Indie Film Podcast

Burnout in indie filmmaking doesn’t always hit all at once. Sometimes it builds quietly, through overcommitment, creative exhaustion, and the pressure to always do more. And before you know it, the work you love stops being fun. In this episode of the Indie Film Podcast (S2E02), we talk honestly about burnout: sharing personal stories from post-pandemic projects, unpacking unrealistic productivity...

"Become a better filmmaker” sounds like a great resolution, until it leads to burnout and unfinished projects. In this episode, we break down why vague filmmaking goals fail, how indie filmmakers accidentally sabotage themselves, and what to do instead to set realistic, sustainable goals you can actually finish.  _____________________________________ Links & resources: Submit Your Story:...

The Chicago Horror Film Festival packs 250 films into one epic weekend of indie horror, filmmaking energy, and nonstop screenings. In this episode, we break down what makes this IMDb-certified festival so special, from the massive programming slate and passionate horror community to the filmmaker lounge, networking, and a few unexpected tech hiccups at the Logan Theater. We cover submission value,...

The Portland Under the Stars Film Festival delivered one of the most packed, electric nights we’ve ever had as indie filmmakers. In this episode, we break down what made this first-year event stand out, from the standing-room-only screenings at McMenamins Mission Theater to the wildly engaged, arts-loving Portland crowd. We cover submission value, communication, networking in the theater bar, awar...

In this episode, we review the first annual She/Her Fest in Seattle, a women-focused indie film festival celebrating bold voices, tiny budgets, and revolutionary storytelling. We break down everything from the festival’s strong communication and phenomenal theater tech to its intimate programming block, unique award categories, and the kind of filmmakers who will thrive there. If you're considerin...

Indie horror, body-horror, and practical FX collide in our review of Wormtown (2025). Victoria and Chuck break down the parasites, cult vibes, brutal gore, cinematography, and allegory packed into this ambitious microbudget horror film. We also talk about why Wormtown earns a BUY IT rating on our scale, what indie filmmakers can learn from its worldbuilding and practical effects, and why this movi...

Micro-budget filmmaking doesn’t mean working with junk gear. In this season finale, we break down the affordable filmmaking tools, budget gear, and DIY hacks we actually use on real indie film sets; from organization tricks and cheap equipment that punches above its weight, to the pricier tools that truly earn their keep. We’re talking binders and coverage maps, pawn-shop vintage lenses, favorite...

The Hallmark movie formula meets indie filmmaking tips in this holiday episode packed with low-budget filmmaking lessons. Hallmark releases 52 movies a year, and behind the tropes, timelines, and predictable plots is one of the most efficient production models in modern film. In today’s episode, we break down how Hallmark movies are made so quickly, why their formula works, and what indie filmmake...

Dream budgets vs. DIY reality, Victoria and Chuck share real-world indie film budgeting tips for filmmakers trying to stretch every dollar. From rewriting scripts to managing micro-budget films, learn how to make your movie happen even when your wallet says “nope.” _____________________________________ Show Links: Get the free Indie Film Budget Template: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc0...

How do you feed your film crew on a budget, without losing your sanity? In this week’s Indie Film Podcast, Victoria and Chuck swap the best (and worst) craft services stories from indie film sets. From mystery-meat leftovers to Little Caesars fatigue and the legendary dumpster-diving dinner, they unpack what makes a set feel professional…or profoundly cursed. You’ll hear about clever budget-friend...

Film festival strategy for indie filmmakers: How we turned a $250 short film into an Academy Award-qualifying success. No connections, no nepotism, just smart submissions. Learn how to build a realistic film festival plan, boost your acceptance rate, budget wisely, and survive rejection season with your sanity (mostly) intact. And, some obligatory stories about how many ways we’ve messed up our fe...

Set design on a budget doesn’t have to look cheap, it just takes creativity, caffeine, and a few questionable choices. In this episode, Chuck and Victoria share the DIY art department lessons they learned the hard way while making low-budget films, and inspiration from our favorite horror films. From fake-blood disasters to finding perfect free locations, they unpack what horror movies can teach u...

Indie film set safety isn’t just a formality, it’s survival. In this episode, Victoria and Chuck unpack real filmmaking accidents, near-misses, and the hard lessons learned from low-budget horror shoots gone wrong. From flying axes and “props” that weren’t to tips from professional stunt coordinators, this conversation covers everything you need to know about prop safety, stunt coordination, and k...

Indie film sound design meets horror filmmaking in this spine-tingling episode of Indie Film Podcast. Chuck and Victoria break down how horror movies use sound to build fear, tension, and emotion, and how you can apply the same tricks in your own indie projects (no matter what your genre of film!) From low frequencies that make your hair stand on end to eerie silences that say more than dialogue,...

Screenwriting tips meet horror writing lessons in this episode of the Indie Film Podcast! Chuck and Victoria explore the 10 most inherently compelling scenes used by horror films, from being chased to being trapped, and show how you can use them in any genre. Whether you’re an indie filmmaker, aspiring screenwriter, or author searching for inspiration, horror films are a masterclass in tension and...

Indie film contracts and legal pitfalls can make or break your project. In this episode, Victoria and Chuck talk with filmmaker and lawyer Ellen Smith about the not-so-glamorous (but absolutely essential) legal side of filmmaking. From actor release forms and image rights to NDAs, SAG vs. non-union contracts, and distribution deals, Ellen breaks down what every filmmaker needs to know before stepp...

Most indie filmmakers make one mistake: they market too late. In this episode, we break down indie film marketing strategies that actually work (and some lessons we’ve learned by doing everything wrong the first time). From film festival submission strategies to streaming platform navigation, the number one way to success is to build your audience early. Learn how to avoid common mistakes, grow vi...

Indie film budgeting nightmares? Discover how to survive unexpected costs and fix costly surprises on set. In this episode of the Indie Film Podcast, Chuck and Victoria share real stories of budget meltdowns on micro-budget film sets, from hidden production costs to unexpected emergencies. Learn how to avoid common budgeting mistakes, stretch a small budget, and keep your film on track when money...

When your indie film fundraising fails, what’s next? Chuck and Victoria share survival stories, budget-saving tips, and lessons every filmmaker can use when the money runs out. Perfect for student filmmakers, indie directors, and cinephiles who want the real story behind low-budget moviemaking. Check out The Man Who Would Not Shake Hands, free on YouTube: ( https://youtu.be/8QPzwr5-txY )

Balancing roles in indie film isn’t easy. From acting and producing at the same time to handling low-budget filmmaking struggles, special guest Zoë Kelly talks through what it means for indie filmmakers to wear too many hats. Hear real stories of juggling crew and cast duties, the gap between school and indie film reality, and how to keep storytelling alive while doing it all.

Indie filmmaking overload is real, especially when you’re the writer and director. In this “Too Many Hats” episode, we dig into juggling every role from script to screen, surviving low-budget chaos, and keeping your creative vision intact without burning out.

Indie filmmaker Amanda Woods shares how to juggle multiple roles on set, from makeup to directing, without burning out. In this episode of Indie Film Podcast , we talk about the realities of small crews, the power of practical effects, DIY filmmaking hacks, and how she went from script to Cannes in just six months. Packed with tips, behind-the-scenes stories, and relatable “too many hats” moments...

Indie filmmaking often means wearing every hat on set: cinematographer, director, editor, and more. In this episode, Chuck and Victoria talk with Kody Newton, an Idaho filmmaker who’s done it all. From shooting and lighting to editing on a budget, Kody shares tips, survival strategies, and what it really takes to pull off a film with a tiny crew, or no crew at all.

Why do indie filmmakers burn out, and what can you do to avoid quitting your film altogether? In this episode, we talk about the hidden cost of doing everything yourself: burnout, missed deadlines, and the martyrdom myth that plagues the indie world. Chuck and Victoria share real stories, survival tips, and a whole lot of honesty.

Freedom, fireworks, and filmmaker fatigue: we’re taking a summer break! But first… some fun July 4th movie trivia. In this quick update, Chuck and Victoria announce a short summer hiatus and drop a few weird facts about Independence Day films before signing off. We’ll be back on July 31st with more filmmaking fails, behind-the-scenes chaos, and lessons from the indie film trenches.