Respect The Process

Filmmaker Scott Rice has directed commercials professionally since 2005 and teaches filmmaking at UT Austin. We talk about what film school might leave out—from tech scouts and how a real set works to the business of running a production company—and how his spec commercials helped launch his directing career. Scott shares why he loves teaching, giving back to the next generation of filmmakers, and making work that connects through strong visual storytelling. Check out his work at TwoShotWest. Enjoy! BOOTCAMP is Saturday, December 5th. Charlotte, NC. Includes 30 minute onbaording call and free 30 minute follow up creative consultation call. Limit 10. POSH DUOThe original 2-in-1 styling wax stick. I use Posh Duo to keep my hair fly and my beard on point. Free shipping for RTP listeners. Get the Posh look. A portion of the proceeds from every stick sold goes to Wigs For Kids. Free shipping. ONLINE FILMMAKING COURSES - DIRECT WITH CONFIDENCEEach of my online courses come with a free 1:1 mentorship call with yours truly. Taking the Shadow course is the only way to win a chance to shadow me on a real shoot! DM for details. Want to level up your commercial directing game? Use code "virtual" to take $50 off! MAGIC MIND - MY MENTAL PERFORMANCE ELIXIRSave hugely on Magic Mind with this link. — This link is the way. Thanks, Jordan My cult classic mockumentary, "Dill Scallion" is online so I'm giving 100% of the money to St. Jude Children's Hospital. I've decided to donate the LIFETIME earnings every December, so the donation will grow and grow annually. Thank you. "Respect The Process" podcast is brought to you by Commercial Directing FIlm School and True Gent, aka True Gentleman Industries, Inc. in partnership with Brady Oil Entertainment, Inc.

Filmmaker Andrea Nordgren went to Brand Storytelling at Sundance 2026 wanting to direct something in the vertical space. She landed her first vertical series, a SAG romance thriller, after she cast a local actress in a commercial and that actress later invited her to direct. On set she made her shot list on the day, blocked four actors in a 9:16 frame in one kitchen, and shot on a Sony FX3 with the camera flipped and no first AC to pull focus. She also kept continuity while one home stood in for several different ones.We also chat about how brands like Crocs and Procter & Gamble are experimenting with vertical video, and I talk about my own vertical series, House of K. We cover Andrea's path from substance abuse counseling to commercial director, and the human trafficking awareness spot she wrote and directed. We talk about why a director's voice comes from their body of work and their reputation, and why generosity beats gatekeeping. Andrea closes with what "respect the process" means to her: trust it, and never skip the prep. BOOTCAMP is Saturday, December 5th. Charlotte, NC. Includes 30 minute onbaording call and free 30 minute follow up creative consultation call. Limit 10. POSH DUOThe original 2-in-1 styling wax stick. I use Posh Duo to keep my hair fly and my beard on point. Free shipping for RTP listeners. Get the Posh look. A portion of the proceeds from every stick sold goes to Wigs For Kids. Free shipping. ONLINE FILMMAKING COURSES - DIRECT WITH CONFIDENCEEach of my online courses come with a free 1:1 mentorship call with yours truly. Taking the Shadow course is the only way to win a chance to shadow me on a real shoot! DM for details. Want to level up your commercial directing game? Use code "virtual" to take $50 off! MAGIC MIND - MY MENTAL PERFORMANCE ELIXIRSave hugely on Magic Mind with this link. — This link is the way. Thanks, Jordan My cult classic mockumentary, "Dill Scallion" is online so I'm giving 100% of the money to St. Jude Children's Hospital. I've decided to donate the LIFETIME earnings every December, so the donation will grow and grow annually. Thank you. "Respect The Process" podcast is brought to you by Commercial Directing FIlm School and True Gent, aka True Gentleman Industries, Inc. in partnership with Brady Oil Entertainment, Inc.  

Filmmaker Azim Miah's is a director and editor from Northampton whose journey into filmmaking began not with fancy gear or industry connections, but with a built-in webcam and a love of making spots. Now he's creating ambitious films with limited resources—and pursuing a purpose bigger than himself: helping make the British film industry more accessible to underrepresented creators. We talk self-doubt, making spec spots, finding collaborators close to home, and why respecting the process means appreciating the people who make the work possible. Check out his Hubba Bubba spot, The Trade. BOOTCAMP is Saturday, December 5th. Charlotte, NC. Email me to get on the list. POSH DUOThe original 2-in-1 styling wax stick. I use Posh Duo to keep my hair fly and my beard on point. Free shipping for RTP listeners. Get the Posh look. A portion of the proceeds from every stick sold goes to Wigs For Kids. Free shipping. ONLINE FILMMAKING COURSES - DIRECT WITH CONFIDENCEEach of my online courses come with a free 1:1 mentorship call with yours truly. Taking the Shadow course is the only way to win a chance to shadow me on a real shoot! DM for details. Want to level up your commercial directing game? Use code "virtual" to take $50 off! MAGIC MIND - MY MENTAL PERFORMANCE ELIXIRSave hugely on Magic Mind with this link. — This link is the way. Thanks, Jordan My cult classic mockumentary, "Dill Scallion" is online so I'm giving 100% of the money to St. Jude Children's Hospital. I've decided to donate the LIFETIME earnings every December, so the donation will grow and grow annually. Thank you. "Respect The Process" podcast is brought to you by Commercial Directing FIlm School and True Gent, aka True Gentleman Industries, Inc. in partnership with Brady Oil Entertainment, Inc.

Biff Butler is an editor and the founder of Papercut, an editorial company built around craft, collaboration, and a strong creative culture. Before post-production, Biff played in a touring rock band, an experience that helped him learn how to bring different creative voices together. He began his editing career at Rock, Paper, Scissors, where working alongside leading talent helped shape his approach to the craft. Today, Butler believes the best work comes from trust, open conversation, and making space for ideas from everyone in the room. In this conversation, he reflects on why respecting the creative process—and the people behind it—can lead to better work. BOOTCAMP is Saturday, December 5th. Location TDB. Email me to get on the list. POSH DUOThe original 2-in-1 styling wax stick. I use Posh Duo to keep my hair fly and my beard on point. Free shipping for RTP listeners. Get the Posh look. A portion of the proceeds from every stick sold goes to Wigs For Kids. Free shipping. ONLINE FILMMAKING COURSES - DIRECT WITH CONFIDENCEEach of my online courses come with a free 1:1 mentorship call with yours truly. Taking the Shadow course is the only way to win a chance to shadow me on a real shoot! DM for details. Want to level up your commercial directing game? Use code "virtual" to take $50 off! MAGIC MIND - MY MENTAL PERFORMANCE EXILIRSave hugely on Magic Mind with this link. — This link is the way. Thanks, Jordan My cult classic mockumentary, "Dill Scallion" is online so I'm giving 100% of the money to St. Jude Children's Hospital. I've decided to donate the LIFETIME earnings every December, so the donation will grow and grow annually. Thank you. "Respect The Process" podcast is brought to you by Commercial Directing FIlm School and True Gent, aka True Gentleman Industries, Inc. in partnership with Brady Oil Entertainment, Inc.

Commercial Director Robert Boocheck joins me for a candid conversation about the realities of freelance commercial directing—the uncertainty between jobs, the pressure of unpaid pitches, and the work it takes to stay in the mix. Robert shares how he tracks bids across production companies, approaches treatments, decides when to trust his instincts over AI, and makes the case for staying involved in post-production. Along the way, we discuss the loneliness behind the highlight reel and why freelance directors need to manage not just the creative work, but also their outreach, relationships, and business. Also check out his fun instagram.  POSH DUOThe original 2-in-1 styling wax stick. I use Posh Duo to keep my hair fly and my beard on point. Free shipping for RTP listeners. Get the Posh look. A portion of the proceeds from every stick sold goes to Wigs For Kids. Free shipping. ONLINE FILMMAKING COURSES - DIRECT WITH CONFIDENCEEach of my online courses come with a free 1:1 mentorship call with yours truly. Taking the Shadow course is the only way to win a chance to shadow me on a real shoot! DM for details. Want to level up your commercial directing game? Use code "virtual" to take $50 off! MAGIC MIND - MY MENTAL PERFORMANCE EXILIRSave hugely on Magic Mind with this link. — This link is the way. Thanks, Jordan My cult classic mockumentary, "Dill Scallion" is online so I'm giving 100% of the money to St. Jude Children's Hospital. I've decided to donate the LIFETIME earnings every December, so the donation will grow and grow annually. Thank you. "Respect The Process" podcast is brought to you by Commercial Directing FIlm School and True Gent, aka True Gentleman Industries, Inc. in partnership with Brady Oil Entertainment, Inc.

James Beshara is an angel investor, podcaster, philosopher, musician (see OPENSTATE_), founder of Magic Mind and friend. We explore how to choose the right opportunities, find the work that feels like your true calling, and stay committed to it without becoming overly attached to the outcome. James shares the idea of Swadharma—the work you're naturally wired to do—and offers a thoughtful perspective on creativity, purpose, and building a life that feels aligned. James is a high-output creative individual, so here's some links you'll want to checkk out. OPENSTATE_ Apt.ai free code TRYAPT100 The Daily Vedantic Yoga For Your Intellect Enjoy! POSH DUOThe original 2-in-1 styling wax stick. I use Posh Duo to keep my hair fly and my beard on point. Free shipping for RTP listeners. Get the Posh look. A portion of the proceeds from every stick sold goes to Wigs For Kids. Free shipping. ONLINE FILMMAKING COURSES - DIRECT WITH CONFIDENCEEach of my online courses come with a free 1:1 mentorship call with yours truly. Taking the Shadow course is the only way to win a chance to shadow me on a real shoot! DM for details. Want to level up your commercial directing game? Use code "virtual" to take $50 off! MAGIC MIND - MY MENTAL PERFORMANCE EXILIRSave hugely on Magic Mind with this link. — This link is the way. Thanks, Jordan My cult classic mockumentary, "Dill Scallion" is online so I'm giving 100% of the money to St. Jude Children's Hospital. I've decided to donate the LIFETIME earnings every December, so the donation will grow and grow annually. Thank you. "Respect The Process" podcast is brought to you by Commercial Directing FIlm School and True Gent, aka True Gentleman Industries, Inc. in partnership with Brady Oil Entertainment, Inc.

Director/Cinematographer Ben Brady shares the experiences and lessons that shaped his career—from working on productions with Sacha Baron Cohen and shooting a Radiohead music video connected to Paul Thomas Anderson, to learning from leading cinematographers like Darius Khondji and preparing for new, demanding LED-wall commercial. Ben, who moved from camera PA to DP quickly, explains why curiosity and persistence matter on set, when to ask questions, and how thorough preparation can make the difference between a stressful shoot and a successful one. It's an honest conversation about filmmaking, mentorship, family, and earning your way through the camera department. Fun fact: Ben is my son and I love working with him! Check out our new Johnsonville Sausage spot we did together.  POSH DUOThe original 2-in-1 styling wax stick. I use Posh Duo to keep my hair fly and my beard on point. Free shipping for RTP listeners. Get the Posh look. A portion of the proceeds from every stick sold goes to Wigs For Kids. Free shipping. ONLINE FILMMAKING COURSES - DIRECT WITH CONFIDENCEEach of my online courses come with a free 1:1 mentorship call with yours truly. Taking the Shadow course is the only way to win a chance to shadow me on a real shoot! DM for details. Want to level up your commercial directing game? Use code "virtual" to take $50 off! MAGIC MIND - MY MENTAL PERFORMANCE EXILIRSave hugely on Magic Mind with this link. — This link is the way. Thanks, Jordan My cult classic mockumentary, "Dill Scallion" is online so I'm giving 100% of the money to St. Jude Children's Hospital. I've decided to donate the LIFETIME earnings every December, so the donation will grow and grow annually. Thank you. "Respect The Process" podcast is brought to you by Commercial Directing FIlm School and True Gent, aka True Gentleman Industries, Inc. in partnership with Brady Oil Entertainment, Inc.

Ben Levy is a creative coach, author, and expert in helping people present ideas with clarity, confidence, and humanity. In our conversation, we explored his powerful pitching principle: "wow before how." Whether you're a filmmaker, agency creative, or entrepreneur, Ben's advice will help you earn attention, build trust, and turn your next pitch into a genuine conversation. FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '26 - JOIN US Oct. 1–4: our 5th Annual Retreat. SIGN UP NOW No application. Just save your spot and come learn, shoot, and grow with working filmmakers. Limit 15.  NEW COURSE - VIRTUAL PRODUCTION FOR COMMERCIAL DIRECTORS Filmmkaer and friend Kevin O'Brien has shot close to 100 spots on the LED wall. His new course is a tremendous head start to us that will shoot or considering to film on the volumn. Use cose "virtual" to save $50. Click here to learn from the master. POSH DUOThe original 2-in-1 styling wax stick. I use Posh Duo to keep my hair fly and my beard on point. Free shipping for RTP listeners. Get the Posh look. A portion of the proceeds from every stick sold goes to Wigs For Kids. Free shipping. ONLINE FILMMAKING COURSES - DIRECT WITH CONFIDENCEEach of my online courses come with a free 1:1 mentorship call with yours truly. Taking the Shadow course is the only way to win a chance to shadow me on a real shoot! DM for details. Want to level up your commercial directing game? Use code "virtual" to take $50 off! MAGIC MIND - MY MENTAL PERFORMANCE EXILIRSave hugely on Magic Mind with this link. — This link is the way. Thanks, Jordan My cult classic mockumentary, "Dill Scallion" is online so I'm giving 100% of the money to St. Jude Children's Hospital. I've decided to donate the LIFETIME earnings every December, so the donation will grow and grow annually. Thank you. "Respect The Process" podcast is brought to you by Commercial Directing FIlm School and True Gent, aka True Gentleman Industries, Inc. in partnership with Brady Oil Entertainment, Inc.

I sat down with Tony Finley, founder of We Film Sh*t, for a candid conversation about the changing business of commercial production. We talked about why directors deserve more ownership and profit, how bloated production-company models can hold creatives back, and why creative risk is essential to making better work. Tony also shared his vision for using AI to connect directors with the right projects and create a fairer, more director-focused industry. My Filmmaker Retreat has 1 spot left so save your spot now! FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '26 - JOIN US Oct. 1–4: our 5th Annual Retreat. SIGN UP NOW No application. Just save your spot and come learn, shoot, and grow with working filmmakers. Limit 15.  NEW COURSE - VIRTUAL PRODUCTION FOR COMMERCIAL DIRECTORS Filmmkaer and friend Kevin O'Brien has shot close to 100 spots on the LED wall. His new course is a tremendous head start to us that will shoot or considering to film on the volumn. Use cose "virtual" to save $50. Click here to learn from the master. POSH DUOThe original 2-in-1 styling wax stick. I use Posh Duo to keep my hair fly and my beard on point. Free shipping for RTP listeners. Get the Posh look. A portion of the proceeds from every stick sold goes to Wigs For Kids. Free shipping. ONLINE FILMMAKING COURSES - DIRECT WITH CONFIDENCEEach of my online courses come with a free 1:1 mentorship call with yours truly. Taking the Shadow course is the only way to win a chance to shadow me on a real shoot! DM for details. Want to level up your commercial directing game? Use code "virtual" to take $50 off! MAGIC MIND - MY MENTAL PERFORMANCE EXILIRSave hugely on Magic Mind with this link. — This link is the way. Thanks, Jordan My cult classic mockumentary, "Dill Scallion" is online so I'm giving 100% of the money to St. Jude Children's Hospital. I've decided to donate the LIFETIME earnings every December, so the donation will grow and grow annually. Thank you. "Respect The Process" podcast is brought to you by Commercial Directing FIlm School and True Gent, aka True Gentleman Industries, Inc. in partnership with Brady Oil Entertainment, Inc.

Michael Martin and I discuss how commercial directors can stand out by developing a distinct point of view, taking creative risks, and making work that reflects their voice. Michael shares the story behind his handmade Starbucks director's cut, while both directors explore pitching, career setbacks, ego, humility, and the value of enjoying the creative process. Together, they offer practical perspective for filmmakers navigating competition, building new creative lanes, and staying committed to the journey. My Filmmaker Retreat has 2 spots left so save your spot now! FILMMAKER RETREAT JOSHUA TREE '26 - JOIN US Oct. 1–4: our 5th Annual Retreat. SIGN UP NOW No application. Just save your spot and come learn, shoot, and grow with working filmmakers. Limit 15.  NEW COURSE - VIRTUAL PRODUCTION FOR COMMERCIAL DIRECTORS Filmmkaer and friend Kevin O'Brien has shot close to 100 spots on the LED wall. His new course is a tremendous head start to us that will shoot or considering to film on the volumn. Use cose "virtual" to save $50. Click here to learn from the master. POSH DUOThe original 2-in-1 styling wax stick. I use Posh Duo to keep my hair fly and my beard on point. Free shipping for RTP listeners. Get the Posh look. A portion of the proceeds from every stick sold goes to Wigs For Kids. Free shipping. ONLINE FILMMAKING COURSES - DIRECT WITH CONFIDENCEEach of my online courses come with a free 1:1 mentorship call with yours truly. Taking the Shadow course is the only way to win a chance to shadow me on a real shoot! DM for details. Want to level up your commercial directing game? Use code "virtual" to take $50 off! MAGIC MIND - MY MENTAL PERFORMANCE EXILIRSave hugely on Magic Mind with this link. — This link is the way. Thanks, Jordan My cult classic mockumentary, "Dill Scallion" is online so I'm giving 100% of the money to St. Jude Children's Hospital. I've decided to donate the LIFETIME earnings every December, so the donation will grow and grow annually. Thank you. "Respect The Process" podcast is brought to you by Commercial Directing FIlm School and True Gent, aka True Gentleman Industries, Inc. in partnership with Brady Oil Entertainment, Inc.