Off The Lot

Ever wondered how costumes shape storytelling? Or how a designer goes from styling indie films to crafting iconic looks for hit TV shows? This week we sit down with Mandi Line, the powerhouse costume designer behind Pretty Little Liars , Travelers , The Young and the Restless , and some of the wildest rock music videos of the 2000s (think Linkin Park, Korn, and System of a Down). Mandi shares her...

Hallmark movies and indie films are more alike than you think. While these films may be known for their feel-good romance and holiday cheer, behind the scenes, they run like indie films—tight schedules, small budgets, and fast-paced productions. To break it all down, we sit down with Yan-Kay Crystal Lowe, a seasoned actor-turned-director who made the leap behind the camera to helm character-driven...

How do you make a feature film for just $6,000 and turn it into a career? In this episode, we sit down with Joshua Caldwell ( Layover, Infamous, Mending the Line ) to break down his indie filmmaking journey—from shooting his first feature Layover on a micro-budget to directing multiple films with Hollywood talent. Instagram @offthelotpod @ken_kabatoff @epptri @joshuacaldwelldirector

In this episode of Off The Lot , we sit down with writer-director Laura Adkin to discuss her indie feature film Re:Uniting (2023). From securing funding to assembling a cast and navigating the challenges of indie filmmaking, Laura shares her journey and hard-earned lessons. 💡 If you’re an indie filmmaker looking for inspiration, insight, and practical advice on making a feature film happen no mat...

In this episode, Ken and Anthony discuss the essential role of storytelling in indie filmmaking and how your script can make or break your film. Email us your questions or topic suggestions: podcast.offthelot@gmail.com and follow us on social media! Off The Lot: Instagram: @offthelotpod Threads: @offthelotpod Blue Sky: @offthelot.bsky.social TikTok: @offthelotpod Ken Kabatoff: Instagram: @ken_kaba...

This week, Ken and Anthony sit down with Jack Cox (director) and Cole Hewlett (producer) to talk about their incredible microbudget horror film, The Stickman’s Hollow. Made on a $30,000 budget, this found footage feature captures the eerie tale of Clara Hall, a child allegedly suffering from demonic possession, told through four chilling perspectives. Email us your questions or topic suggestions:...

In the debut episode, Ken and Anthony introduce Off The Lot and share their own filmmaking journeys—how they got started, the lessons they’ve learned, and why now is the perfect time to take on independent projects . They break down how to start your own film , maximize limited resources, and build a filmmaking community to help you succeed. Email us your questions or topic suggestions: podcast.of...

Off The Lot is where indie filmmakers get real. Hosted by Ken Kabatoff and Anthony Epp, the show digs into the grind, craft, and business of independent filmmaking—featuring directors, producers, writers, and industry pros who’ve built their careers outside the studio system. No fluff. Just practical insights from people who’ve done the work.