key to showcasing your project's potential to investors and audiences alike. Explore additional resources with our supplemental material: https://docs.google.com/...

Why is creating a proof of concept essential before launching into a full-scale animated project? In this clip from our LA Comic Con panel, we discuss how a well-crafted proof of concept can be crucial in securing funding, gaining audience interest, and refining creative vision before production. Using our film The Arbiters as a case study, we share valuable insights for indie filmmakers navigatin...

Join me for an inside look at our recent journey to the American Film Market 2024 in Las Vegas and the Animation World Summit! In this vlog, I share how we prepared for both events, including the serendipitous opportunity to attend the Animation World Summit put on by Animation Magazine right before AFM. I break down the key differences between the two, our strategic use of Cinando, and the planni...

Welcome to our 32nd episode in the monthly book discussion series hosted by Marisa Serafini (@serafinitv) and myself, Phil Svitek. If books are your passion, you've come to the right place! In this episode, we delve into Near To the Wild Heart which is a novel by Clarice Lispector. Near to the Wild Heart (Perto do coração selvagem) is Clarice’s debut novel, written from March to November 1942 and...

Keeping momentum on personal creative projects can be challenging, especially when the scope feels overwhelming. In this episode, we discuss how to avoid being paralyzed by the enormity of a project by focusing on steady, manageable progress. Learn the power of taking even the smallest steps forward to build and maintain momentum, no matter how big your creative vision is. With consistency, you’ll...

Just because you’re capable of helping doesn’t mean you’re obligated to do so. In this episode, we delve into the idea of setting boundaries around your time and energy, especially when you're able but not necessarily available to help. Discover why recognizing your limits—even when you’re fully capable—is essential to maintaining balance, fostering respect for your own commitments, and creating s...

When submitting a query, applying for a grant, or reaching for a job opportunity, it’s easy to get attached to the outcome. But what if the key to peace of mind lies not in the results, but in the process? In this episode, we discuss the mental shift of focusing on what you can control: the breadth and quality of your outreach. By letting go of the outcome and embracing the act of reaching out to...

In this episode, I dive into the concept of reputation as currency and explain why it’s been on my mind lately. I lay out 10 crucial benefits of having a strong reputation, from increased trust and better opportunities to gaining influence, building a loyal network, and more. Discover how a positive reputation can unlock doors, bolster your credibility, and help you sustain long-term success in bo...