Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Phil Cooke Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Church Communication Strategies That Actually Work | Brady Shearer, Pro Church Tools | 18 Nov 2025 | 00:41:18 | |
Here's how to transform your church communications strategy with processes that really work. In this episode, Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com talks with Brady Shearer, founder of Pro Church Tools, about practical ways to simplify your church media, clarify your message, and reach more people online. From repurposing sermons and building better content systems to leading creative teams with vision, Brady shares the mindset and methods that help churches communicate with excellence. Learn why attention is the most valuable commodity your church can possess—and how to use it to share the greatest message of all time. 👉 Watch now and transform your creative career! Like, comment, and subscribe for more tips on creative leadership. 👉 Get my FREE DOWNLOAD when you sign up for my newsletter here: https://www.philcooke.com/subscribe/ 🔥 New Masterclasses Ideas on a Deadline Masterclass with Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com/ideasonadeadline Subscribe to My YouTube Channel and Expand your Creative Leadership Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live. ⚡️ BOOK "Church on Trial – How to Protect Your Congregation, Mission, and Reputation During a Crisis" Get your copy here: https://philcooke.com/crisis ======================================== Phil Cooke — Media Producer-Writer-Speaker-Coach As a filmmaker, media consultant and co-founder of Cooke Media Group in Los Angeles, my client list includes Hollywood studios, major nonprofit organizations, and many of the most respected churches and ministries in the world. I've produced media programming in nearly 70 countries and created many of the most influential inspirational TV programs in history. My philosophy? Get your ideas out there and change the world in the process. ========================== Connect with me on social media: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@philcookeofficial Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com =========================== ⚡️ More About This Episode: Church Communication Strategies That Actually Work | Brady Shearer, Pro Church Tools Brady Shearer is the creator of Nucleus and Pro Church Tools. Helping churches navigate the biggest communication shift in 500 years. 📘 Learn more: https://prochurchtools.com #PhilCooke #BradyShearer #ProChurchTools #ChurchCommunication #ChurchMedia #ChurchMarketing #DigitalMinistry #ChurchGrowth #ContentStrategy #MinistryLeadership #CreativeMinistry #ChurchOnline #ChurchSocialMedia #CommunicationStrategy (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for the support!) ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:00 Phil introduces the topic of church communications strategies | |||
| Is Direct Mail Dead? Best Digital Fundraising Strategies for Nonprofits | Interview - Mark Dreistadt | 04 Nov 2025 | 00:39:13 | |
Is direct mail still relevant in today's digital world? In this insightful interview, Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com talks with Mark Dreistadt, founder and president of Infinity Concepts, about why direct mail remains the foundation of successful fundraising—and how digital tools like email, Google ads, social media, and text-to-give options are transforming donor engagement for nonprofits and ministries. Discover practical fundraising tactics, donor acquisition strategies, and how to balance traditional and digital communication to maximize results. Learn why relationship building, speed of donor response, and a well-articulated vision are key to growing your ministry or nonprofit organization. 👉 Watch now and gain valuable tips to help your nonprofit thrive. Like, comment, and subscribe for more tips on creative leadership. 👉 Get my FREE DOWNLOAD when you sign up for my newsletter here: https://www.philcooke.com/subscribe/ 🔥 New Masterclasses Ideas on a Deadline Masterclass with Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com/ideasonadeadline Subscribe to My YouTube Channel and Expand your Creative Leadership https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1 ⚡️ BOOK "Church on Trial – How to Protect Your Congregation, Mission, and Reputation During a Crisis" Get your copy here: https://philcooke.com/crisis ======================================== Phil Cooke — Media Producer-Writer-Speaker-Coach Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? I offer advice on creative leadership, digital media, branding, marketing, film and television production – and the faith to take you from where you are in your ministry or career to where you want to be. As a filmmaker, media consultant and co-founder of Cooke Media Group in Los Angeles, my client list includes Hollywood studios, major nonprofit organizations, and many of the most respected churches and ministries in the world. I've produced media programming in nearly 70 countries and created many of the most influential inspirational TV programs in history. My philosophy? Get your ideas out there and change the world in the process. ========================== Connect with me on social media: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@philcookeofficial Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com =========================== ⚡️ More About This Episode Is Direct Mail Dead? Best Digital Fundraising Strategies for Nonprofits | Interview - Mark Dreistadt Whether you're a ministry leader, nonprofit executive, or fundraiser, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you raise more, engage better, and build lasting donor relationships in a digital-first world. About Mark Dreistadt, President/CEO, Infinity Concepts As the founder of Infinity Concepts, Mark has spent decades guiding some of the largest nonprofits and ministry organizations in America and abroad. He is a nationally recognized expert in branding, marketing, fundraising, public relations and communication—widely respected for his ability to craft strategies that drive growth, increase engagement, and inspire action. His clear and compelling presentation style makes him a sought-after speaker, consultant, and leadership coach across the faith-based and nonprofit sectors. 🔗 Learn more at https://infinityconcepts.com
⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:00 Find out the best fundraising strategies for nonprofits in the digital age 03:11 Why direct mail still drives over 60% of fundraising revenue 08:29 How digital donor acquisition can exponentially grow your giving base 11:45 How to combine TV, radio, and online platforms to build engagement 13:00 Short form video for fundraising 14:00 The best digital fundraising tools for nonprofits (video, email, texting, and QR codes) 17:30 Why quick thank-you responses dramatically increase donor retention 24:08 Where to start with your fundraising efforts & how to articulate your vision and reduce friction in giving 36:00 Find out more at https://infinityconcepts.com 37:00 Find out more about the mission of The Influence Lab at https://influencelab.com
(As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for the support!) #DigitalFundraising #Nonprofits #FundraisingStrategies #DonorDevelopment #InfinityConcepts #MarkDreistadt #FundraisingIdeas #ChristianMedia #NonprofitLeadership #MinistryGrowth
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| How to Start Conversations about Jesus – Interview with Evangelist J.John | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:45:34 | |
If you've ever felt awkward sharing the gospel, join media executive Phil Cooke in this insightful and entertaining conversation with J.John, internationally known evangelist, speaker, and author, as they explore how to effectively share the Gospel and make disciples in a modern, digital world. In this interview, you'll gain actionable advice on: · How to share the Gospel without feeling awkward · Why many churches avoid evangelism—and how to change that · How to be intentional in witnessing: praying, caring, and sharing · What it means to live out your calling as an evangelist · How Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman teaches us to break barriers · Why every Christian is a witness—either good or bad For over four decades, J.John has preached the message of Jesus Christ across 69 countries, written bestselling books like "The Ten" and inspired millions through TV, podcasts, and live events. ➡️ Whether you're a church leader, new believer, or long-time Christian, this conversation will equip and inspire you to make disciples and fulfill the Great Commission. 👉 Listen now and transform your creative career! Get my FREE DOWNLOAD and transform your creative leadership skills when you sign up for my newsletter here: https://www.philcooke.com/subscribe/ 👉 New Masterclasses Ideas on a Deadline Masterclass with Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com/ideasonadeadline **NEW BOOK! "Church on Trial – How to Protect Your Congregation, Mission, and Reputation During a Crisis" Get your copy here: https://philcooke.com/crisis Subscribe to My YouTube Channel and Expand your Creative Leadership https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1 Prefer audio? Listen to my Podcast here: https://apple.co/2XbMgDL ======================================== Phil Cooke – Media Producer/Writer/Speaker/Coach As a filmmaker, media consultant and co-founder of Cooke Media Group in Los Angeles, my client list includes Hollywood studios, major nonprofit organizations, and many of the most respected churches and ministries in the world. I've produced media programming in nearly 70 countries and created many of the most influential inspirational TV programs in history. My philosophy? Get your ideas out there and change the world in the process. ========================== Connect with me on social media: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com =========================== *More About This Episode* How to Start Conversations about Jesus – Interview with Evangelist J.John He has written several books across a range of subjects including "Jesus Christ The Truth," "Will I Be Fat in Heaven? And Other Curious Questions," The Ten" and the "Theology for Little People" series to help children understand biblical truth. A father and grandfather, J.John and his wife Killy reside near London, England. Find out more and invite J.John to speak at your church: https://jjohn.com/ 00:00 Introduction – Phil Cooke welcomes evangelist J.John to the show 04:06 God's calling on J.John to be an evangelist 08:19 What is a Christian witness? The difference between a witness and an evangelist 16:30 How to have conversations about Jesus in your daily life 26:19 What if... someone had never told you about Jesus? 27:56 "The Ten" book about the Ten Commandments 36:18 One Minute Sermons – encouragement from scripture from J.John 42:18 A Closing Prayer from J.John 43:36 Outro by Phil Cooke and an encouragement to check out J.John's scriptural resources for pastors, leaders, families and children. #Evangelism #ShareTheGospel #HowToShareTheGospel #MakeDisciples #JJohn #PhilCooke #ChristianLeadership #GreatCommission #ChristianPodcast (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!) | |||
| Successful Online Fundraising | 19 Aug 2020 | 00:18:42 | |
With COVID-19 restrictions in place, fundraising events are going online. Phil Cooke shares key tips on how to take your live physical fundraising event online. Your virtual fundraiser can be successful! https://philcooke.com
Donate to The Influence Lab and get Phil's new book! "Maximize Your Influence: How to Make Digital Media Work for Your Church, Your Ministry, And You" is available for pre-order here: https://influencematters.com
Find out more about The Influence Lab: https://influencelab.com
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/IXQH4i9dI6o
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook https://www.philcooke.com Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Other Great Resources: Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
**More about this episode: ** Successful Online Fundraising If you're planning on online fundraising event, here's key points you need to know:
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| Confrontational Creativity | 29 Jul 2020 | 00:22:53 | |
Do your creative ideas make people think? Are you playing it safe instead of taking risks with your creativity? Phil Cooke offers 8 checkpoints to help you embrace your creative calling, with tips on meeting deadlines, brainstorming techniques, idea development and pitching. https://philcooke.com
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/kqoBdaI_Roc
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career. Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Other Great Resources: Get Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
More about this episode: Confrontational Creativity What happens when we value safe creativity over risky creativity? The more we do safe creativity, the more we fall in line and all do the same thing.
Let's not forget the creativity that force people to think. Here is an 8 point checklist to help you embrace your creative calling with ideas that force people to think.
If you have a creative calling, rise up and embrace it. Be the creative person God has called you to be. | |||
| Be Careful Hiring For-Profit Employees in the Non-Profit World | 08 Jul 2020 | 00:14:55 | |
Hiring at your church or nonprofit organization? If you're looking for a donor development or marketing person or even a media producer, hiring from the for-profit world or Hollywood may not be your best choice. Here's insight from Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com that will help leaders hire well.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/Vt6fq7el9yg
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career. Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Other Great Resources: Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
**More about this episode: ** Be Careful Hiring For-Profit Employees in the Non-Profit World Read more here: https://www.philcooke.com/hiring_for_nonprofits/ When economic problems hit the business world, or executive careers get in trouble, we often see a flood of people from the business world looking for jobs in the non-profit and religious sector. But before you jump at the chance to hire a highly regarded executive from the for-profit world at your church, ministry, or non-profit organization, here are a few things to consider:
1) The business models are dramatically different. To switch from selling products retail or wholesale to donor development is a big leap. It requires a completely different mindset. Just because you successfully ran a division at IBM or Paramount Pictures doesn't necessarily mean you can transition to non-profits.
2) Non-profits don't have the cushy perks businesses have. We turn our own lights off, our benefit plans are smaller, and most important – our resources aren't as big.
3) The non-profit world is a calling and career, not just a "bridge" until you get another "real" job. Too many executives think that during difficult times they can just jump into a church or ministry job for the short term.
4) We work long hours too. But we don't have the incentive of bonus pay (even overtime), or a car service to take us home after hours.
5) Sure you did the occasional pro-bono TV spot at the big agency in New York, but every spot we do has a micro or zero budget. Can you negotiate vendors down to nothing, work with college interns, or maintain equipment with rubber bands and bailing wire?
6) Is there something you're not telling us? I have trouble believing that if you're REALLY a successful Hollywood producer or business leader, you actually want to come and work for our church's media department.
Don't get me wrong. I'm thrilled that people value non-profits enough to want to help. But the truth is, over the last 10 years – and especially during a financial crisis – I've seen numerous big time executives switch to non-profits with catastrophic results.
Pastor, ministry leader, or non-profit executive – take the stars out of your eyes. You work in a specialty field that takes a special kind of experience, discernment, and expertise. Don't always assume that a Hollywood producer, advertising agency whiz, or former Wall Street hot shot will get it. Chances are, they won't.
Maybe we should think the other way around. If non-profit leaders ran Wall Street, I doubt we'd have so many financial problems to begin with… | |||
| How to Start a Nonprofit Organization or Ministry – Interview with Ann White | 23 Jun 2020 | 00:26:56 | |
Do you feel called to ministry or to start a nonprofit? Phil Cooke https://philecooke.com interviews Ann White, founder of Courage for Life, to talk about her journey from idea to impactful ministry in just five years. Here's how to take those first steps towards your nonprofit to launch something that could potentially change the world.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/51UCs7WcoN4 Find out more about Ann White and Courage for Life here: https://courageforlife.org/
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career. Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Other Great Resources: Get the book, "Unique – Telling Your Story in the Age of Brands and Social Media" https://amzn.to/3drrfgF (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
**More about this episode: ** How to Start a Nonprofit Organization or Ministry – Interview with Ann White Ann White reached out to Phil Cooke and Cooke Media Group several years ago to help establish the vision and calling God had placed on her heart. It began with a rebrand and a defining of the "one thing" – the niche – that God had called her to. Now, five years later, Ann's ministry, Courage for Life, is impacting many lives and opening doors she never dreamed possible.
In this interview, Phil and Ann discuss defining your niche, financing the vision of your ministry or nonprofit, and asking people to come alongside you in this vision. Phil's four steps to start a ministry are:
Here are some quick take-aways from today's interview: "If you're not willing to invest in your vision, I really question the power of the vision." Phil Cooke "If we let failure stop us, we wouldn't get anything done." Ann White "People want to be part of a great vision." Phil Cooke "Keep your hands open, because if God's in it and behind it, he's going to make things happen in ways you couldn't think of, dream or imagine." Ann White "If you're holding back, it's probably the perfect time to start." Phil Cooke | |||
| 10 Commandments of Starting a Broadcast Television Media Ministry | 09 Jun 2020 | 00:21:25 | |
Broadcast TV is still a viable way to get your message and story out to the world. Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com offers ten tips to help you launch a media ministry with success. Find out how storytelling, creativity and culturally relevant programming can help you impact the world.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/T0tfZLqWjsM Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
**More about this episode: ** 10 Commandments of Starting a Broadcast Television Media Ministry In most cases, when I receive a call from a pastor, evangelist, or other ministry leader interested in launching a television ministry, their primary concern is usually about equipment. These questions are important, but I've discovered over the years that they aren't nearly as important as these 10 fundamental areas:
#1 – Understand The Power of Telling a Story – Ultimately, no matter what communications medium we choose, that's all we're doing – telling a story. The great Swedish filmmaker Ingmar Bergman said "Facts go straight to the head, and stories go straight to the heart."
#2 – Don't Feel Everything Has to be Explicit – Don't feel the obligation to tell the entire salvation, healing, and deliverance story with each program.
#3 – Be in Touch with the Current Culture – Christian producers often don't keep up with current programming and graphic styles, and I'm amazed at the number of Christian media professionals who never even watch television.
#4 – Make Sure your Financing is in Place – I always recommend that you have six months of funding in the bank before you ever began a media outreach.
#5 – Always be open to change. The most successful media ministries are ministries who aren't afraid to change, update, and present a fresh, new approach to an ever-changing audience.
#6 – Have a Clear Focus – Have a clear purpose and focus for each program you do. If you're producing a program on the theme of salvation, then every aspect of that program needs to point in that direction.
#7 – Don't Forget Creativity – Exercise those creative muscles… and do it on a regular basis. Don't take the easy way out, either in sermon preparation or program production.
#8 – Don't Let Your Vision Stop at Preaching – Preaching is a wonderful thing, however, don't forget other wonderful program ideas – documentaries, movies, children's programs, news, animation, music, and other formats.
#9 – Don't Forget Research – I'm convinced one of the most neglected areas of media ministry is research. Do you really know who's watching your program and why? That knowledge should greatly affect what you produce.
#10 – Don't Underestimate The Importance of Quality – Today's audiences are more technologically sophisticated than ever, and refuse to watch programs that aren't up to current standards of quality. Always remember – stewardship isn't necessarily saving money, it's using money most effectively.
I couldn't write an article like this without urging you to do something else that I believe is absolutely critical for a media ministry – the need for prayer, and to seek the wise counsel of others. If you will stay near the heart of God in your decision making, and seek the help and counsel of both Godly men and women, as well as experienced media professionals, your chances of success will be greatly increased.
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Get my "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| How to Capture Your Creative Ideas | 26 May 2020 | 00:15:22 | |
Ever think of a brilliant idea in the middle of the night – and forget it by morning? In a day when content is king, here's Phil Cooke's favorite apps and tools to help him capture ideas for better organization and increased productivity. https://philcooke.com
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056 Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/KPdmTT5Yr9I
Resources mentioned in this video: Captio http://captio.co/ Things https://culturedcode.com/things/ Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals https://www.philcooke.com/unique-creative-planner/ Field Notes https://fieldnotesbrand.com/ Field Notes Leather Cover https://amzn.to/3e7Vr0X Fisher Space Pen https://www.spacepen.com/ The Pilots Pen https://amzn.to/2zi8le0 Levenger: https://www.levenger.com/
(As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on Amazon. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career. Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Other Great Resources: Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
**More about this episode: ** How to Capture Your Creative Ideas Today, we live in a creative economy, and the best ideas are king. But the problem is, as any veteran creative professional will tell you, ideas are fragile. They often come and go without warning, and if we don't have a good system for capturing those ideas, then we'll never benefit from having them in the first place.
After years of different methods, here's the system I use now. Keep in mind that you don't have to copy the way I do it – or the way anyone else does it. The important thing is to develop a system that works for you. Apps: I use a mobile phone app called "Captio" for IOS that is pre-programmed with my email address. All I have to do is write the idea down like a text, hit "Send" and it automatically is sent to my inbox.
For a little more organization, I use "Things" as my task list. It's really a dumping ground for ideas, but it allows me to put them in categories, and convert them to action steps. It's a fantastic app that syncs via all my devices, and it also provides an email address so I can easily turn an email into a task.
Print: I designed my planner called "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" after working with more than 30 similar journals and planners. It features minimal templates so you're not having to create lists or daily calendars, but it's plenty open so you're not spending all day answering stupid questions and filling out useless information.
For total portability, I also carry a small "Field Notes" notebook in a leather case the size of a wallet. I have this on me pretty much all the time – especially when I'm not carrying anything else. I found the leather cover on Amazon, and it comes with a loop for a Fisher Space Pen (which I love for writing in bed or lying by the pool). This particular leather case is a bit thick, so I'm still looking. Let me know if you've discovered the ideal thin leather notebook cover this size.
By my bedside, I keep a stack of notepads, as well as "The Pilots Pen." The pen features a tiny light on the tip of the pen so I can write in the dark when ideas hit in the middle of the night. With this amazing pen, I can write for hours and never wake up Kathleen, or keep from turning on the overhead light on late night flights.
When it comes to organization, that's another blog post, so stay tuned. The important thing to remember today is that getting things done starts with getting things down.
Read more at https://www.philcooke.com/how-i-capture-ideas-and-why-you-need-to-start/ | |||
| 5 Techniques for Visual Storytelling | 12 May 2020 | 00:18:22 | |
Storytelling is important in today's digital age and becoming a more visual storyteller can help you succeed in your career. Whether you're a speaker, filmmaker or video marketer, Phil Cooke's https://philcooke.com five storytelling techniques will help you share powerful story-driven media.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/R0RbYbe5wDE
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career. Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Other Great Resources: Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
**More about this episode: ** 5 Techniques for Visual Storytelling We are a visually-driven generation. Today, toddlers have iPads and play with cameras. We grow up with cameras in our phones, and people document every aspect of their lives. Just as important, more and more creative people are opting for a career in photography or filmmaking.
How can you increase your ability to see what others don't? How can you capture more compelling shots? Here are several important keys to "seeing" at a higher level:
1) Watch TV or movies with the sound turned off. With the sound turned off you don't get into the story, and you start focusing on the shots. Framing, composition, sequence, editing – how it builds the scene. The only condition here is to be sure you're watching something that was very well directed and captured.
2) Slow down. Slow down. Really look at the people you pass on the street. Notice how the sun hits the side of a building at sunset. Watch people's behavior at check-out lines. Start to notice, then start thinking about how to recreate those scenes.
3) Go to museums. They are the showcases of the visual.
4) Start using presentation software in your talks. Keynote, PowerPoint – once you become a skilled speaker, visuals can elevate your communication.
5) Experience life. Most directors today don't know anything about life because they spend it in front of screens. They haven't traveled, haven't experienced difficult jobs, and haven't been in challenging situations. Go on a short term missions program, hike through Europe, take boxing lessons, or start a conversation with a homeless person. What you experience will transform the way you look at things.
Filmmaking legend Werner Herzog, in his wonderful book "A Guide for the Perplexed" puts it this way: "The best advice I can offer to those heading into the world of film is not to wait for the system to finance your projects and for others to decide your fate. If you can't afford to make a million-dollar film, raise $10,000 and produce it yourself. That's all you need to make a feature film these days.
Beware of useless, bottom-rung secretarial jobs in film-production companies. Instead, so long as you are able-bodied, head out to where the real world is. Roll up your sleeves and work as a bouncer in a sex club or a warden in a lunatic asylum or a machine operator in a slaughterhouse. Drive a taxi for six months and you'll have enough money to make a film. Walk on foot, learn languages and a craft or trade that has nothing to do with cinema.
Filmmaking — like great literature — must have experience of life at its foundation. Read Conrad or Hemingway and you can tell how much real life is in those books. A lot of what you see in my films isn't invention; it's very much life itself, my own life.
If you have an image in your head, hold on to it because — as remote as it might seem — at some point you might be able to use it in a film. I have always sought to transform my own experiences and fantasies into cinema."
Everyone looks, but few really see. The greatest directors understand the power of a compelling image and how it can impact people. It's never too early to start. | |||
| How the Digital World is Changing the Church – Interview with Aussie Dave Adamson | 28 Apr 2020 | 00:43:47 | |
Social media has become the new "front door" of the church – especially in the aftermath of the Coronavirus. In this interview, Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com and Dave Adamson explore how churches can leverage social media and YouTube to pastor people and connect with their communities.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056 Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/0fZTqJfBH6A
CONNECT WITH ME AT: Twitter: https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to take you from where you are to where you want to be in your career. Website: https://philcooke.com Find out about Cooke Media Group: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Dave Adamson @Aussie Dave Twitter: https://twitter.com/aussiedave Facebook: https://facebook.com/aussiedaveadamson Instagram: https://Instagram.com/aussiedave YouTube: Website: https://daveadamson.tv Email: daveadamson@northpoint.org Text: (201) 267-2156 "Chasing the Light" https://amzn.to/3eT7dxr "52 Hebrew Words Every Christian Should Know" https://amzn.to/2VLhVih YouVersion: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/2487-7-hebrew-words-every-christian-should-know
Get organized with my planner: "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live. Other Great Resources: Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
**More about this episode: ** How the Digital World is Changing the Church – Interview with Aussie Dave Adamson Here are quick take-aways from today's interview: --Pastors: Don't be afraid to leverage the technology of our day. People will find your content when they are searching for answers. --Many churches are using social media as a megaphone for the church when they should be leveraging the technology as a telephone: a 2-way conversation. --Social media offers the power to stay engaged with people through the week. It doesn't have to be polished or professional, just start using it as a conversation to connect with your community. --Church attendance is not decreasing; it's decentralizing. --The church is relevant in the community when they are meeting the needs of the people in the community. Having an online presence allows us to do this. Start leveraging social media to impact the community you are in! --Don't be afraid to use YouTube to reach a generation wandering far from God. | |||
| How to Change Your Career After 50 | 21 Apr 2020 | 00:13:39 | |
Changing careers at 50 and older can be a terrifying prospect. Whether you've been laid off or are taking the risk to move from a dead end job to your dream career, Phil Cooke offers a strategic plan to transition into a new career. https://philcooke.com
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Get the book "One Big Thing: Discovering What You Were Born to Do" https://amzn.to/2M2maTr (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/pLGMWlwgJzs
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
**More About This Episode** How to Change Your Career After 50 Things like a changing economy, advancing technology, more (and younger) competition – all can easily keep someone stuck in a dead-end job rather than taking a risk on the career of their dreams. However, even after decades in one direction, it may be time to change.
In my book, "One Big Thing: Discovering What You Were Born to Do," I share stories of changing careers later in life, and how it literally transformed those lives. But even people who have discovered their One Big Thing struggle with how to make it happen. Do I leave my current job? Do I go back to school? Do I work on the side? Do I tell anyone?
While everyone is different, and in various stages of life, talent, and career, here are a few things to consider as you start refocusing your future on your one thing:
Be bold, but don't be dumb. Begin today preparing, strategizing, and pursuing your purpose, but don't be drastic. Don't quit the current job until you have a transition plan in place.
Don't burn bridges. When the time comes to make your transition, don't make enemies. If it's a case of leaving your day job, do it amicably. Leaving on good terms can reap a huge return down the road.
Trigger your connections. In the age of social media, you have no excuse for not having a powerfully effective database of relationships and connections.
Keep your résumé updated. It never hurts to keep your résumé, demo reel, or portfolio up to date and evergreen. You never know when the opportunity to pursue your dream will happen.
Finally, brace yourself for the risk. Dreaming isn't "safe," and if you're looking for a sheltered, secure future, then your One Big Thing probably won't be it. But even after 50, discovering your One Big Thing and then stepping out to pursue it will be the greatest adventure of your life. When that happens, work becomes passion, and you will join the ranks of the very few who have accepted the risk, calculated the peril, and leaped off the ledge. Read more at: https://www.philcooke.com/how-to-change-your-career-after-50/ | |||
| How to Lead Remote Workers During COVID-19 and Into the New Normal | 07 Apr 2020 | 00:23:25 | |
Working remotely is the safe mode during the Coronavirus crisis and we may never go back to traditional ways of working. Phil Cooke offers 10 tips to help pastors and leaders succeed in what could become the new normal for churches, non-profits and businesses. https://philcooke.com
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/OgQ-YTsH3pQ
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career. – Phil Cooke
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Other Great Resources: Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
More about this episode: How to Lead Remote Workers During COVID-19 and Into the New Normal Due to the Corona virus, companies are sending employees home in droves to do their work remotely. But this is the future – it will change work in significant ways. So with that in mind, here are tips from my decades of leading creative teams remotely (and in many cases around the world):
The decisions you make today will help secure your success tomorrow. | |||
| How to Maximize a Brainstorming Session | Interview with Executive Pastor Ben Stapley | 03 Jun 2025 | 00:45:18 | |
How do you lead a creative brainstorming session that produces results? Join Phil Cooke in this Part 2 interview with Executive Pastor Ben Stapley as we discuss how to implement and maximize a brainstorming session in a church or ministry setting. Plus, find out the difference between a church communications director and media director and who your first three hires should be as your church grows. Includes creative leadership tips on team building! Get my FREE DOWNLOAD and transform your creative leadership skills when you sign up for my newsletter here: https://www.philcooke.com/subscribe/ Get the book! "Ideas on a Deadline: How to Be Creative When the Clock is Ticking" available here: https://amzn.to/3Lj9gNU Support the mission! Get a free copy of Phil's books when you give a generous gift to The Influence Lab. Find out more here: https://influencelab.com 👉 New Masterclasses Ideas on a Deadline Masterclass with Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com/ideasonadeadline Subscribe to My YouTube Channel and Expand your Creative Leadership ======================================== Phil Cooke – Media Producer/Writer/Speaker/Coach Helping Creative Leaders Influence the World Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? I offer advice on creative leadership, digital media, branding, marketing, film and television production – and the faith to take you from where you are in your ministry or career to where you want to be. As a filmmaker, media consultant and co-founder of Cooke Media Group in Los Angeles, my client list includes Hollywood studios, major nonprofit organizations, and many of the most respected churches and ministries in the world. I've produced media programming in nearly 70 countries and created many of the most influential inspirational TV programs in history. My philosophy? Get your ideas out there and change the world in the process. ========================== Connect with me on social media: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com =========================== *More About This Episode* How to Maximize a Brainstorming Session | Interview with Executive Pastor Ben Stapley For over twenty years Ben Stapley has created and captured moving and memorable moments for individuals, non-profits & corporations across the globe. He also consults for churches, teaches at universities and speaks at conferences about leadership, communication and creativity including Modern Church Leader, First Impressions Conference, Capture Summit, Church Facilities Expo and SALT. Ben received a BA in Video Communications from MBI in Chicago. After graduating he worked in Toronto as a television producer for Context, a national news program. He designed compelling services at South Ridge Community Church as the Director of Programming & Media. During this time he received a MDiv from Missio Seminary in Philadelphia. After that he worked at Liquid Church as the Creative Arts Pastor. He then served at Christ Fellowship Miami on the executive team as the Experience Director and at The Life Christian Church in West Orange NJ as the Executive Pastor.
Ben is currently the Executive Pastor at Zarephath Christian Church leading staff and volunteers to execute the vision and mission of the church. ZCC is located in central New Jersey and is known for its compassion and community outreach.
Ben and his wife Rose enjoy life with their two lovely daughters, Violet & Scarlet in New Jersey. Find out more: https://www.benstapley.com/
00:00 Phil Cooke introduces Ben Stapley and brainstorming tips to come! 01:58 The difference between a church communications director and a media director 04:20 Order of hierarchy in a church media team 12:08 Why you need church photos and the importance of your photography team 16:32 Best practices for brainstorming meetings 19:18 Techniques for productive brainstorming sessions 25:40 Brainstorming and how to deal with skeptics 27:55 Creative processes and how to handle differences 36:24 Why your church needs an R&D department 40:21 Creative tips to get past creative walls 43:21 Outro with Phil Cooke and how to get his book, "Ideas on a Deadline"
#ChurchLeadership #CreativeMinistry #BrainstormingTips #BenStapley #ChurchGrowth #ChurchComms #WorshipInnovation #MinistryIdeas
(As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!) | |||
| Church Online Webinar – Maximizing Your Online Worship Experience | 26 Mar 2020 | 00:53:21 | |
Live streaming is the new church mode with social distancing ordinances provoked by COVID-19. Phil Cooke offered this free live webinar to help pastors and their media and communications teams develop an online strategy that is effective and engaging for their congregations and communities. https://philcooke.com
Joining Phil is his Cooke Media Group team including Dan Wathen, Executive Producer; Dawn Baldwin, Lead Strategist; Laura Woodworth, Development Executive; and Victoria Hansen, Production Coordinator.
-Get Phil's Special Report "Coronavirus and the Church: What Pastors Should Know About Live Streaming and Video https://cookemediagroup.com/streaming/ -Get personalized help for your church's live streaming from Phil and the Cooke Media Group. Find out more at info@cookemediagroup.com -Other links mentioned in the video: https://lifewaygenerosity.com/coronavirus
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/IFXuxlLAK3Q Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook https://www.philcooke.com Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
More about this episode: Church Online – Maximizing Your Online Worship Experience with Phil Cooke Topics for the webinar include:
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| How to Maximize Your Livestreaming Services | 17 Mar 2020 | 00:24:03 | |
The Coronavirus pandemic forced pastors to take livestreaming seriously. Phil Cooke shares important tips on how to livestream and maximize online engagement for pastors and their media teams. Free download at https://cookemediagroup.com/streaming or visit https://philcooke.com
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/BfaI-pWU3w0
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career. Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Other Great Resources: Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
**More about this episode: How to Maximize Your Livestreaming Services** Get more in-depth notes at https://www.philcooke.com/notes-on-sundays-live-streamed-church-services/ Church leaders are finally taking live streaming seriously, so to hopefully encourage pastors and leaders to get online and make it more effective, here are the main points to consider before your next online service.
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| Ministry in a Digital Age: 5 Tips for Pastors and Leaders | 03 Mar 2020 | 00:28:31 | |
Are you capturing the attention of your community with your message? Here are 5 tips from Phil Cooke to help you engage and share your message more effectively in today's digital age through branding, social media, website design and more. https://philcooke.com
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here:https://youtu.be/sNzt15ITd6o
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: Ministry in a Digital Age: 5 Tips for Pastors and Leaders In today's digital age, if we don't capture the attention of our audience, we have failed. Here are five quick tips to help you navigate the age we live in and engage your community in a more effective way. 1. Social media… get on it! It's a powerful way to brand yourself and your message. 2. Your church website is not for members. It's for visitors! Most people will check out your website before visiting your church so make sure it's built with them in mind, 3. Remember your church has a brand. What do people think of when they think of you or your church? Be strategic in communicating who you are. 4. Make contact with local media. Become a go-to person when they need an expert. 5. Learn how to lead creative people. Develop a creative culture in your ministry or organization.
For more in-depth help, check out my book "Unique: Telling Your Story in the Age of Brands and Social Media" https://amzn.to/2VNQ8du (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and continue to make content like this.)
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| My 5 Communication Priorities If I Were a Pastor | 18 Feb 2020 | 00:18:17 | |
In today's digital age, church communications need to be a priority for pastors. Phil Cooke offers help on leading teams, best church websites, research and development labs and more to help you get your message out to a greater audience. https://philcooke.com
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/hPQrIDc4wFw
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: My 5 Communication Priorities If I Were a Pastor Pastors have many responsibilities, but one of the most important priorities for church leaders should be communication. After all, "preaching the gospel" is a primary task, and if your message isn't being heard or making an impact, then what's the point?
With that in mind, here are five key decisions that if I were a pastor, would be on my priority list:
Never forget this: Whatever theme the pastor is preaching on should be reflected in every communication platform of the church. Redundancy builds trust and drives the message in deep. When you aim all your communication guns in one direction it makes a huge impact, so get everyone on the same team, and get them following the lead of the pastor.
You never know what will create a breakthrough until you give it a shot so start encouraging your team to worry less about failure and more about creative thinking.
Remember that the stakes are high, and to maximize your calling and ministry, you need the best people in the right positions. Stop trying to scrimp and save a few bucks, and stretch to find the right people. You won't regret it.
None of this is meant to minimize the importance of preaching the gospel message, service to the community, or discipling believers. However, none of that will happen if you can't communicate your message. I'd love to know your reaction to my priorities…
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Increase your productivity with my"Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| 3 Things You Need When Filming on Location | 04 Feb 2020 | 00:10:42 | |
Filming on location? Find out what Hollywood filmmakers can't live without. Producer Phil Cooke https://philcooke.comshares his essential list and what other directors and producers (including X-Men producer Ralph Winter) keep in their location film kit.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/MQtUIHoxaks
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: 3 Things You Need When Filming on Location Over the years, I've produced and directed programming on location in more than 60 countries around the world. For producers, directors and any film crew that spends lots of time on a film or video set – particularly in far away places – there are certain things you just don't leave behind. Filmmaking novices could do well to learn what more experienced filmmakers consider "must have" items during a shoot.
For me? The top 3 would probably be my laptop (I'm always writing), a raincoat, and a great bag. In fact, I'm a little obsessive about bags and have way more than I should. But on location, a bag is my office, so I'm not afraid to spend money for one that does what I need. So I asked some other experienced professionals what were the top 3 absolutely "must have" items they take to every location.
Here's a few answers: From Stu Hazeldine, Director of the upcoming feature film "The Shack:"
From Korey Pollard, Assistant Director of "House," "Grey's Anatomy," "Nashville," "CSI," and "Monk:"
And when I asked Ralph Winter, Producer of films like "X-Men," "Wolverine," "Planet of the Apes," "The Promise," and "Altered Carbon" from Netflix, he couldn't stick to 3 items, but since he produces $100 million plus movies in all kind of challenging conditions, I let him explain:
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Ralph Winter's suggested website: https://everydaycarry.com Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Get my "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| Stephen Blake Interview: Hollywood Director of Photography | 21 Jan 2020 | 00:33:04 | |
If you aspire to a career as a DP or cinematographer, Phil Cooke's interview with Hollywood DP and producer Stephen Ashley Blake will take your career to a new level. https://philcooke.com Gain detailed information from these seasoned Hollywood professionals that will increase your skill level and help you maintain your integrity in Hollywood.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/hrB8f-_jckc
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: Stephen Blake Interview: Hollywood Director of Photography In this interview, Stephen Blake speaks to the learning disciplines and processes of becoming a good DP, including lighting, studying the masters, leadership on set, as well as maintaining good character in your career.
Stephen Blake was drawn to media at a young age. He interned for Oscar and Emmy Award winning producer Arnold Shapiro at Goden West Broadcasters when only 17 years old and was working as a director of photography by age 22. Today, he leads Realm Entertainment, a company passionate about telling stories that captivate the world. Find out more about his current project "Steal Away" here: https://realm-entertainment.com/projects
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com Get the book "The Making of Gone with the Wind" https://amzn.to/30upaM2 Get my "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| Billboards are Back! What Churches Can Learn from the New Advertising Trend | 07 Jan 2020 | 00:08:35 | |
Billboards are a powerful marketing strategy in today's digital age. Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com shares the story of how billboards created a front-page sensation when Joel Osteen took over Lakewood Church and how you can utilize it for your church or non-profit marketing.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here:https://youtu.be/DjSnJKR5FL4
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: Billboards are Back! What Churches Can Learn from the New Advertising Trend Years ago, billboards were all the rage for businesses around the world. While billboards date back to ancient Egypt, they really came alive in America back in the 1950's when vacations by car became so popular. Churches eventually jumped on the bandwagon, but in the digital age, churches have shifted advertising to online platforms.
But according numerous sources, businesses are betting big on billboards once again. In fact, in 2019, it's the only major non-digital category in advertising that's growing. The irony about all this is major technology companies like Netflix, Alibaba, and Google are all investing in billboards.
So what do they know that churches should know? It appears that in today's cluttered digital era driving a car is one of the only times during the day when we aren't staring at screens – which means we're starting to notice billboards again. Sure we can listen to music or podcasts in the car, but when it comes to our visual attention, billboards are making an impact. (Except for those idiots who text while driving).
And the advertising impact is pretty high for billboards: they cost an average of $5.22 for 1,000 impressions — compared to $7.91 on Instagram or $17.67 on TV. Plus today, we have the advent of "smart" billboards that can aggregate data from multiple sources, and use digital screens to update information. The bottom line is that it may be time to re-think using billboards to help remind people that your church is pretty awesome! Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when theygo live.
Other Great Resources: Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 How the Cooke Media Group team of experts can help amplify your message: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| Stop Obsessing Over the Next Generation | 20 Dec 2019 | 00:18:53 | |
As a leader, are you surrounding yourself with millennials? It might help you reach the next generation, but you may be missing out on the benefits and wisdom of the baby boomer generation. Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com helps you dial down on ageism and rethink the value of the older generation in your workforce and on your ministry team.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/ERxsIR6BRC0
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: Stop Obsessing Over the Next Generation Obviously we want to reach everybody with the gospel, but the truth is, a significant number of pastors and Christian leaders are overly obsessed with reaching young people – especially when it comes to hiring a team. But in our relentless pursuit of younger people, I think we're forgetting the audience that could make a remarkable difference right now.
From that perspective, here's why I think we need to dial down "ageism" in the church, and learn to welcome – even pursue – older people:
With that in mind, here's what I'd recommend you start doing today:
Every age group has it's strengths and weaknesses, so we need to look for the all-stars across the board. When we do that, everyone will benefit, and we'll make the biggest difference in the culture.
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| Shun Lee Fong Interview – Moving to LA Successfully | 10 Dec 2019 | 00:27:43 | |
Considering moving to LA? Shun Lee Fong offers tips for actors and creatives for a successful move to Hollywood in this interview with Phil Cooke. https://philcooke.com As a lawyer, SAG-AFTRA actor, and director of the Hollywood-based Greenhouse Arts & Media, Shun Lee offers a unique Christian perspective to the film and television industry.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/FEaZg4L-kcc Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: Shun Lee Fong Interview – Moving to LA Successfully Do you need to live in LA to be a working actor? Phil Cooke discusses the ins and outs of navigating life and career in Hollywood with Shun Lee Fong in this inspiring and insightful interview. Find out the mistakes that many people make and learn the secrets to success as an actor, filmmaker, producer – or any type of creative interested in the film and television industry.
Shun Lee Fong is the president and creative director of The Greenhouse Arts & Media, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit creative arts organization, and sits on its Board of Directors. He is also the CEO and creative principal of Genuine Productions LLC, a media and entertainment production company with an emphasis on both original and client-based film, new media and publishing.
Shun Lee graduated summa cum laude from Creighton University with a degree in journalism and mass communications. After obtaining a Juris Doctorate at the University of Iowa, he practiced law for five years in Nebraska and Iowa, focusing on civil litigation, corporate transactions, intellectual property and media law.
In 2003, he left his law practice to pursue professional acting, writing, and other creative opportunities. Since then, he has performed in a number of productions in film, theater, commercial, voiceover, and print, and is a member of the Screen Actors Guild-AFTRA. He has spent significant time on stage and in the recording studio as a songwriter and multi-instrumental musician. He also has written a number of screenplays, articles and other works and is an often-requested speaker.
Shun Lee is the author of The Saints & The Poets, a book of essays on creativity, leadership and faith. He has taught classes on mass media and entertainment law, film distribution and marketing, and negotiating strategies for the graduate and undergraduate programs at a number of universities, including Creighton University, John Paul the Great Catholic University, Regent University and Lipscomb University.
Follow Shun Lee: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shunlee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shunleefong/
Follow The Greenhouse: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenhousearts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/greenhousearts/ Find out more about The Greenhouse at https://greenhouseproductions.com
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: "The Saints and the Poets" by Shun Lee Fong available here: https://amzn.to/2sVrhfn
Get my "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
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| Jonathan Bock Interview: Marketing Your Movie | 12 Nov 2019 | 00:38:34 | |
You've made a movie… now what? Find out the marketing strategies that can help get your movie seen in this interview with marketing expert Jonathan Bock and Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com. Get an inside view on finding your audience, knowing how a Hollywood studio's greenlight committee works, and how to create a success in the faith based realm of filmmaking.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/tAr_MOjqUVo
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: Jonathan Bock Interview: Marketing Your Movie Jonathan Bock began his career in marketing at Warner Bros. prior to founding Grace Hill Media. Described as "the man who helps Hollywood get religion" by Time magazine, over the last 20 years, he has marketed hundreds of film and television projects including the LORD OF THE RINGS series, NARNIA, UNBROKEN, THE BLIND SIDE, THE BIBLE miniseries, LES MISERABLES, NOAH, and the CBN hit series GOD FRIENDED ME.
A member of the Producer's Guild of America, Bock's producer credits include HILLSONG: LET HOPE ARISE and the THOU SHALT LAUGH comedy series. He is the co-author of "The Way Back: How Christians Blew Our Credibility and How We Get it Back" with Phil Cooke.
If you're a filmmaker, director, producer or writer, this interview will help you maneuver the film and television industry with success. Here are a few takeaways:
You need to be ready for that next moment. – Jonathan Bock A great idea is the worst thing in the world if it's the only one you've got. – Phil Cooke You better not be hanging your hat on one movie idea. You need to have 25 movies ideas going… you never know which idea is going to hit. – Jonathan Bock Understand studios spend as much money marketing as making the movie. – Jonathan Bock We have to get better at organic storytelling. – Jonathan Bock You have to think marketing as you pitch [your movie idea]. Have a clear sense of how they [the studio executives] will go about selling this. – Jonathan Bock If you want to support a movie, you better get out there opening weekend. – Phil Cooke
Sign up for screenings and special events with Grace Hill Media here: http://www.gracehillmedia.com/
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: "The Way Back: How Christians Blew Our Credibility and How We Get It Back" available on Amazon here:https://amzn.to/2QhIFSY (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
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| How PTZ Cameras Are Transforming Worship Services | Bryan Bailey, Director of Media, Prestonwood | 20 May 2025 | 00:43:38 | |
Are you considering PTZ cameras for your church worship service? Join Phil Cooke and Bryan Bailey, Director of Media at Prestonwood Baptist Church, to explore how one of the nation's leading churches is leveraging PTZ robotic cameras to transform church worship experiences.
Whether you're a church media director, on a media team, or training volunteers, this behind-the-scenes conversation is packed with practical and spiritual insights to help you:
· Integrate PTZ camera technology for smooth, multi-angle worship production · Lead and empower volunteer teams with clarity and confidence · Develop a ministry-focused mindset as a church media director
If your goal is to elevate the worship experience through technology that enhances—not distracts from—God's presence, this episode is for you. 👉 Watch now and transform your creative career! Get my FREE DOWNLOAD and transform your creative leadership skills when you sign up for my newsletter here: https://www.philcooke.com/subscribe/ 👉 New Masterclasses Ideas on a Deadline Masterclass with Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com/ideasonadeadline Subscribe to My YouTube Channel and Expand your Creative Leadership ======================================== Phil Cooke – Media Producer/Writer/Speaker/Coach Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? I offer advice on creative leadership, digital media, branding, marketing, film and television production – and the faith to take you from where you are in your ministry or career to where you want to be. As a filmmaker, media consultant and co-founder of Cooke Media Group in Los Angeles, my client list includes Hollywood studios, major nonprofit organizations, and many of the most respected churches and ministries in the world. I've produced media programming in nearly 70 countries and created many of the most influential inspirational TV programs in history. My philosophy? Get your ideas out there and change the world in the process. Connect: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group: https://www.cookemediagroup.com =========================== *More About This Episode* How PTZ Cameras Are Transforming Worship Services Bryan Bailey is the Director of Media at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas. Bryan graduated from Ouachita Baptist University with a bachelor's degree in Church Music, and after several years of leading worship and doing tech simultaneously, he fully migrated to full-time technical work. Bryan went back to school to expand his horizons and completed his Master's in Communications from Dallas Baptist University in 2020. Bryan has a strong background in theatrical lighting and lighting live events for television. After working at Prestonwood Baptist Church as the Lighting Director, he served as the Director of Media for CrossChurch in Northwest Arkansas. God brought him to First Baptist Dallas as the Minister of Media in 2011 to assist with the implementation of technology in the new $135 Million campus. Most recently, Bryan again joined the staff at Prestonwood as the Director of Media in October of 2017. Throughout the years, Bryan has developed a desire to train volunteers to operate technology at the highest levels of excellence. He uses theories of education and biblical principles to craft training programs that empower teams to achieve exceptionally high production value. Bryan's passion is training volunteer teams to pursue excellence and pushing technology limits in worship (as well as fishing). Bryan lives in Frisco, TX with his wife, Jenni, son, Caden (currently at Oklahoma Baptist University), two dogs, and a bunch of saltwater corals. Find out more at https://prestonwood.org/ 00:00 Phil Cooke intro: Bryan Bailey, Director of Media, Prestonwood Baptist Church 04:44 The importance of knowing the various roles of your media team 08:48 Understanding the media outreach 12:00 Volunteers and the training process 20:00 Church media directors and the importance of letting go 25:58 PTZ Cameras – robotic cameras in use at Prestonwood Baptist Church 37:34 Audio and the immersive experience 41:36 Recap with Phil Cooke | |||
| Leaders: How a Crisis Can Build Your Career | 29 Oct 2019 | 00:11:23 | |
Responding correctly in a crisis can ultimately lead to a breakthrough in your career. Phil Cooke https://philcooke.comshares a personal story of how his response during 9/11 affected the way people perceived him as a leader and made a dramatic difference in his career.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here:https://youtu.be/ikdLME5Gxbw
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: Leaders: How a Crisis Can Build Your Career Whether you're intentionally looking for it or not, a crisis could build your career. Time and time again, leaders have experienced breakthroughs in their career because of the willingness to personally step up during a time of crisis. Sometimes it's direct, as when there's no one else willing or able to take command of a situation, and other times it happens when someone responds above and beyond.
In my own career, I was a freelance producer and director in Los Angeles when 9/11 happened. The afternoon of the event, I realized that while the country was rightly transfixed on the horrific event and secular news organizations were covering it 24/7, Christian media was virtually ignoring it. In many cases, the problem came from the fact that Christian programming is well scheduled in advance and few Christian TV or radio stations have qualified people or facilities to break into regularly scheduled programming with a live report.
But they should have. So I quickly sent out an email or fax to Christian radio and TV station managers across the country. It was a detailed memo not only strongly encouraging them to break into their programming, but I also gave them a list of what to do and how to do it.
The response was immediate. My phone lit up from stations across the country that were using my guidelines in production meetings, calling in local terrorism experts, Islamic scholars, as well as ministry leaders, and going live in response to the tragedy. As a result, significant numbers of Christian TV and radio stations supplied a spiritual voice to millions of listeners and viewers in the media conversation during the weeks and months following 9/11. While it wasn't the motivation for my actions, that memo essentially put me on the map. Christian media outlets, churches, and ministries suddenly wanted my advice on other media issues as well – so much that we needed to grow in response. That's the point where I went from a solo act to a team of media professionals.
The lesson? If you have the creative ideas, the willingness to take a risk, and the confidence as a leader, responding well to a crisis can have a powerful impact on your career. It doesn't mean we should start looking under every rock for a crisis or using tragic events for self-promotion. But it does mean that when a crisis happens in your organization or career, that's not the time to hide. Step up and be counted. Your moment may have arrived. The way you step up to handle crisis can change the way people perceive you as a leader. Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when theygo live.
Other Great Resources: Get my "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| Directors: 5 Critical Things You Need to Do On Set | 15 Oct 2019 | 00:12:56 | |
Whether you're directing commercials or directing films, these tips from Phil Cooke http://philcooke.com will make a difference in the quality and length of your career and help you be the kind of director that crew and actors want to be attached to.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/fENJ7lFeY3M
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: Directors: 5 Critical Things You Need to Do On Set In the old days, directors were contract players, so they were directing nearly every day of their career. But in today's freelance film and video world, most directors aren't shooting more than once every two or three months. As a result, many directors don't understand how to act on a set or how to lead.
Here are five things that have made an important difference for me on a film set or in a TV studio:
1) Do your homework. Once you get to the studio, the cash register starts ringing. From the moment you show up on the set you should be ready to make decisions. Things may change in the course of a shoot, but standing around on the set trying to decide what to do will cause the crew to lose confidence in you.
2) Don't be a jerk. There's enough pressure on a film set without an immature director losing control. Remember this: Once you start yelling, you've just sent a message to the crew that you're out of ideas.
Don't let your insecurities or fear get the best of you. Stay calm. Be nice. When things get tough, that's when you need the loyalty of your crew most of all.
3) Always be open to ideas from unexpected places. I was shooting a TV commercial in Houston once and was stumped. We had changed the spot during shooting and were trying to decide a big payoff shot for the end. Nobody had a good answer, until a low-level prop assistant made a suggestion.
It was brilliant, and it saved the commercial. I was glad I was listening.
4) Be confident. The crew is looking to you for answers and they need to know you have a vision and everything is going to be alright. Even if you don't know the answers, don't let them think you're lost. Don't be afraid to ask for help but be a leader. The set will fall into chaos if the crew starts believing you're not up to the task.
5) Finally, lavish credit on the crew. This is your team. They're the key to making you successful. Forget the arrogance. Dump the pride. You'll be amazed at the ideas, innovation, and unexpected answers they'll come up with. Encourage them, and they'll reward you with an incredible effort.
Good directors of movies, documentaries, short films and other media know how to inspire people to do amazing things. Next time you're on set, apply these directing skills to get the best out of your crew and the best performance out of your actors. Inspire your team to greater creativity!
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Get my "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
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| Clay Jacobsen Interview: Multi-Camera Directing | 01 Oct 2019 | 00:34:44 | |
Game shows, live events and sporting events are often filmed with multi-cameras. Phil Cooke https://philcooke.cominterviews multi-camera director Clay Jacobsen who shares practical tips on how to capture a compelling experience on your next multi-cam gig. Bonus tips for church media directors in directing for the audience while directing for the IMAG screen.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/Jx6cApJ_tdo
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: Clay Jacobsen Interview: Multi-Camera Directing With over 40 years of TV production experience, Clay Jacobsen's multi-cam directing credits include the Dove Awards, American Idol Extra, Ellen and Entertainment Tonight. He currently directs the television game show Jeopardy. Here are important take-aways from his interview with Phil Cooke…
A Primetime Emmy nominee, Clay Jacobsen is a member of the Director's Guild of America. An alumna of Oral Roberts University, Jacobsen is also an author of multiple novels "that challenge the spirit."
Find out more about Clay Jacobsen here: https://www.clayjacobsen.com/
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Get my "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| How to Be a Rockstar on Video Conference Calls | 17 Sep 2019 | 00:12:06 | |
Business video calls can be fantastic – or a disaster and can affect how you are perceived by clients and colleagues. Phil Cooke https://philcooke.comoffers tips to present yourself as a confident professional on a Skype or iPhone video call.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here:https://youtu.be/zTERneHnGXs
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: How to Be a Rockstar on Video Conference Calls Mostconference calls are in a business or professional context, so we need to give more thought to how we're seen on those calls. From the way you set up your camera, are you perceived as a confident, professional leader? Is your shot pleasing to watch as you speak? Are there distractions that keep me from hearing your message?
Here are a few of the most common mistakes people make. Let me know if you've seen anyone do these and check out my blog article for some great (and fun) visuals on each point. https://www.philcooke.com/how-to-become-a-rock-star-on-video-conference-calls/
When the shot is too close: When you get too close to your computer camera, it distorts your face – especially your nose.Consider the other people on the call and always remember to never sit too close to the camera.
When there are people in the background: This is an especially big problem if you work from home. Make sure your wife, kids, or dogs aren't running around in the background, distracting from what you're saying and being generally annoying for everyone else watching.
When there's an inappropriate background: I've actually been on video conference calls where there's an unmade bed in the background of somebody's home office. Think about what kind of background will be more professional and a better environment for the call.
When there's bad framing: People want to see YOU, not everything else in the office. Plus, in most cases, they see your shot as a small frame, so you need to be bigger in that frame to get your message across.
When It's Too Dark: I shouldn't have to say much about this, but you won't believe the number of people who don't think about the lighting. I want to see your eyes and expression, so either turn on the lights, open a window, or find a better location.
When you're not looking at the camera! Do your best to look at the actual camera lens on your computer or phone. Otherwise, it looks like you're talking to your keyboard.
Think about the framing! Visit my blog for the sample screenshot of this one! A shot I often use on conference calls positions my head in the upper third of the screen so it feels more natural. You can see my bookshelves, so people know it's from my office. And I can control the lighting because I'm between a window and some track lighting that I can aim.
Also, make sure the camera lens is eye level or slightly above. You don't want people looking up at your neck and chin because you're sitting higher than the camera. Likewise, if the camera is too high, you look diminished and small – not the confident, authoritative perception you want. Keep it line of sight or just slightly above.
Next time you schedule a conference call, think about your perception. It's a media driven world, so your clients, co-workers, vendors, and associates will make a lot of assumptions from the camera angle and framing you choose.
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Get my "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| My Rules for Attending Meetings | 03 Sep 2019 | 00:19:54 | |
Productive meetings can happen if handled properly! Phil Cooke shares tips on how to conduct effective meetings and how to use meetings to your advantage. Bonus tips: How to attend other people's meetings and advance your career to the next level. (If you've got an upcoming meeting at a Hollywood studio, a church, or with a client, watch for these extra pointers!)
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here:https://youtu.be/r9_VTnENsi8
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: My Rules for Attending Meetings I hate meetings. I really do. So if I have to attend a meeting, I want it to be productive. Here's a list of things I want my Cooke Media Group team to know during a meeting, and the list might be worth sharing with your team as well:
Print an agendaso people know where this meeting is going. Be direct and intentional and you will accomplish something.
1) Learn to listen. Nothing is more important in a meeting than simply listening. Too many people in meetings aren't really listening, they're just thinking of the next thing to say.
2) Write down initial ideas. Never blurt out that brilliant revelation you just received. Jot it down first, and then see when it would be appropriate to interject into the conversation.
3) Value the time in meetings. Don't tell us about your life story, the dream project you're working on, or some new insight you recently read about. Honor the people in the room and focus on the task at hand.
4) Do your homework. Nothing is more embarrassing than tossing out an idea that's already been tried or already failed. Learn about the client or project before walking in the room. Make sure that what you contribute is something new and worth their time. Never walk into a meeting blind.
5) Stop interrupting people.Nothing anyone has to say is so important that it's worth interrupting. Just bide your time and speak when it's appropriate.
6) Never dominate a meeting. Keep your comments short and to the point. As you talk, watch the reactions of other people in the room. Are they listening? Are they interested? Or have they tuned you out? Cut to the chase.
Bonus tips! How to behave when attending other people's meetings: -Step back.Don't contribute in the same way you would if it were your meeting.
-Don't be quick to give ideas.They may have been working on this project for years. Listen first.
-Practice discernment.Speaking too soon may be a recipe for disaster. Learn and hear from their perspectives.
-Make notes.Write down things you think are great ideas. Look for an opportunity to share later.
Any good advice for meeting behavior I've left out?
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Get my "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com Get more tips for meetings here: https://www.philcooke.com/how-to-behave-in-other-peoples-meetings/ https://www.philcooke.com/my-rules-for-attending-meetings/
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| X-Men Producer Ralph Winter Interview | 20 Aug 2019 | 00:36:27 | |
Known for X-Men, Star Trek and Fantastic Four franchises, Hollywood producer Ralph Winter's projects have grossed over $2 billion. In this interview with Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com, Ralph shares behind the scenes stories plus tips for up and coming producers on how to leverage their talents in the film and television industry.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/DjSnJKR5FL4
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: X-Men Producer Ralph Winter Interview Ralph Winter shares his journey from making industrial videos to becoming a top Hollywood producer. Find out how to leverage your talents and experiences to become a valuable asset in the film and television industry with these behind the scenes stories from some of his movie successes. Includes tips on team building, casting vision, and finding stories and IP that studios are looking for.
Ralph has proven to be one of Hollywood's most profitable assets, producing motion pictures and television. Winter produced the first three X-MEN films, Tim Burton's PLANET OF THE APES, the FANTASTIC FOUR movies, and WOLVERINE: ORIGINS with Hugh Jackman. In 2013, Ralph Executive Produced THE GIVER, starring Jeff Bridges, Meryl Streep, Katie Holmes, Alex Skarsgard, and Taylor Swift, directed by Phillip Noyce. Also CROUCHING TIGER HIDDEN DRAGON: THE GREEN DESTINY, filmed in New Zealand and China for Netflix's first original movie, starring Donnie Yen and Michelle Yeoh.
Outside the majors, Ralph has made various indie movies. CAPTIVE, starring David Oyelowo and Kate Mara, based on the true story of Ashley Smith, released by Paramount Pictures. In Spain, Malta, and Portugal, Ralph produced THE PROMISE with Christian Bale and Oscar Issac, with Terry George (HOTEL RWANDA) directing. An epic love story set against WWI and the fall of the Ottoman Empire; this is the story of the Armenian Genocide in 1915.
Recently Ralph executive produced the pilot of ALTERED CARBON ("Blade Runner meets Game of Thrones") for a series at Netflix released in February 2018. And a movie in Fiji and New Zealand, ADRIFT, starring Shailene Woodley and Sam Claflin, directed by Baltasar Kormakur (EVEREST, THE DEEP, 2 GUNS).
Currently he is producing a series for FX called HUE 1968, based on the book of the same name, about the key battle in the Vietnam War. Michael Mann (THE INSIDER, COLLATERAL, LAST OF THE MOHICANS) is writing, directing, and executive producing this 9-episode high profile series in Thailand, shooting this November.
A graduate of UC Berkeley, Ralph is active in community affairs and performing arts projects, speaks in the US, overseas at universities and film festivals, and serves on several film advisory boards. He is an active member of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences, the DGA, and the PGA. Follow Ralph Winter on Twitter @rwinter1955
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| Why Broadcast TV Matters | 06 Aug 2019 | 00:11:10 | |
With Netflix, Hulu, Disney and others battling for online platforms, there is still a place for broadcast television. Phil Cooke https://philcooke.comshares why broadcast TV may be right for you to share your message or creative idea. Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here:https://youtu.be/DjSnJKR5FL4
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: More about this episode: Why Broadcast TV Still Matters In my work with non-profits, churches, businesses and even filmmakers, more and more people are turning away from the TV broadcast world to the online streaming world. To some degree, it's natural, and digital media should be an important part of your strategic plan for connecting with a larger audience or customer base. However, in a world that's crazy over online media, content producers shouldn't forget what broadcast media does very well and especially why you shouldn't be too quick to walk away from traditional TV: 1) When it comes to full-length programming, TV is still the king. YouTube, Vimeo, and similar platforms generate enormous views, but it's still mostly short clips. As filmmaker George Lucas described, "Videos of puppies crossing a freeway." He used that illustration to describe the way that YouTube captures attention and can be interesting, but rarely a long-form, compelling experience.
2) As a result, TV is still "America's campfire." Nothing online generates the type of water-cooler conversation that "American Idol" does. For all the talk about "community" online, we actually watch online videos primarily as individuals, but we still watch TV in groups. As a result, the experience is different, and in media and entertainment, that issue matters.
3) Amassing a big audience online doesn't yet guarantee big ad revenues. The TV audience is a buying audience. Online? We're not sure yet.
4) TV & film content still drives most entertainment. Even the most successful online entertainment ventures are often for the most part is TV programming re-purposed online. The most popular online programs are simply TV programs on a different medium.
Don't get me wrong. The world is moving online, but that doesn't mean TV is going away. Radio didn't displace movies, and TV didn't replace radio. New platforms perform new purposes and don't necessarily displace old media. TV has a lot to offer, and in an effective media strategy, don't forget that component.
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Get "Successful Christian Television" here: https://amzn.to/2GOZssY (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
| |||
| Why Small Could be the Best Thing Ever | 23 Jul 2019 | 00:21:35 | |
Starting small with your ministry, non-profit or entertainment company? It may be the best thing ever – and give you an advantage over larger organizations in today's digital age. Phil Cooke https://philcooke.comshares why he believes small matters and how it can work towards your success.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here:https://youtu.be/Y-03QVOxJPI
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: Why Small Could be the Best Thing Ever Seth Godin wrote a book about it and I'm a firm believer that in the digital age, "big" isn't always good. Starting small – and even staying there – isn't failure, it can be freedom.
Here are my top reasons I believe being small is perfect for the digital age:
Never feel embarrassed or ashamed about being small. Whatever size business, church or company you're leading, in the digital age, small allows you to be nimble, change course quickly, respond faster, and most importantly – attempt things that make large organizations nervous. Amazon started with one man at a desk. Never forget that.
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Get organized with my "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| Simon Swart – How You Can Succeed as an Independent Filmmaker | 09 Jul 2019 | 00:38:53 | |
Producer Simon Swart shares how to be a successful indie filmmaker in Hollywood in this interview with Phil Cooke. https://philcooke.comGain insight on financing independent movies, the future of faith films, and the distributing and marketing strategies that can help guarantee an indie success. Executive producer of "I Can Only Imagine" with a long career with major Hollywood studios, Simon is the president and CEO of Nthibah Pictures.
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here:https://youtu.be/DjSnJKR5FL4
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: Simon Swart Interview – How You Can Succeed as an Independent Filmmaker Simon Swart has worked in executive positions with major Hollywood studios, including Fox, MGM, Relativity, Dreamworks and Disney and has played a pivotal role in distributing Avatar, Titanic, Star Wars and other top films. In this interview, he shares the secrets he's learned of what it takes to be successful today in the world of independent film production. (Make sure to listen for Simon's key tips for new producers at 31:00.)
Here are some takeaways from the interview: The Film Industry Business -People forget it's a business. You get to do it again if you make money. -You've got to have a plan for releasing and that's a business proposition. You've got to be able to look at the numbers; you've got to be able to read the budget. -How do we deploy our capital in the most effective way? As a creator, you have to think about that.
Story and Producing -You always start with who your audience is. Who's your market? -Don't take a project you don't absolutely love. -Just remember there's a difference between a story and a concept and an actual movie that's packageable. -If nobody's connecting with the script, there's probably a reason why. As a producer, you've got to be really honest about the project you're putting together.
Faith as an Independent Filmmaker -As a Christian, my faith has played a pivotal role [in the development of Nthibah Pictures]. -Faith based movies – The danger now is to keep doing what people have been doing. -Audiences don't want to be preached at when they go to the movies; pick the stories properly [and you don't have to preach]. -When you connect to our humanity and give people hope and you bring people together [you'll make] way more money. You can "do good" by doing good.
Simon Swart is the president and CEO of Nthibah Pictures, a global media company with offices in Johannesburg, South Africa and Los Angeles. Nthibah Pictures works with established talent and leading studio partners to finance, develop, produce, market and distribute films for the U.S. market and beyond.
Find out more about Simon Swart and Nthibah Pictures here: https://www.ntbpictures.com/ Add Simon's latest film, "I Am All Girls" to your watchlist on IMDb here: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9013182/?ref_=nm_flmg_prd_3
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Get my "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| Creative Design: What I Learned at the Helsinki Design Museum | 02 Jul 2019 | 00:15:27 | |
How is creativity connected to design? Showcasing industrial design, fashion and graphic design, Phil Cooke's recent visit to the Helsinki Design Museum inspired thoughts about creative design that will encourage artists and designers in your creative pursuits. https://philcooke.com
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/BtxMkfyX-QY
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to take you from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
More about this episode: Creative Design: What I Learned at the Helsinki Design Museum The Helsinki Design Museum is small, but if you're visiting the city, I highly recommend it. Here are a handful of thoughts about creativity and design that stood out for me as we toured the exhibits:
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every other Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Visit the Helsinki Design Museum! Find out more herehttp://www.designmuseum.fi/en/ Get creative! Here's my "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo The Way Back https://amzn.to/2QhIFSY (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| Living the Dream – Faith-Based Documentary Filmmaking with Ryan Grow | Lifeway Films | 06 May 2025 | 00:31:30 | |
Are you passionate about Christian storytelling and dreaming of a career in faith-based filmmaking? Join media executive Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com and Ryan Grow, Executive Producer and Head of Lifeway Films, for a powerful and practical conversation that dives deep into the world of Christian movies and documentary filmmaking. From pitching your first project to navigating story structure and the unique challenges of faith-driven media, Ryan shares industry insights, personal stories, and what it truly takes to create films that impact both hearts and culture. Learn how filmmakers can bridge the gap between church and cinema—and what surrendering your dreams to God looks like in a creative career. 🎬 Want to Work in Faith-Based Film? This Conversation Is for You! 👉 Watch now and transform your creative career! Enjoying the content? 🌟 Show your support with a Super Thanks below! Your contribution helps me create more inspiring videos and podcasts for creative leaders like you. Get my FREE DOWNLOAD and transform your creative leadership skills when you sign up for my newsletter here: https://www.philcooke.com/subscribe/ Get Ideas on a Deadline: How to Be Creative When the Clock is Ticking 👉 New Masterclasses Ideas on a Deadline Masterclass with Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com/ideasonadeadline Subscribe to My YouTube Channel and Expand your Creative Leadership Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live. Prefer audio? Listen to my Podcast here: https://apple.co/2XbMgDL ======================================== Phil Cooke – Media Producer/Writer/Speaker/Coach Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? I offer advice on creative leadership, digital media, branding, marketing, film and television production – and the faith to take you from where you are in your ministry or career to where you want to be. As a filmmaker, media consultant and co-founder of Cooke Media Group in Los Angeles, my client list includes Hollywood studios, major nonprofit organizations, and many of the most respected churches and ministries in the world. I've produced media programming in nearly 70 countries and created many of the most influential inspirational TV programs in history. My philosophy? Get your ideas out there and change the world in the process. ========================== Connect with me on social media: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com =========================== *More About This Episode* Living the Dream – Faith-Based Documentary Filmmaking with Ryan Grow | Lifeway Films Read more at Phil's Blog: "The Explosion of Documentary Films" https://www.philcooke.com/the-explosion-of-documentary-films/ More about Ryan Grow, Executive Producer / Head of Lifeway Films Connect with Ryan: Ryan Grow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryangrow/ Ryan Grow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryangrow85/ Website: www.growproductions.tv Find out more about Lifeway Films: https://lifewayfilms.com Lifeway Films Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LifewayFilms/ Lifeway Films Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifewayfilms/# Lifeway Film X: https://x.com/lifewayfilms 00:00 Media Executive Phil Cooke introduces Ryan Grow, Executive Producer and Head of Lifeway Films to discuss faith based filmmaking (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for the support!) | |||
| Best Office Spaces for Creative Teams | 25 Jun 2019 | 00:11:49 | |
Is your open office driving you nuts? Phil Cooke shares tips on creative office designs that will yield the most productivity for your team, plus insight on how a good design can help circumvent sexual harassment in the workplace. https://philcooke.com
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Prefer video? Watch the YouTube edition here: https://youtu.be/DjSnJKR5FL4
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you get from where you are to where you want to be in your career.
Best Office Spaces for Creative Teams Designing the right office for your creative team is important. A well-thought out design can spur creativity while a poor design can stifle it.
The open office was a great idea that ultimately never worked out well. There was no privacy and no quiet place to work. In most cases, they've proven to be a disaster.
Brainstorming is great, but there comes a time when you have to go into your office, shut the door and work. The best office design would have a big open space for people to talk and brainstorm, but also give everyone private offices where they can work without constant interruptions.
Statistics prove that if you are interrupted, it can take you 25-40 minutes to regain that same level of focus you had before that interruption!
Windows are also important especially in our day of so much inappropriate activity and harassment at work. I wouldn't build an office today without office doors that are glass or at least a window in the wall so people can see in. We need to do everything we can in our work spaces so nobody's taking advantage of.
Office space is more important than most people think. Don't let the same guy who designed your warehouse or your sanctuary design your office space. They need to understand what space works, how people interact, and what leads towards the most productivity.
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Get my "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| Ben Field Hillsong Interview: How to Fulfill Your Dreams in your Creative Career | 18 Jun 2019 | 00:34:57 | |
Ben Field shares his career path to Head of Film and Television for Hillsong Church in this interview with Phil Cooke. Fulfill your purpose in media with Ben's insight on following your dreams, managing creative teams and building your skillset for film and television. https://philcooke.com
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xdavyU-g1Mk
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you reach a greater audience.
Ben Field Hillsong Interview: How to Fulfill Your Dreams in your Creative Career After years in secular film and television, Ben Field began his career at Hillsong Church as a volunteer. Head of Film and Television for Hillsong, Ben leads an incredibly creative church media team that carries the vision of the Church to reach and influence the world through media.
In this interview, Phil Cooke and Ben discuss a variety of topics including starting a media career in a church setting, finding your purpose and calling, developing your skill set, managing deadlines, building creative teams, and supporting the vision of a pastor as a church creative.
Quotable takeaways from today's interview: "You can learn and prepare a career in film and television in a church setting." – Phil Cooke "Being secure in who God's called you to be is absolutely critical." – Phil Cooke "The quicker you fail, the more time you have to fix it." – Phil Cooke "Creativity comes from failing." – Ben Field "Heart and culture will always trump skills." – Ben Field "Never underestimate the power of a team." – Ben Field "Look for the gold in people." – Ben Field
About Ben Field:Ben Field is an award-winning Producer and Director, Head of Film and Television for Hillsong Church, and Director of Programming for the Hillsong Channel, broadcasting 24/7 to 164+ million homes in 183 countries around the world.
Ben is passionate about seeing people reached through the local church and is dedicated to using media to bring hope and inspiration to people from all walks of life. From cinema and television to the amazing digital age we live in, Ben leads a global team that carries the heart and vision of Hillsong Church, to reach and influence the world, changing mindsets and empowering people.
Ben was a Producer for the theatrical release of "Let Hope Rise – the Hillsong Movie" and throughout his 20-year career journey, has produced and directed documentaries, live music events, scripted and non-scripted shows for both the Christian and mainstream audience. Connect with Ben Field here: https://hillsong.com/contributor/ben-field/
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com Subscribe to my YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| Building Teams: 5 Things Leaders Get Wrong | 11 Jun 2019 | 00:20:35 | |
Building effective teams is an important leadership skill that many leaders get wrong. Here are my 5 key mistakes that are holding many leaders back from the amazing work their team is capable of. https://philcooke.com
Subscribe to My Podcast for more good advice for leaders and creatives https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/phil-cooke-podcast/id1439369056
Do you have a message or story the world needs to hear? As a Hollywood producer and media consultant, I offer advice for leaders and creatives each week on filmmaking, digital media, publishing, strategy, communication, leadership, culture and faith – to help you reach a greater audience.
Building Teams: 5 Things Leaders Get Wrong Good leaders know how to develop a great team. The key isn't just maximizing the talent of each member, it's also about combining that collective talent to do amazing things. But there are five key mistakes I see leaders make over and over that keep them from building a legendary team…
If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, build a great team. – Phil Cooke
Schedule: New episodes are uploaded every Tuesday. Make sure to Subscribe and hit the Notification bell to be notified when they go live.
Other Great Resources: Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on creativity at https://www.philcooke.com
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com | |||
| Church Hospitality – 8 Seconds to Make an Impact | 04 Jun 2019 | 00:09:22 | |
Getting new visitors to church can be hard. Keeping them can be even harder. Phil Cooke helps pastors understand the importance of first impressions in an 8 second culture.
Technology has dramatically changed the way we live. We live in an 8 second world where people are so distracted, they make decisions about people, churches and even pastors – within the first 4-8 seconds. For pastors, this means you must be intentional about training your teams and your people to create a culture of hospitality in your church.
This involves focus on every level, from the parking lot to the lobby and all the way to the sanctuary. You've got to capture a visitor's attention in the first 8 seconds as they come onto your property! Getting their attention matters and can help pave the way for them to have a deeper experience with God. The stakes are too high to fail. – Phil Cooke
Get my book "The Way Back": https://amzn.to/2QhIFSY (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!)
Schedule: Podcasts are uploaded every Tuesday. Make sure to subscribe to be notified when podcasts go live.
Other Great Resources: Sign up for my blog and get a free eBook on Creativity here: https://www.philcooke.com
Make sure to check out my YouTube channel and subscribe if you haven't already at https://www.youtube.com/c/philcookeofficial?sub_confirmation=1
Follow me: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/
Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
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| Leading Creative People: Interview with Bobby Gruenewald | 28 May 2019 | 00:23:59 | |
Phil Cooke interviews Bobby Gruenewald about his concept of the "abundance mindset" that he applies in leading creative teams. Bobby serves as Pastor and Innovation Leader at Life.Church, a multisite church based in Oklahoma; and is the founder of the YouVersion Bible App with over 500 million unique downloads globally. He is passionate about exploring new ideas and finding practical ways to leverage them for the global Church.
Quick takeaways from this interview…
"The fruit [idea] is not my identity; my identity is in the Tree…This makes me very open to feedback. It's okay if this isn't the best idea. I'm confident God's going to enable me to produce more." – Bobby Gruenewald
"Part of being creative is not being too critical too early, but at some point being realistic and filtering out things that won't work." – Phil Cooke
The "abundance mindset" axiom: "If you don't like this idea, don't worry, there's more where that came from. God designed me to create and I'm confident in that design." – Bobby Gruenewald
"The credibility of the critic really matters." – Phil Cooke
"When you have people with your best interest (or the vision or the ministry) at heart that give you feedback, those are the right people to listen to." – Bobby Gruenewald
Follow Bobby Gruenewald @bobbygwald https://www.facebook.com/bobbygwald/ https://www.instagram.com/bobbygwald/ https://twitter.com/bobbygwald
Find out more about YouVersion: https://www.youversion.com/ Get the free Bible App from YouVersion here: https://www.youversion.com/the-bible-app/ Find out more about Life Church: https://www.life.church/
For more tips on leadership and leading creative teams, visit Phil's blog at https://www.philcooke.com
Get a free eBook on Creativity! Sign up now at https://www.philcooke.com Visit Phil Cooke's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzivfiicpepFmAv5ZblgYWQ Find out more about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
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| Why TV Graphics Can Make or Break Your Program | 21 May 2019 | 00:13:09 | |
TV graphics greatly impact your audience's perception of your message. Phil Cooke shares how to make effective graphics for your livestream church services, videos and television programs. Your graphics are far more important than you may think!
With non-linear editing it's amazing what we can do with television graphics, but the original purpose has not changed. We use graphics to convey information beyond what the speaker is saying. I was preparing some graphic design notes for a client and thought these ideas for TV graphics are a good reminder for video editors, television producers and graphic designers. When it comes to onscreen TV graphics, the keys are:
3.Be sensitive to the content. Don't just insert a phone number, address, or URL anywhere! Make sure it's not a distraction from the content at the moment. You will maximize your response by being sensitive to what's happening onscreen. Ask yourself: is this taking away or adding to the message of the speaker?
5.Remember size matters: We don't have to use large graphics, but do remember that the typical religious TV viewers is often older. Therefore, "readability" is critical. If that fits your program's demographics, make sure the graphic is on long enough and is clear enough for your grandmother to read easily.
Doing graphics well makes a big difference in the impact of your video or program. Think in terms of how your graphics can help your message reach more people. – Phil Cooke
Get the book "The Last TV Evangelist" here: https://amzn.to/2Yl0nYu (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
For more tips on TV graphics, visit Phil's blog at https://www.philcooke.com/tv_graphics/#more-1999
Get a free eBook on Creativity! Sign up at https://www.philcooke.com
Listen to the Phil Cooke Podcast here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056
Find out more about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Visit Phil Cooke's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzivfiicpepFmAv5ZblgYWQ
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| How to Create a Creative Work Culture | 14 May 2019 | 00:20:46 | |
Good leaders know that a positive work environment is more important than vision, especially when it comes to leading a creative team. Phil Cooke shares 10 tips to creating a vibrant creative culture in your ministry or organization for your creative team to reach their best work.
It's no secret that culture is more important than vision.I've worked in creative, vibrant cultures where original thinking is valued and wonderful things happen. On the other hand, I've worked at organizations where you could literally feel the oppression when you walked into the building. Those destructive cultures often have leaders with great vision and potential, but because the culture is so negative, that vision will never be realized.
So how to do you create a creative culture? Here are 10 principles I've used to turn around numerous organizational cultures:
Your creative team should be able to call anyone to ask questions and discuss ideas. Don't force them to communicate through supervisors, managers, or anyone else. Create a free-flowing communications system, and the ideas will grow.
Creating a creative and positive culture in your organization is one of the most important things you can do as a leader. Create this culture and you and your team will do amazing things. – Phil Cooke
For more about designing a creative culture, visit Phil's blog at https://www.philcooke.com/ten-critical-keys-for-designing-a-creative-culture/
Get a free eBook on Creativity! Sign up for Phil's blog at https://www.philcooke.com
Find Ed Catmull's book "Creativity, Inc." on Amazon here:https://amzn.to/2Jh4D6W
Get Dale Carnegie's book "How to Win Friends and Influence People" here: https://amzn.to/2VklDAK (Note that as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
Listen to the Phil Cooke Podcast here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056
Find out more about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Visit Phil Cooke's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzivfiicpepFmAv5ZblgYWQ | |||
| How to Be Creative Even When It's Risky | 07 May 2019 | 00:15:43 | |
Can you be creative on a deadline? Most creative professionals work within schedules and time frames – the television episode shooting in two days, the fast-approaching deadline for a film to be locked, or a ministry video due for a Sunday's service. Phil Cooke offers techniques on delivering creativity under fire when you don't have the luxury of waiting until the mood strikes.
We often think that creativity is something that's inspired, beautiful, and only happens when the spark strikes or the muse speaks. Actually, nothing could be further from the truth.
I'm a proponent of what I call "practical" creativity – which means creativity on a deadline. I've spent my career working for clients – studios, networks, nonprofits, major churches and ministries. In those cases, I don't have time to wait for inspiration, I have to deliver ideas on a schedule. Worse – sometimes I have to deliver when there's enormous pressure, risk, and a great deal on the line.
If you're in the film and television industry or in any position which requires your talents as a creative, chances are, you work in a similar situation. While we'd all like to experience the comfort of waiting for wonderful ideas to come from the heavens, with most projects, we have to conjure up something right now.
Certainly we can't totally control creativity, and can't just hit an on and off switch, but there are techniques we can use to draw from when we have to deliver creativity under fire.
To know what creative ideas will work, you need to know what's working now, what's failing, and what's already been done. Keep your finger on the pulse of the culture.
Plus, experience and confidence tends to quiet that voice in your head that's telling you that you have no talent and your work is trash. However, the key is that you should be mastering your craft when the pressure is not happening, so that when it does hit, you're ready to be amazing.
Always have creative friends and mentors you can reach out to when you're coming up blank because building on each other's ideas is a key to creating brilliant work. Who would you call right now if you needed some help? Create a list so you'll have it when things get tough.
Unless you've decided to be a landscape painter and only work when the muse speaks, then chances are you need to deliver creative projects on time and on budget. You can master practical creativity, but it takes preparation and discipline. There's no better time to start than right now. – Phil Cooke
For more tips for creative professionals, visit Phil's blog at https://www.philcooke.com/how-to-be-creative-even-when-its-risky
Get Phil's "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" here: https://amzn.to/2vAj0eE
Get a free eBook on Creativity! Sign up for Phil's blog at https://www.philcooke.com
Listen to the Phil Cooke Podcast here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056
Find out more about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Visit Phil Cooke's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzivfiicpepFmAv5ZblgYWQ | |||
| 10 Secrets to Improve Your Public Speaking | 30 Apr 2019 | 00:22:55 | |
As a leader, speaking skills are critical to your career. Whether you need to inspire your team, preach to your congregation or captivate an audience as a keynote speaker for a major conference, Phil Cooke offers ten tips to improve your ability to speak to groups.
Conquer this list and you're on your way:
1) Stop using "fill in" words like "um," "ah," "like," or "aaah." In my opinion, few things make a speaker look more amateur than using fill-in words. Don't be afraid to simply pause and think. Better yet, know your talk so well that you won't stumble.
2) Don't get obsessed with your notes. Referring to your notes too often is the best way to tell your audience you're not prepared. Practice, learn your talk, get comfortable with it, and stop constantly looking down and checking your notes.
3) Don't let unexpected things throw you off balance. I've spoken to live audiences hundreds of times, and problems happen more often than you think. The sound goes out, lighting glitches happen, microphones cut out, there's a crazy person in the audience, or more often there's a technical problem using PowerPoint or Keynote. Always expect the unexpected and don't let it ruffle you or throw you off. Make a joke about it and move on.
4) Be very careful about using PowerPoint. Read the book "Give Your Speech, Change the World: How To Move Your Audience to Action." It begins with a simple premise: become a good speaker first, and then add PowerPoint if necessary.
5) Make eye contact with the audience. More speakers than you think avoid eye contact with the people in the seats. They look at their notes, stare at the floor, or lock in on the wall behind the audience. Look at the audience just as if you were talking to a friend. Without that relationship, you won't make an impact.
6) Make sure your "speaking voice" is the same as your normal talking voice. This comes with practice, and sometimes you do have to project your voice. As much as possible, however, make sure it's YOUR voice, not some made up voice that you think sounds dramatic or important.
7) Don't get stuck behind the podium. Too many speakers look like they're bolted to the floor. Great speakers move, use expressions and speak "physically" as well as vocally.
8) Make sure you connect with the audience. Although there will always be audience members who fall asleep, look disinterested or bored, be on the lookout for large numbers mentally checking out. This is really about knowing your audience and understanding their expectations.
I always do my best to find out ahead of the event who's in the audience, what their interests are, and why they came. Certainly you want to give them more than they expect, but start with meeting their expectations.
9) Don't lose your place in your presentation or in your notes. Know your presentation. But if you're developing something new and need your notes, think about printing them in a large font that's easy to read. Getting lost is a strong signal that you're not prepared, and you'll quickly lose credibility.
10) If the audience looks bored or people start leaving early, you're in trouble. Of course, this is your worst nightmare, and if it happens in big numbers there's no real fix because it's simply too late. Either you've missed their expectations or not been interesting or professional enough for them to stick with you to the end. My advice is more practice.
Bonus: Understand there will always be outliers within the audience that you won't figure out. However, it's the larger group that should be your focus.
Do your jokes get a laugh? Is the audience attentive during your serious moments? Are they taking notes? If you can win the greater group, and do it with consistency, then you know you're on the right track. – Phil Cooke
For more tips on public speaking, visit Phil's blog at https://www.philcooke.com/my-top-ten-secrets-to-improve-your-public-speaking/
"Give Your Speech, Change the World : How to Move Your Audience to Action" is available here: https://amzn.to/2UOYVvs (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
Get a free eBook on Creativity! Sign up for Phil's blog at https://www.philcooke.com
Listen to the Phil Cooke Podcast here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056
Find out more about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Visit Phil Cooke's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzivfiicpepFmAv5ZblgYWQ | |||
| Stop Following Your Dreams | 23 Apr 2019 | 00:18:37 | |
Are you wasting time pursuing a dream? Passion isn't enough to get you where you want to be in your career. Phil Cooke offers sound advice to help you discover what you are wired to do – and avoid getting derailed along the way.
Jiminy Cricket ("When you wish upon a star…") would not be happy with me, but the truth is, I'm getting tired of people wasting their lives following dreams they'll never achieve.
I have screenplays on my desk from writers who "have a dream" about writing a Hollywood screenplay, but aren't interested in actually attending a writing class. I met an actor recently who left his wife and young son to pursue his dream of an acting career. The problem is, he has absolutely no talent.
I know -- some of you will push back about me being too harsh. "Who is Phil Cooke to dash someone's dream?" "How arrogant to tell someone they don't have talent or they're pursuing the wrong dream for their life?"
I understand. I struggled for years with the question of whether or not I should continue encouraging people or tell them the hard truth. But writing my book, "One Big Thing: Discovering What You Were Born to Do" taught me something that changed everything: It's much easier than most people think to actually determine the real "one big thing" that we were born to accomplish with our lives. https://amzn.to/2IARV2z
But Hollywood, the self-help industry, the esteem movement and well-intentioned friends have led us down a far more romantic, but ultimately destructive path. We've been taught that all it takes is a dream, and you can accomplish whatever your heart desires.
As a result, we have a flood of would-be filmmakers descending on Hollywood every year. Publishers are deluged with poorly written manuscripts from wannabe writers with no talent, and auditions for shows like "American Idol" have long lines of singers who can't hold a tune in a bucket.
High school drama teachers, parents, and well meaning friends have encouraged them for years. But at what cost? How many years have been robbed from potentially finding the one thing where they could actually be extraordinary?
Don't get me wrong. Pursuing a dream is fine. But unless you have the talent, skill, ability, a commitment to achieve that dream, you're simply wasting your life. But how do you figure it out? How can you avoid spending years pursuing a delusion?
In my book, I suggest you start with a few key questions:
1) What comes easy for you? Think about your life. How many times were you asked to do something because you were the organized one, the athletic one, the best writer, or good with numbers?
Perhaps you're the responsible one who's always expected to keep your group together at the shopping mall. Maybe you're the person everyone turns to in a crisis.
The confirmation of other people matters, so take a minute and think about talents you possess that other people notice. Whatever it is, that ability could be a key indicator of the dream you should be following – or what I call in my book, your "one big thing."
2) What do you love? There are plenty of people volunteering at jobs they love and working on the side to make a living. But what if you could combine the two? What if you could actually make a living working at a job you love? What's the first thing you think about when you wake up in the morning and the last thing you think about when you go to bed at night?
3) What drives you nuts? It may sound strange, but I've discovered that in many cases, the thing you hate the most could be the problem you were born to fix. In other words, what do you hate? The answer may change the course of your future.
4) Finally - have you done the time? I'm not talking about prison, but a question of commitment. Professional writers write. Musicians practice. Designers design.
You may not have a job, a business card, or a buyer, but if you have a dream, what foundation are you laying today for success tomorrow? What classes are you taking? Have you found a mentor or coach? It's time to stop being average at so many things and start being extraordinary at one big thing.
This is your moment. Maybe it's time to stop just following a dream and spend more time discovering what dream you should follow.
Get Phil's book "One Big Thing: Discovering What You Were Born to Do" here: https://amzn.to/2IARV2z (As an Amazon Associate, Phil earns from qualifying purchases.)
For more on this topic, visit Phil's blog at https://www.philcooke.com/please-stop-following-your-dreams/
Get a free eBook on Creativity! Sign up for Phil's blog at https://www.philcooke.com
Listen to the Phil Cooke Podcast here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056
Find out more about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Visit Phil Cooke's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzivfiicpepFmAv5ZblgYWQ
follow your dreams, one big thing, actors, writers, filmmakers, acting career, screenwriting, pursue your dreams, chasing your dreams, Hollywood, designers, city slickers, American Idol, discovering your talents, discovering talent,
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| Creative Ways to Transform Your Church Worship | Interview with Executive Pastor Ben Stapley | 15 Apr 2025 | 00:42:38 | |
Church doesn't have to be boring! In this interview, Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com talks with Executive Pastor Ben Stapley of Zarephath Christian Church to uncover creative, practical ways to revitalize your worship experience. Whether you're running a traditional or contemporary church service, these creative strategies will boost engagement, improve sermon retention, and help your congregation connect with God on a deeper level. 👉 Watch now and transform your creative career! Enjoying the content? 🌟 Show your support with a Super Thanks below! Your contribution helps me create more inspiring videos and podcasts for creative leaders like you. Get my FREE DOWNLOAD and transform your creative leadership skills when you sign up for my newsletter here: https://www.philcooke.com/subscribe/ Get the planner! "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" available here: https://amzn.to/2M2ixNo Get the book! "Ideas on a Deadline: How to Be Creative When the Clock is Ticking" available here: https://amzn.to/3Lj9gNU Support the mission! Get a free copy of Phil's books when you give a generous gift to The Influence Lab. Find out more here: https://influencelab.com 👉 New Masterclasses Ideas on a Deadline Masterclass with Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com/ideasonadeadline Subscribe to My YouTube Channel and Expand your Creative Leadership Prefer audio? Listen to my Podcast here: https://apple.co/2XbMgDL ======================================== Phil Cooke – Media Producer/Writer/Speaker/Coach As a filmmaker, media consultant and co-founder of Cooke Media Group in Los Angeles, my client list includes Hollywood studios, major nonprofit organizations, and many of the most respected churches and ministries in the world. I've produced media programming in nearly 70 countries and created many of the most influential inspirational TV programs in history. My philosophy? Get your ideas out there and change the world in the process. ========================== Connect with me on social media: Twitter https://twitter.com/philcooke Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philcookepage/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philcooke/ Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056 Find out about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com =========================== *More About This Episode* How to Make Church Worship Engaging Again | Interview with Executive Pastor Ben Stapley Ben received a BA in Video Communications from MBI in Chicago. After graduating he worked in Toronto as a television producer for Context, a national news program. He designed compelling services at South Ridge Community Church as the Director of Programming & Media. During this time he received a MDiv from Missio Seminary in Philadelphia. After that he worked at Liquid Church as the Creative Arts Pastor. He then served at Christ Fellowship Miami on the executive team as the Experience Director and at The Life Christian Church in West Orange NJ as the Executive Pastor.
Ben is currently the Executive Pastor at Zarephath Christian Church leading staff and volunteers to execute the vision and mission of the church. ZCC is located in central New Jersey and is known for its compassion and community outreach. Ben and his wife Rose enjoy life with their two lovely daughters, Violet & Scarlet in New Jersey. Find out more: https://www.benstapley.com/ (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my channel and allows us to continue making videos like this. Thank you for the support!) | |||
| Faith and Hollywood: An interview with Dan Rupple | 16 Apr 2019 | 00:29:02 | |
CEO of Mastermedia International Dan Rupple shares insight into affecting Hollywood as well as tips for those considering a move to Los Angeles in this interview with Phil Cooke.
Known by many as one of the founding members of the Christian comedy team Isaac Air Freight, Dan Rupple has over four decades of media experience as a respected producer, writer and speaker. His Hollywood experience includes ten years as supervising producer with CBS television ("The Price is Right," "The Late Show with David Letterman"), plus serving as head of programming and development for five internet television companies. Featured on NBC Nightly News, CNN, FOX News and The Washington Post, he is an honored Biola University graduate and an ordained minister.
In 2016, Dan was installed as the CEO of Mastermedia International, building meaningful trust relationships that confidentially serve today's leading media professionals, creating honest dialogues around issues of faith and offering them insights regarding America's vast Christian community. Mastermedia also exits to be an encouraging voice to the media leaders of tomorrow.
Here are some quick takeaways from today's interview… Always be a student. The film and television industry changes really quickly. You've got to be able to adapt.
You can change the way Hollywood looks at the Christian community in three ways:
If you're considering a move to Hollywood, Dan comments: --Come if you feel that's the way God wired you. If it's a joy, and you've got the drive, passion and talent, he encourages the move. --Understand the industry. --Stay strong in your convictions. --Prepare to be surprised. Learn your craft, form your network, get prepared with your projects. God will surprise you with opportunities, so be ready!
Overall, Dan reminds Christian workers in the film and television industry in Hollywood, "People are one miracle away from meeting the Lord."
Find out more about Mastermedia International here: https://mastermedia.com/
For more insight on the intersection of faith, media and culture, visit Phil's blog at https://www.philcooke.com
Watch Phil's video on how he uses his "Unique: The Ultimate Planner for Creative Professionals" now at https://www.philcooke.com/unique-creative-planner/
Get a free eBook on Creativity! Sign up for Phil's blog at https://www.philcooke.com
Listen to the Phil Cooke Podcast here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056
Find out more about Cooke Media Group here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
Visit Phil Cooke's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzivfiicpepFmAv5ZblgYWQ | |||
| 5 Keys to Successful Fundraising Videos | 09 Apr 2019 | 00:10:58 | |
Donor development and fundraising is critical for your non-profit organization to succeed. Phil Cooke shares five important keys to producing successful fundraising videos that can engage potential donors with your vision and encourage them to partner with you in the mission of your ministry.
Hundreds of nonprofit organizations and religious ministries use fundraising videos to tell their story. It's a powerful medium, and along with other projects, our team at Cooke Media Group produces fundraising and donor development videos for some of the largest nonprofits and ministries in the country.
After years of producing these around the world, we've discovered some important keys to creating an impact with the audience. The next time your organization considers a promotional or donor video for your website or to show at a live event, here are five important principles to remember:
Potential donors want to hear your story, and in today's visual culture, showing a powerful video is an incredible tool. The question is: What's the story your organization needs to tell? – Phil Cooke Want help telling your story or creating a donor development strategy? Cooke Media Group can amplify your message so you are reaching the audience you hope to reach. Find out more about here: https://www.cookemediagroup.com
For more on donor development and how to produce a great fundraising video, visit Phil's blog at https://bit.ly/2I6dcBc
Get a free eBook on Creativity! Sign up for Phil's blog at https://www.philcooke.com
Listen to the Phil Cooke Podcast here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/philcookes-podcast/id1439369056
Visit Phil Cooke's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzivfiicpepFmAv5ZblgYWQ
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| The Power of Momentum to Advance Your Career | 02 Apr 2019 | 00:15:10 | |
Momentum can catapult your career or leadership, particularly if you're a creative professional. Phil Cooke shows you how to maximize it when it happens and how to make it work to advance your career.
Few people really understand the power of momentum, and how to take advantage of it when it happens. Momentum is serendipitous – which means it happens outside of our control. But if and when it happens we need to recognize it and use it for our advantage.
What is momentum? It may be winning an award that puts you on the map or grabbing a highly coveted project. Maybe a friend's been working on developing a new web-based company, and out of the blue, it was featured on a major news site. Perhaps it's being called for a big media interview, or having a story appear about your work on a major news network.
Whatever it is, momentum causes your career to move forward in a huge growth spurt. So how can you use momentum to your advantage?
First – put a plan in place right now. Are your industry contacts up to date, so you can let people know about your achievement or recognition? Do you know how to get out a press release to announce your success?
Can you do an email blast? Are you building your social media following? Who are the most influential leaders in your industry that you could arrange a meeting with when it happens? When it comes to letting people know about your success, don't be caught flat-footed when something great happens.
Second – Have multiple projects ready at all times. What if you get a major award and someone decides to invest in your future? What can you show them? Dust off those old ideas and get them ready to pitch.
Third – Keep networking. Remember the advertising principle: "Once product sales are down, it's too late to advertise." It's very difficult to move forward when you're standing still. If you've already been networking and keeping your relationships up to date, when something explosive happens, it's far easier to move forward.
Finally – Recognize favor when it comes. Always be scanning the horizon for good things in your life. When God's favor happens, it doesn't always come in the package we expect. You might not immediately think how a small success in one area could translate into something significant, but publicity is built on recognizing potential buzz.
You may feel like nothing is happening right now, but you never know when the match will strike. Momentum is a rare thing, so when it does happen, be ready to fan the flame and keep your career moving forward.
For more tips on momentum and your career, visit Phil's blog at https://www.philcooke.com/the-power-of-momentum-and-why-you-need-it
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