Filmmaker Nema Vand has enjoyed an eclectic career in entertainment, from being an extra on David Fincher's set, to starting his own casting company to presently directing commercials at VaynerMedia and Eva Nosidam, the in-house production unit. A turning point came when Nema documented Mike Winkelmann's (Mr. Beeple) historic NFT sale, which gained him recognition as a storyteller and director. Now, Nema's goal is to direct feature films. As most directors start in commercials, Nema sees an opportunity in short form content on TikTok.

Over the next year, Nema plans to create a series of narrative short films for TikTok completely independent of any brands. His aim is to attract an engaged audience and build a portfolio that shows off his storytelling skills. With proof of his abilities on the platform, Nema hopes to land brand partnerships that will help fund his transition into filmmaking. A great idea if ya ask me.

Through his vast creativity and hustle, Nema is paving his own path in an industry not always open to disruption. His journey shows how social media platforms can level the playing field for emerging talent. Enjoy part one of this chat.

Thanks to our editor Jake Brady We could not do the show without him and love this guy behind words. Need your pod spruced up? Check out his Podcast Wax.

4+ NEW BEHIND-THE-SCENES

I've uploaded more raw behind-the-scenes, with dailies, agency interaction, directing top talent and collaborating with my crew, all at Commercial Directing Masterclass. And you'll wanna check out the new courses, like Behind The Beard and Winning Director Treatments.

FLOW

Use the link plus code JB20 when you try MAGIC MIND - chug it daily after your coffee. If you follow me on Instagram you know my geniune endorsment of this mighty mind power juice.

EVENTS

Our 3rd annual Filmmaker Retreat Joshua Tree is Thursday, September 26th – Sunday, September 29th, 2024. I always use the word "transformational" in describing the past two years - because our tribe of like-minded filmmakers express that the retreat truly changed their lives. Both professionally and personally. Reserve your spot before the end of the year to take advantage of that last minute 2023 write-off. Limit 20 Filmmakers.

My next in-person Commercial Directing Bootcamp is Saturday, April 27th, 2024. Limit 12 Filmmakers.

Producer's Bootcamp is April 28th, 2024 and use code DIRECTING100 for a $100 off!

Check out my Masterclass or Commercial Directing Shadow online courses. (Note this link to the Shadow course is the one I mention in the show.) All my courses come with a free 1:1 mentorship call with yours truly. Taking the Shadow course is the only way to win a chance to shadow me on a real shoot! DM for details.

How To Pitch Ad Agencies and Director’s Treatments Unmasked are now bundled together with a free filmmaker consultation call, just like my other courses. Serious about making spots? The Commercial Director Mega Bundle for serious one-on-one mentoring and career growth.

Jeannette Godoy’s hilarious romcom “Diamond In The Rough” streams on the Peacock. Please support my wife filmmaker Jeannette Godoy’s romcom debut. It’s “Mean Girls” meets “Happy Gilmore” and crowds love it.

Thanks,

Jordan

This episode is 90 minutes.

My cult classic mockumentary, “Dill Scallion” is online so I’m giving 100% of the money to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. I’ve decided to donate the LIFETIME earnings every December, so the donation will grow and grow. Thank you.

Respect The Process podcast is brought to you by Commercial Directing FIlm School and True Gentleman Industries, Inc. in partnership with Brady Oil Entertainment, Inc.

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