Set Stories Podcast

An old guest from our first season, Jaime Torres, is back! Since moving to New York, he’s been working in the film industry on the East Coast, and we catch up to talk about the biggest differences between filming in LA and NYC. We also dive into how AI might already be shaping — and threatening — the film industry, sharing our personal takes on how it could be used against us rather than for our advantage.

In this episode, it’s just the hosts! Houry and Charles catch up and dive into a lively discussion on the age-old question: Is film school worth it? We share our honest takes on whether it’s the right path for building a career in the industry. We also look back at our very first gear purchases and debate what we’d buy today if we were starting fresh—and why.If you’ve ever wondered about the value of film school or what gear matters most when you’re just starting out, this one’s for you.Leave a like, comment, and review!

This time on the podcast Houry sits down with Carlos, a DP whose journey into filmmaking began in the most unexpected place — the military. After first discovering film in Florida, he realized he didn’t want to spend his life in uniform. So, he pivoted: film school, his first camera, and slowly finding his way onto sets.We talk about the moment he truly fell in love with the craft — watching a DP and director light a room and realizing this was what he wanted to do for the rest of his life. We also dive into how technology has shaped and continues to reshape the filmmaking process, and what that means for the future of cinema, as well as his first ever set experience. Press play and become inspired!

In this episode, we talk with actor Keir Thirus; whose career spans TV, film, and the stage — including a NAACP Theatre Award nomination. From General Hospital to True Detective alongside Rachel McAdams (and a sweet on-set story with her), he’s done it all. He shares his best advice on what it truly takes to be a great actor, drawing from decades of experience both performing and teaching. It’s a lively, inspiring conversation filled with some laughs and behind-the-scenes gems.

This week we chat with the multi-talented Karim Dakkon. A filmmaker who wears many hats on set, but shines brightest as the Director of Photography and editor. He opens up about how his early love of music helped sharpen his sense of pacing and rhythm in his editing. We also dive into the realities of working behind the camera, from the highs of great collaboration to the frustrations that can come when the DP/Director dynamic isn't quite right.

In this episode, we sit down with David Veal. His creative journey began as a graphic designer, but his true calling led him to acting - and eventually writing. He shares his insight into how important and transformative taking acting classes can be - at any stage in your career. He also shares some thoughtful advice for anyone pursuing a creative path, whether you're just starting out or looking to reconnect with your passion.

This week, we sit down with actor Luis Alexander Mejia to talk about the audition process, the power of movement training, and how staying creative in the room can make you a more versatile performer. Luis also shares how being an immigrant from El Salvador shaped his perspective—and why telling stories rooted in that experience isn’t just entertaining, but essential and educational. We get into the growing wave of vertical filmmaking, and why playing a villain is an exciting twist for someone as kind-hearted as Luis in real life. A thoughtful, inspiring episode for artists and storytellers alike.

We sit down with Gerald Tineo, a skilled focus puller from Venezuela, to talk about life behind the camera and the realities of working on set. Gerald shares stories about chaotic productions, the importance of staying professional under pressure, and why speaking up against mistreatment—like not getting paid on time or being denied basic needs—is so necessary. We also dive into how working with a respectful, supportive crew can completely change the experience. It's an honest, eye-opening conversation for anyone in the industry.

This week, we sit down with the incredibly versatile Lori Livingston. You may not recognize her face right away—thanks to layers of prosthetic makeup in blockbuster films like Captain Marvel and Bright—but her presence is unforgettable. Lori shares insights on the transformative power of method acting, the unique challenges of performing under heavy makeup, and what it was really like being yelled at on set by none other than Denzel Washington. It’s a candid, inspiring, and at times hilarious conversation you won’t want to miss.

We've been gone for two years, but we are BACK! Set Stories is back on the air with more stories to share. And we are super excited to have Amanda be our first guest! A professional makeup artist and hairstylist, a model, an actor—she can do it all. In this episode, she shares incredible advice from her journey in the industry, including her very first on-set experience working alongside some of her idols.Join us as we talk creativity, confidence, and how important is it to follow your intuition as an artist.