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We’re BACK in the studio to break down what really goes on behind the scenes of an indie movie set.

From hanging out late-night with the legendary Tony Danza and Mario Lopez to navigating the chaos of production, flight layovers, and getting "on a sick one" (you'll see what we mean 🍻), we’re sharing all the real, unfiltered stories from location.

Plus, we dive into:

• 🎥 Why Buffalo, NY is a goldmine for indie filmmakers (and how to snag that 40% tax credit!).
• 🤖 How to use AI right now for quick script breakdowns, draft budgets, and scene prep.
• 📲 The massive shift toward YouTube & short-form storytelling (and details on our upcoming free series, Pruno Perez!).
• 🍷 Shoutouts to the unbelievable crew who made Christmas at the Starlight happen.

Grab a drink, light up a cigar, and hang out with us!

TIMESTAMPS:

• 00:00 - Late Start & Getting Back in the Studio
• 01:12 - We Made a Movie! Buffalo, NY Wrap Recap
• 04:08 - Late Night Hanging with Tony Danza & Mario Lopez
• 06:22 - Why Indie Filmmakers NEED to Shoot in Buffalo
• 07:15 - Crew Shoutouts & Making Movies with Friends
• 17:00 - Real Production Talk: Putting Out Fires as a Producer
• 19:15 - How to Use AI for Script Breakdowns & Drafting Budgets
• 24:42 - YouTube Empires & Our Upcoming Series Pruno Perez
• 30:25 - What's Hot in the L.A. Comedy Scene Right Now

Special Thanks to Our Partners: 📍 The Library Cigar Lounge 🎵 Extreme Music – The best music library for filmmakers & creators: extrememusic.com

🔔 Don't forget to Like, Subscribe, and hit the Notification Bell to stay tuned for our next episode! Drop a comment below: Have you ever used AI to help produce your videos or films?

#Filmmaking #IndieFilm #TonyDanza #MarioLopez #FilmProducer #AIFilmmaking #Podcast

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THE Film Hustlers, sit down with actor, entrepreneur, and filmmaker Garrett Patton (TBK Productions) to talk about the reality of independent filmmaking. From a 15-year career in private equity to navigating union negotiations, tax credits, and the chaotic world of indie budgets, Garrett shares what it really takes to push the boulder up the hill.

We dive into his upcoming projects, with Matt Damon on Start Without Me, producing alongside top talent like Lucy Hale and Josh Duhamel, and his latest venture with Adrian Grenier (Self Custody and the new docuseries Beyond the Break). Plus, we break down the changing landscape of global distribution, why Christmas movies remain bulletproof, the rise of vertical storytelling, and how filmmakers can adapt to survive in a rapidly evolving media ecosystem.

Key Takeaways & Discussion Points:

• From Private Equity to Film: How business acumen translates to the chaotic world of entertainment startups and high-stakes negotiations.
• The Matt Damon Collaboration: Behind-the-scenes look at producing Start Without Me and navigating a four-year post-production and distribution journey.
• Mastering Tax Incentives: Why shooting in places like Buffalo, New Mexico, and international hubs like Spain can make or break a lower-budget indie film.
• The Evolution of Content: The shift toward vertical platforms, global streaming numbers, and why creator authenticity is winning over audiences.
• Adrian Grenier’s Next Chapter: Exploring Bitcoin, nature rehabilitation, and turning life changes into compelling new media.

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If you think filmmaking is just about a good script and a camera, think again. Today, you literally cannot get a movie financed without mastering the tax credit game.

On this episode, the Film Hustlers talk about state incentives. 
 
We also tackle major shifts in the entertainment landscape: Why local stations axed Access Hollywood in favor of social media content, and how industry titan Barry Diller climbed out of the William Morris mailroom and invented the modern television movie.

Subscribe now and never miss an episode of the ultimate indie filmmaking hustle!

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Clay Epstein drops distributor secrets every young filmmaker must hear on Part 2 of The Film Hustlers Podcast — The budget sweet spot, making a commercial calling card. The added value you need for indie success, and the new Nancy Joan Epstein CSUN “New Voices” scholarship. Hit play if you dare. 🎬🔥

#FilmHustler #IndieFilm #Filmmaking #FilmDistribution #FilmSchool #FilmTips #NewVoices #FilmModeEnt

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Welcome back, Film Hustlers! 🌍 If you’ve ever wondered if it’s actually worth raising a million bucks to make an independent movie, this is the one episode you cannot afford to miss.

Veteran film distributor Clay Epstein (Founder of Film Mode Entertainment)      pulls back the curtain on the harsh realities of the market, the myth of "gurus" telling you to believe in your dreams, and what it actually takes to sell your movie.

Turn up the volume, hit that SUBSCRIBE button, and share this with your crew. Our numbers are climbing, and we’re just getting started! 📈

🔑 Key Takeaways From This Episode:

• The 1% Rule: Why only a fraction of indie films find true commercial success, and how to make sure you aren't making a mediocre movie.
• The Mixed-Genre Trap: Why mixing genres without an Academy Award-winning star can be absolute "distribution suicide" on streaming platforms.
• The Self-Distribution Reality Check: The real story behind massive self-distributed hits like Iron Lung and Bus Boys—and why you can't just replicate it without IP or a massive built-in audience.

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Over $42 Billion is still on the table. Claim it?

The business is shifting, but the money hasn't disappeared— On this episode of Film Hustlers, we’re breaking down the cable movie - 15 days, 10 locations, and 8 or so characters. High-concept hooks lift eyebrows. Let's talk about a strategy to stay relevant.

Key Highlights:

• The Outline is King: Why you should stop writing scripts and start perfecting the 21-page outline.
• The Cable Shift: How to make a $500k movie look like $5M.

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We’re sitting down with Father Tom Gibbons, President of Paulist Productions, to discuss the "secret sauce" that has them collaborating with A-listers like Martin Sheen and Chris Pratt. We talk about their acclaimed anthology series, INSIGHT, which ran from 1960 to 1985 and won multiple Emmy Awards. Let's pull back the curtain on the intersection of the sacred and the secular.

💥 Basebal Beyond belief on FS1

💥 Debating Statues and Saints coming to PBS. 

💥 Combat Chaplains in the line of fire. 

💥 The Martin Sheen "Secret Sauce." 

💥 Indie distribution hacks for 2026.

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Industry vet Jen Aguillon dropped by the Library Cigar Lounge to talk career longevity, the evolution of news, and why "hustling" is a core value.

If you’re looking for a dose of positive energy and some real-talk advice on breaking into the biz, this is the episode for you.

Watch the full episode on YouTube! 🎥

#FilmHustlers #Podcast #FilmIndustry #CareerAdvice #AccessHollywood #SeniorProducer #HustleHardER #StayPositive @FilmHustlers

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The needle is moving faster than ever in the film industry. In this episode of Film Hustlers, host Mark Roberts, Rod "Tuddy" Rinks are joined by veteran exec and producer  Ann Lewis Roberts to break down the radical shift from traditional gatekeepers to independent success.

We dive deep into the "ultimate blueprint" for modern filmmakers: the story of Iron Lung, a film made by a YouTuber for $3M that bypassed streamers to gross over $52M globally. Whether you have 40 million subscribers or 400, the lessons on viral hooks, authenticity, and betting on yourself are universal.

🚀 The 2026 Internship Master List: Your Backstage Pass

Tired of the "entry-level but requires 5 years experience" trap? We’re breaking down the Golden Ticket links to help you land a seat at the table with the world's biggest media giants.

From Disney Imagineering to TikTok’s Creator Growth teams, this is your direct line to the recruiters who matter. We’ve categorized the chaos into three high-stakes arenas:

• The Walt Disney Company: View all active U.S. internships (including Creative Production, Casting, and Imagineering) on the Disney Careers Internship Portal.
• Paramount: Access current openings for Film, TV, and Streaming roles (like the Streaming Engineering Intern) at Paramount Careers.
• NBCUniversal: Track applications for Universal City roles (Marketing, Legal, and Distribution) via NBCUnicareers.
• Sony Pictures: Find Culver City-based roles in Post-Production and Distribution on Sony Pictures Jobs.
• Netflix: Explore Los Angeles opportunities (including Documentary Awards & Publicity) at the Netflix Internships Site.
• Fox Corporation (TMZ): Search for active intern listings across News and Sports at Fox Careers.
• BuzzFeed: While they don't have a standalone "Podcast" portal, you can find their production and creator roles (like the College Creator Lab) on the BuzzFeed Careers Page.

🎵 Music & Live Entertainment

• Universal Music Group: Apply for the 2026 Summer Internship Program (Creative, Brand, and Operations) at UMG Careers.
• Live Nation: View current openings in Concerts, Marketing, and Booking at Live Nation Careers.
• Warner Music Group: Check for Emerging Talent Associate Program updates at WMG Careers.
• Insomniac Events: Locate festival-related internships in PR and Marketing (the team behind EDC) at Insomniac Careers.

📱 Digital & Emerging Platforms

• TikTok: Find specialized Los Angeles roles (Creator Growth, LIVE Operations, and Short Drama) at TikTok Careers.
• Mythical Entertainment: Apply for Production and Post-Production roles (Rhett & Link’s studio) through the Mythical Careers Page.

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Production Design is often the "invisible" art of filmmaking, but Hustler Robert Wise explains that everything the camera sees is a result of his work. Join the Huslers as they dive into the high-stakes world of the Art Department.

From his early days on the iconic Blink-182 "All The Small Things" music video to managing Kanye West’s Sunday Service with an Amex Black Card, Robert reveals what it really takes to build the world you see on screen.

Robert is a production designer currently in consideration for a Guinness World Record for shooting 7 Christmas movies in 2025.

If you’ve ever wondered how to get started as a PA, how to handle a difficult director, or how to "cheat" a shot for the camera, this episode is a class in set survival and creative problem-solving.

Featured Guest: Robert Wise (Production Designer) Hosted by: Mark Roberts, Rod Rinks, and Davie Dave.

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On this Micro-Drama edition of Film Hustlers, we sit down with Hollywood heavyweight Tommy Harper, Producer behind Top Gun: Maverick, Mission: Impossible, Star Wars, and currently shooting Wednesday Season 3 in Ireland! and Kasey Esser, the "Brad Pitt of Verticals" with over 57 series and 500 MILLION views! to talk about the future of entertainment. 

We dive deep into how micro-dramas went from a niche trend to a multi-billion-dollar global industry, how Tommy is bringing blockbuster quality to mobile screens with his new tech platform Veyou, and Casey’s incredible journey from struggling actor to international vertical superstar. 
Plus, we get the exclusive inside scoop on their ambitious new action-packed vertical series, Love Under Fire, which brings LED screens and movie-quality stunts straight to your phone. 💥

Whether you're an actor, filmmaker, producer, or just love the hustle of the industry, you need to hear this. Grab your notepad! 📝

🎧 Click the link in our bio to watch the full episode now!
📲 And don't forget to check out Love Under Fire dropping April 7th on the new Veyou app (V-E-Y-O-U).

#FilmHustlers #VerticalDramas #Filmmaking #TommyHarper #KaseyEsser #HollywoodHustle #MicroDramas #TopGunMaverick #IndieFilm #ActorLife #FutureOfFilm

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The Film Hustlers talk about the secrets to thriving in today’s film industry! Discover how the game has changed since the 90s and learn powerful networking strategies to catch the eye of agents. They discuss  tips on securing funding and overcoming distribution hurdles, while Davy shares his social media wisdom to help you stand out in a crowded market. Plus, find out why getting involved in local theater and student films could be your ticket to success! Don’t miss this engaging conversation packed with actionable insights that could transform your creative journey. Tune in and hustle your way to the top!

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Film Hustlers — Season 6 (now with video) — is a fast-moving Podcast for filmmakers, creators, and anyone hustling in today’s shifting media landscape. Hosts Mark Roberts, Tuddy (Rod Rinks), and Davey  Dave mix 30 years of indie filmmaking experience, industry news, practical advice on financing, distribution, and cross-platform content, plus candid conversations about making movies in the age of streaming, influencers, and microdramas. Expect insider stories, creative strategy, and real-world tips to help you make, market, and monetize your work.

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Ann Lewis Roberts explains how she climbed from intern to network leader and shares today’s creator playbook: get in the door any way you can, treat brands like studios, own and repurpose your content. YouTube, Verticles and MUCH MORE!!         #FilmHustlers #CreatorPlaybook #Filmmaking #ContentStrategy #Reels #YouTubeShorts #IndieFilm #MediaCareer

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Russell Emanuel — co‑founder and CEO of Extreme Music — joins Film Hustlers to unpack how he turned a dusty music library into a global, tech‑driven powerhouse that lets filmmakers instantly find, customize, and license premium cues without the Hollywood price tag. He explains the company’s radical focus on real composers, remixable tracks, and bespoke scoring through Bleeding Fingers, how the platform fills gaps for every genre worldwide, and why this modern library is now essential for producers who need high‑quality, affordable music fast.

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Season 6 of Film Hustlers is HERE! — 🔥 No-fluff, state tax credits, Great tax credit states,  auditing tax credits — and the exact moves to stretch your budget, protect investors, and actually finish your film. For indie filmmakers who want results. Tune in, level up, and make your next project unstoppable. 

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Join us for an electrifying episode of Film Hustlers as we welcome our very own, the talented Davie Dave Morales! Dive into his journey through the worlds of Social Media, Comedy, and Acting, as he shares the behind-the-scenes stories of performing on stage and capturing the magic on screen.

Davie brings humor and insight into the challenges of stand-up comedy, his evolution as an artist, and the joy of collaborating with fellow creatives. We discuss everything from memorable performances in front of sold-out crowds to the art of writing jokes—and how sometimes it's the throwaway lines that steal the show!

Don't miss this conversation filled with laughter and inspiration. Tune in now and discover the passion, hustle, and heart that drives Davie Dave to succeed in the entertainment industry! 🌟🎭

#FilmHustlers #DavieDave #Comedy #Filmmaking #Podcast #Inspiration

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From the trenches to the screen: John Schimke breaks down the high-stakes chess game of modern filmmaking and why the 'hustle' is the only real currency. He also talks about his new film Where the Wind Blows.

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This week, the multi-talented Actor, Producer Guy Nardulli, talks about his journey from Pro football to General Hospital to Tulsa King. 

#FilmHustlerPodcast #TheChristmasSpark #GuyNardulli #Filmmaking #Podcast #BehindTheScenes #FilmIndustry #Streaming #HollywoodHustle

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Episode: David Kendall (writer/director/producer) — This week the Film Hustlers sit down with TV vet David Kendall (Growing Pains, Boy Meets World, iCarly, Hannah Montana) to unpack sixty-plus episodes, breaking into Hollywood with a spec script, and the real hustle of writing, directing, and producing. They also discuss making their Lifetime movie Steppin' Into the Holiday (Mario Lopez, Jana Kramer), chaotic on-set weather, choreography under pressure, and practical advice for writers and creators. Tune in to hear career stories, tips for writer’s rooms, and why doing the work matters. Listen now — new episodes weekly.

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On this week’s Film Hustlers, we get real with Concrete — a true artist who’s been through the trenches. From losing everything in a theft to grinding behind the scenes in music, acting, and comedy, his story is about hustle, resilience, and never giving up. He tells us about his new Comedy Collaboration with Mario Lopez WEY OUT LOUD! and his new role in The Christmas Spark. Don't miss it!

🎬🚀🎥🎙️😂🌟🎭🔥💪🔥

#FilmHustlers #Concrete #ContentCreator #MovieLife
#WayOutLoudComedy #StandUpComedy #EntertainmentIndustry
#FilmmakingJourney #ActorLife #MusicAndFilm #indiefilm #TheChristmasSpark 

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Film Hustlers: Back to One: The Art of the Pitch & Making Your Money Back 🎬💰

🔥 The Hustle is Global! Mark, Tuddy, and Davie Dave are talking to hustlers worldwide!

This week, we dive into The Pitch. How to practice your pitch until it's second nature (even with your wife!), and why you should NEVER get discouraged when someone tunes out.

Plus, Tuddy breaks down the ultimate indie success story:

• How his film, Made in Mexico (starring Lilo Brancato), made its money back on hotel channels!
• The painful but necessary lesson on the MUST-HAVE marketing budget—and why relying on favors from friends won't cut it.

The takeaway? Stop waiting for all the money to be collected. Throw your hat over the fence and trust in the moving train! We discuss knowing your worth as a filmmaker and why you should always pitch for more than you think you need.

#FilmHustlers #IndieFilm #FilmmakingTips #Screenwriting #HollywoodHustle #BackToOne #FilmmakerLife #ThePitch #ExtremeMusic

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The Hustlers welcome Dr. Tina Vartanian, the principal of the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts (LACHSA)—widely considered the #1 public arts high school in the nation. In a candid, personal conversation, we dive into:

• How a school modeled after the movie Fame is adapting its curriculum to prepare students for a rapidly changing industry (yes, we're talking about AI).
• The importance of arts education for all kids, and how LACHSA provides a tuition-free path for students from every corner of Los Angeles.
• The incredible list of alumni, from Josh Groban to Fergie, who got their start at this powerhouse institution.

#tinavartanian #LACHSA #filmhustlers

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Ann Roberts and the Hustlers discuss the resurgence of live TV, and the growing importance of YouTube and brand-funded content. They analyze the strategies of major players, such as Paramount+, Netflix, Apple, and Warner Bros., and explore opportunities for independent filmmakers and content creators to thrive in the current environment. 

• The Rise of YouTube and Brand-Funded Content: Discussion of YouTube as a viable platform for content creators, the potential for brand sponsorships, and the success stories of independent creators like "Outdoor Boys."
• The Resurgence of Live TV: Exploration of the return to live broadcasting and its potential for engaging audiences in a new way.
• The Podcast Revolution: Examination of the podcasting boom, the emergence of video podcasts ("vodcasts"), and the lucrative deals being made by top podcasters like Joe Rogan and Dax Shepard.
• Opportunities for Indie Filmmakers: Encouragement for independent filmmakers to embrace new platforms, focus on consistent content creation, and leverage brand partnerships.
• The Cyclical Nature of Content Trends: Observation that content trends are cyclical, with genres and formats like talk shows and soap operas reappearing in new forms.

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🎬 Exciting Episode Alert! 🎬

This week on the Film Hustler Podcast, we sit down with the unstoppable - Gil Lopez Hollywood producer, showrunner, and behind-the-scenes mastermind with nearly 30 years of experience! From starting out on Saved by the Bell - The New Class to transforming iconic shows like Nashville and LA Inc., Gil shares his incredible journey through the entertainment industry, navigating changes, challenges, and shifting formats along the way.

Discover how Gil turned his street smarts into a thriving career, his insights on the evolution of Hollywood, and some hilarious stories from the front lines—including how he pulled off a full-scale game show during the pandemic! Whether you're an aspiring producer or just a film buff, Gil's story is truly inspiring.

Tune in for laughs, lessons, and a masterclass  in hustle. Don't miss it!

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Dive in and unpack the shifting landscape of filmmaking, from tax incentives to the rise of short-form, mobile-friendly content like mobisodes and what the future holds for indie filmmakers in a rapidly evolving industry. Plus, the importance of smart content strategies, and how creators can adapt and thrive in a world where attention spans are shrinking. A must-listen for anyone passionate about the business of showbiz and the future of entertainment!

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How to cast a name STAR in your $10,000 Movie! AND special guest Eric Swanson talks about the heartbreak of getting his script idea stolen and turned into a hit movie.

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Grammy-winning artist, actor, and producer Scott Hoying—best known as a founding member of the world renowned group Pentatonix—joins The Film Hustler Podcast alongside Scott's husband and creative partner Mark Hoying.

Together, they talk about their love of music, songwriting, and co-authoring their heartfelt children’s books, How Lucky Am I? and How Proud Am I?. Scott dives into his solo music, including social media darlings “Flaunt It” and “Pray,” and shares the story behind Pentatonix’s viral “White Winter Hymnal” video, featured in his Netflix film, Meet Me Next Christmas.

They also discuss Mark and Scott’s roles in founding Citizen Queen, the powerhouse girl group reimagining the modern vocal ensemble.

From viral harmonies and streaming hits to bestselling books and hands-on producing, Scott Hoying’s journey—alongside Mark—is one of creativity, connection, and taking chances. You won’t want to miss this one.

📚 Mentioned in the episode:
🔗 The Untold Story of Scott Hoying, Pentatonix Star
🎬 Meet Me Next Christmas on Netflix
🎧 Rose with No Thorns
📍 Peerspace Studio Location

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Hustlers git into AI Lots to discuss!

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Is the Film Industry failing? 

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Composing for film and tv with Alex and Cesar Vega! From Mexico City

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Hustlers are going to Hustle - Movies, Who's making them?

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Adam Speigelman talks about his Journey - from Kimmel to Access Hollywood and beyond AND MUCH MORE!

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San Diego Short Film Festival founder James Kirby talks about the impressive format of the festival and indies are back! The Huslers discuss the stand-out Indies of 2024

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Ann Lewis Roberts talks about selling in todays Reality and Non Scripted Market. 

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The Hustlers talk about distribution, high concept and much more!

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The Hustlers hit San Diego Short Film Festival with Beautiful Darkness and Much More!!!

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Producer Tommy Harper talks Wednesday and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice and MUCH more!

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The Hustlers talk about Handshake deals with actors and not getting discouraged!

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The Hustlers talk about NOT being stopped on a low budget and much MORE!

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Shaniece Cole talk about her new role on Once Upon a Christmas Wish!

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Filmmaker Horace Priester talks about sacrificing everything to make his movies AND much more!

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Film Hustlers chat with Hustler Mark Roberts from the set and much more

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Kitt Hoover talks with the Hustlers about Access Hollywood, Road Rules, her new Pod Cast and being authentic

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The Hustlers talk about movies and much more!

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Brian Herzlinger "MY DATE WITH DREW' talks Directing and meeting Steven Spielberg - from the set of "MY GROWN UP CHRISTMAS WISH". 

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Sam Haveland talks about being an Assistant Director and his families legacy. 

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Antwone Fisher talks to the Hustlers about screenwriting and the struggle.

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Liza Cornejo, Executive Assistant to Mario Lopez talks about life with Mario and Moving on to new business opportunities 

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