The last thing you want on set is a legal headache. In this episode, host John Cooke explains California’s AB5 law, something every filmmaker should understand to keep their production on track. Key insights from this episode: The basics of California's AB5 law The legal risks of misclassifying workers in production How an employer of record simplifies hiring and payroll To know more about this topic, visit our blog at: https://www.mediaservices.com/blog/employer-of-record-payroll-the-basics-exp...
Aug 21, 2025•2 min•Ep. 13
Skip the paperwork, not the progress. In this episode, John Cooke walks you through how digital onboarding tools are streamlining production from day one. Whether you're hiring a crew of five or fifty, discover how online start work, centralized document management, and paperless workflows can save you time, money, and stress. Key insights from this episode: When to implement digital onboarding in your production timeline What tools simplify crew start work and document management How digital wo...
Aug 14, 2025•1 min•Ep. 15
When producer Scott Glassgold flew across Europe with a monster’s head in his carry-on, it wasn’t a stunt. It was part of making Tarot , a breakout horror film that turned an $8 million budget into a nearly $50 million box office haul. That kind of hands-on hustle is exactly what defines Scott’s approach to indie filmmaking, and what’s helped him catch the attention of studios like Universal and filmmakers like Steven Spielberg. On this episode of Inside Indies, Bishop Porter talks with Scott ab...
Aug 07, 2025•34 min•Ep. 17
A well-crafted union agreement can make or break your indie production, and no one knows that better than Jessica Johnson and Olga Rodriguez-Aguirre of SAG-AFTRA. John Cooke sits down with Jessica and Olga to demystify the SAG-AFTRA contracts that apply to independent films with budgets of $2 million and up. From common pitfalls to budgeting for residuals, they share the advice every indie creator needs before hiring union talent. Key insights from this episode: When and how to engage with SAG-A...
Jul 31, 2025•15 min•Ep. 14
Timecards are the quiet MVP of any union set. Boring? Maybe. Essential? Absolutely. In this episode, John Cooke breaks down Exhibit G, the daily timecard required by SAG-AFTRA to document performer work hours, breaks, and approvals. If you’re producing under a union agreement, this form is a non-negotiable. Whether you’re stepping onto your first union set or looking to tighten up your production process, this episode helps you understand where Exhibit G fits into the bigger picture: why it matt...
Jul 24, 2025•1 min•Ep. 9
Thinking about casting SAG-AFTRA actors? Before you can call “action,” you’ve got to get your paperwork in order, and that starts with becoming a signatory. In this episode, John Cooke guides you through the process, covering everything from timelines and required paperwork to selecting the right agreement for your budget and production. Whether you’re prepping a micro-budget short or planning your indie breakout, this episode is your shortcut to getting organized, staying legal, and setting you...
Jul 17, 2025•2 min•Ep. 8
Hiring SAG-AFTRA talent can boost your film’s profile, but the costs can add up fast if you’re not prepared. In this episode, host John Cooke breaks down the essential expenses you’ll face when working with union actors, from scale pay to performance bonds. He offers clear, practical advice to help independent filmmakers plan wisely, stay compliant, and avoid unexpected budget surprises. Key insights from this episode: Understanding fringe benefits and agency fees Why performance bonds and meal ...
Jul 10, 2025•1 min•Ep. 7
Every great performance starts with one powerful choice: casting. In this episode, John Cooke sits down with casting director Kimberly Sparks to explore how she approaches indie casting with an eye for story and a heart for people. Kimberly walks us through her process of interpreting scripts, working closely with directors and talent agents, and fostering audition spaces that welcome every performer. Key insights from this episode: Why the script is your casting bible and how to align with it H...
Jul 03, 2025•7 min•Ep. 6
Casting can make or break your film. But how do you find the right talent without a big budget or industry connections? In this episode, host John Cooke sits down with Gerardo Maravilla from Backstage to break down what indie filmmakers need to know about the modern casting process. Gerardo shares tips for discovering fresh faces and collaborating with casting directors. Key insights from this episode: How casting directors help shape a filmmaker’s creative vision Where to find emerging talent H...
Jun 26, 2025•7 min•Ep. 5
Talent agents aren’t just for A-listers. For indie filmmakers, they’re a secret weapon for casting smarter and moving faster. In this episode, John Cooke breaks down the role of talent agents and explains why partnering with one can make the casting process smoother, faster, and more strategic. Whether you’re planning your first short film or gearing up for your next feature, understanding how agents operate (and what they don’t do) can save you time, budget headaches, and missed opportunities. ...
Jun 19, 2025•1 min•Ep. 4
Meal breaks might not seem like a big deal…until they cost your production thousands. In this episode, John Cooke discusses the rules around crew meals and the costly penalties that can sneak up on independent filmmakers. He also shares practical tips on union and nonunion requirements to help you stay compliant, on schedule, and within budget. Key insights from this episode: When meal penalties kick in (and how fast they add up) The key differences between union and nonunion requirements How be...
Jun 12, 2025•1 min•Ep. 3
Stranded in the Atlantic Ocean for 76 days with nothing but a life raft, a spear, and sheer will, Steven Callahan’s true survival story became the obsession of filmmaker Joe Wein . In this episode, host John Cooke sits down with Joe to explore how he transformed this impossible story into an award-winning documentary. Joe shares the behind-the-scenes challenges of bringing 76 Days Adrift to life and how he managed to find funding for the film. Key insights from this episode: Creative ways to fin...
Jun 05, 2025•17 min•Ep. 2
Insurance may not be glamorous, but it’s one of the most important safeguards in film production. In this episode of Inside Indies, host John Cooke explains the must-know terms of production insurance, from general liability and workers’ comp to Certificates of Insurance, to protect your crew, gear, and peace of mind. Key insights from this episode: What a COI is and when you need it The core policies that protect your shoot Understanding coverage limits and gaps Follow us on our socials: Learn ...
May 29, 2025•1 min•Ep. 1
This is Inside Indies, powered by Cast & Crew. In each episode, we take a look at what it takes to make an indie film and share advice on things like funding, planning, and getting a project across the finish line, without a studio-sized budget.
May 22, 2025•23 sec
