In this episode of Truly Independent, Darren and Garrett break down one of the most fascinating film industry stories of the year: Iron Lung, the self-financed movie from YouTuber Markiplier (Mark Fischbach) that turned a $3 million budget into over $43 million worldwide.

No traditional studio.

No distributor.

Just an audience.

They explore how building an audience first might be the most powerful strategy for independent filmmakers today.

But that’s not the only story.

They also discuss the success of Angel Studios’ Solomon Six and what both films reveal about the future of theatrical releases, marketing, and audience-driven filmmaking.

Then the conversation shifts to something every indie filmmaker struggles with:

The hidden cost of doing everything yourself.

Topics covered in this episode:

• How Iron Lung succeeded without Hollywood
• Why audience building is the new distribution model
• The surprising box office success of Solomon Six
• Why independent filmmakers burn out
• The opportunity cost of doing everything yourself
• Delegation, focus, and building a real filmmaking business

If you’re an indie filmmaker, creator, or entrepreneur trying to build something meaningful, this conversation is packed with insight.

🎬 Listen to Truly Independent for real conversations about building sustainable careers in filmmaking.

In this episode of Truly Independent, Garrett Batty and Darren Smith break down their real-world experience attending the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) Convention in Nashville — and how filmmakers actually build relationships with distributors, investors, and industry decision-makers.

They reveal the exact strategies used to:

• Identify the right distributors and partners

• Use AI to prioritize networking opportunities

• Turn short conversations into real film deals

• Build long-term industry relationships

• Maximize your time at conventions and festivals

• Avoid the biggest mistakes filmmakers make

They also discuss the importance of momentum, positioning, publicists, and creating your own opportunities instead of waiting for them.

If you’re a filmmaker, producer, or creative entrepreneur trying to get your project financed, distributed, or produced — this episode gives you a real inside look at how the industry actually works.

This season of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting films that inspire faith, hope, and connection.

Learn more:

https://helpthemseefoundation.org

Subscribe for weekly episodes covering film financing, production, distribution, and the real business of filmmaking.

In this episode of Truly Independent, Garrett Batty and Darren Smith break down the real meaning of packaging in filmmaking. Packaging isn’t just attaching a script and hoping for the best—it’s the strategic process of assembling the right combination of script, talent, financing, and distribution to reduce risk and make your project attractive to investors and distributors.

You’ll learn how successful producers think about packaging, how casting affects financing, why distribution conversations start early, and how real projects like Brotherhood, Faith of Angels, and The Pearl are being packaged right now.

If you’re an indie filmmaker, producer, or aspiring creator, this episode will completely change how you approach getting your film made.

⸻

In this episode, you’ll learn:
 • What film packaging actually means
 • The 4 pillars of a strong film package
 • How packaging helps secure funding and distribution
 • Why casting decisions impact investor confidence
 • How distributors evaluate film packages
 • Real-world packaging examples from current productions

⸻

About Truly Independent

Truly Independent is a podcast dedicated to demystifying the independent film process—from idea to distribution. Each episode dives into the real strategies filmmakers use to finance, produce, and release feature films.

⸻

Supported by Help Them See Foundation

This season is supported by the Help Them See Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting films that inspire faith, hope, and connection.

Learn more:
https://helpthemseefoundation.org

⸻

Subscribe for more filmmaking insights:

Follow along for real-world breakdowns of independent film financing, packaging, production, and distribution.

Savannah shares how she went from writing her first story at 14 to making her first feature Twice the Dream for about $50,000, then leveling up to bigger projects—ultimately making her third feature, Buster Brooks, at the $1M mark. Along the way, she explains what actually moved her career forward: cutting the budget to match reality, refusing to change her story for “marketability,” and making bold phone calls to open doors (including getting her film into theaters).

They dig into:
 • How she raised money (including the “angel investor” moment)
 • What she learned making a feature on microbudget
 • How she approached theatrical + distribution (and why you sometimes have to be your own marketing team)
 • The chaos of producing during major industry disruptions
 • Why finishing the film is often the hardest part
 • Buster Brooks premiering at ZIF on February 27 + what distribution looks like now

This season is supported by the Help Them See Foundation, a nonprofit helping bring films that inspire faith, hope, and connection to audiences worldwide.

🎬 Learn more: help them seefoundation.org

#TrulyIndependent #IndependentFilm #Filmmaking #FilmDistribution #IndieFilm #Screenwriting #FilmProducing #BusterBrooks #ZIF

In this episode, Garrett Batty and Darren Smith break down a powerful principle that can completely shift your filmmaking career: solve bigger problems. Instead of chasing opportunities, what happens when you focus on solving real needs for investors, audiences, and collaborators?

They dive into:

• Why many indie filmmakers feel stuck (and how to change it)

• The difference between passion projects and market-driven films

• Real stories from premieres, production, and building meaningful partnerships

• How events like NRB and mission-driven filmmaking are opening new doors

If you’re trying to move from small projects to sustainable filmmaking — this conversation is for you.

👍 Like, subscribe, and share if you’re walking the indie film journey with us.

🌐 Learn more about the Help Them See Foundation and the movement behind meaningful storytelling.

#TrulyIndependent #IndieFilm #FilmmakingPodcast #FaithBasedFilm #FilmProduction

Ben shares his path from advertising and short films to creating television for National Geographic, directing branded content like Will It Blend, and developing deeply personal documentary and narrative projects. Along the way, he opens up about imposter syndrome, creative risk, unfinished films, passion-driven collaboration, and why some projects are worth never giving up on.

This season, Truly Independent is all about the script—from the first spark of an idea to a finished film ready for production. In this conversation, we explore what it really takes to commit to a project, say no to distractions, and surround yourself with people who bring real passion to the work.

If you’re an indie filmmaker, writer, or creative wondering whether the struggle is worth it—this episode is for you.

🎬 In this episode, we cover:

• Ben Stier’s origin story and leap into filmmaking
• Overcoming imposter syndrome and committing to the craft
• The reality of funding, setbacks, and unfinished projects
• How passion (not luck) creates momentum
• Why some films become lifelong commitments

📍 Season Sponsor: Help Them See Foundation

This season of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting feature films that inspire faith, hope, and connection. By partnering with filmmakers, Help Them See brings meaningful stories to life and shares them with audiences worldwide—creating lasting cultural impact through cinema.

📍 Learn more and get involved at helpthemseefoundation.org

🎙 Hosted by Garrett Batty & Darren Smith

🎬 Edited by Michael Bradford

🎥 Produced by Three Coin Productions

If you’re enjoying Truly Independent, please like, subscribe, and share—and don’t miss the rest of the journey.

In this episode, Garrett Batty and Darren Smith get super practical about one of the hardest parts of indie filmmaking: fundraising meetings. This is not an episode about “convincing people to give you money.” It’s about finding alignment, showing up prepared, and making the next step easy.

You’ll hear them break down:
 • Why the script isn’t the product (confidence + inevitability are)
 • How to avoid the plot dump and pitch the experience
 • Why different money needs different versions of the pitch
 • How to control access to the script to create momentum
 • How to remove friction so people can actually say yes

If you’re raising money, building relationships, or preparing for Sundance meetings, this one’s for you.

This season of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation—a nonprofit dedicated to supporting feature films that inspire faith, hope, and connection. Learn more at helpthemseefoundation.org.

Edited by Michael Bradford • Produced by Threecoin Productions

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith sit down with filmmaker Tanner Christensen to unpack the three-and-a-half-year journey behind Standout: The Ben Kjar Story. From saying no to multiple Netflix projects, to living off savings, to editing for years with no release date locked, Tanner walks through the real cost of independent filmmaking.

The film tells the true story of Ben Kjar, a wrestler born with a rare craniofacial condition who was told he’d never live a normal life—then went on to become a world champion. But this conversation goes deeper than the film itself. It’s about faith in the process, creative risk, sacrifice, and what it actually takes to get an independent documentary into theaters.

If you’re an indie filmmaker, storyteller, or anyone chasing a meaningful project with no safety net, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Truly Independent, they break down five practical, non-fluffy goals that independent filmmakers can set to stop spinning their wheels and start building momentum that compounds year after year.

This isn’t about “making one movie.” It’s about building systems that consistently produce films, audiences, income, and opportunity.

They cover:
 • Why building a direct audience you control is no longer optional
 • How to develop projects with distribution in mind from day one
 • The overlooked importance of diversifying income to protect creativity
 • How to intentionally strengthen strategic relationships that move careers forward
 • Why you must keep shipping creative work, even when it’s small

Whether you’re a director, producer, writer, or filmmaker trying to turn passion into a sustainable path, this episode offers a clear framework for setting up 2026—and beyond—for real progress.

No hype. No wishful thinking. Just honest strategy for truly independent filmmaking.

They dive into why distribution conversations should happen before production, how early funding decisions shape a film’s future, and where initial investment dollars actually create leverage. From choosing between script rewrites and sizzles, to casting for the audience instead of the market, this episode breaks down real-world strategies filmmakers are using right now.

The conversation covers early distributor outreach, platform release strategy, marketing before the first frame is shot, and how producers can avoid making a million-dollar movie that turns into a $300,000 asset.

If you’re serious about building sustainable, profitable independent films—not just finishing projects—this episode is required listening.

This season of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting feature films that inspire faith, hope, and connection. Learn more at helpthemseefoundation.org.

Garrett shares how a surprise opportunity pulled him out of the country to Antigua for a location + logistics scout, and what it revealed about infrastructure, budget reality, and whether a “beautiful location” is actually worth the production pain.

Then the conversation shifts to Daren’s current decisions on Brotherhood—how to structure production to stay high-level, protect investor priorities, and evaluate partnerships (including distribution relationships) without losing momentum.

If you’re juggling multiple projects, dealing with sudden opportunities, or trying to build a sustainable career (not just gig-to-gig work), this episode is for you.

In this episode:

• How the Antigua scout came together (and what was learned on the ground)
• Momentum vs. distraction: how to tell the difference
• Director vs. producer “bandwidth” (and why it changes everything)
• Budget “sweet spots” and why some movies stall
• Brotherhood producing strategy + distribution conversations
• The reality of making movies truly independent

Supported by the Help Them See Foundation

Help Them See is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting feature films that inspire faith, hope, and connection—partnering with filmmakers to bring meaningful stories to life and share them worldwide.

Learn more and get involved: HelpThemSeeFoundation.org

—

If you’re enjoying Truly Independent, please subscribe and share so you don’t miss the rest of the journey.

Edited by Michael Bradford

Produced by Three Coin Productions

#IndependentFilm #Filmmaking #Producing #Screenwriting #FilmFinance #LocationScouting #IndieFilmmaker

Welcome to Season 3 of Truly Independent — I’m Garrett Batty, alongside my co-host Daren Smith. This season, it’s all about the script: from the first spark of an idea to a polished final draft, breaking it down for scheduling, budgeting, and ultimately shooting.

In this episode, we zoom out from the page and look at the bigger business picture:

Your film is not just a movie — it’s a product ecosystem.

We talk about:

How to stop thinking of your film as a single product

Using spark events/script readthroughs as investor & partner magnets

Building an email list and early audience before you ever hit “export trailer”

Why profit = permission for your next project

How studios think about IP, spin-offs, and long-tail exploitation

The three pillars every film needs: Production, Brand, and Distribution

We also share real-time behind-the-scenes from current projects like Brotherhood (a new musical feature), readthroughs for one of my heist comedies, and how those “invite-only” preview events are leading to real investor conversations.

If you’re an indie filmmaker trying to build a sustainable career (not just survive one movie at a time), this episode is for you.

🔑 Key Takeaways

Your movie is a storefront, not the only product.

Think in terms of product ecosystems, not single SKUs.

Spark events/script previews can generate feedback, fans, and funding.

Your email list may be more valuable than your opening weekend.

Every project needs strong Production, Brand, and Distribution to really be a product.

The release is the beginning of exploitation, not the end.

In this episode, Garrett Batty and Darren Smith talk with cinematographer Jeremy Prusso (*The Saratov Approach, Aliens Abducted My Parents*, Hallmark movies, Benson Boon videos).

They cover:
• How Jeremy went from unhappy carpenter to full-time DP  
• Whether film school is worth it today  
• How to actually use your DP in pre-production  
• Scheduling with light, location, and crew sanity in mind  

If you’re an indie filmmaker or aspiring DP, this one will change how you prep your next shoot.

👍 Like, 🔔 subscribe, and share with a filmmaker friend.

We cover:
• How they launched their production company
• Turning a kids’ web series into a feature film
• Funding the project and finding partners
• The realities of independent distribution
• Working with streamers, brokers, and platforms
• Building a brand, not just a movie
• Why 2025 is a strategic year for indie theatrical releases
• Tips for filmmakers creating content for kids and families
• How to think like a producer and push past “no”

This conversation is packed with real strategies, honest insights, and practical stories for anyone making their own path in film — whether you’re starting your first project or already grinding through distribution.

In this episode, Garrett and Darren welcome filmmaker Ross Booth to officially announce Brotherhood — a new cinematic musical now greenlit for production through Producer Fund One. We walk through how this project came together from a single idea to active development, the power of outlining and early audience read-throughs, and the principle of enrollment—why the right people show up when a story resonates deeply.

If independent filmmaking, meaningful storytelling, or following a project from script to screen interests you, this episode is an important one.

Follow along / Get involved:
Brotherhood updates → BrotherhoodMov.com
Darren’s producing & resources → CraftsmanFilms.com
Garrett & Darren on LinkedIn → Search their names

Support the podcast:
Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more independent filmmakers find this community.

In this episode, Garrett Batty and co-host Darren Smith catch up after a festival road trip (Newport Beach, AFI, Austin) and break down a practical strategy that’s outperforming cold pitches: salon-style investor lunches. Then we tackle a big topic every filmmaker feels—the supply & demand imbalance—and how to align passion projects with real marketplace demand without selling your soul. We also dig into rights/ownership and why finished projects with clean rights win.

If you’re writing, producing, or trying to raise money for your film, this one’s for you.

👍 If you find value here, please like, subscribe, and share—it really helps.

You’ll hear insights about:

Navigating film school and learning to find your voice

Balancing art, family, and finances as a creator

Building real relationships instead of chasing “networking”

The story behind Forever Strong and lessons from its release

Why persistence (and humility) are a screenwriter’s greatest tools

🎧 Truly Independent is produced by Three Coin Productions and supported by the Help Them See Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting films that inspire faith, hope, and connection. Learn more or donate at helpthemseefoundation.org
.

👉 Subscribe to follow along as Garrett and Daren demystify the independent filmmaking process—from script to screen.

In this episode you’ll learn:

How Matt stuck with a passion project for 20+ years—and finally got it financed

The inflection points that moved partners, investors, and distributors to act

Practical lessons on legal, casting, locations, and tax incentives

Why story (not “message”) is what truly moves audiences

About our guest:
Matt Whitaker is the co-writer/director of TRUTH & TREASON, a feature inspired by real WWII events and accompanied by a four-part series rollout.

Sponsor:
This season of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation—a nonprofit funding feature films that inspire faith, hope, and connection. Learn how to support mission-driven cinema at helpthemseefoundation.org.

Call to action:
If you’re enjoying Truly Independent, please like, subscribe, and share. And go see TRUTH & TREASON in theaters now—bring a friend and support indie film.

Credits:
Edited by Michael Bradford • Produced by Three Coin Productions

#IndieFilm #TruthAndTreason #AngelStudios #Filmmaking #Distribution #Storytelling #WorldWarII #IndependentFilm

Welcome to Season 3! I’m Garrett Batty with co-host Darren Smith. This year we go deep on the script—from spark to polished draft to scheduling, budgeting, and finally shooting. In today’s kickoff, we unpack ICVM takeaways, how to turn events into real relationships (and funding), and why low-fi read-throughs can enroll partners faster than pitch decks.

What you’ll learn

How to get 50+ legit contacts in one weekend (and what to do next).

A practical playbook for staged read-throughs that create momentum and funding.

“Enrollment events”: what they are, why they work, and how to host your own.

Recording assets early (audio/video) to supercharge pitches.

Lessons from our Where the Dog Heals table read.

Chapters (approx.)
00:00 Cold open & Season 3 focus (the script)
01:10 ICVM recap & why conferences matter
07:30 Converting events into high-quality follow-ups
13:40 Enrollment events: turning attention into action
20:45 How to run a compelling read-through (low-fi to staged)
31:20 Where the Dog Heals table read—what worked, what we’d change
39:50 Capture video/audio early to enroll partners
45:15 Action items for indie filmmakers
49:30 What’s next + how to support the mission

Support the mission
Help Them See Foundation: helpthemseefoundation.org
Subscribe for more episodes on taking your film from page to production.

Credits
Edited by Michael Bradford • Produced by Three Coin Productions

🎙️ In this week’s episode, Garrett Batty and Daren Smith share an exclusive Q&A from a producer retreat at Sundance, where they screened Faith of Angels for a room full of filmmakers. They discuss the real process behind producing an independent feature—from finding the story, securing rights, and building the budget, to navigating the challenges of distribution and staying true to your mission as a storyteller.

If you’re passionate about filmmaking or inspired by stories that make a difference, this one’s for you.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Supported by Help Them See Foundation
01:10 – Welcome to Season 3 of Truly Independent
02:00 – Producing Faith of Angels: The Backstory
09:30 – Building a Creative Partnership in Filmmaking
17:15 – Balancing Truth and Drama in “Based on a True Story” Films
24:40 – How to Distribute a Faith-Based Feature
33:00 – Lessons from the Set and Audience Q&A

From behind-the-scenes stories of Faith of Angels to Kirby’s powerful work on Making Good, and finally to the vision for Help Them See, this conversation highlights how independent filmmakers can elevate their work without chasing traditional investor ROI.

👉 Learn how you can be part of the movement at: HelpThemSeeFoundation.org

🕒 Timestamps

0:00 – Sponsor intro: Help Them See Foundation
1:23 – Welcoming Kirby Heyborne  
3:30 – Behind the scenes of Faith of Angels casting & production
8:05 – The impact of Faith of Angels reaching 1M+ views
10:50 – Kirby’s Emmy-nominated Making Good series
14:20 – Writing heartfelt songs under pressure for nonprofits
18:45 – Launching the Help Them See Foundation
23:10 – A paradigm shift: from investors to donors
27:40 – How projects will be selected and supported
31:15 – Why bigger budgets matter for mission-driven films
34:50 – Future projects & exciting collaborations
37:30 – Closing thoughts & how to get involved

🔗 Resources & Links

🌐 HelpThemSeeFoundation.org
 – Learn more, donate, or submit your project

🎬 Faith of Angels
 – Watch the film

📺 Kirby Heyborne’s Making Good on BYUtv

👍 Support the Show

If you enjoyed this episode:

Like this video & Subscribe to Truly Independent

Share it with a friend who loves independent film

Leave a comment with your biggest takeaway

Garrett and Daren break down the real differences between a spec script written on speculation, no limits, showcase your voice and a production script written to be made, budget-aware, strategic. They cover when to write each, why treatments can sometimes be a smarter move, and how leverage shifts depending on your role as writer or filmmaker. Plus: updates on fall festivals and Garrett’s third act grind on Where the Dog Heals.

Spec = calling card. Written to showcase voice and originality; leverage lives in story resonance.
Production = blueprint. Written to be made; leverage comes from feasibility, attachments, and momentum.
Treatments are better then specs (often). Easier for producers to read, faster to generate, clearer story signal.
Constraints unlock creativity.  Small cast/locations can make indie projects viable.
Leverage compounds. Small production scripts can open doors Nolan, Gerwig paths.

CHAPTERS
00:00 Festival season & October plans
03:00 Defining spec vs. production scripts
10:00 Budget/scope realities
16:00 Portfolio specs vs. existing IP
22:00 Production scripts as blueprints
31:00 Camera direction dos & don’ts
35:00 Why treatments often win
47:00 Case studies: Nolan & Gerwig
54:00 Garrett’s Where the Dog Heals update
59:00 Audience-building & leverage

“A spec is imagination first; a production script is logistics first.”

Subscribe, comment your questions on writing specs vs. production scripts, and share this episode with a fellow filmmaker.

This episode of Truly Independent is supported by the Help Them See Foundation, which aids filmmakers in creating impactful feature films. Hosts Daren and Garrett welcome special guest Joel Ackerman, a seasoned development expert known for his work on viral ads like Poopourri and projects with Angel Studios. Discussion topics include the role of development in film, overcoming common pitfalls in scripts, and the importance of receiving and integrating feedback. Joel shares experiences from his illustrious career, including working with Susie Cameron and navigating development 'hell.' The conversation also touches on the journey from script to screen, with insights on maintaining passion and recognizing when to move on from a project. The episode concludes with updates on ongoing projects and the importance of consistent progress in filmmaking.

00:00 S3 EP03 | Audio
26:37 Marker

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith explore the purpose and execution of 'sizzles' or 'proofs of concept' in the independent film world. Sponsored by the Help Them See Foundation, the discussion covers how sizzles can serve to attract investors, cast, and distributors, and even assist in early marketing efforts. Garrett shares his own experiences with budgeted and low-cost sizzles, emphasizing the importance of preparation and intention behind creating them. Daren adds insights on leveraging these tools for effective marketing and the potential impacts of using AI-generated content. The episode wraps up with practical advice on making sizzles part of the development process and using them to build audience interest well before a film’s release.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
00:27 Welcome to Season Three
00:56 Casual Banter and Film-Related Shirts
02:50 Today's Topic: The Sizzle
03:17 Garrett's Script Writing Update
07:04 Deep Dive into Sizzles
10:35 The Purpose and Value of Sizzles
15:02 Budgeting and Development for Sizzles
21:20 Creating a Sizzle Reel: Key Elements and Execution
22:04 Using Scripts and Story Elements in Sizzle Reels
23:14 Budget Considerations for Sizzle Reels
24:22 Alternative Approaches: AI and Lookbooks
25:41 The Importance of Consistency in Sizzle Reels
29:30 Practical Tips for Shooting Sizzle Reels
31:02 Marketing Your Film from Day One
32:30 Balancing Hype and Realism in Film Promotion
35:48 Final Thoughts on Sizzle Reels

In this episode of Truly Independent, supported by the Help Them See Foundation, Daren and the host discuss the transition into Season 3, focusing on pre-production and scriptwriting. Starting from the writing process and different techniques, they share updates on their individual projects. Daren introduces his new project 'Where the Dog Heals', inspired by a true story about a dog diagnosed with cancer and its journey of faith and healing. He talks about his scriptwriting process, including the use of AI as a creative tool, research trips for authentic storytelling, and managing balancing writing and production constraints. The episode also touches upon exciting upcoming projects and the role of faith and community support in filmmaking.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

01:02 Celebrating Milestones and Future Plans

01:31 Focus of Season Three: Pre-Production and Writing

02:02 Transition from Season Two to Season Three

02:38 Documenting the Script Writing Process

03:20 New Project: Where the Dog Heals

08:31 Importance of the Script in Filmmaking

09:54 Story Development Techniques

16:37 Using a Story Matrix for Writing

18:31 Balancing Writing and Production Constraints

20:26 Budget Considerations for Writers

21:53 Research and Location Scouting

26:30 Collaborative Writing Process

30:05 Using AI in Screenwriting

35:49 Upcoming Projects and Season Preview

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith discuss the implications of AI-generated TV shows for independent filmmakers, focusing on Fable's Showrunner app. They explore the challenges and opportunities that AI content may bring to the indie film industry and how storytellers can stand out amidst the increasing 'noise.' The episode also reflects on the successes and shortcomings of recent summer blockbusters, 'Fantastic Four' and 'Superman,' highlighting the importance of story and emotional connection in filmmaking. Finally, they share updates on their upcoming projects, including Garrett's new feature film, 'Where the Dog Heals,' and Darren's proof of concept project.

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent
00:46 Catching Up on Faith of Angels
01:19 Main Topic: AI in Filmmaking
02:33 Understanding Fable and Showrunner
04:14 Impact on Indie Filmmakers
04:49 Focus, Meaning, and Action
16:01 Current Projects and Future Plans
20:28 Exciting New Project and Team Formation
20:43 Fundraising and Production Updates
21:20 Exploring Filming Locations
22:03 Discussing Summer Blockbusters
22:28 Fantastic Four vs. Superman: A Deep Dive
24:47 Director's Influence on Film Success
28:13 The Importance of Story in Movies
32:28 Season Finale Reflections and Future Plans
36:56 Thank You and Farewell

00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Banter

01:10 Introducing the Guest: Graham Northrup

02:22 Graham's Journey from Theater to Film

03:31 Transitioning to Filmmaking During COVID

04:23 Learning the Craft: From Photography to Film School

06:08 Setting Goals in the Film Industry

10:59 First Feature Film: An Aspen Christmas Conspiracy

15:43 The Challenges of Fundraising

16:52 Securing a Fiscal Sponsor

17:28 Raising Money Through Donations and Grants

18:08 Low Budget Production Strategies

19:12 Shooting Schedule and Crew Dynamics

19:51 The Importance of a Dedicated Crew

20:39 Balancing Directorial and Cinematographic Priorities

21:25 Navigating Distribution Deals

24:22 Lessons Learned and Future Projects

28:12 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent

00:34 Meet Our Guest: Greg Beckers

01:21 Greg's Journey into Talent Management

03:17 The Role of a Talent Manager

05:54 Navigating the Indie Film Industry

10:31 From Talent Management to Producing

12:10 The Challenges of Film Distribution

15:51 Mindset Shift: From Talent Manager to Producer

16:17 The Chaos of Producing

16:43 Skills from Talent Management

17:18 The Importance of Problem Solving

17:33 The Value of Business Experience

17:54 Passion for Films and Filmmaking

20:57 Challenges in Distribution

22:11 The Importance of Trailers

28:26 Navigating Distribution Deals

32:02 Connecting with Greg Becker

33:31 Conclusion and Future Plans

 @freemometu  
@mometucollegefilmfest
eventbrite.com/e/1475275411469?aff=oddtcreator

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Daren Smith are joined by guest Bryan Louzil, co-founder of Mometu, a streaming platform focused on hand-curated independent films. Bryan shares his fascinating upbringing in the film industry, the journey of creating Mometu, and how the platform aims to support independent filmmakers by offering a marketplace free of algorithms. They discuss the intricacies of promoting films, insights for filmmakers on gaining visibility, and the unique Mometu College Film Festival. Emphasizing the importance of personalizing the viewer experience, Brian explains the benefits of setting up creative marketing strategies from the start to benefit both the platform and filmmakers. The episode wraps up with an overview of Mometu social media strategies and the launch of their new podcast, 'The More For Me and You,' dedicated to sharing the journeys of individuals in the entertainment industry.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:25 Meet Brian Louzil
01:19 Brian's Background in Film
03:18 The Birth of Mometu
05:46 Hand-Curated Content on Mometu
09:01 Supporting Independent Filmmakers
22:19 Mometu College Film Festival
24:05 Red Carpet Interviews and Screenings
24:34 Exciting Awards and Prizes
25:52 Supporting Independent Filmmakers
28:52 Challenges and Trends in Filmmaking
30:15 Connecting with Audiences
32:46 Mometu's Social Media Strategy
34:25 The More For Me and You Podcast
37:31 Exploring Mometu Film Library
38:45 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Does an iPhone have what it takes to shoot a professional film?

In this episode of Truly Independent, Garrett Batty and Darren Smith discuss their recent project, a short film funded with a $10,000 budget, filmed using iPhones. They delve into the inspiration behind the project, their approach to working with a minimal budget, and the logistics of shooting 16 pages in a single day. The discussion covers the importance of maintaining a student mentality, the value of creative problem-solving, and the benefits and challenges of using unconventional filmmaking techniques. They also address the broader implications of working with limited finances and how it impacts future projects and industry standards. The episode concludes with insights into the collaborative process, the importance of relationship-building, and encouraging audience feedback on maximizing a $10,000 budget for short films.

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent
00:27 Catching Up After the Holiday
01:15 Exciting New Project Announcement
01:33 The $10K iPhone Short Film Challenge
01:57 The Creative Process and Experimentation
10:49 Building the Team and Production Details
19:34 Lessons Learned and Future Implications
27:16 Client's Marketing Strategy for Short Films
27:40 The Evolution of Production Value
28:52 Practical Tips for Independent Filmmakers
29:43 Prepping for a Successful Shoot
32:17 Challenges and Solutions on Set
38:27 Balancing Budget and Quality
46:22 The Future of Low-Budget Filmmaking
50:14 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

00:00 Introduction to Apocalypse Sasquatch

00:17 Welcome to Truly Independent

00:35 Meet the Hosts and Guest

01:38 McKay Stevens Joins the Conversation

03:39 Discussing Independent Filmmaking

05:55 Pitching and Producing TV Shows

09:11 The Art of Pitching

15:54 Balancing Passion and Client Needs

23:44 Development Mode and Procrastination

26:20 The Mystery of James Gunn

27:10 Development Mode and Passion Projects

28:39 Lessons from Apocalypse Sasquatch

32:43 The Value of Execution in Filmmaking

33:27 The Carpenter: A Case Study

35:24 Independent Filmmaking Mindset

39:43 Final Thoughts and Future Projects

44:05 Wrapping Up and Thank You

00:00 Introduction and Milestone Celebration
00:41 Special Guest Introduction: Jon Cheney
01:04 AI's Impact on Filmmaking
02:20 The Future of Filmmaking with AI
05:16 Distribution and Audience Connection
09:59 Live Entertainment and AI
10:43 Practical Advice for Filmmakers
15:03 AI in Business and Entrepreneurship
24:22 Ethical and Environmental Concerns
25:15 The Environmental Impact of AI
25:56 AI as a Tool for Innovation
27:14 Practical Tips for Filmmakers Using AI
30:57 The Role of AI in Film Production
33:33 The Future of AI in the Film Industry
37:14 Economic Implications of AI in Filmmaking
39:35 The Human Element in AI-Driven Creativity
43:24 Embracing AI: A Call to Action
45:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Find Jon online  ⁨@cheneypiano⁩ and https://genaipi.org

00:00 Introduction: The Indie Film Journey Begins

00:12 The Harsh Reality of Filmmaking

00:53 Addressing Common Filmmaking Frustrations

02:35 Lessons from Demand-Side Sales

04:21 The Importance of Market Alignment

09:45 Packaging and Leverage in Filmmaking

17:12 Building Backwards from Constraints

21:40 Ideas Don't Attract Money, Execution Does

22:43 The Multiplier Effect of Execution

25:18 Building Momentum with Development Funds

28:16 Reframing Failure as Development

32:51 Building in Public: Sharing Your Journey

36:08 The Impact of Filmmaking on Personal Growth

38:22 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Update
00:54 Garrett's African Adventure
01:36 Summer Break Challenges
02:38 Discussing Co-Productions
04:19 Defining Co-Productions
04:48 Examples of Co-Productions
11:06 Fixers vs. Co-Productions
13:07 Choosing International Locations
19:01 Creative Impact of Co-Productions
20:24 Discovering the Perfect Prop House
21:13 Creative Collaboration with BoomTown Films
22:13 Selecting the Right Crew Members
23:09 The Importance of Location in Filmmaking
26:43 Future of Co-Productions in Filmmaking
35:19 Tom Cruise and the Art of Movie Marketing
39:50 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent
00:36 Welcoming Guest Steven Murray
01:03 Steven Murray's Background in Entertainment
03:08 The Indie Film Revolution
04:33 Challenges in the Music Industry
06:45 Building an Audience and Marketing
15:18 The Rise of Bingeable
21:56 Consumer Behavior and Subscription Models
31:24 Empowering Indie Filmmakers with Bingeable
33:29 Introduction to Bingeable
34:13 How Bingeable Works
36:34 Challenges and Solutions in the Film Industry
38:29 The Role of Social Media in Film Marketing
41:56 Bingeable's Current Status and Future Plans
50:48 Final Thoughts and Reflections
51:37 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent

00:36 Meet the Hosts: Garrett and Darren

01:04 Mailbag Episode: Listener Questions

01:54 AI in Filmmaking: Tool or Threat?

11:02 Navigating the Algorithm Game

24:15 Building and Engaging Your Audience

36:55 Conclusion and Call to ActionNavigating AI, Algorithms, and Audience Building in Independent Filmmaking

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith tackle the challenges independent filmmakers face with AI, algorithms, and audience building. They discuss the integration of AI in the filmmaking process, the importance of engaging with the algorithm to promote long-form content despite infrequent releases, and the necessity of building and understanding a dedicated audience. Listener questions guide the insightful discussion, aiming to demystify the journey of releasing independent films in theaters. Key points include leveraging AI as a tool, generating consistent content to feed algorithms, and strategies for attracting the right audience without a big budget.

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent

00:36 Meet the Hosts: Garrett and Darren

01:04 Mailbag Episode: Listener Questions

01:54 AI in Filmmaking: Tool or Threat?

11:02 Navigating the Algorithm Game

24:15 Building and Engaging Your Audience

36:55 Conclusion and Call to Action

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent
00:24 Catching Up with Garrett and Darren
01:26 DVD Release Day for Faith of Angels
02:48 Reclaiming Power in Independent Filmmaking
05:07 The Value of Independent Films to Hollywood
10:32 Economic Realities of Studio Investments
20:42 Independent Films as a Laboratory for Innovation
21:21 The Role of Independent Films in Hollywood
21:57 Investing in Stories Hollywood Won't
23:06 Challenges and Opportunities in Indie Filmmaking
25:05 The Value of Short Films
26:06 Hollywood's Gatekeeping and Filmmaker Leverage
29:48 Building an Audience and Gaining Leverage
30:20 Learning from Successful Filmmakers
33:48 The Importance of Being Unignorable
35:44 Final Thoughts and Future Plans
39:21 Closing Remarks and Listener Engagement

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent
00:50 Meet Cameron Sawyer
02:12 Cameron's Filmmaking Journey
11:12 The Birth of Fable Haven
14:08 Challenges and Triumphs
19:43 Navigating Hollywood
25:46 The Angel Studios Partnership
26:12 Securing a Distribution Deal
26:36 Lessons from the Battlefield
27:41 The Making of Middle Earth
30:04 Challenges in Independent Filmmaking
33:04 Crowdfunding and Marketing Strategies
34:52 The Role of Technology in Filmmaking
36:14 The Impact of Accessible Technology
38:42 The Journey of Breaking into Filmmaking
40:04 Final Thoughts and Takeaways
43:45 Wrap-Up and Future Plans

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent

00:25 Casual Conversations and Life Updates

02:17 Pushing Boulders: The Filmmaking Metaphor

05:19 The Mental Game of Filmmaking

06:28 Hope and Motivation for Filmmakers

07:13 From Indie to Studio Filmmaker: Jared Hess's Success

08:36 The Debate: Indie Filmmakers in the Studio System

13:37 Balancing Creativity and Studio Collaboration

23:06 Ted Sarandos on Netflix vs. YouTube

26:13 YouTube vs. Netflix: A False Dichotomy

27:47 The Value of Independent Filmmaking

29:18 The Dessert Metaphor for Storytelling

32:52 CinemaCon Highlights and Industry Insights

37:19 Celebrating Independent Successes

39:52 Self-Distribution Strategies

45:08 Wrapping Up and Listener Engagement

00:00 Sundance Film Festival Relocates to Boulder

00:27 Meet the Hosts: Garrett and Darren

01:14 Reactions to Sundance's Move

04:54 Debunking Myths About the Move

08:15 Infrastructure Challenges in Park City

10:40 Opportunities for Utah's Film Community

12:45 New Festival Prospects and Independent Spirit

14:56 Navigating Post-Theatrical Distribution

16:06 The Comeback of Physical Media

18:40 Revenue Streams for Indie Filmmakers

20:25 The Importance of Distribution for Filmmakers

21:05 Balancing Profitability and Distribution

23:11 The Concept of Oversubscription in Film

24:34 Exploring Different Distribution Strategies

27:38 BitMax and Streaming Solutions

32:27 Listener Question: Equity Investors and First Out Options

40:34 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Filmmakers

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent

00:31 Faith of Angels: Post-Theatrical Release Update

04:01 Choosing the Right Platforms for Film Release

07:17 The Role of Streaming Platforms in Indie Film Success

18:34 Future Strategies for Film Distribution

22:37 The Challenges of Indie Filmmaking

23:14 Building vs. Buying Distribution

24:19 Creating a Flywheel for Film Distribution

28:04 Balancing Creativity and Business

31:35 The J Curve in Filmmaking

37:16 Box Office Trends and Cinema's Future

45:21 Concluding Thoughts and Takeaways

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:37 Meet the Filmmakers: Lee and Catherine

01:12 The Journey of Rally Caps

02:52 The Importance of Marketing in Filmmaking

07:03 Balancing Creativity and Marketability

09:42 The Origin of Rally Caps

17:25 Challenges and Triumphs During Production

19:53 Navigating SAG and Working with Name Talent

25:16 Is It Worth It? The Value of Name Talent

31:32 Navigating the Film Industry

33:15 The Importance of Marketing

35:04 Challenges in Distribution

37:04 Creative Marketing Strategies

39:45 The Role of Producers

45:09 Future Projects and Reflections

52:29 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

00:00 Unlimited Streaming Options

00:21 Introduction to Truly Independent

00:42 Meet Our Guest: Jonas

01:28 The Importance of Marketing in Indie Films

04:44 Early Marketing Strategies

06:05 Creating Effective Posters

09:19 Building Awareness and Community

20:31 Leveraging Brand Partnerships

24:10 Marketing Strategies for Indie Filmmakers

25:02 The Importance of Viral Events

26:12 Creating Marketable Moments in Films

28:41 The Role of a Film Marketer

31:51 Building an Audience Early

32:23 Where to Find Jonas Barnes

34:38 Current Projects and Future Plans

41:41 Using Weekly Highlights for Marketing

44:50 Final Thoughts and Farewell

00:00 Introduction to Saints and Outlaws

00:23 Meet Garrett in Boise

00:36 Discussing Email Marketing with Kit

01:41 Doctor's Appointment and Filmmaking Realities

03:06 Challenges in Independent Filmmaking

05:24 Fundraising Strategies and Networking

10:32 Daily Routines and Mental Health

18:39 Garrett's Pitching Experience

19:37 Pitching New Projects

21:16 Challenges of Independent Filmmaking

22:42 Independent TV Production

24:31 The Importance of Audience

29:40 Networking and Collaboration

32:59 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent

01:09 Recap of Recent Events

01:39 National Religious Broadcasters Convention

02:59 Pitching to Distributors

04:42 Networking Strategies

09:18 Follow-Up and Relationship Building

17:48 Zion's Indie Film Festival Highlights

19:39 Flight Mishap and Indie Filmmaker Community

20:19 Highlighting a Unique Experimental Project

23:27 Award Ceremony and Standout Films

26:22 Oscars 2025: Indie Films Shine

29:41 Sean Baker's Journey and Achievements

36:35 Producer Types and Industry Insights

39:31 Wrapping Up and Future Plans

00:00 Introduction to This Week's Episode

00:47 Live Session at Zions Indie Film Fest

01:38 Daren's Background and Podcast Journey

05:35 Leveraging Short Films for Success

11:32 Daren's Personal Experiences in Filmmaking

20:35 The Domino Principle in Filmmaking

24:57 Q&A Session

28:40 The Importance of Independence in Filmmaking

28:55 Sharing Knowledge to Empower Others

29:27 Encouragement and Gratitude

29:54 The Domino Analogy in Filmmaking

31:51 Understanding the Value and Demand in Filmmaking

39:00 The Role of Producers in Independent Films

44:50 The Importance of Momentum and Planning

50:44 Marketing and Distribution Strategies

54:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

00:00 Introduction to Business Plans

00:09 Meet the Hosts

00:34 Guest Lecture Experience

01:36 Faith of Angels Release Day

03:40 Importance of a Business Plan

06:06 Elements of a Business Plan

13:22 Film Overview and Market Analysis

22:32 Production Plan

28:06 Building an Accurate Film Plan

28:20 Funding Strategies for Independent Films

29:30 The Importance of Line Item Budgets

31:37 Resourcefulness in Filmmaking

34:29 Investor Returns and Revenue Models

35:16 Marketing and Distribution Plans

41:29 Risk Assessment and Mitigation

43:33 Call to Action and Next Steps

49:40 Box Office Insights and Strategies

54:21 Final Thoughts and Podcast Promotion

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent

00:56 Meet Jon Fitzgerald: Producer and Slamdance Co-Founder

02:32 The Journey of Slamdance Film Festival

06:18 Navigating the Film Festival Circuit

11:29 Hybrid Distribution Strategies

17:02 Key Considerations for Distribution Agreements

20:25 Self-Distribution and Alternative Pipelines

28:06 Trends and Hope for Independent Filmmakers

29:23 Independent Filmmaking on a Budget

30:38 Raising Funds Creatively

31:03 Securing Distribution and Recognizable Cast

32:38 Opportunities in Social Impact Films

35:33 The Importance of Audience and Distribution

36:57 Networking and Consulting in Filmmaking

40:52 Reflections on a Successful Event

47:37 Box Office Insights and Upcoming Films

52:34 Upcoming Live Taping Announcement

00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome

00:38 Excitement for the Sundance Film Festival

01:10 Discussing Festival Events and Networking

01:35 Challenges and Opportunities at Sundance

02:25 Angel Studios Event Announcement

02:52 The Vibe of Independent Film

03:09 Navigating Film Festivals for Project Advancement

03:35 The Art of Fundraising for Filmmakers

04:31 Planning a Successful Fundraising Event

05:03 The Importance of Testing Your Idea

05:59 Building a Film Fund: A Long-Term Strategy

06:18 The Power of Creating Tension

07:53 Executing a Fundraising Event

21:55 Targeting Accredited Investors

25:01 Preparing for Investor Questions

28:56 Leveraging LinkedIn for Networking

29:14 Building Trust Through Consistent Communication

30:25 Leveraging LinkedIn for Investor Outreach

31:46 The Power of Bridge Connectors

33:34 Aligning Investors with Your Vision

38:02 Event Planning and Execution

38:56 Engaging Sponsors for Mutual Benefit

42:42 Event Schedule and Logistics

47:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

50:11 Q&A and Closing Remarks

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent

00:34 Welcome and Episode Overview

01:52 The Importance of Deliverables

07:26 Mastering Delivery Formats

14:54 Legal Documents and Chain of Title

25:07 Trailer Distribution Challenges

25:39 Building an Audience

26:29 Textless Trailers and Key Art

27:53 Metadata and Documentation

29:25 Cue Sheets and Music Royalties

31:09 Delivery Timeline and Copyrights

34:01 Storage and Backup

38:47 Cost Implications of Deliverables

45:33 Box Office Insights and Awards Season

49:18 Wrapping Up and Listener Engagement

00:00 Introduction to the Pitch

00:59 Festival Highlights and Experiences

02:00 Insights from the Pitch Fest

02:51 Deliverables and Streaming Preparation

04:03 The Importance of Film Festivals

05:12 Effective Pitching Strategies

14:47 Budget Considerations in Pitches

23:12 The Urgency of the Story

24:21 Understanding Urgency in Your Pitch

27:49 The Importance of Telling the Whole Story

31:12 Balancing Emotion and Plot in Your Pitch

32:23 The Value of Preparation and Practice

38:14 Box Office Insights and Indie Film Opportunities

43:31 Upcoming Festivals and Listener Engagement

44:04 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode of 'Truly Independent,' hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith kick off the new year with guest Jewel Powell, an emerging filmmaker who shares her inspiring journey of creating her debut film, 'Unfailing Love.' Powell recounts how she transitioned from her postal service career into filmmaking at 55, driven by faith and divine inspiration to make a modern-day adaptation of the Book of Hosea. The episode delves into the production process, budget challenges, and the hurdles she faced in the faith-based film industry. Despite being new to the field and facing rejections from major Christian streaming platforms, Powell's film has garnered significant audience attention and accolades. The hosts and Jewel discuss the gritty realism of her work, her use of personal funds to finance her film, and her plans for future projects, including a Christmas movie. The dialogue highlights the power of faith, perseverance, and community in the indie film landscape.

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent

00:47 Meet Jewel Powell: A New Filmmaker's Journey

01:42 Unfailing Love: The Story Behind the Film

03:03 Challenges and Triumphs in Filmmaking

04:16 Divine Guidance and Unexpected Opportunities

07:37 Building the Team and Overcoming Doubts

13:22 Distribution Struggles and Staying True to Vision

17:33 Funding the Dream: Self-Financing the Film

19:09 Budget and Production Challenges

19:56 Faith and Filmmaking

21:43 Accolades and Audience Reception

23:05 Distribution and Future Projects

27:19 Box Office Insights

32:32 Upcoming Events and Projects

34:34 Conclusion and Farewell

In this recap episode of 'Truly Independent,' hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith discuss the extensive journey of releasing independent films in 2024, highlighting the success of their two movies 'Faith of Angels' and 'The Carpenter.' With 625 movies released in theaters, the episode underscores the vibrant indie film landscape and the various distributors making a mark. Garrett and Darren share personal and professional highlights from the past year, including the launch of Darren's film fund and Garrett's goals for 2025. They emphasize the power of audience-building and the importance of relationships in the indie film industry. The show wraps up with a call to reflect on the past year and set goals for 2025, encouraging listeners to engage and be proactive in their filmmaking journeys.

00:00 Introduction and Overview of 2024 Movies

00:32 Meet the Hosts: Garrett and Darren

01:10 Reflecting on the Podcast Journey

02:47 Recap of 2024: Highlights and Achievements

03:25 Independent Films in the Box Office

05:48 Faith-Based Films and Their Impact

07:41 Distribution Insights and Opportunities

18:15 The Power of Audience and Community

19:57 Celebrating Audience Power

20:46 Personal Highlights and Side Hustles

21:11 Building a Film Fund

26:43 Networking and Community

28:10 Goals for 2025

34:01 Podcast Plans and Reflections

38:05 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith share their experiences and strategies for navigating the critical process of giving and receiving notes in independent filmmaking. They discuss the importance of joining peer groups, the dynamics of creative feedback, and how to approach asking for and interpreting notes effectively. This episode also touches on the significance of script read-throughs and offers insights into maintaining an ego-free collaborative environment. The show wraps up with the hosts reflecting on their recent viewing of 'Interstellar' for its 10th anniversary and discussing upcoming film releases.

00:00 Introduction to Truly Independent
00:10 Meet the Hosts: Garrett Batty and Darren Smith
00:34 Diving into the Filmmaking Process
01:17 The Importance of Notes in Filmmaking
01:58 Personal Experiences with Notes
04:51 The Role of Producers in Reviewing Scripts
07:19 Effective Communication with Producers
13:26 Balancing Creative Control and Feedback
17:37 Navigating Feedback in Collaborative Settings
19:39 Real-Life Examples of Giving and Receiving Notes
23:46 The Art of Receiving Notes
26:18 The Role of Producers in Screenwriting
27:57 Collaborative Experiences in Filmmaking
31:29 The Importance of Read-Throughs
36:04 Insights from Film Festivals
37:29 Concluding Thoughts and Movie Reviews
43:16 Podcast Outro

In this episode of 'Truly Independent,' hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith explore the fundamental strategies and mindsets vital for successful film fundraising. They delve into the principles of setting clear goals, tracking potential investors, the importance of building relationships and leveraging connections, and shifting from a 'give me money' mindset to offering valuable investment opportunities. They also discuss practical tips for initiating investor contact, maintaining momentum, and the crucial importance of persistence in the indie film industry. Listeners will gain insights from real-world examples and actionable advice on how to navigate the complexities of raising funds for independent film projects.

00:00 Setting the Stage: Raising a Million Dollars
00:29 Introduction to Truly Independent
00:56 Podcast Growth and Listener Engagement
01:45 Focusing on Fundraising
04:13 Discussing Recent Movies
11:27 Creating a Tracking Sheet for Fundraising
21:08 Crafting a Direct and Effective Pitch
23:04 Finding Leverage in Fundraising
24:42 Utilizing LinkedIn and Networking Events
29:25 The Mindset of Offering Opportunities
31:16 Stress Testing Your Pitch
33:10 The Importance of Being Opportunistic
35:23 Dots vs. Lines: Building a Track Record
38:28 The Long Haul: Persistence in Filmmaking
41:05 Taking on the Role of a Producer
42:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith discuss the evolving landscape of indie film and series, highlighting how series are now making their way to festivals like Sundance. They chat with special guest Luke Johnson—Executive Producer at BYUtv—about the intricacies of successfully pitching an indie project to networks and streamers. Luke shares valuable insights on what to include in pitch decks, the importance of understanding network mandates, and how to effectively follow up after a pitch. The conversation underscores the value of building relationships in the industry and provides practical advice for independent filmmakers and creators. Don't miss Luke's entertaining anecdotes and expert tips to elevate your pitching game.

00:00 Introduction to Indie Series and Film
00:15 Welcome to Truly Independent
00:59 Meet Our Guest: Luke Johnson
01:45 The Art of Pitching
13:33 Creating a Winning Pitch Deck
18:41 Success Stories and Final Tips
23:39 Project Dependent Pitch Strategies
25:17 Measuring Pitch Success
27:23 Follow-Up Etiquette
29:04 Effective Pitch Timing
32:17 Success and Horror Stories
40:10 Final Thoughts and Advice

In this episode of Truly Independent, hosts Garrett Batty and Darren Smith break down the essential topic of pitching in the indie film world. They discuss three primary pitching scenarios: cold outreach, warm introductions, and invited pitches. The hosts share invaluable tips, personal success stories, and lessons from their own experiences in the industry. Learn how to capture attention, make the right connections, and effectively present your ideas to potential collaborators and investors. This must-watch episode will equip you with the tools to elevate your pitching game and move your film projects forward.

00:00 Introduction and Initial Meeting
00:14 Welcome to Truly Independent
00:38 Diving into Pitching
00:52 Types of Pitch Scenarios
02:45 Cold Outreach Strategies
05:55 Effective Cold Outreach Techniques
14:41 Warm Introductions
25:01 Reciprocity in Conversations
26:03 The Art of Introductions
28:06 Navigating High and Low Status
31:57 Mastering the Invited Pitch
33:31 Effective Pitching Techniques
37:35 The Importance of Leave Behinds
43:01 Understanding the Purpose of a Pitch
46:40 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

In today's episode, Garrett and Daren share what key indicators to look for when deciding what project to make.

Truly Independent is produced by Three Coin Productions.  Get filmmaking insights deliver to your inbox by joining our email list at www.threecoinpro.com

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution. Connect with them at https://purdiedistribution.com

Stephen Follows (https://stephenfollows.com) is a filmmaker and data analyst whose work is referenced all over the internet. He joins us today to talk about four things that filmmakers can learn from the data, and the conversation is wide-ranging and deep. You'll want to get out a notebook for today's episode!

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution. Connect with them at https://purdiedistribution.com

In today's episode, we talk with Brian Brough from Candlelight Media. Brian has over 60 credits as a producer and director and self-distributes his films to TV networks and streamers. We chat about his process for production and distribution, and how you can apply these same approaches to your projects.

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution. Connect with them at https://purdiedistribution.com

In today's episode we talk with Kirk Roos from Heartstrings Media. They are handling the digital sales for Faith of Angels. We talk about how we met and connected with Kirk, the role of a distributor, and how to expand your impact through other forms of distribution after your movie leaves theaters.

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution. Find them at https://purdiedistribution.com

In today's episode we discuss how Faith of Angels has performed in the box office, and are transitioning into "Carpenter Mode" as the release of The Carpenter is just weeks away.

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution. Find them at https://purdiedistribution.com

Today on the podcast, we're joined by Brandon Lott, an independent theater owner in Idaho where we recently screened Faith of Angels. We chat about booking and scheduling movies in theaters, how the process works, what the revenue splits are between filmmakers and theaters, and answer the audience question: how to use short films to move your career forward as a filmmaker. 

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution. Reach out to them at https://purdiedistribution.com

Today we dive into the box office results of our movie Faith of Angels, as it opened wider on 375 screens! How did it go? What did we learn? What went well and what would we do differently? We reveal it all in today's episode.

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution! Check them out for your theatrical release at https://purdiedistribution.com

In today's episode, how we're preparing for our wider opening weekend for Faith of Angels!

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution. Find them at purdiedistribution.com

In today's episode, Faith of Angels finally hits theaters! We discuss the box office numbers and what went well for our limited release in Utah!

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution. Find them at https://purdiedistribution.com

In today's episode, we recap the premiere of Faith of Angels - what went well, what we wish had gone better, and what we'll do for our upcoming release of The Carpenter. 

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution. Check them out at https://purdiedistribution.com

Today on Truly Independent we draw out how indie films make money. Need we say more?

If you like the show, share it with a friend, like, and subscribe. Thanks for watching!

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution

Get your tickets now to see Faith of Angels in theaters!

In today's episode we chat with Desmond Denton, a filmmaker and director from South Africa, about his journey and his recent successes. We also answer two listener questions about being a multi-hyphenate filmmaker, and how to allocate your funds for P&A when distributing your indie film. 

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution. 

In today's episode, we talk with Giles Alderson, director and producer of many indie films and the host of The Filmmakers Podcast, with over 400 episodes from some of your favorite filmmakers. 

We chat about producing, distribution, and lessons learned from a decades-long career in the industry. 

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution

Marshall and Michelle Moore, co-owners and co-directors of the Zions Indie Film Fest, discuss the importance of film festivals in building an audience for independent films. They emphasize the value of connecting with other filmmakers, audiences, and distributors at festivals. The purpose of a film festival is to bring filmmakers and audiences together, humanizing the filmmaking process and creating opportunities for collaboration. 

The Moores highlight the strategic use of film festivals in a filmmaker's overall distribution strategy, including diversifying festival submissions and leveraging festival screenings to attract distributors. They also discuss the role of PR in promoting films and the importance of fostering relationships with media outlets.
 
The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing multiple projects and the strategies for success in the film industry. The hosts unbox the poster for their upcoming film, Faith of Angels, and share their excitement about seeing their names on the poster as producers.

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution.

In this conversation, Daren Smith and Garrett Batty discuss the progress of the release of their film Faith of Angels. They talk about their experiences with indie movies, the box office numbers, and the challenges they face in the release process. They also discuss the importance of surrounding themselves with experienced individuals and using data-driven strategies to navigate the release. They emphasize the need to set realistic goals and focus on tangible results. In this conversation, Garrett Batty and Daren Smith discuss the importance of setting realistic expectations and being resourceful in the independent film industry. They emphasize the need to start small and prove oneself before aiming for larger budgets and releases. They also discuss the strategy behind choosing theaters for a film release and the importance of creating demand and measuring it with actual ticket sales. The conversation highlights the importance of profitability in order to continue making more movies.

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution.

In today's conversation, Alan Seawright from Cinema Therapy joins us to discuss the importance of building an audience and shares insights on how to do so. He talks about his experience with the success of his YouTube channel, Cinema Therapy, and how they have leveraged their audience to support their filmmaking projects. 

Garrett and Daren discuss the importance of building an audience as a filmmaker and the different strategies to achieve that. They explore the concept of brand equity and whether it's better to build brand equity for the filmmaker, the company, or the individual films. They also touch on the role of AI in the film industry and the potential impact on filmmakers and film workers. 

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution. Connect with them at https://purdiedistribution.com

In today's episode we're joined by TC Christensen, a Utah producer, director, writer, and DP, to talk about his latest film, Escape From Germany, which has done extremely well in the box office for a limited theatrical release. 

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution! Check them out at https://purdiedistribution.com

In today's episode, John Michael Finley discusses his experience working on the film 'Faith of Angels' and the importance of communication and a positive atmosphere on set. He emphasizes the need for actors to be included in the game plan and to have a clear understanding of the project. John also shares his considerations as an actor, including family commitments and the importance of working with people he admires. The conversation highlights the value of independent filmmaking and the impact it can have on actors and audiences. In this part of the conversation, John discusses the importance of communication and collaboration in the filmmaking process. He shares his experience of meeting the real-life person he portrayed in the film and the impact it had on his performance. They also discuss the responsibility of actors in promoting and supporting independent films. John emphasizes the need for good storytelling and the positive impact it can have on audiences. They conclude by discussing the upcoming release of the film and the importance of audience support. In this final part of the conversation, the hosts discuss the importance of actors who are also producers and the responsibilities that come with that role. They also talk about the costs associated with theatrical releases and the goal of breaking into the top 10 box office. The hosts emphasize the need to focus on long-term success rather than just the opening weekend numbers. They also mention the success of independent films like 'Horizons' and 'Kinds of Kindness' and the impact of media coverage on film promotion.

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution: https://purdiedistribution.com

In today's episode, Kynan Griffin, a pioneer of Kickstarter and independent filmmaking, shares his experience and advice on maximizing crowdfunding for independent films. He emphasizes the importance of building an audience and leveraging Kickstarter as a pre-sales venue and a way to directly sell to fans. 

Daren and Garrett discuss their upcoming movies and the strategies they are implementing to build an audience and create momentum leading up to the releases. They talk about the success of their Upviral campaign, which unlocked the trailer for their film Faith of Angels and generated over 1,000 new email sign-ups. 

They also announce the launch of their Kickstarter campaign for Faith of Angels and the importance of using Kickstarter as a platform to raise funds and build awareness.

Truly Independent is sponsored by Purdie Distribution! Check them out at https://purdiedistribution.com

In this episode, Daren Smith and Garrett Batty discuss their upcoming independent film, Faith of Angels, and its release strategy. They talk about the regional release, group sales, and influencer marketing as part of their three-pronged approach. They also mention the importance of selecting the right release dates and the challenges of budgeting and advertising for an independent film. 

The conversation revolves around the making of the movie 'Faith of Angels' and the process of choosing and casting the film. The filmmakers discuss the tension, nervousness, and faith-based themes in their movies. They also talk about the challenges they faced during the Hollywood strikes and how they managed to continue working on the film. The casting process and the importance of finding the right actors for the roles are also discussed. The conversation ends with a discussion about the release strategy for 'Faith of Angels' and how it will benefit their other film, 'The Carpenter.'

This episode is sponsored by Purdie Distribution!

In this conversation, we talk with Susan Tuckett, a film distributor, discusses the process of booking theaters and marketing independent films. She explains the timeline for booking a movie in theaters and the importance of creating awareness at the right time. Susan also emphasizes the value of outdoor media and the significance of the Utah market. She shares insights into the per screen average and the balance between profitability and reaching a wider audience. Additionally, she discusses the process of shipping films and posters to theaters and the importance of clear payment terms. 

The conversation concludes with a discussion on the collaborative nature of the film industry and the importance of building relationships with distributors. 

Garrett Batty, Daren Smith, and Purdie Distribution discuss the process of film distribution and the importance of building an audience. They emphasize the need for a tailored approach to each film and the importance of communication and collaboration between filmmakers and distributors. 

They also discuss the challenges and opportunities in the current film industry landscape, including the impact of COVID-19 and the shift towards streaming platforms. 

The conversation concludes with a discussion about the recent screening of their film and the value of audience feedback. 

In this conversation, Daren and Garrett discuss the importance of word-of-mouth and buzz in promoting a film. They share their experiences with test screenings and gathering audience feedback. They also emphasize the significance of eliciting emotion from an audience and the role of action and music in a film. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the benefits of building an email list over relying solely on social media platforms.

Today's episode features a conversation between Garrett Batty and Daren Smith, indie film producers, as they discuss their journey in the independent film industry, the process of releasing independent films, and their experiences in making The Carpenter

We also answer two listener questions - where do you find a producer, and how do you get on a crew?

Garrett Batty and Daren Smith discuss the process of releasing a movie, focusing on the role of distributors, the strategy behind screenings, and the importance of building an audience. They also touch on the significance of screen numbers and per-screen averages in achieving box office success. 

The conversation provides valuable insights into the independent film industry and the marketing strategies involved in movie releases.

Truly Independent is a show that demystifies the indie film journey by documenting the process of releasing independent films in theaters. Garrett Batty and Daren Smith, writer, director, and producer, update listeners on their indie film journey, discuss the current state of indie film, and bring in guests to share insights and experiences. 

In this conversation, Daren and Garrett discuss the process of releasing a movie and the importance of building an audience.