Great films aren’t just about talent — they’re built on trust, clarity, and the kind of feedback that helps people grow. Kim and Amy talk with producer Adam Richman (Gran Torino, The Burial,) about Double Nickel's new film, Grow, and how Radical Candor can actually fuel creativity.
Adam shares why flattening hierarchies strengthens collaboration, how constraints spark innovation, and why gratitude creates teams that thrive. He also reflects on the joy of making Grow, a family film full of heart, hope, and giant pumpkins — coming to theaters October 17th.
If you want to create cultures where feedback is welcomed, relationships matter, and creativity flourishes, this conversation offers the inspiration to get started.
Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Amy introduce Adam Richman, producer of Gran Torino, The Burial, and Grow.
(00:03:07) Radical Candor in Creative Work
How caring personally and challenging directly helps creative teams thrive.
(00:08:34) Why Constraints Fuel Innovation
Adam shares how budget limits on Grow sparked better ideas.
(00:14:09) Flattening Hierarchies in Hollywood
Breaking down status walls on set to build stronger collaboration.
(00:20:21) Mentorship & Leading with Kindness
The role of mentorship and kindness in sustaining creative careers.
(00:24:10) Cultivating a Culture with Intention
Creating clarity and trust, and appreciation at every stage of production.
(00:28:44) The Film-Making Process
Adam explains the process of making Grow
(00:34:15) Feedback & Collaboration
How Radical Candor guides tough conversations and creative decisions.
(00:39:13) The Importance of Setting the Table
Lessons from Post-Production
(00:44:51) The Joy of Grow
Why this family film, out October 17th, is filled with hope and heart.
(00:48:48) Music & Joyful Storytelling
The story behind KT Tunstall’s theme song for Grow.
(00:52:15) Conclusion
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