Explore every episode of the podcast Rumikay Talks
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
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| How to Pitch Your Vision: Filmmaking Lessons from Andrew Kightlinger | 20 Feb 2026 | 00:44:04 | |
How do you turn a technical camera launch into a soulful piece of science fiction? In this episode, director Andrew Kightlinger joins the Rumikay Talks podcast to break down the reality of a career in film. From his unique childhood education in Madagascar—where movies arrived in a traveling "Red Island Video Club" footlocker—to directing a feature for Sylvester Stallone, Andrew shares what it takes to survive and thrive in the industry. In this episode, we discuss:
✨ Selected links from the episode: ✨ https://www.instagram.com/andrew.vhs OKAY at Slamdance: https://slamdance.com/26-lineup/ Slamdance Film Festival: February 19th–25th in Los Angeles (and virtually!) 🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations and hit the notification bell so you don't miss out! https://rumikay.com/YouTube | |||
| Slamdance & Fatherhood: Joseph Austin II on Indie Success | 10 Feb 2026 | 00:36:19 | |
What happens when your career dream and your life dream collide in the same month? In this episode, Konstantin sits down with filmmaker Joseph Austin II as he prepares for two massive "world premieres": the debut of his second feature film, A Story About You, at the Slamdance Film Festival, and the birth of his first daughter. Joseph shares the incredible story of winning a $60,000 Panavision grant that greenlit his latest project and the technical hurdles of shooting a feature with a tiny, three-person crew. We explore Joseph’s journey from a college junior searching for a path to becoming a filmmaker whose work is now recognized on the global stage. He opens up about dealing with rejection, the importance of "advocating for your vision," and why he believes human-led storytelling will always hold a special power over AI. Key Highlights:
Whether you are an aspiring director or a lover of independent cinema, Joseph’s story is a masterclass in perseverance, humility, and the art of "simplifying" the daunting task of making a movie. ✨ Selected links from the episode: ✨ https://www.instagram.com/josephaustinii/ A Story About You at Slamdance: https://slamdance.com/26-lineup/ Slamdance Film Festival: February 19th–25th in Los Angeles (and virtually!)
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| Reaching for the Stars: Raja Deka's Journey from NASA to Hollywood | 01 Sep 2024 | 00:57:34 | |
Join us for an unforgettable conversation with Raja Deka, the actor who's defied gravity and taken his career to new heights! From NASA to Hollywood, Raja shares his incredible journey, including his roots in Assam, India, and his breakout roles in Arrested Development, Black-ish, and Homeland. | |||
| The Art of Authenticity: A Conversation with Jeffrey Marcus | 01 Aug 2024 | 00:56:21 | |
Tune in for a fascinating conversation with Jeffrey Marcus, a seasoned actor and acting teacher with a passion for helping others unlock their full potential. With a career spanning film, television, and theater, Jeffrey shares his insights on the casting process, the importance of actor’s actions in a scene, plus Jeffrey’s experiences working with A-list clients like Kim Kardashian. | |||
| From Brazil to Hollywood: Sabrina Percario's Journey of Determination | 01 Jul 2024 | 00:44:04 | |
Listen to this inspiring journey with Sabrina Percario, award-winning actress and producer, as she shares her path from Brazil to Los Angeles. Sabrina takes us behind the scenes of her latest projects, including the “Halloween Feast” movie she produced and the powerful short film “Julia.” | |||
| Building Bridges: Federico Mallet on Community, Creativity, and Acting | 01 Jun 2024 | 00:58:49 | |
Join us for an insightful conversation with Federico Mallet, a talented actor based in New York City. In this episode, we delve into the world of acting, exploring the differences between performing in LA and NY. Federico shares his experiences working at the renowned Village Playback Theater and discusses the impact of AI on the democratization of art. | |||
| Into the Unknown: Matthew Sprosty on AI, Oscars, and the Paranormal | 01 May 2024 | 01:12:13 | |
Join us for a fascinating conversation with writer Matthew Sprosty as we delve into the world of AI in filmmaking, the importance of entertainment lawyers, and the power of writers supporting one another. | |||
| F. Joel Price on Living and Acting in South Korea | 01 Apr 2024 | 00:45:29 | |
Joel is an actor and filmmaker from NYC, who is currently building his career in South Korea. His most recent film was officially selected at the Aporia International Film Festival in South Korea | |||
| Barbara Williams - Actor/Author/Activist | 01 Mar 2024 | 00:45:40 | |
Barbara Williams is an actor and writer known for White House Down, Thief of Hearts, and City of Hope. Apart from that, Barbara wrote music, participated in many activism events, and is an author of The Hope in Leaving: A Memoir. | |||
| Jenly Crespo - Actor/Dancer/Model | 01 Feb 2024 | 00:38:58 | |
Jenly Laura Crespo @jenlycrespo is a Cuban-American actress, professional dancer, and agency-signed model born in Havana, Cuba, and raised in Miami, Florida. She trained in the disciplines of ballet, modern, jazz, and hip hop, later joining the Goddesses Dance Team where she held 6 National Titles and achieved Top 3 at The Dance Worlds. | |||
| Keturah Hamilton - Actress/Producer | 01 Jan 2024 | 00:36:27 | |
Keturah Hamilton @keturahhamiltonfoundation is a Jamaican-born actress and model based in Los Angeles. Most recently, she appeared in an Amazon Original feature film, "Nanny." | |||
| Scouting Locations in Macedonia | 21 Oct 2023 | 00:04:42 | |
We recorded this episode while driving around Lake Ohrid in Macedonia. A magical place. There are so many possibilities to film in unique environments here. | |||
| The Art of Acting: Training, Rejection, and Finding Your Role with Dan Shaked | 01 Aug 2025 | 00:50:11 | |
Welcome to Rumikay Talks! In this episode, we're joined by actor Dan Shaked for an incredibly candid conversation about the realities of pursuing an acting career. Dan takes us on an adventure from his unexpected lodging in a Toronto director's shoe closet to the intricacies of preparing emotionally for a heavy scene. We dive into his acting training at the renowned Tisch School of Arts and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, uncovering some of the best lessons he's learned. Dan also shares his ultimate dream role, how he recharges his creative spirit through unexpected experiences, and the influential books, movies, and songs that have profoundly impacted his life and work. ✨ Selected links from the episode: ✨ https://www.instagram.com/danshaked/
https://www.danshaked.com | |||
| German Film Museum | 14 Oct 2023 | 00:09:47 | |
On our trip to Germany we visited the German Film Museum. We learned a lot of things about the beginnings of German cinema and the first equipment used to simulate moving pictures. | |||
| Full Movies on Socials | 07 Oct 2023 | 00:10:39 | |
The way we watch movies changes rapidly. We don't feel the same way about watching a movie the way we used to when we attended theaters much more often. | |||
| Does Cinema Need Saving? | 30 Sep 2023 | 00:12:34 | |
Does cinema need saving? Recently, prominent filmmakers have been bashing the comic book universe and the superhero movies that are being massively produced and watched by audiences around the world. In this episode, Konstantin Starodetskii and Rumena Dinevska share their opinions on this topic. Do superhero movies present a danger to the future of cinema? What is the future of cinema? And how can we as filmmakers adapt? | |||
| Future of Entertainment | 23 Sep 2023 | 00:09:07 | |
The entertainment industry has been going through so many changes. With writers and actors on strike, the rise of AI technology, and the mass production of content, what does the future look like for this industry? | |||
| Cinema Camera In Your Pocket | 16 Sep 2023 | 00:06:15 | |
The Iphone has been constantly improving its technical specs, including its cameras, luring filmmakers and photographers across the Globe to use it for their projects. | |||
| What To Do When Things Are Slow | 09 Sep 2023 | 00:09:19 | |
You’re on fire, you’re working towards your goals and dreams, and then all of a sudden things slow down! For different reasons, whether it's life, relationships or simply things that you can’t control, your goals and career are put to a hiatus. What should you do? In this episode, Konstantin Starodetskii and Rumena Dinevska share tips on what to do when things slow down. They discuss ways you can keep your passion alive and maintain a positive mindset during challenging and unforeseeable circumstances.
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| Lessons Learned From Sets | 02 Sep 2023 | 00:13:55 | |
Film sets are super fun, but they’re also a workplace with structure and rules. In order to have a pleasant shoot one must follow those rules and develop the special work ethic required within the film industry. Of course mistakes are often made, and nothing can ever be perfect! But we can use these mistakes to learn and improve upon. In this episode, Konstantin Starodetskii and Rumena Dinevska discuss the mistakes they’ve come across while working on film sets, and the lessons they've learned. They share tips on how to avoid these mistakes, so that you can have a positive filming environment.
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| Things To Do on National Cinema Day | 25 Aug 2023 | 00:07:59 | |
Do you live and breathe films? We know we do! Cinema is life! This Sunday, August 27th, 2023, is National Cinema Day, and as cinephiles, we can't wait to honor it. Links to the Obsession of the Week: Dead Souls by Nikolai Gogol (Rumena's Obsession)
DM us on Instagram: @rumikaystudio Email us: hello@rumikay.com Love this episode? Leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts! | |||
| Valeria Sweet - Actress/Filmmaker | 18 Aug 2023 | 01:00:04 | |
In today’s episode, Konstantin Starodetskii interviews actor and award-winning filmmaker Valeria Sweet. Valeria's acted in a multitude of films, commercials, and music videos. Notable credits include You're the Worst, New Girl, Mayans MC, Jane the Virgin, Grandfathered, 2 Broke Girls, etc. She has three upcoming films and series and has written and published four books. They talk about Valeria's journey from her childhood in Russia to her Hollywood acting career. Valeria shares her experience of meeting Mila Kunis and watching films dubbed in Russian. Selected Show Notes: Dersu Uzala Links to the Obsession of the Week Picks: Valeria's Obsessions: The Blue Bird (1976) Konstantin's Obsession: Foundation TV Show Check out our website: www.rumikay.com DM us on Instagram: @rumikaystudio Email us: hello@rumikay.com Subscribe to our YouTube Channel Join Sunday 5 Club - Top 5 creativity-boosting resources handpicked weekly by Konstantin Starodetskii Love this episode? Leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts! | |||
| Meet Yourself | 11 Aug 2023 | 00:06:40 | |
When was the last time you took yourself out on a date? Think about it. Sometimes we get caught up with work, life and relationships, that we forget to pay attention to our own needs. But spending time with yourself is essential. It gives you an opportunity to better understand yourself and your wants. Links to the Obsession of the Week: Thin Rice Cakes (Rumena's Obsession)
DM us on Instagram: @rumikaystudio Email us: hello@rumikay.com Love this episode? Leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts! | |||
| Unlock Your Potential with Author & TEDx Speaker Bridgett LaRé! | 01 Jun 2025 | 01:07:10 | |
In this inspiring episode, get ready to meet a true powerhouse: Bridgett LaRé! Bridgett is a best-selling author of the captivating "First 33" book trilogy, a sought-after transformational coach who empowers individuals to unlock their full potential, and a captivating TEDx Talks speaker whose words have resonated with audiences around the globe. | |||
| Give Constructive Feedback | 04 Aug 2023 | 00:09:10 | |
There's so much negativity in the world. Negative news, comments, reviews... We have a tendency to easily be attracted to negativity. Have you ever given a negative feedback to someone? "I don't like the story!" "The ending is bad!"
DM us on Instagram: @rumikaystudio Email us: hello@rumikay.com
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| Going to the Movies Alone | 28 Jul 2023 | 00:09:01 | |
Have you ever gone to the movies alone? Is it weird to do so? Spending time with yourself is so important, and going to the movies solo is one of the best ways to do it!
DM us on Instagram: @rumikaystudio Email us: hello@rumikay.com
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| Jeremy Harris - Cinematographer | 21 Jul 2023 | 00:46:06 | |
In today’s episode, Konstantin Starodetskii interviews his dear friend, cinematographer Jeremy Harris. | |||
| Top 4 Books for Creators | 14 Jul 2023 | 00:08:16 | |
Working on your personal growth is essential. As creators we need to remember to nurture our mental health, and not let negativity, self-doubt, and fear prevent us from making our dreams come true. As we chase our dreams, it's important to also pause at times, reflect, and enjoy life!
DM us on Instagram: @rumikaystudio Email us: hello@rumikay.com
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| How to Find Motivation When No One Motivates You | 07 Jul 2023 | 00:08:03 | |
Growing up, most of the time there is someone around us to motivate us to do things. Whether it's a parent, a teacher, or a co-worker, we start depending on others to help us find motivation. But what happens when there's no one to motivate you? That's when you need to motivate yourself! In this episode, Konstantin Starodetskii and Rumena Dinevska, share stories of the times when they had to find motivation. They discuss some of the challenges they had and how they overcame them.
No Hard Feelings (Rumena's Obsession) Ice cream on a waffle cone (Konstantin's Obsession)
DM us on Instagram: @rumikaystudio Email us: hello@rumikay.com
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| The Future of Apple Vision Pro | 30 Jun 2023 | 00:09:46 | |
Technology is constantly evolving, and Apple seems to be the leader of it all. Their recent reveal of the Apple Vision Pro goggles felt like a real-life episode of "Black Mirror," leaving us amazed and confused at the same time. Links to the Obsession of the Week: | |||
| Barbie vs Oppenheimer | 23 Jun 2023 | 00:14:40 | |
Are you ready for summer movie releases? Two very different films are hitting the theatres and we can't wait to watch them. Barbie and Oppenheimer, directed by Greta Gerwig and Christopher Nolan. | |||
| Revisiting Films From Childhood | 16 Jun 2023 | 00:24:34 | |
What were the films you loved as a child? When was the last time you've seen them? DM us on Instagram: @rumikaystudio Email us: hello@rumikay.com Love this episode? Leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts! | |||
| AI and Creativity | 09 Jun 2023 | 00:19:47 | |
Is AI bad? Is it dangerous? Whether you like it or not, artificial intelligence is the technology of the future. In this episode, Konstantin Starodetskii and Rumena Dinevska share the pros and cons of AI and how you can use it to your advantage. Check out our website: www.rumikay.com | |||
| The Importance of Listening | 02 Jun 2023 | 00:19:03 | |
Have you ever been told that you never listen!? Now is the time to change that! Anyone can become a great listener. Listening is a skill that can be developed with a little practice. Links to the Obsession of the Week: | |||
| OSCARS 2025 Predictions, A COMPLETE UNKNOWN Filmed at ISO 12800, and Best of Luck to ANORA! | 02 Mar 2025 | 00:14:28 | |
Let’s make some bold Oscar 2025 predictions together! I’m putting my money on ‘Anora,’ a movie that’s already making waves. How did a complete unknown cinematographer, Phedon Papamiachael, manage to capture the vibrant 60s Greenwich Village vibe with this insane ISO 12800 setting? Listen to the podcast on our website: | |||
| Top 50 Films of All Time - Rumikay Edition | 27 May 2023 | 00:14:48 | |
This is the 50th episode of Rumikay Talks! To honor that and to celebrate, Konstantin Starodetskii and Rumena Dinevska share with you their favorite 50 best films of all time. Selected Show Notes:
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| Amy Walker - Actress/Writer/Singer | 19 May 2023 | 00:56:01 | |
In today’s episode, Konstantin Starodetskii interviews award-winning actress, writer, and singer Amy Walker. They talk about Amy's upcoming feature film, her Vanity Fair appearance as an accent expert, and her viral 21 Accents video on YouTube. Amy Walker discusses her experience of collaborating with musician Jack White on Discourse on Accents, available on iTunes, and her Inside Out international tour. She shares her insight on dealing with failures, learning new accents, and navigating the entertainment industry. | |||
| John Henry Richardson - Actor/Director | 12 May 2023 | 01:01:06 | |
In today’s episode, Konstantin Starodetskii interviews John Henry Richardson. | |||
| Rise to the Challenge | 05 May 2023 | 00:10:02 | |
Taking on a challenge can be an intimidating but at the same time rewarding experience! It can help you get closer to your goals, build confidence, and become part of a community. Links to the Obsession of the Week: | |||
| Take Time to Reflect | 28 Apr 2023 | 00:11:59 | |
Sometimes life forces you to reflect. Perhaps you get sick suddenly or suffer burnout. This is the time to pause, rest, and reflect! Links to the Obsession of the Week: | |||
| Best Films to Watch on Earth Day | 21 Apr 2023 | 00:13:00 | |
Earth Day is a wonderful day to celebrate and cherish our planet! This is the day when you should make conscious environmentally friendly decisions. Perhaps taking a walk to work instead of driving? Links to the Obsession of the Week: | |||
| Best Movie Theaters in LA | 15 Apr 2023 | 00:10:57 | |
Movie theaters are magical places that transport us into the world of cinema. Los Angeles, as the center of the film industry, has lots of them! From historic ones to modern ones, there are so many theaters for your movie-viewing experience. Links to the Obsession of the Week: | |||
| Find Time to Create | 07 Apr 2023 | 00:12:14 | |
Do you feel like you have less time? With so many distractions around us, it feels like time is slipping from our hands, preventing us from creating. Links to the Obsession of the Week: | |||
| Where to Start? | 01 Apr 2023 | 00:15:48 | |
Where to start? Whenever you feel stuck and ask yourself this question, remember that you can always start fresh. Links to the Obsession of the Week: | |||
| Generate Childhood Energy | 24 Mar 2023 | 00:14:47 | |
What were the things you loved doing as a child? What brought you joy? Links to the Obsession of the Week: | |||
| Marina Shtoda - A Russian Star Conquers Hollywood | 01 Feb 2025 | 00:45:55 | |
Discover the inspiring story of Marina Shtoda, a celebrated Russian actress known for her work in film, television, and theater. We discuss her journey from the prestigious Vakhtangov Theatre Academy in Moscow to her exciting ascent in the American entertainment industry.
Listen to the podcast on our website: | |||
| Keep Following Your Dreams | 18 Mar 2023 | 00:13:03 | |
Have you ever found yourself almost giving up on your dreams? | |||
| Great Films Directed by Women | 11 Mar 2023 | 00:13:32 | |
How many female filmmakers can you name? If you had to think for a second, then this episode is for you! | |||
| Michael Franklin - On Acting in Euphoria and Meeting Octavia Spencer | 03 Mar 2023 | 00:40:50 | |
In today’s episode, Konstantin Starodetskii interviews actor and documentary producer, Michael Franklin. | |||
| Your Passport to International Cinema | 24 Feb 2023 | 00:13:44 | |
Cinema is one of the most beautiful and versatile arts. Films can transport us to different places and connect us in many ways. If you cannot physically travel, why not dive into the world of international cinema? | |||