EP.3 - Thomas Rechenberg

On this week’s episode, we sit down with Ujjwal “Ujj” Chande—a Los Angeles–based cinematographer, photographer, and colorist whose visual storytelling is reshaping how we see music videos, commercials, and visual art. Ujj’s journey isn’t your typical Hollywood origin story: before diving into filmmaking, he studied engineering, giving him a rare blend of technical precision and artistic intuition that informs every frame he touches. Ujj has a deep passion for shooting on film while mastering the latest digital formats, and his work spans fashion/editorial imagery, music video cinematography, and immersive color grading—offering a unique look at how emotion and craft converge behind the lens. Based in LA but available to travel worldwide, he also creates remote color grading experiences for filmmakers across the globe. Join us as we explore the art and science of visual storytelling, what it takes to build a career in cinematography in today’s creative landscape, and the evolution from engineer to influential visual

In this episode, we talk with filmmaker Jonah Feingold, the director/writer/producer/actor behind the new movie 31 Candles, and Romantical, one of the most exciting new creative studios in the indie world. Jonah is redefining the modern romantic comedy with viral storytelling that blends classic filmmaking with digital-native innovation.His film “Good to See You” has already surpassed 1.3M views on YouTube and 9.6M+ views on Instagram, sparking a national conversation about creator-led cinema. Jonah’s work — featured on BuzzFeed, CNN, Funny or Die, HuffPost, and more — has accumulated over 100 million views.We break down:• How Jonah built a full-service indie studio• Why digital-first filmmaking is the future• The making of “Good to See You”• His viral BANGARANG short and its worldwide impact• How Romantical is modernizing the rom-com• The rise of the new indie waveIf you love filmmaking, storytelling, or the future of independent cinema… this one is a must-watch.

Get ready to witness the future of film. On this episode, actor-filmmaker Patrick Keleher sits down with visionary indie filmmaker Luca Pizzoleo — the guy who turned short films like O.C.D. into viral phenoms and built a body of work spanning edgy crime-dramas, dark comedies and genre-bending stories. Luca’s filmography includes the bold In the Valley of the Moon, a ’70s-inspired crime drama that sparked a cult TikTok wave, and The Tragic Death of a Frenchman, a raunchy stoner comedy proving that creativity doesn’t live in boxes. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Patrick and Luca break down how to ignite a filmmaking revolution when the studio system says “no”. Why being an outsider is your greatest advantage. What the new landscape of storytelling really looks like — for creators, by creators. Luca’s upcoming feature (Starring Steven Ogg, known for Grand Theft Auto V) that’s going to shake things up in a major way. If you’re ready to be part of the rebellion, to challenge the status quo and build something legendary from the ground up — this episode is your manifesto. Tune in, turn up, and join the movement. The revolution isn’t coming. It’s happening — right now.

In this episode, Patrick Keleher sits down with Karsten Runquist, the sharp and witty film critic known for turning movie talk into an art form. Karsten has built a massive following by blending deep insights with quick humor, making film discussion accessible, entertaining, and addictive.Patrick and Karsten dig into everything from the state of modern movies to internet culture, hot takes, and the joy of getting lost in a great story. Expect fast-paced conversation, unexpected tangents, and plenty of laughs—this is film talk without the pretension.Whether you’re a longtime fan of Karsten’s work or just love movies, this episode brings two unique voices together for a conversation that’s equal parts smart and fun.

In this episode, we sit down with actress Mekia Cox to talk about her journey from the stage to the screen. Best known for her roles in The Rookie, Once Upon a Time, and Chicago Med, Mekia opens up about her early beginnings in dance and musical theater, navigating Hollywood as a woman of color, and how she balances motherhood with a thriving acting career. It’s an inspiring, down-to-earth conversation with one of television’s most dynamic talents.

Josh George, one of my oldest buddies from high school, joins me on this episode.He’s from Snowmass, Colorado, and we’ve shared a lifetime of memories—especially the kind that involve getting into a little trouble in the great outdoors. From skiing and camping mishaps to all kinds of adolescent adventures, we cover it all.Josh is now studying to be a lawyer, so if you ever find yourself in a sticky situation… he just might be your guy.Stay tuned—this one’s a wild ride.

Deric Augustine is a dynamic actor from New Orleans, Louisiana, known for his compelling performances across television and film. He gained recognition portraying Cassius Clay in Godfather of Harlem, Clay Taylor in All American, and Officer Miles Penn in The Rookie. Augustine began his artistic journey in theater during his youth and later honed his craft at the Negro Ensemble Company in New York City. Balancing his early life between athletics and the arts, he was a star football player at the University of New Orleans before fully committing to acting. With a passion for storytelling and a dedication to his roles, Augustine continues to make a significant impact on screen.

Thomas Rechenberg is a Los Angeles- based comedy writer who is sharp-witted and known for blending heart, humor, and offbeat charm. His work blends bold dialogue with heartfelt humor, often shining a light on characters who feel a little out of place—but always real. His voice is fresh, his stories hit hard, and he's just getting started.

Melissa O’Neil is a powerhouse actress and singer best known for her role as Officer Lucy Chen on ABC’s hit series The Rookie. With a career that spans from winning Canadian Idol to starring in Broadway musicals like Les Misérables and leading the sci-fi series Dark Matter, Melissa brings a rare mix of talent, heart, and grit to everything she does. She’s a trailblazer—breaking barriers as the first female and youngest winner of Canadian Idol, and now captivating audiences on screens big and small.

Lisseth Chavez is a dynamic actress best known for playing Officer Celina Juarez on ABC’s The Rookie. She’s also made waves in Chicago P.D. and DC’s Legends of Tomorrow, showing off her range from gritty drama to sci-fi action. With her bold energy and heart-on-her-sleeve honesty, she brings every character to life. Off-screen, Lisseth is just as fearless, real, and full of heart.