Filmmakers In Advertising

Today, we chat with Matt Johnson - Founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Haymaker - the independent, Emmy-winning, full-service advertising agency.Matt takes us through Haymaker’s origin story: from launching with no clients or office to growing into a respected agency over the past eight years. With a background at industry heavyweights like 180LA and 72andSunny, Matt brings a wealth of experience and insight into what it takes to see ideas through towards proven results. We discuss standout projects like Pluto TV’s Proud to be a Potato, 23andMe’s Despicable Me crossover: Genetically Me, and the promotion of the digital release for John Wick 2 as one of their first jobs as a new agency. He unpacks how bold ideas, collaboration, and risk-taking played pivotal roles along the way - also sharing the value of failure, stressing the importance of taking a learner’s stance rather than an expert’s stance.Matt also gives practical examples on how he navigates the rapid pace of agency work, the impact of having supportive partners, and the importance of a collaborative culture that iterates ideas into the best product possible.Trust us, this is one you don’t want to miss.Links:Pluto TV | Proud to be a Potato23andMe | Genetically Me - with Illumination EntertainmentJohn Wick 2 | Digital ReleaseSeattle’s Best Coffee | Smoother Days with Joel McHaleEpisode Edited by Jake Petschjakepetsch.com | petsch.jake@gmail.comIf you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City. Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - michaelhrtmn4@gmail.com

This week, we're joined by Nate Houghteling — filmmaker and co-founder of Portal A, an award-winning branded and original content company.Nate walks us through his journey from 24-hour film competitions in college to co-founding Portal A, the creative force behind major brand collaborations and cultural moments like YouTube Rewind.We dig into:His early web series experiments in the wild west of pre-YouTube internetA decade of reinventing the YouTube Rewind formatHow spontaneous creative projects opened doors to big-name partnerships with Gap, Benefit Cosmetics, and more.The making and self-distribution of Fault Lines, his new documentary on the housing crisis in San Francisco.And his latest project: Year 5, a web series starring NBA star Anthony Edwards.We also dive into his biggest lessons, pivots, and yes—some of his favorite documentaries. If you're into storytelling, internet history, or just love a good creative hustle, this one’s for you.LinksFault Lines | DocumentaryYear 5 | Web SeriesYoutube RewindNate’s Favorite DocumentariesHoop DreamsWaiting for SupermanSeven Up! SeriesWhen We Were KingsIf you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City. Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - michaelhrtmn4@gmail.com

Today we’re talking to a production company heavy-hitter: Dustin Callif, President of TOOL of North America about the innovation of A.I. integration into filmmaking and advertising - done the right way.Dustin provides an “open source” approach to the tools he and his team have utilized in their approach to AI-driven campaigns. He touches on the ethical considerations surrounding this technology, and how they're blending traditional and AI-driven creative processes into the work.He discusses a few of TOOL’s case studies, which you can find on TOOL’s website, including how they created a commercial for Under Armour in just four weeks without the actual talent. He also discusses the evolving legal landscape of AI-generated content, and how TOOL is identifying and connecting top AI talent with leading agencies and brands in a way that benefits artists and creatives. A current saying is: The AI train is moving, and you can either hop on or get left behind. So, whether you're a filmmaker, marketer, or simply curious about where this train is heading -  I think you’ll enjoy this insightful conversation with Dustin Callif. Links:Ad Age’s Editor Pick: AI Pipeline for Starbust | Case StudyUnder Armour - Forever is Made Now | Case StudyEpisode Edited by Dylan Giovanettowww.dylangio.com | dylgio@gmail.comIf you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City. Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - michaelhrtmn4@gmail.com

Join us for an insightful journey through the world of advertising with Justin Bajan, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Familiar Creatures! With nearly two decades of experience at major agencies like The Martin Agency, GSD&M, Arnold Worldwide, and David & Goliath, Justin brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the table.In this episode, we dive into:The Genesis of Familiar CreaturesCreativity on a Shoestring“Challenger Brand” AdvocacyOutsmarting Brand BehemothsClient Relationships & Production InsightsStaying Ahead of the CurveWhether you're an aspiring ad professional, a seasoned marketer, or simply curious about the creative process behind successful campaigns, this episode with Justin Bajan provides you with valuable takeaways. He’s got wisdom to share about starting an agency, being creative within limits, building solid client relationships, the ups and downs of production, and staying ahead of the curve.Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbajan/https://www.familiarcreatures.com/Episode Edited by Dylan Giovanettowww.dylangio.com | dylgio@gmail.comIf you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City. Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - michaelhrtmn4@gmail.com

In this episode, Codey chats with Jessica Zalaznik and Adrien Bindi of GSD&M, the creative minds behind the “Goldilocks and The Three Trucks” Super Bowl commercial, which features Glen Powell for RAM Trucks: . They touch on their career paths, the exciting challenges of creating a Super Bowl ad, and their insights on working with celebrities like Glen Powell and directors like David Leitch. Some of our favorite topics include: The future of advertising, Their perspectives on creativityA little career advice (as always)They also chat about some of their other notable work which includes reinventing Fruit of the Loom’s “Fruit People” for a TikTok campaign and a hilarious WWDC intro starring Bill Hader.So, whether you're an advertising pro, here to learn, or just love talking Super Bowl commercials, this one's for you.Links:Jess’s SiteJess’s Tik Tok @goodboygonehome | Helping dogs find homes in Austin, TXAdrien’s SiteRam Trucks | Big Game SpotFruit of the Loom | Fruit PeopleWWDC IntroEpisode Edited by Dylan Giovanettowww.dylangio.com | dylgio@gmail.comIf you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City. Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - michaelhrtmn4@gmail.com

Scott Terry | Director of Business Affairs at Forsman & BodenforsIn this episode, Scott Terry, Director of Business Affairs at Forsman & Bodenfors, provides insights into his multifaceted role in the advertising industry. Speaking from his experience handling legal issues, talent management, social media, PR, and more, Scott talks about solving the production problems that few of us see coming.Some highlights include:Solving licensor issues the night before a commercial’s releaseTaking advantage of tax creditsRemembering to buckle up a Mascot in the driver’s seatScott’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottterry/Scott’s Instagram: @ScottTerryResources: The Power of the Past in Tomorrow’s Branding | Article on Shots.NetEpisode Edited by Jake Petschjakepetsch.com | petsch.jake@gmail.comIf you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City. Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - michaelhrtmn4@gmail.com

In this episode, creative directors Brandon Curl and Dale Austin of GSD&M discuss their extensive work with major brands, including recent campaigns for Capital One and Pizza Hut. They share their strategies for selecting directors, handling unexpected challenges, and the importance of pushing deadlines when necessary. They also explore their backgrounds, how they got here, the origins of their partnership and how it has grown, their range of creative inspirations, and their BYOB (Bring Your Own Brief) initiative that encourages proactive creativity within their agency. Filmmakers and listeners will gain insights into thriving in the advertising industry, from pitching big ideas to maintaining inspiration through diverse hobbies and continuous learning.Some of our favorites from this episode: Tie goes to the reel (on selecting directors)You can always push a deadlineBrandon Curl https://brandoncurl.com/Dale Austin https://www.dale-austin.com/Capital One Holiday Spots with John TravoltaPizza Hut Sewer Delivery - Webby Award winner, tie-in with new Ninja Turtles filmIf you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City. Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - michaelhrtmn4@gmail.com

Marta Hooper | Group Creative Director at AntiSocial/ThinkingboxToday, Monica chats with Marta Hooper, Group Creative Director at AntiSocial - the social media division of Thinkingbox. In this episode, Marta discusses:Social-first thinking in your brand strategyHow she got her start in advertising (as a plan B to becoming a pro tennis player)A deep dive into the craft and creativity of advertisingThe value of mentorship in creative fields like advertisingThe impact of remote culture on mentorshipMarta Hooper has 20 years of experience with increasingly senior titles at some of Canada’s top agencies. Most recently she was chief creative officer at Rain, and before that ECD at doug&partners. Earlier stops include trevor//peter, Leo Burnett, Sid Lee, and Taxi, working on some of the biggest brands in the world including Nike, Spotify, Honda, Ford, Dell/Alienware, Telus, Red Bull, Diageo, Labatt, and HBO.Marta’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marta-hooper-6543b71b/Marta’s Website: https://www.martahooper.com/ResourcesFigma Jam: https://www.figma.com/figjam/If you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City. Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - michaelhrtmn4@gmail.com

Have you seen - the Jason Kelce ads with the B-Dubs buffalo at the bar? Or maybe you've seen something a little more “pinkies out” such as the holiday campaign for Tiffany & Co featuring Anya Taylor Joy. Do you like Super Bowl commercials? If any of these interest you, then today is your day, cause we’re talking to industry pro - Mike Byrne, Founding Partner and Global Chief Creative Officer of Anomaly. Anomaly has in their portfolio: THIRTY-ONE Super Bowl commercials - with more on the way. Budweiser, the Lance Armstrong Live Strong campaign, Buffalo Wild Wings, Top Golf, so much Nike, Converse, SONY, Six offices around the world and 800+ employees - ALL with Mike at the helm.Look up Anomaly.  Look up Mike. This is a good one. Mike Byrne is a founding partner of Anomaly and Global Creative Chief, where he helped lead Anomaly to Agency of the Year in 2022, Ad Age A-list #1 in 2017 as well as seven top ten placements seven years in a row. He helped lead Anomaly to two-time Fast Company Most Innovative Companies on top of other industry accolades.He spent his formative years in advertising at Wieden & Kennedy NY then Portland where he served as the co-creative chief for the agency's cornerstone Nike Account from 2000 – 2006. **During his tenure, W+K Portland amassed more awards than any other agency in the United States. W+K Portland was Agency of the Year two times in this tenure. While at W+K, Mike managed creative development for Nike in the US, Latin America and Europe.Mike has been recognized throughout his career for creative excellence, being awarded numerous Grand Prix at Cannes International Advertising Festival, D&AD, The One Show, Art Directors Club, Clios, and CA amongst others. Mike is also a multiple Emmy award winner.Beyond advertising, Mike has helped launch multiple companies spanning, from cannabis to fashion brands to food and beverage.Some of Mike's WorkNike TagNike Angry ChickenNike MoveJW Gentleman's Wager II "The race"Converse "Made By You"Budweiser "Best Buds"Budweiser "Prohibition"Sony "This is 3DTV"Dick's Sporting Goods Every PitchConverse Lunch MoneyEpisode Edited by Dylan Giovanetto@dylangio  |  Dylangio.comIf you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City. Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - michaelhrtmn4@gmail.com

IS ADVERTISING GETTING FUN AGAIN? Apparently, innovative, interesting, and fun work is making a comeback. That’s according to today’s guest Norm Shearer Partner, and CCO at Cactus (...among other things)Look, today’s guest, won a 7th-grade art contest with a drawing of an X-Wing fighter. ...So you should probably listen up. We grabbed some good stuff from Norm that is informative and validating for how we can operate. Norm was a great guest and generous with his experience. He shares:Some tips for what directors and production companies can add to their websites and social media to better stand out to agenciesFine-tuning your goals and plans via brainstorming with mini-retreats and fun ways to empower your teamDelivering on Challenging Work (basically delivering good work from shitty briefs)Norm is delightful and you should give him and CACTUS a follow on social media and keep up with their work. And check out their website, they have cool case studies that walk through the actual results that their work brought in. https://www.cactusinc.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/cactusinc/https://www.instagram.com/cactusdenver/https://www.cactusinc.com/NoobsIf you want a shoutout in a future episode please leave us a written review on Apple podcasts. From CRY, a Creative, Production, and Post house based in New York City. Brought to you by CRY www.filmcry.com Intro mixed by Micheal Hartman - michaelhrtmn4@gmail.com