The Hard Copy Media Podcast

What does it actually take to scale a creative business past the referral wall? Skyler Mullins, co-founder of Influence Studios, Marketing & Rentals, sits down with Colton to break down the unsexy (but very sexy, depending on who you ask) business side of running a creative agency. Skyler shares how a SoundCloud rapper music video at 18 turned into producing thousands of TV spots for 17 differ...

What does a biology degree, a failed military application, and a pretty Nikon saleswoman have in common? They all played a part in making David Navarrete one of Arizona's most creative filmmakers and community builders. David is the founder of Moneta De Sine — a full-service creative production company specializing in video, photo, and high-end event activations — and the creator of Arizona F...

In this solo episode of the Hard Copy Media Podcast, Colton breaks down the real reasons creatives get called back for more work—and why talent and gear matter far less than most people think. Whether you’re fresh out of college, trying to break into film and media, or looking to level up into higher-budget productions, this episode lays out a simple framework for building trust, reputation, and m...

In this episode of the Hard Copy Media Podcast, Colton sits down with Ivan Ramirez—DP, creative director at Influence Media, and all-around visual problem solver—for a wide-ranging conversation about branding, creative identity, filmmaking careers, and the realities of modern creator culture. Ivan shares his journey from graphic design and early DIY filmmaking in Wisconsin to working professionall...

In this solo episode of the Hard Copy Media Podcast, Colton dives deep into the practical, real-world process of building studios and sets that actually work—for podcasts, talking-head videos, branded content, and in-house creative teams. Drawing from years of hands-on experience building sets for clients, companies, and personal projects, Colton walks through everything from safety fundamentals a...

In this episode of the Hard Copy Media Podcast , Colton sits down with Arizona-based camera operator Jay Brodeur to unpack what it really looks like to build a career behind the camera—and when it’s time to pivot. Jay shares his unconventional journey into filmmaking, from shooting church videos and weddings in middle school to navigating freelance burnout, turning down low-budget clients, and ult...

In this solo episode of the Hard Copy Media Podcast, Colton breaks down why creative problem solving is the most valuable skill a modern creative professional can develop—and why it matters more than gear, budgets, or perfect conditions. Using the classic TV show MacGyver as a framework, this episode explores how limitations fuel creativity and why clients don’t pay for cameras or lenses—they pay...

In this solo episode of the Hard Copy Media Podcast, Colton breaks down one of the most underutilized—but powerful—content strategies available today: content atomization. Instead of constantly chasing new ideas, content atomization focuses on creating one strong long-form “hero” asset and strategically breaking it down into dozens of smaller pieces across platforms. From podcasts and YouTube vide...

Welcome to the pilot episode of the Hard Copy Media Podcast. In this solo introduction, Colton Trcic — founder of Hard Copy Media — sets the stage for what this podcast is all about and who it’s for. From filmmakers and marketers to entrepreneurs, CEOs, and creatives of all kinds, this show explores the intersection of creativity, business, and storytelling in a rapidly evolving industry. This epi...

In this solo episode of the Hard Copy Media Podcast, Colton breaks down three foundational pillars that shape long-term success for creatives and business owners: coaching, mentorship, and community. Drawing from real experiences building Hard Copy Media, navigating financial uncertainty, and finding the right people to grow alongside, this episode explores why talent alone isn’t enough. Colton sh...

In this episode of the Hard Copy Media Podcast, Colton sits down with returning guest J.T. Healy to break down what it really takes to shoot high-level corporate and fitness events—whether you’re a solo shooter or running a full production team. From pre-production planning and shot lists to gear choices, audio capture, and on-site leadership, this conversation dives deep into the practical realit...