The Ortega Squared Podcast

Interview with Charlie Morton on his upcoming film, Torn Together In this episode of Ortega Squared, Angel sits down with filmmaker Charlie Morton to discuss his upcoming film, Torn Together, a powerful project exploring uncertainty, hope, and the challenges facing today's generation. Charlie shares how his previous films, Friend and Theseus, helped shape his newest work, why he's bringing a massive battle sequence to downtown Allentown, and what it's like securing sponsors, permits, and community support as a young filmmaker.The conversation dives into filmmaking at DeSales University, the importance of sound design, the future of independent cinema, the rise of young filmmakers, and the impact of AI on the creative industry. Charlie also reveals how he's working with military demonstrations, sponsors, composers, and visual effects artists to create his most ambitious project yet.If you're interested in filmmaking, storytelling, creativity, or the future of media, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Topics include:The making of Torn TogetherIndependent filmmaking and film schoolFundraising and sponsorshipsGen Z storytelling and uncertaintyAI's impact on film and creativityBehind-the-scenes stories from Theseus and other productions

In this Episode of Ortega Squared, Jaden and Angel catch up with musician and Temple University PR major Laurans Trinh. We talk about carving your own path in music, running the social media for a band he's a member of Paratopia , and finding ways to stand out without a safety net.We get into how to be the best in anything, the grind of college life, Philly, and his unapologetic stance as an OG matcha enjoyer in the age of performative trends.🎷 Follow the Jazz Fusion Band Paratopia @paratopia_official on Instagram.🎧 Follow us @ortega2podcast and join the conversation.

🎬 In this episode of Ortega Squared, Jaden and Angel sit down with filmmaker Charlie Morton of P51 Pictures to talk about his latest short film Theseus — a military-horror project shot on a real battleship with a $2,200 budget. Charlie shares how he planned the shoot, negotiated with locations, led a full production crew, and now plans to submit to Sundance.The conversation dives deep into legacy, ambition, and the importance of just doing something — whether you're making a movie, starting a podcast, or chasing a dream with whatever you’ve got.You can see the trailer to Charlie's Theseus on youtube.🎥 Follow Charlie @p51pictures_archive on Instagram and check out his past work on YouTube at @P51PicturesOfficial🎧 Follow us @ortega2podcast and join the conversation.

In the second half of the Season 1 finale, the conversation shifts toward purpose, personal growth, and how life doesn’t follow a straight line. Nino and Domfig join the table for a raw, real talk on what’s next after high school—and what it really means to live with intention.💭 Topics Covered:College vs. Alternative Paths:Is higher ed necessary for success? Nino plans to explore California and take care of family. Domfig's heading to West Chester to pursue physical therapy. The team agrees: not everyone's path includes college—and that’s okay.Mental Health & Mindset:Everyone opens up about going through low points and how football, friends, and faith helped them push forward. “What are you proud of?” becomes a powerful point of reflection.Identity, Perception & Self-Awareness:Nino shares how people misjudge him based on rumors or past mistakes—but he’s learned to be okay with who he is becoming.Faith & Belief Systems:The group discusses the importance of belief—whether religious or personal—as a framework for growth, discipline, and purpose.Social Pressure & Authenticity:They question how much of what we do is influenced by expectations—and why it's important to make choices for yourself.Friendships & Football:Beyond the field, football created real bonds and valuable life lessons. The group reflects on how these connections helped them grow.“I’m proud that I don’t feel the same way I did last year.” – Nino“I think we should be fulfilled by who we are, not who we pretend to be.” – Angel“Surround yourself with people who want to see you win.” – Dom Fig

This finale dives deep into self-reflection, personal growth, education, and future aspirations. It’s part philosophical roundtable, part real talk between friends and mentors.🧠 Topics Discussed:Identity Beyond Labels:Jason is more than an athlete; he’s a thinker with goals in kinesiology and business. Dr. B shares his journey from history buff to professor to wedding officiant.Defining Success:Everyone reflects on what makes them feel accomplished—whether it's academic, athletic, musical, or personal.Philosophy & Growth:Dr. B introduces Montaigne’s idea: "To philosophize is to learn to die"—meaning growth is constant until life ends.The group discusses the lifelong journey of self-improvement.Self-Awareness & Social Pressure:Candid takes on overthinking, self-image, and authenticity in the age of social media.Choosing Careers vs. Passions:Why some follow dreams (music, media, law enforcement), and others prioritize stability.Jason, Jaden, and Angel explain how mentors influenced their paths.The Role of Education:Dr. B critiques public education's rigid structure and advocates for creativity, critical thinking, and mentorship.AI & Creativity:A sharp conversation about how tools like artificial intelligence may dull human creativity if misused.Conversation Culture:Final reflection on how digital distractions erode social and conversational skills in students today—and why that needs to change.“The best version of myself will be the few moments I have before I die.” – Dr. B

In this very serious episode, we bring on special guests Caleb, Daniel, and Dom to settle the ultimate debate: which playoffs reign supreme? NBA, NFL, or... WWE? Things get heated, the takes get wild, and somewhere along the way, a legend named Tommy Invincible enters the chat.If you like chaos, sports, and unfiltered opinions with zero research backing them up, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Ortega Squared, Angel and Jaden break down all the chaos from the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft — from Cam Ward going #1 to the Titans, to the Jaguars trading up for two-way star Travis Hunter, and the Giants’ controversial pick of Jackson Dart over Shedeur Sanders. We react to Abdul Carter joining Big Blue, the biggest trades of the night, and why Shedeur might just be this year’s Bo Callahan.We also talk:Giants’ defense makeoverQuarterback surprisesDraft winners and risky reachesWhat’s next for Shedeur Sanders?Rodgers, the Browns, and round two predictionsWhether you’re a Giants fan, draft junkie, or just here for the drama, this is the 2025 NFL Draft Night One recap you don’t want to miss.

How does it feel to go pro before you can vote? In this episode of Ortega Squared, we break down the insane rise of young athletes making waves in college and pro sports. From Connor Bedard dominating the NHL at 17 to Ryan Williams reclassifying early for Alabama football, we look at how the path to stardom is getting younger every year.We’re joined by Dom Natosi, a 3-sport varsity athlete (Hockey, Football, Track), to talk about what it takes to compete at the highest level as a teenager. Plus, we dive into future stars like Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper, Ace Bailey, and Jeremiah Smith, and how NIL deals are changing the game for young hoopers.Follow us on Instagram @ortega2podcast

In this episode of Ortega Squared, we break down Playboi Carti’s long-awaited album Music—is it genius or just hype? Then, we dive into LeBron pressing Stephen A. Smith over his comments—was King James out of line or just setting the record straight? Finally, we get into the wildest NFL free agency rumors—who’s on the move? Tap in for all the takes, debates, and chaos!

Jaden and Angel break down Drake’s new album, sharing their thoughts on the beats, lyrics, and standout tracks. Later, they call Felipe the Fish to chat about Severance and debate the mysteries of the show—plus, Jeremy the Pigeon somehow finds his way into the conversation. Tune in for music, TV talk, and plenty of unexpected moments!