Lauren Cohen on the Miami Film Festival, AI & The Future of Cinema

Lauren Cohen, Director of Programming for the Miami Film Festival, joins Dope Interviews for a deep conversation on film, culture, and the evolving entertainment landscape. She breaks down her journey from Miami native to leading one of the country’s most respected festivals, and explains what really goes into selecting over 150 films from thousands of submissions.Lauren also talks about the importance of international storytelling, how the festival creates real community experiences, and why not every great film makes the final cut. The conversation also explores the growing role of AI in film — both as a tool and as a theme — and what it means for creators moving forward. A must-listen for filmmakers, creatives, and anyone who loves movies beyond the surface.#miami #film  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dope-interviews--5006633/support.Follow Dope Interviews on X: https://www.twitter.com/dope_interviewsFollow Warren Shaw on X: https://www.twitter.com/thewarrenshawFollow Warren on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thewarrenshawRock "Dope Interviews" gear: https://19-media-group.myspreadshop.comLooking to book a vacation? Our travel partner Exquiste Travel & Tours has you covered: Call 954-228-5479 or visit https://exquisitetravelandtours.com/Discover our favorite podcast gear and support the show—shop our studio must-haves on our Amazon Affiliate page! https://www.amazon.com/shop/19mediagroupWant to join the conversation or invite us to your platform? Connect with us and share your vision (budget-friendly collaborations welcome)!  https://bit.ly/19Guest

Dr. Karen Diaz Meaike joins Dope Interviews to talk entrepreneurship, leadership, and launching the first Blushington franchise in Boca Raton. Host Warren Shaw sits down with Dr. Karen to discuss her unique journey from social worker and philanthropist to beauty entrepreneur. She shares how years of being a Blushington customer turned into an opportunity to become the brand’s first franchise owner in the country. In this episode, they talk about:Building a business around experience and communityThe real hurdles of opening a franchiseWhy inclusivity matters in the beauty industryThe importance of leadership and empathy in entrepreneurshipHow Blushington blends luxury with accessibilityDr. Karen also shares advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and why building the right support system is essential when chasing big goals.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dope-interviews--5006633/support.Follow Dope Interviews on X: https://www.twitter.com/dope_interviewsFollow Warren Shaw on X: https://www.twitter.com/thewarrenshawFollow Warren on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thewarrenshawRock "Dope Interviews" gear: https://19-media-group.myspreadshop.comLooking to book a vacation? Our travel partner Exquiste Travel & Tours has you covered: Call 954-228-5479 or visit https://exquisitetravelandtours.com/Discover our favorite podcast gear and support the show—shop our studio must-haves on our Amazon Affiliate page! https://www.amazon.com/shop/19mediagroupWant to join the conversation or invite us to your platform? Connect with us and share your vision (budget-friendly collaborations welcome)!  https://bit.ly/19Guest

Daniel Benhamu didn’t just open a barbershop — he built an experience. In this episode of Dope Interviews, Daniel shares his journey from working in film production to becoming a franchise owner of Hammer & Nails in Davie, Florida. After navigating SBA loan rejections, industry uncertainty, and a major career pivot, he created a premium men’s grooming space centered on community, self-care, and entrepreneurship. We discuss:The realities of franchise ownershipWhy men need a “third space” beyond work and homePremium pricing vs. value perceptionBuilding a team that reflects the communityBetting on yourself when no one else doesA powerful conversation for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone ready to pivot into ownership.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dope-interviews--5006633/support.Follow Dope Interviews on X: https://www.twitter.com/dope_interviewsFollow Warren Shaw on X: https://www.twitter.com/thewarrenshawFollow Warren on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thewarrenshawRock "Dope Interviews" gear: https://19-media-group.myspreadshop.comLooking to book a vacation? Our travel partner Exquiste Travel & Tours has you covered: Call 954-228-5479 or visit https://exquisitetravelandtours.com/Discover our favorite podcast gear and support the show—shop our studio must-haves on our Amazon Affiliate page! https://www.amazon.com/shop/19mediagroupWant to join the conversation or invite us to your platform? Connect with us and share your vision (budget-friendly collaborations welcome)!  https://bit.ly/19Guest

Paris Berelc and Asher Angel join Dope Interviews to talk about their new film, Kissing Is the Easy Part, on Tubi and why romance movies are finally bringing nostalgia back. They discuss first love, high school nerves, rom-com chemistry, adapting a book for the screen, and why communication is the real challenge in relationships. Paris and Asher also reflect on working together, creating an authentic vibe on set, and what makes this film feel relatable for a new generation.A fun, honest conversation about love, movies, and growing up — Dope Interviews style.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dope-interviews--5006633/support.Follow Dope Interviews on X: https://www.twitter.com/dope_interviewsFollow Warren Shaw on X: https://www.twitter.com/thewarrenshawFollow Warren on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thewarrenshawRock "Dope Interviews" gear: https://19-media-group.myspreadshop.comLooking to book a vacation? Our travel partner Exquiste Travel & Tours has you covered: Call 954-228-5479 or visit https://exquisitetravelandtours.com/Discover our favorite podcast gear and support the show—shop our studio must-haves on our Amazon Affiliate page! https://www.amazon.com/shop/19mediagroupWant to join the conversation or invite us to your platform? Connect with us and share your vision (budget-friendly collaborations welcome)!  https://bit.ly/19Guest

Keldamuzik joins Dope Interviews to talk hip-hop, hustle, and redefining power as a woman in entertainment. From touring internationally, landing film placements, building her TAMZ fashion brand and hosting Diva Talk on Tubi, Kelda breaks down how she’s turned creativity into ownership. She speaks honestly about rejection, mental health, the freedom of hip-hop, and why being a “diva” is about discipline, self-worth, and moving with purpose. A powerful conversation for artists, entrepreneurs, and anyone building something bigger than themselves.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dope-interviews--5006633/support.Follow Dope Interviews on X: https://www.twitter.com/dope_interviewsFollow Warren Shaw on X: https://www.twitter.com/thewarrenshawFollow Warren on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thewarrenshawRock "Dope Interviews" gear: https://19-media-group.myspreadshop.comLooking to book a vacation? Our travel partner Exquiste Travel & Tours has you covered: Call 954-228-5479 or visit https://exquisitetravelandtours.com/Discover our favorite podcast gear and support the show—shop our studio must-haves on our Amazon Affiliate page! https://www.amazon.com/shop/19mediagroupWant to join the conversation or invite us to your platform? Connect with us and share your vision (budget-friendly collaborations welcome)!  https://bit.ly/19Guest

In this Season 10 debut of Dope Interviews, Warren Shaw welcomes corporate leader and author Beverly Vanterpool for a powerful discussion on career navigation, ambition, and building influence beyond traditional corporate ladders.Beverly shares her journey from the Caribbean to London, unpacks the hidden dynamics of corporate leadership, and explains why women, especially women of color, must focus on visibility, sponsorship, and community, not just hard work. She also discusses her book Build Your Table and the mission behind her podcast Stories By Career Sistas.This episode is a must-listen for anyone questioning their next career move or feeling stuck in systems not designed for them.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dope-interviews--5006633/support.Follow Dope Interviews on X: https://www.twitter.com/dope_interviewsFollow Warren Shaw on X: https://www.twitter.com/thewarrenshawFollow Warren on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thewarrenshawRock "Dope Interviews" gear: https://19-media-group.myspreadshop.comLooking to book a vacation? Our travel partner Exquiste Travel & Tours has you covered: Call 954-228-5479 or visit https://exquisitetravelandtours.com/Discover our favorite podcast gear and support the show—shop our studio must-haves on our Amazon Affiliate page! https://www.amazon.com/shop/19mediagroupWant to join the conversation or invite us to your platform? Connect with us and share your vision (budget-friendly collaborations welcome)!  https://bit.ly/19Guest

The world of Spartacus is back — and Dope Interviews brings you an exclusive behind-the-scenes talk with the stars of House of Ashur, the brand-new STARZ series expanding the iconic franchise. Host Warren Shaw sits down with:Nick Tarabay on returning to Ashur after a decade, the character’s emotional complexity, and why the “villain” label never fit.Tenika Davis on portraying Achillea with strength, vulnerability, and purpose — without falling into harmful portrayals of Black women in ancient worlds.Jamie Slater on stepping into Cornelia’s unapologetic ruthlessness and why the women of this universe remain its backbone.This episode dives into acting craft, character psychology, world-building, trauma portrayal, empowerment, and what fans can expect from the new series. If you love Spartacus, STARZ dramas, powerful female performances, or smart conversations about entertainment culture — this one is for you.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dope-interviews--5006633/support.Follow Dope Interviews on X: https://www.twitter.com/dope_interviewsFollow Warren Shaw on X: https://www.twitter.com/thewarrenshawFollow Warren on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thewarrenshawRock "Dope Interviews" gear: https://19-media-group.myspreadshop.comLooking to book a vacation? Our travel partner Exquiste Travel & Tours has you covered: Call 954-228-5479 or visit https://exquisitetravelandtours.com/Discover our favorite podcast gear and support the show—shop our studio must-haves on our Amazon Affiliate page! https://www.amazon.com/shop/19mediagroupWant to join the conversation or invite us to your platform? Connect with us and share your vision (budget-friendly collaborations welcome)!  https://bit.ly/19Guest

In this episode of Dope Interviews, host Warren Shaw sits down with two legends shaping the game from the inside: Dallas Stokes, lead designer for ANTA and Kyrie Irving’s sneaker line, and Rob Purvy, veteran product developer for Reebok, Adidas, and Vans, now leading innovation at Algenesis.Together, they unpack the real craft behind sneaker design and product development.Topics Covered:• How sneaker design and product development work together• Dallas’ approach to building Kyrie’s ANTA models, Rob's approach to working with Shaq• Rob’s unforgettable story behind Dee Brown’s Reebok Pump moment• Why mentorship and teamwork matter in the footwear industry• The rise of sustainable, biodegradable materials in shoe design• How AI and 3D printing are changing the future of footwearIf you’re into sneaker culture, creative storytelling, athlete footwear history, or the business behind innovation, this conversation is a must-listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dope-interviews--5006633/support.Follow Dope Interviews on X: https://www.twitter.com/dope_interviewsFollow Warren Shaw on X: https://www.twitter.com/thewarrenshawFollow Warren on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thewarrenshawRock "Dope Interviews" gear: https://19-media-group.myspreadshop.comLooking to book a vacation? Our travel partner Exquiste Travel & Tours has you covered: Call 954-228-5479 or visit https://exquisitetravelandtours.com/Discover our favorite podcast gear and support the show—shop our studio must-haves on our Amazon Affiliate page! https://www.amazon.com/shop/19mediagroupWant to join the conversation or invite us to your platform? Connect with us and share your vision (budget-friendly collaborations welcome)!  https://bit.ly/19Guest

Will Crown joins Dope Interviews for a powerful conversation about music, legacy, and going viral in today’s creative world. Hosted by Warren Shaw, this episode digs deep into Crown’s journey from Brooklyn hip-hop ciphers and Air Force service to becoming the voice behind Burger King’s iconic “You Rule” jingle. Tune in for inspiring stories about breaking into the music business, landing big syncs in TV and film, navigating online love and hate, and learning from legends like Snoop Dogg. Will shares his creative process, real advice for creators, and how to build your legacy beyond the fame. Whether you’re into NBA culture, urban music, or want to hear how authenticity pays off, this episode delivers raw insight and motivation for anyone chasing success in the audio era.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dope-interviews--5006633/support.Follow Dope Interviews on X: https://www.twitter.com/dope_interviewsFollow Warren Shaw on X: https://www.twitter.com/thewarrenshawFollow Warren on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thewarrenshawRock "Dope Interviews" gear: https://19-media-group.myspreadshop.comLooking to book a vacation? Our travel partner Exquiste Travel & Tours has you covered: Call 954-228-5479 or visit https://exquisitetravelandtours.com/Discover our favorite podcast gear and support the show—shop our studio must-haves on our Amazon Affiliate page! https://www.amazon.com/shop/19mediagroupWant to join the conversation or invite us to your platform? Connect with us and share your vision (budget-friendly collaborations welcome)!  https://bit.ly/19Guest

This special Dope Interviews/Reviews episode dives into the supernatural thriller Stay, from Disney’s Andscape — starring Megalyn Echikunwoke and Mo McRae, directed by Jas Summers. Host Warren Shaw gets exclusive press junket access, talking to the cast and director about how Stay blends love, pain, and supernatural tension into a story about vulnerability, spirituality, and the Black experience.Watch “Stay” on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+ as part of Huluween.00:00 – Intro: Warren Shaw opens the Stay press junket special00:35 – Introducing Megalyn Echikunwoke & Mo McRae01:20 – Why they said yes to Stay02:15 – Mo on representing complex relationships & loss03:00 – The cultural weight of expressing pain in Black communities04:10 – Megalyn on playing vulnerability vs. the “strong Black character” trope05:45 – Exploring the “fight with yourself” scene and its symbolism07:10 – Mo on ego, identity, and emotional duality08:25 – Megalyn’s Executive Producer role and shaping the film’s tone09:40 – Director Jas Summers joins the conversation10:20 – Jas on blending romance, horror, and African spirituality12:00 – Visual storytelling: color, light, and emotional contrast13:30 – The cultural lens: how people of color process pain differently15:10 – Building chemistry with Megalyn & Mo as a two-person cast17:00 – Why Jas chose a supernatural thriller as his first project18:30 – Cultural symbolism: drums, love, and ancestral roots19:40 – Warren’s final review: the emotional resonance of Stay20:25 – Closing reflections on representation, art, and vulnerabilityBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dope-interviews--5006633/support.Follow Dope Interviews on X: https://www.twitter.com/dope_interviewsFollow Warren Shaw on X: https://www.twitter.com/thewarrenshawFollow Warren on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thewarrenshawRock "Dope Interviews" gear: https://19-media-group.myspreadshop.comLooking to book a vacation? Our travel partner Exquiste Travel & Tours has you covered: Call 954-228-5479 or visit https://exquisitetravelandtours.com/Discover our favorite podcast gear and support the show—shop our studio must-haves on our Amazon Affiliate page! https://www.amazon.com/shop/19mediagroupWant to join the conversation or invite us to your platform? Connect with us and share your vision (budget-friendly collaborations welcome)!  https://bit.ly/19Guest