Respect The Hustle With Producer Director Abraham Roofeh.

Abraham Roofeh is a director and producer with his own shop, Crowned Kings. Abe is constantly pumping out great content: spots, branded content and music videos, you name it. We chat about how he gets his work, what it means to find one’s voice as a storyteller and how filmmakers need to have a bit of entrepreneurial zeal these days.

Actors – check out the Dan Velez Fund, a scholarship for actors established by our friends at www.spacestationla.com to honor of this wonderful casting director that passed too soon. Go to www.DanVelexFund.org for more info.

Enjoy.

Jordan

Email me at jordan@commercialdirectingbootcamp.com if you think you qualify for the Superlounge Diversity Award to attend December 3rd Bootcamp on Superlounge. Or just sign up.

Enjoy,

Jordan

True! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is already over half full. Los Angeles, December 3, 2016. Sign up people or suffer the rest of your career.

This episode is an hour.

TV Ads And Tapas With VML Group Creative Director Pat Piper.

VML Group Creative Director Pat Piper is funny, prolific and one heck of a guy. He’s an award-winning creative that likes to stay busy. In addition to cranking out great ads, he has his own podcast called The Shakes on iTunes. Pat and I have fun talking about what it is like having comedic actors who try to one up each other during a comedy commercial shoot. We also mention how he made some of his classic Sonic commercials, which he originated with his former partner, Matt McKay. Of course, he explains what respecting the process means to him. Please give it a listen and I hope you enjoy it.

Email me at jordan@commercialdirectingbootcamp.com if you think you qualify for the Superlounge Diversity Award to attend December 3rd Bootcamp on Superlounge. Or just sign up.

Enjoy,

Jordan

True! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is already over half full. Los Angeles, December 3, 2016. Sign up now before the class fills up. Limit 20.

This episode is an hour and some minutes.

What A Commercial Director’s Sales Rep Does With Doug Sherin.

Doug Sherin reps commercial directors as well as production companies. He sells talent based on their reel. He’s like our agent, but oh he is so much more than an agent, he’s a partner in the process of developing a director’s career. Check out his stellar roster at his company, Options.

We chat about how communication is key, his joy in finding work for his clients, and donuts. It’s a real treat to finally have my friend on the show.

Enjoy,

Jordan

Yes! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is already over half full. Los Angeles, December 3, 2016. Sign up now before the class fills up. Limit 20.

This episode is an hour and some minutes.

From MTV “Road Rules” To “The Hills” And Beyond, My Chat With Exec Producer Andrew Perry.

Executive Producer Andrew Perry began his career at MTV Networks, where I’d see him every other day in the hallway. He explains what an Executive Producer does and how he rose to the occasion when presented with a new responsibility, turning each into a career opportunity. Andrew also talks about his new book, a companion to the hit show, “The Hills.” Oh, and the alternate title to this chat might have been called, “Don’t be a dick.” You’ll learn why.

I enjoyed reuniting with Andrew and having him on the podcast and I think you will like what you hear.

Thank you,

Jordan.

Yes! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is already over half full. Los Angeles, December 3, 2016. Sign up now before the class fills up. Limit 20.

This episode is 12 minutes.

My Chat With Presidential Candidate Jimmy Tingle.

Political satirist and comedian Jimmy Tingle is running for President of the United States of America on the Humor For Humanity ticket. Jimmy has been a staple on the stand up circuit for decades, prolific as he is hilarious. He’s produced his own film, and once owned his own theater. A treat to have Jimmy on the show.

Here’s Jimmy’s take on building a wall to protect our great nation.

Enjoy.

Jordan

Yes! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is already over half full. Los Angeles, December 3, 2016. Sign up now before the class fills up. Limit 20.

This episode is 12 minutes.

My Apology To Stuntman Eddie Braun, Evel Knievel and All Big Dreamers.

Daredevil Evel Knievel was a huge childhood hero of mine, so it was amazing and super cool that stuntman Eddie Braun successfully replicated and completed Evel’s jump attempt over the Snake River Canyon in September 2016. Bravo Eddie!

But in an uncharacteristic tweet, I disrespected Eddie’s passion and success, and publicly want to set the record straight. It’s cool as fuck and I was wrong to comment anything but respect, positivity and kudos. Looking inward, when I take a shot at someone else’s accomplishments or pursuits, it really must be an expression of frustration with something I have yet to achieve. Lesson learned. Respect the big dreams of others. I am truly sorry Eddie. Please join me on the show.

Here is Eddie’s jump and get this, I just discovered my Ford Super Duty Truck spot is one of the pre-roll spots that before it plays. Kismet?

Yes! Commercial Directing Bootcamp is already over half full. Los Angeles, December 3, 2016. Sign up now before the class fills up. Limit 20.

This episode is 12 minutes.

How To Be A Successful Sound Mixer/Editor In Commercials With Maurice Sydnor.

Sound Mixer Maurice Sydnor has been my friend and collaborator for over a decade. We’ve made tons of spots, and he helped me get great sound on my documentary “I Am Comic” when I had no budget at all.

Starting out as a rock musician, you’ll love hearing how Maurice continues his self-taught education, always learning and adapting as the industry changes. Listen as two old chums chat about the process. Check out the sound design in his GMC spot. Click here.

Enjoy!

Jordan

Yes! Commercial Directing Bootcamp returns to Los Angeles, December 3, 2016 so sign up now before the class fills up. Limit 20. Don’t miss it cuz then you’ll kick yourself.

This episode is over an hour and 21 minutes.

First Time Director Brendan Mertens Ain’t Afraid Of No “Ghostsheads”.

Ghostheads” Director Brendan Mertens reveals all about his new film, “Ghostheads”, yes still killing it on Netflix. This is part two of “Ghostheads”, Part I being with Tommy Avalon.

Ghostheads are not just uber-fans of the film. They form chapters and raise money for charity, while giving each Ghosthead a sense of community. I recommend the film highly, which has interviews with key cast and crew, including Dan Aykroyd, Ivan Reitman, Ernie Hudson, Paul Feig and many more, as well as with Ghostbusters fans all over the world. Enjoy the trailer:

Thank you,

Jordan

PS Way too early to announce, but I’ll tell you that Commercial Directing Bootcamp is December 3rd, 2016 in Los Angeles.

This episode is one hour minutes.

Who You Gonna Call? Ghostheads! Filmmaker Tommy Avallone Returns.

Filmmaker Tommy Avallone returns to talk about his new film, “Ghostheads”, currently killing it on Netflix. We chat about how he reached out to the director of this fun documentary, Brendan Mertens (my future podcast guest) and his overall involvement. A real inspiring tale for us filmmakers.

Ghostheads are not just uber-fans of the film. They form chapters and raise money for charity, while giving each Ghosthead a sense of community. I recommend the film highly, which has interviews with key cast and crew, including Dan Aykroyd, Ivan Reitman, Ernie Hudson, Paul Feig and many more, as well as with Ghostbusters fans all over the world. Enjoy the trailer:

Thank you,

Jordan

PS Way too early to announce, but I’ll tell you that Commercial Directing Bootcamp is December 3rd, 2016 in Los Angeles.

This episode is one hour and four minutes.

Docu “Outcast Forever” Rides Along w First All-Black Motorcycle Club & Filmmaker DeVaughn Hughson.

Filmmaker and friend DeVaughn Hughson spend six years documenting Outcast, the first all-Black Motorcycle Club, literally living among these true rebels day and night. The result is an artistic peek into their raucous den and time-honored rituals. It’s a must-watch doc and the closest you’ll ever get to this unique world.

I find DeVaughn’s film a riveting study of alpha male culture, where individuality flourishes, yet everyone still supports the tribe at large. “Outcast Forever” is more than just the name of the film, it’s a lifelong bond for these proud men.

We chat filmmaking, the artistic choices, and how DeVaughn earned the Members’ trust. Support indie film and spread the word. Click DeVaughn’s name. Enjoy the trailer.

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is an hour and 11 minutes.

How To Have A Successful Career As A Commercial Editor With Shira Ankori.

My friend Editor Shira Ankori has edited some of the best comedy spots on my reel for over ten years now. We discuss working with the advertising agency creatives and why directors need to actually cut.

Timing and collaboration are themes we agree on, so have a listen and share with a filmmaker you love.

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is one hour.

Bowling Rom Com “Split” By Writer/Director Jamie Buckner.

Writer/Director Jamie Buckner has made an adorable, funny romantic comedy called “Split”. Jamie tells us about making the short film first to raise the dough and the complications of shooting in a working bowling alley. He smartly went to his hometown to make the film.

Please support the film by clicking here, and watch and enjoy “Split”. My favorite aspect is Jamie spoofs all the tropes of the romantic comedy while using them effectively to tell the sweet story.

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is an hour and 03 minutes.

Gary Rose Of Go Film Dissects The Commercial Filmmaking Industry With Me.

Gary Rose is the Managing Director of Go Film, one of the top shops for making commercials. We look at the current state of our business and how the game has evolved. I rarely call it “the game” but hey. Gary has worked alongside one of my favorite filmmakers, Christopher Guest, so I get to learn how Mr. Guest likes to work on the spots he chooses to do. Overall, Gary navigates the business with finesse and surely knows how to pick and develop directorial talent.

We touch on his love of underwater photography. I wish you could see his work on the walls of Go Film. Click here for a taste. Oh, that’s a Billy Idol screenshot from a Go FIlm spot, not Gary.

Commercial Directing Bootcamp Chicago was a blast! Huge thank you to the filmmakers. Now send me podcast feedback people. How are we doing? Questions?

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is an hour and 20 minutes.

My Successful Director/Producer Relationship With Rick Cowan, RIP.

rick_cowan

Filmmaker Rick Cowan was my dear friend and frequent collaborator. He grew to be a mentor and pillar to all who knew him. He passed away this week, and I miss him. RIP Rick.

This conversation is from July 2015 and was posted back then.

Love,

Jordan

This episode is an hour, give or take.

Acclaimed Film Producer Miranda Bailey On Producing “Don’t Think Twice”.

217cbb_531bc1867e1d4dbeab579dffc0be2716

Miranda Bailey is a prolific film producer, actress and director. Currently, she’s got two wonderful films in theaters, “Swiss Army Man” and “Don’t Think Twice”, the latter opening wide this weekend. Go see it. It stars Keegan Michael Key, Gillian Jacobs, Tami Sagher, Chris Gethard, Kate Micucci and the film’s writer/director Mike Birbiglia. It’s funny, sad, heartfelt and the best look at the world of improvisational comedy ever.

Miranda has her own production company, Cold Iron Pictures, and started a distribution company, The Film Arcade. Click the words. She’s the real deal.

The last half of our chat reveals that I am indeed an old fashioned sexist. Eye opening, as we delve into the topic of gender inequality. Truthfully, I wanted to leave that alone and just talk to Miranda as a producer, but felt it was needed so we explore and shed a little light. Enjoy the trailer, then buy tickets:

Enjoy. Share. See the film. Thank you!!

Chicago’s Commercial Directing Bootcamp will sell out. Sign up now and I’ll see you in Chicago August 13th, 2016.

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is an hour, give or take.

My Chat With “Jimmy Vestvood: Amerikan Hero” Comedy Director Jonathan Kesselman.

1515139_medium

Sitting down with Director Jonathan Kesselman was like reuniting with a cousin I’d never met. I’d seen his first film, The Hebrew Hammer, now we talk about his new film “Jimmy Vestvood: Amerikan Hero” starring comedian Maz Jobrani. Maz is hysterical in the clubs, on his specials, so I knew the film would be laugh out loud too.

We chat about developing the film, working with actors who wrote the script they star in, and oh, so much more. Enjoy the trailer, then see the movie.

Chicago’s Commercial Directing Bootcamp will sell out. Sign up now and I’ll see you in Chicago August 13th, 2016.

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is over an hour and 15 minutes, give or take.

Directing Chimps Vs. Babies With Comedy Director Jeff Gordon.

8db186_eb5dde4f99044054acd3a28f86a03f63

I’m honored to chat with Director Jeff Gordon, a versatile filmmaker, but one that can say he specializes in commercials with chimps and babies. In our conversation, he points out one “secret weapon” to his success with infants – his baby wrangler.

It was delightful to hear we’ve both worked with a particular chimp named Bella. She is wonderful to shoot with. All in all this is a such great episode. You listeners will certainly enjoy this one.

See more of Jeff Gordon‘s fun spots by clicking his name. Oh, We’re still taking Filmmakers for Commercial Directing Bootcamp Chicago. August 13th. This live event will sell out. Sign up today!

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is over an hour and 15 minutes.
Sign up today for my Commercial Directing Bootcamp today. Limit 20.

Bowling With Filmmaker Werner Herzog, He Loves My Commercial Directing Bootcamp Chicago.

2014_BAMPresents_WernerHerzog_613x463

After three intense days shooting for Toyota and Saatchi & Saatchi Los Angeles, I took up my usual post shoot ritual of bowling. Surprisingly, I ran into my favorite filmmaker, Director Werner Herzog. He indulged me with a quick exchange about my Commercial Directing Bootcamp in Chicago, August 13th, 2016.

I am so deeply humbled Mr. Werner Herzog had any knowledge of it. I am currently taking his Masterclass, by the way, which I recommend to every filmmaker. Here’s a prior Toyota spot, forgive me if I posted this. It’s one of over 25 I’ve made with my team.

Sign up today for my Commercial Directing Bootcamp today. Limit 20.

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is under 4 minutes

Virtual Reality 101 With Light Sail VR’s Guru Matthew Celia.

Matthew Celia

Matthew Celia stands majestically at the forefront of virtual reality filmmaking, having conceived, shot and delivered VR projects for Paramount, GoPro and even the esteemed Dr. Phil. Today, Matt explains the technology and stresses the key element all of you adore: story.

It’s great to chat with Matt because we go back a handful of years. He’s an inspiring storyteller and filmmaker. Check out his work.

Commercial Directing Bootcamp in Chicago August 13th, 2016 already has filmmakers signed up! Limit 20 filmmakers, so do not dilly dally. And hey, let’s all practice loving our fellow Americans, and fellow global humans.

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is 1 hour and 12 minutes.

Robert Klein Still Can’t Stop His Leg So Marshall Fine Shot It.

Robert Klein

Movie critic, celebrated journalist, author and documentarian Marshall Fine graced me with an interview via the magic of Skype to talk about his new docu, “Robert Klein Still Can’t Stop His Leg.” I really loved the film, a smash hit at Tribeca this year. First because I am a fan of the legendary stand-up Robert Klein, and also as a most candid profile of an American icon.

Bravo Marshall, bravo.

Jordan

thanks,

Jordan

Commercial Directing Bootcamp is August 13th, 2016 in Chicago. Limit 20 Filmmakers. Sign up now or bang your head against the wall for missing out.

This episode is a brisk 45 minutes.
Please rate the show on iTunes and share with a filmmaking friend.