Podcasting Buffalo

In this episode of Podcasting Buffalo, the crew takes the show on the road for the first time — recording live from the brand-new home of Expressway Buffalo Cinema Rentals. The crew sits down with Ben Mannarino and Elliot Spitzer to discuss the company’s evolution in Buffalo, NY — from the early days of Buffalo Camera to becoming a full-service cinema rental and production support powerhouse. They...

In the Season 2 premiere of Podcasting Buffalo, the crew welcomes actor Abraham Benrubi — affectionately known to many as “Santa” from Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story. With a career spanning decades, Abraham is best known for his breakout role on ER, along with memorable turns in Parker Lewis Can’t Lose, George of the Jungle, Without a Paddle, Robot Chicken, and more.   Abe dives into his ea...

This week, the Podcasting Buffalo crew welcomes William Mattar of William Mattar Law Offices for a special edition episode all about branding, marketing, and the power of reinvention. A true Buffalo icon, Bill shares how his creative commercials and unforgettable jingle turned his firm into a household name—and what it takes to build a brand that truly stands out. From viral campaigns to staying r...

This week, the crew kicks things off by talking about the iconic yearly William Mattar commercials—a Buffalo pop culture staple—and the honor Casting Buffalo has had in being part of them. From there, we dive into the importance of networking events for both cast and crew, and why the upcoming Casting Buffalo Actors Expo on Saturday, August 23rd is a must-attend for filmmakers and talent looking t...

This week, the crew sits down with Buffalo native and acclaimed actor William Fichtner for an inspiring conversation on craft, career, and chasing the dream. With Kyle tuning in remotely from Las Vegas, Jordan takes the lead as we dive into Bill’s reflections on the value of preparation, believing in yourself, and staying dedicated to the work—even when the odds are uncertain. We revisit Coldbrook...

This week, the crew pays tribute to Buffalo legend Joe Giambra, whose legacy lives on through the “I Love You Buffalo” podcast theme. We also share behind-the-scenes stories from the set of the latest Bills-themed holiday movie, reflecting on how the energy of Bills Mafia inspired both cast and crew.   The team dives into the path to becoming SAG-eligible, breaking down the different routes to uni...

This week, the crew is joined by costume designer Keith Nielsen, the creative mind behind more than a dozen holiday films—including A Biltmore Christmas and the upcoming Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story, both filmed in Buffalo, NY. Keith shares his journey from Mozart in the Jungle to Hallmark favorites, highlighting how thoughtful design, historical research, and storytelling are woven into...

This week, the crew shares behind-the-scenes stories from casting Paranormal Activity: Next of Kin, including the unique challenge of finding authentic Amish background talent—and how far casting directors will go for the real deal. We talk about the importance of actors staying ready and answering the call when opportunity knocks, and we dive into plans for the 2025 Casting Buffalo Actors Expo, r...

This week, the crew welcomes Andrew Gernhard of Synthetic Cinema International—producer, executive, and the driving force behind bringing Newport Christmas to Buffalo, NY. Andrew shares his journey from the world of B-horror films to producing beloved holiday hits for Hallmark, Netflix, and beyond. We dive into the potential of Buffalo as a growing film hub, discussing the importance of expanding...

This week, the crew reflects on their early industry experiences working on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows (2016) in Buffalo, NY. Kyle shares the pressure of safeguarding film footage and his surreal moment overseeing a stunt helicopter, while Harry recalls the camaraderie of lockups and the impact of filming in local neighborhoods. We also dive into Buffalo’s 2025 film scene, wi...

This week, the crew dives into on-set mentality , breaking down the wild story of an actor who tried sneaking onto set as an extra. We discuss the importance of patience in the industry (“Hurry Up & Wait”), how to stay engaged during downtime, and why treating your job like a hobby can hold you back. Harry leads a deep dive into Dog Day Afternoon (1975), analyzing Al Pacino’s gripping performa...

This week, the crew dives into the art of seizing opportunities in the film industry, highlighting a local actor with the perfect look for a Hollywood villain. We also shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of filmmaking—stand-ins—while praising one standout performer from the upcoming film The Panic. Peter brings a scene from New Jack City (1991) to the table, where Wesley Snipes delivers a maste...

Casting Buffalo's Kyle Mecca, Harry Lipsitz, and Peter Johnson present Podcasting Buffalo, a podcast sharing insights from Buffalo's casting world. In the teaser, they explain why they created it and preview behind-the-scenes stories, scene analysis from acting and directing perspectives, and a fun film recasting game. Tune in for engaging discussions and industry expertise. Listen, follow, and su...