Ep 241: From Courtroom to Camera: Don Worley’s Journey into Independent Film

📄 Show Notes:In this episode, Damien Swaby sits down with filmmaker Suha Araj, who shares her deeply personal and inspiring journey from a career in advertising to becoming a powerful voice in film. Suha opens up about navigating major life transitions and how creative expression has always been a crucial part of her identity—even when it was sidelined by other life responsibilities.Growing up as a Palestinian in Ohio, Suha talks candidly about the lack of representation and the damaging stereotypes about Arabs and Palestinians in media. These experiences ignited her passion to reclaim narratives and amplify underrepresented voices through the lens of cinema.Listeners will gain insight into:How personal identity can inspire professional transformationThe role of media in shaping cultural perceptionThe challenges and triumphs of shifting from corporate to creative lifeWhy storytelling is a powerful tool for social justice📚 Educational Insight:Representation matters—not just in front of the camera, but behind it too. When people tell their own stories, it challenges stereotypes, deepens empathy, and broadens the understanding of cultures often misrepresented in mainstream media.https://www.suhamaria.com

Summary From Courtroom to Camera: Don Worley’s Journey into Independent Film In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations, Damien Swaby sits down with the multitalented Don Worley — a nationally recognized personal injury attorney, former stand-up comedian, and now a dynamic force in independent cinema. Don shares his unconventional journey from high-stakes legal battles to red carpets at the Chinese Theatre. As the producer and star of Time for Sunset, a gripping crime thriller, and co-creator of the hit streaming series Power of Attorney, Don opens up about navigating the worlds of justice and storytelling.🎬 Discover:How comedy shaped Don’s courtroom presenceWhat inspired his transition to filmmakingBehind-the-scenes of Time for SunsetBuilding a streaming hit from scratchThe synergy between law and filmThis episode is packed with inspiration for creatives, legal minds, and anyone chasing a second act.McDonald Worley The Power of AttorneyDon Worley 3rd degree connection 3rd Attorney at McDonald Worley Attorneys at Law and VP at Brand-in EntertainmentPower of Attorney: Don Worley - Season 2 TrailerBrand In Entertainment

Episode DescriptionIn this episode, Damien Swaby opens up about the script for his upcoming film small talk, Big Thoughts — a powerful, poetic anthology of real conversations exploring identity, faith, legacy, migration, masculinity, feminism, and more.Damien shares how he's preparing to shoot the entire project on an iPhone, why he's using the Rode NTG2 and Tascam DR-05X for audio, and how DIY filmmaking is not a limitation — it’s a creative philosophy.Whether you're a filmmaker, screenwriter, podcaster, or storyteller, this episode is a masterclass in grounding powerful stories in real-world tools and intention.📚 Educational Benefit / Learning OutcomesListeners will:Learn how to prep a feature film with minimal gear and maximum intention.Understand the strengths of using an iPhone + Filmic Pro for cinematic storytelling.Gain insight into capturing high-quality audio with budget-friendly equipment.Explore how to write and structure an anthology-style script with social and cultural weight.Reflect on the value of starting with what you have — and why storytelling doesn’t need to wait for permission.Perfect for indie filmmakers, students, podcast producers, and anyone building creative projects with limited resources.Tools Mentioned:iPhone 13 ProFiLMiC Pro appBeastGrip rigRode NTG2 shotgun micTascam DR-05X recorder

Episode Summary: In this compelling episode, Damien Swaby sits down with filmmaker Moses Ssebandeke, a bold voice in the UK indie film scene and a member of the Lionstooth Collective. Known for his experimental yet grounded storytelling, Moses shares the journey from his early days as a BBC Academy apprentice to producing content for Radio 1Xtra, ITVX, and beyond. Listeners will get an inside look at:🌱 How Moses got started in media through the BBC apprenticeship scheme🎧 His behind-the-scenes experience working at BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra, helping grow their YouTube following past 140,000 subscribers — more than any other BBC radio station🛠️ The technical and emotional rollercoaster of being a freelance filmmaker🪐 A peek into Panspermia, a cosmic visual project exploring the interconnectedness of existence and storytelling🎥 The purpose and passion behind the Lionstooth film collective and their commitment to bold, culturally-rich narrativesMoses also talks candidly about the creative droughts and bursts that define the life of an independent artist, what fuels him to keep pushing boundaries, and why telling stories that haven’t been told — or haven’t been told this way — is a lifelong mission. Whether you’re a filmmaker, creative professional, or someone fascinated by how stories are made, this is a must-listen.Links & Mentions:Moses Ssebandeke on LinkedIn Moses work https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEDuRPQm85a9gGxExYL5U_ucTf234ILJEhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQs327Kra6Uhttps://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEDuRPQm85a8bSFbW6rDUvmzM1XMkstg7

Episode Summary:What makes a scene feel cold, nostalgic, or magical—before a single word is spoken? In this illuminating episode, we’re joined by Alice Abrams, a freelance colorist whose work has helped define the visual identity of campaigns for Netflix, Meta, Google, Volvo, and more. Based in Austin, TX, Alice brings a decade of experience in film to her color suite, where she transforms raw footage into emotionally resonant, cinematic experiences.Alice shares her unique journey from working as a director of photography and editor to discovering that color grading was her true calling. You'll hear how her background behind the camera influences her work in post-production, and why she views color not just as a technical tool—but as a storytelling language in its own right.Whether you're a filmmaker, editor, aspiring colorist, or just a visual storytelling enthusiast, this deep dive into the world of professional color grading offers both inspiration and practical insights.Alice Abrams is a seasoned freelance colorist with a background in cinematography, editing, and color grading. After spending years working across California and New York, Alice now resides in Austin, TX, where she operates her own grading suite and works with clients worldwide. Her work spans narrative film, commercials, branded content, and music videos—bringing a distinct visual signature that blends cinematic precision with emotional depth.📬 Contact: [email protected]🌐 Website & Reel: alicefilmcolor.com📸 Instagram: @alice.filmcolor🎨What You'll Learn in This Episode:The evolving role of a colorist in today's film and commercial landscapeHow color influences mood, tone, and storytellingThe technical and artistic sides of color gradingTips for building trust with directors and cinematographersHow to start offering remote grading servicesWhy building your aesthetic voice mattersHow Alice balances professional growth and personal creativity📢 Call to Action:🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it really helps others find the show!

📘 Episode Summary: In this masterclass episode, Damien Swaby is joined by award-winning journalist and documentary producer Nicole Noren, whose two-decade career at ESPN is a case study in investigative storytelling done right. Nicole breaks down how she balances the demands of narrative structure with journalistic integrity — from sourcing vulnerable subjects, to shaping character arcs, to working within the legal and ethical frameworks of a major broadcasting institution. Together, they explore the future of longform investigative media, the creative tension between access and objectivity, and how the democratization of platforms like YouTube is reshaping the business model of high-quality nonfiction.🧵 Topics Covered:Nicole’s process for fusing investigative research with narrative filmmakingEthics and liability in true-story storytellingWhy subject trust is non-negotiable in stories involving traumaBuilding stories that survive legal review without losing emotional weightInternal dynamics of working inside a network like ESPNChallenges of time compression, edit lock deadlines, and character consentHow platforming on YouTube increases reach without compromising quality🎧 Who This Episode Is For:Investigative journalists and editorsDocumentary filmmakers and producersMedia lawyers and compliance editorsCommunications strategists in public interest or nonprofit mediaJournalism educators and students focused on longform formatsW: https://nicolenoren.com/aboutListen full documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYGkIL70TD4&t=3s

Episode Summary:Discover the fascinating intersection of visual art and filmmaking in this insightful conversation with artist Isabel Riley. Host Damien Swaby delves into Isabel's unique role in bringing art to the screen through her work with Art for Film. Explore how her paintings and artistic vision contribute to the atmosphere and storytelling of film and television productions. Beyond her cinematic collaborations, Isabel also shares details about her current exhibitions at the Michele Mercaldo Gallery and Ellen Miller Gallery in Boston, offering a glimpse into her broader artistic practice. This episode is a must-listen for filmmakers, art directors, set designers, and anyone intrigued by the power of art to enhance visual narratives.Key Talking Points:Isabel Riley's background as an artist and her connection to the film industry.How art contributes to the mood, period authenticity, and overall aesthetic of film and TV.Insights into the Boston art scene and its potential collaborations with film productions.W: https://www.isabelriley.comIG:https://www.instagram.com/isabelriley.artist/

Episode Summary:Join Damien Swaby as he sits down with a seasoned professional from ABC News with 30 years of experience in the media industry. In this episode, we delve into Doug Looney's fascinating career journey, from early experiments with VHS editing in high school to overseeing technical operations at a major news network. Discover how technology has transformed news production, the challenges and rewards of working in a fast-paced environment, and the key skills needed to thrive in modern media operations.Key Topics Discussed:Early Beginnings: How a high school television production class sparked a passion for media and led to early editing experiments.Entry into ABC News: His first steps into the industry through a temporary job and the importance of soaking in the environment.The Rise of Digital: Transitioning from analog to digital and the early days of abcnews.com.Modern News Acquisition: How technologies like LiveU and TVU enable rapid ingestion of live video from the field.The Power of Avid: Utilizing the Avid system for simultaneous recording and editing in news production.Adobe Premiere Pro at ABC News: Where and why Premiere Pro is used within the network, particularly for social media and promos.The Move to 7 Hudson Square: The massive project of relocating ABC News operations and the exciting technological upgrades implemented, including cloud-based editing.Scaling Operations: Balancing cost efficiency with creative output and the role of technology in achieving this.Essential Skills for Media Operations Teams: Prioritizing technical proficiencies for editors, acquisition teams, and distribution roles.Missing the Edit: Reflections on the hands-on editing process and memorable projects, including an Emmy-winning piece.The Impact of the Pandemic: How remote work and technological adaptation fostered deeper bonds within the team.Doug Looney's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-looney-75a8854/Thank you for joining us for this insightful conversation with our guest from ABC News. We hope you gained valuable perspectives on the evolution of media operations and the exciting future of news production. Be sure to subscribe to Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby for more in-depth discussions with industry professionals!

Episode Summary:In this episode, Damien Swaby is joined by Caitlin Boyle, a pioneering force in strategic documentary distribution and the founder of Film Sprout. Caitlin discusses how filmmakers can move beyond traditional release models to build meaningful connections with audiences through grassroots campaigns, non-theatrical screenings, and community engagement. Drawing on over a decade of experience guiding social impact films, she shares insights into how intentional distribution strategies can amplify a film’s reach and deepen its impact. Whether you're an independent filmmaker, producer, or distributor, this conversation is essential listening.What We Cover in This Episode:Caitlin’s career journey from WNET to founding Film SproutThe limitations of conventional theatrical distributionHow community screenings can drive deeper engagement and real-world changeDesigning a distribution strategy with purpose from pre-productionReal case studies from Film Sprout’s work with impact-driven documentariesTips for filmmakers on connecting with grassroots organizations and educational institutionsWhy audience-building should be treated as a creative disciplineGuest Bio – Caitlin BoyleCaitlin Boyle is the founder of Film Sprout, a consultancy that has shaped the distribution strategies of hundreds of independent documentaries focused on social justice, education, health, and the environment. With over 15 years of experience building grassroots outreach campaigns, she’s a recognized leader in impact distribution and a frequent speaker at DOC NYC, Sundance, and Good Pitch.Resources & Mentions:W: https://caitlinboyle.coE: [email protected]

In this inspiring episode, Damien Swaby sits down with multi-hyphenate creative Karina Michel—an actress, model, producer, and Emmy-winning executive producer. Karina shares her fascinating journey from a childhood dream in Northamptonshire to navigating Hollywood auditions and eventually leading impactful storytelling projects as the head of Tallulah Films.🗣️ Topics Covered:Karina’s early acting dreams and her modeling break with Ford AgencyAuditioning for Baywatch and what she learned from the processLife on the set of Dexter and how method acting impacted the environmentHer transition into producing, and lessons learned from both sides of the cameraBehind the scenes of her award-winning documentary Heart of FLPD and Oscar-shortlisted Little Miss SumoThe importance of telling untold stories and spotlighting social issues through filmNavigating the evolving landscape of entertainment with streaming, AI, and Zoom-based filmmakingAdvice to young creatives: “Just start—even imperfectly. That’s how momentum builds.”🌍 Plus:Karina reflects on balancing creativity with business, her go-to spiritual and grounding practices, and the emotional strength it takes to wear many hats in the entertainment industry.🎙️ About the Guest:Karina Michel  is the host of Kofi Entertainment Unfiltered, a podcast exploring the journeys of artists and creatives. She has worked on over 100 productions and continues to champion underrepresented voices through film and media.📌 Key Quote:“Inspiration is everywhere. You don’t always have to look for it—sometimes the story finds you.”Connect with Karina Michel Instagram: karinamichelofficialPodcast: Coffee with Karina - Entertainment Unfiltered📢 Don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave us a review if you enjoyed this episode!