Casting Carolina

Honey Head co-founder Kristi Ray joins Eric Johnson from Trailblazer Studios to chat about the latest developments in the world of NC Film and Television incentives.  The NC General Assembly is about to vote on a budget bill that moves the ball forward on our existing grant structure. Listen and learn what these incentives are and what they could mean for the NC Film & TV industry! Learn more...

A well-trained and experienced workforce is vital to growing the NC Film/TV industry. The Film Partnership of North Carolina is a nonprofit that offers training and PAID internships to state residents who want to put their skills (from carpentry and electrical to makeup and catering) to use on live movie and television sets. Partnership President Susi Hamilton and Treasurer Lauren Vilchik tell us...

Film and series projects mean jobs and local spending, which is why many states offer incentives to production companies. North Carolina is no exception. But how effective is NC's current rebate program? What more could be done to spur growth in the Film & TV industry across the state? This episode's guests are talented filmmakers who believe a strong Film & TV industry will help...

Filmmaker Robert Rippberger and former NFL player Jason Brown are teaming up to launch White Lightning Studio, a 1200+ acre film hub and event center, in North Carolina. Robert recently shot the feature-length film "Renner," starring Frankie Muniz and Violett Beane, in Spring Hope, NC. Now he's setting up shop in the state to take advantage of its 25% film incentive.  Learn why Robe...

The NCFC is a grassroots organization that hosts events for filmmakers of every skill level. These events range from social get-togethers and movie screenings to technical workshops and screenwriting courses, all designed for beginners and experts alike in the film and tv industry to make connections and grow in their craft. Co-founders Austin Pigza and Blake Kinsey tell us all about how the NCFC...

Justin Yates is the former president of Eno River Media's board of directors. He joins us to discuss ERM's mission to boost filmmaking and television production opportunities in North Carolina. We also hear about his own unique way of providing actors, prop designers, and other creative folks with opportunities to practice their craft. Casting Carolina is produced by SonicMix Studios.

Havelock, North Carolina, isn't Hollywood. But that hasn't stopped actor Jimmy Merchel from pursuing his dreams while putting down roots. Now an award-winning actor, Jimmy knows a thing or two about what it takes to get your foot in the door and get noticed. From playing intimidating characters in haunted house attractions to appearing as Contestant 42 in MrBeast's Ages 1 to 100 Cha...

Jason Gupton is a veteran Stunt Performer who's been on Hollywood sets big and small with heavy hitters like Bruce Willis, Francis Ford Coppola, and Ben Stiller.  With 12+ years in the film and television industry, Jason has had his fair share of falls, fist fights, shootouts, and car chases.  Since the Fall Guy just dropped into theaters (and recently hit streaming platforms), it felt like t...