Advertise on podcast: The Staffa Corner

Send us a text I’m especially excited to share this episode of The Staffa Corner Podcast. We invited Fon Davis, an Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) alum and CEO of Fonco Studios, to pull back the curtain on how practical effects still shape modern storytelling, even as LED volumes, motion capture, and 3D printing redefine the industry. From R2-D2 restorations to full-scale builds that never make the final cut, Fon’s stories reveal the discipline, research, and creative grit that keep movie magic alive. Fon also tackles the big industry question: has technology cost the craft its soul? His answer is grounded and optimistic. At Fonco, traditional art meets robotics, CNC, laser cutting, and 3D printing, then returns to sanding, painting, and electronics that sell scale under real lights. Practical builds now live on LED stages; hybrid workflows create new kinds of “real.” We talk working with colleagues like Adam Savage and the late Grant Imahara, whose legacy fuels STEAM education. If you love world-building, behind-the-scenes problem-solving, and the mindset that turns impossible into inevitable, this conversation will stick. Enjoyed the episode? Follow the show, share it with a friend who loves making-of stories, and leave a quick review to help others discover us. Follow Fon Davis on Instagram HERE Learn more about Fonco Studios HERE  Click HERE to learn more about the Grant Imahara STEAM Foundation. Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career

Send us a text In this episode of The Staffa Corner Podcast, former ILM veteran Anthony Lucero joins us to explain why he traded blockbuster VFX for soulful indie filmmaking. We discuss how his technical background shaped his storytelling, the making of East Side Sushi, and the industry's flawed distribution model. Anthony also introduces his new film, Paper Bag Plan, a heartwarming story inspired by his family. We cover the future of VFX with AI, the loss of mid-budget films, and the powerful return of hopeful, character-driven cinema. If you love movies, this is a conversation about why they matter. Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who loves indie film, and leave a review telling us which under‑the‑radar movie deserves more love. Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career

Send us a text For a long time, I’ve had a reluctance to interview young kids. It’s too easy to dismiss them and treat them like the kids they are. Yet, talking to 12-year-old Luke Speakman during this episode of The Staffa Corner Podcast reminded me why we each do this, the love of TV and film. Listening to Luke, it's clear he's passionate about both. After getting a couple of questions out of the way, I tried my best to forget the “kid actor” label and focus on Luke the actor. From landing his first-ever audition on Amazing Stories to tackling serious roles in Weapons, Luke explains how he earns respect on set, learns scripts overnight, and breaks scenes apart to understand every silence and line choice. He opens up about online school, set tutoring, and the rituals that keep him grounded while traveling for months at a time. We dig into the realities behind the camera, like why a single scene can take dozens of takes, how stunt safety shapes the day, and why even actors in horror films still jump in their seats. Luke shares mentorship moments with Josh Brolin, talks about moving from callbacks to offers, and explains why directors fascinate him as much as acting. His curiosity runs wide: American Ninja Warrior training, coding in Lua and Python, and a deep obsession with tornadoes that fuels a dream to make a scientifically accurate twister movie. Luke also teases upcoming work: Buddy heading to Sundance, the thriller John Money, and the action project My Little Lamb. Hit play, subscribe for more thoughtful interviews, and leave a review. Follow Luke on Instagram  Check out the interview I mentioned during the podcast involving Jeff Cohen, who plays Chunk in the movie The Goonies. Both Jeff and Luke were child actors who got their start with Steven Spielberg. I saw some similarities between Jeff and talking to Luke. There are a couple of cringe moments in Jeff's interview that I hope I didn't have with Luke. Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career

Send us a text On this episode of The Staffa Corner Podcast, we're joined by actress and singer Kerry Frances for a candid conversation about navigating the modern entertainment industry. We dive into her new projects, the Netflix film Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery and her new single, "You and Me and Everything." Kerry shares invaluable insights, from how classical acting training builds a foundation but often fails to teach the business itself, to why kindness on set is a career-long investment. We get real about the unglamorous side of the industry, the "self-tape factory," the emotional toll of "release depression," and trusting your gut when deal terms glitter. The conversation also takes a hard look at Hollywood's shifting landscape, from streaming consolidation to the cultural importance of mid-budget films. Finally, Kerry opens up about the personal joy that inspired her new single and offers smart, actionable advice for championing dog rescue year-round. If you care about the craft of acting, the business that sustains it, and the hope that keeps artists brave, you’ll feel this one. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves Knives Out, and leave a review telling us which insight changed how you see the industry. Follow Kerry Frances on Instagram Follow Kerry on Twitter Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career

Send us a text On this episode of the Staffa Corner Podcast, we sit down with actor Jason Faunt to unpack a remarkable journey of reinvention. Jason shares how a promising college athlete handled being cut from pro ball, rebuilt his identity, and found his true path in acting by ignoring conventional wisdom and learning from the ground up. We dive deep into the Power Rangers chapter, where Jason discusses the reality behind a modestly paid role that became a career-launching engine, opening doors to global conventions and a fandom that transcends nostalgia. The conversation turns personal as we explore An Old Friend, the short film that mirrored his grief after losing his father and changed his perspective on the medium. Finally, Jason offers a frank look at the state of Hollywood, from streaming's content flood to the need for more Good Will Hunting-style bets on original talent, and teases his new projects: Legend of the White Dragon, suiting up as Batman, and the animated Brush Brigade. Follow Jason on Instagram Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career

Send us a text A camera, a tight-knit family, and an endless appetite for story, that’s where Nuk Suwanchote's filmmaking journey begins. From immigrant roots and long hours spent immersed in movies to building a career across live events, commercials, and narrative projects, Nuk shares how curiosity, craft, and community shaped his voice. The heart of our talk centers on the hard truths of the industry: the hidden chasm between short films and features, the new pressures of streaming and AI, and the extra weight many filmmakers of color carry as they navigate representation and expectation. We dig into An Old Friend, a whimsical, emotional short about an imaginary friend who returns to find his “child” is now a 90-year-old man on his deathbed. With Tom Skerritt and Jason Faunt bringing depth and warmth, Nook channels the spirit of Big Fish while carving out a story that feels universal and deeply personal at once. He breaks down the poster’s inspiration, the film’s tone, and how he frames magical realism to reach audiences beyond any single identity label.  We also spotlight Thai Guys, an Asian American sketch comedy series that flips stereotypes through cinematic sketches in the vein of SNL and Key & Peele. Nuk explains why comedy is the best delivery system for social truth, how demand for Asian-led stories outpaces supply, and what it would look like to greenlight smarter if he ran a studio.  Join us for a candid, energizing conversation packed with craft insights, festival wisdom, and a resilient philosophy: keep making, keep learning, keep going. If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review. What part should we explore next? Follow Nuk on Instagram  Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career

Send us a text We sit down today with actor Alfred Hsing, who opens up about pressure, perfection, and how acting allows him to explore vulnerability safely through character.  He also reflects on representation with nuance, acknowledging both the privilege and the weight of being visible in an industry still broadening its lens. Alfred breaks down how stunt work really happens: training, rigging, camera design, timing, and the discipline that keeps sets safe. He respects stars who train to elite levels, yet he’s clear that stunts must serve story and context.  We talk about the long road to stunt recognition, why awards can raise standards instead of encouraging recklessness, and how great coordinators push the bar through planning rather than luck. Train Dreams marks a new chapter for Alfred: a subtle, restrained performance in a film that moves through silence and small details.   There are fan-favorite moments too: generous dinners with Jackie Chan’s stunt team, lessons learned around Jet Li, and a cherished memory of Jon Favreau handing him a challenge coin on the Boba Fett set.  Subscribe, share with a friend who loves action and storytelling in equal measure, and leave a review to tell us which stunt sequence made you believe again. Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career

Send us a text On this episode of The Staffa Corner Podcast, we sit down with actor Jaden Lucas Miller to trace his journey from the Raleigh stages to a CBS daytime set and a gripping turn on Hulu's Reasonable Doubt. Jaden unpacks what it takes to be taken seriously at 20, all while juggling classes and call sheets. He opens up about his early breaks in short films, the method mindset that treats characters as both an escape and a mirror, and how his mother's persistence helped build a real team around him. Jaden credits mentors like Clifton Davis and Tamara Tunie as guiding lights, teaching him that thick skin and a generous spirit are essential tools in the industry. From the fast-paced world of soaps on Beyond the Gates to the tonal shift of Reasonable Doubt, he shares how he separates self from role and keeps his performances grounded in respect for the real-life stories behind them. If you care about craft, resilience, and the power of mentors and family, this conversation is for you. Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career

Send us a text On this episode of The Staffa Corner Podcast, we sit down with the talented young actress Kylee Levien. Our conversation opens a window into resilience, exploring how moving every few years taught her to connect quickly, why auditions became a safe space to explore identity, and how she learned to treat rejection as redirection, not defeat. Kylee takes us behind the scenes of her new holiday film, A Chris-Mystery, sharing why she selects roles with purpose and how her knowledge of ASL has shaped her lens on representation. She also discusses the quiet power of showing up prepared, the importance of balancing college with her acting career, and how faith and family keep her grounded. Kylee reveals her dream to merge action and figure skating into a series, names collaborators she admires, and even teases an upcoming project with Chevy Chase titled Catnip. If you enjoy thoughtful conversations about craft, courage, and choosing meaningful work, be sure to follow and share this episode with a friend. Check out A Chrismystery on APPLE  HERE Rent  A Chrismystery on AMAZON  HERE Follow Kylee on Instagram HERE  Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career

Send us a text Actor Matt Drago joins us to discuss a life built on craft and the belief that stories matter, even when rejection is the norm. We trace his journey from a Shenandoah Valley childhood to the LA grind, breaking down how he builds a character and treats each audition as a chance to leave his mark. We take a deep dive into his work on Somewhere in Montana and explore how shooting on location transformed the crew into a family. Matt also shares his candid take on the changing film industry, the importance of authenticity, and how the discipline of sports mirrors the life of an artist. If this conversation resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves indie films, and leave a quick review to help others find the podcast. Check out Somewhere in Montana on Amazon Prime Video  Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career

Send us a text In this episode of The Staffa Corner Podcast, Greg sits down with recording artist and model Luma Valen to explore how culture, grit, and timing transformed a classically trained violinist from a Puerto Rican farm into a rising pop star. We begin with her journey during the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Search, which led to an unexpected career in modeling, major campaigns, and the thrill of seeing herself in the pages of Vogue. Luma breaks down the reality of editorial shoots, the unique feeling of couture, and the profound impact of representation when you see your face on a cover. Then, the music takes center stage. Luma explains how her classical training informed her new single, "Alive," which emerged from friendship, a series of vivid dreams, and the belief that songs are mantras we can live inside. We discuss the single's early reception and her vision for her own company, Luma Valen Entertainment . Luma also shares her passion for giving back, detailing why she supports Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation and Foster Love, connecting her art to a mission that lifts up children and communities. Stream "Alive" on your favorite platform and experience an anthem built to move you. If this story resonated with you, be sure to follow, share with a friend who inspires you, and leave a review to help others discover these conversations. Check out Alive on Apple Music HERE Follow Luma on Instagram HERE Follow Luma on TikTok HERE Check out Luma on YouTube HERE Learn more about Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation HERE Learn more about Foster Love HERE Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career

Send us a text A 20-second kitchen dance on TikTok sparked a journey that led us to actor and filmmaker Katie Prentiss. In this episode, we explore her inspiring story of grief, resilience, and the courage to create her own work despite industry challenges. Katie shares her personal journey, from losing her mother to frontotemporal dementia (FTD) to discovering a family genetic link. This experience ignited her passion for her first feature film, "Wake Up Maggie," a moving and humorous drama about caregiving, sisterhood, and FTD. The film aims to shift public perception of dementia beyond sensational headlines. With 18 years as a portrait photographer, Katie's eye for light, composition, and people has shaped her approach to directing. She discusses how her photographic skills translate to filmmaking, emphasizing the importance of community over gatekeepers and the value of creative problem-solving. The conversation delves into the rising awareness of FTD, put in the spotlight by Bruce Willis's diagnosis and the advocacy of Emma Heming Willis. We also touch on the challenges and opportunities for women directors in the industry, balancing art and ambition, and the significance of finding joy in creative spaces like TikTok. This episode offers practical insights for caregivers, artists at a crossroads, and anyone who believes in the power of storytelling to open minds. Katie's philosophy of "Sunshine Soul" provides a grounded take on overcoming industry obstacles and making your first feature. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs hope, and leave a review to help others discover these inspiring stories. Check out Katie on her website HERE Check out her TikTok HERE Check out the official Wake Up Maggie website HERE Check out the heartwarming proposal story mentioned in the episode HERE For more on FTD visit HERE Check out Emma Heming Willis book "The Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on the Caregiving Path"   HERE Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career

Send us a text Television is more than just entertainment for many; it often holds a deeper, personal meaning. For me, Jeff Eastin's television show "White Collar" was a beacon of hope during three challenging years of homelessness. Similarly, television can evoke cherished memories of family gatherings and shared experiences. Join us on this episode of The Staffa Corner Podcast as we talk with the inspiring mother-daughter duo, Renee Story and Chloe Ray, creators of the heartwarming series "Noble Homes." Discover how their show was born out of love, HGTV marathons, and a profound belief that everyone deserves a place to call home. From sold-out festival screenings to an exciting season roadmap, this episode offers a candid look into the art of creating a tribute with purpose. Renee and Chloe share the hidden Easter eggs honoring their matriarch, the creative production choices that brought the pilot to life, and the post-production journey of transforming improv into a compelling story. Listen, share with a friend, and if this episode resonates with you, follow the show on social media to stay updated on its upcoming screenings near you. Check out the Noble Homes site HERE Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career

Send us a text When her sister entered her into the U.S. green card lottery and she won at eighteen, Jewel Farshad stepped into Los Angeles carrying equal parts fear and resolve, determined to honor a promise to her father: pursue art and never “flop.” Jewel shares the stakes of speaking out: family members jailed, the risks for Iranians using VPNs, and the grief of living in exile after losing her father during COVID. Yet she refuses bitterness. Her message is simple and specific: stand with the people of Iran, not the regime. We explore how she balances acting, modeling, and content creation as one mission, why storytelling, not lectures changes minds, and the kinds of films she longs to make, weaving Women, Life, Freedom into character-driven plots that entertain first and enlighten second. Along the way, she offers a hopeful lens on reform in the region and teases a new HBO Max project on the horizon.  Subscribe, share this episode with a friend, and leave a review telling us which moment challenged or inspired you most. Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career

Send us a text What happens when a child moves across America multiple times, adapting to new schools, new friends, and new environments? For Sophia Woodward, it created the perfect foundation for a successful acting career. Sophia takes us through her remarkable journey to Hollywood stardom. The conversation offers fascinating insights into the realities of child acting, including Sophia's breakthrough recurring role on Fox's "Lethal Weapon" at age 12 and her career-defining portrayal of Luna in "The Loud House Christmas" special and spawned both additional movies and a television series. Sophia details the grueling audition process for Luna, where her initiative to compose music for the character helped her stand out among countless competitors. Want to support causes Sophia cares about? Check out Allies for Every Child, a nonprofit organization helping children in the foster care system and families below the poverty line. Follow Sophia on Tik Tok.  Follow Sophia on Instagram.  Support the show Check out previous episodes. Film Director Brendan Gabriel Murphy on Navigating Hollywood Dreams and Indie Film Realities. Ballard Actor Alain Uy on How an Injury Fueled His Acting Career