Best in Fest

In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with Linda Arroz — lifestyle writer, speaker, advisor, former plus-size spokesmodel, and media strategist — for a wide-ranging conversation on reinvention, branding, and storytelling in today’s entertainment landscape. Linda shares her unconventional journey from working at General Motors to becoming a nationally recognized fashion and media authority, styling hundreds of TV shows and commercials, appearing on major networks, publishing books, and now developing podcasts and documentaries at the intersection of media, technology, and culture. In this episode, we explore: How to break into media and entertainment without a traditional pathWhy storytelling and communication skills matter more than credentialsBranding yourself like an influencer — lessons filmmakers can applyWhy filmmakers must market themselves, not just their filmsTurning expertise into books, speaking, and multi-platform projectsDeveloping podcasts as IP for future documentaries and filmsTechnology, blockchain, and AI as tools for modern creatorsBuilding visibility through Q&As, public appearances, and mediaThe power of mentorship, adaptability, and lifelong reinventionLinda also discusses her current work developing narrative-driven podcasts, including true crime and documentary projects, and why creators must evolve their skill sets to stay relevant in an ever-changing industry. This episode is essential listening for filmmakers, creatives, entrepreneurs, and women in media looking to build sustainable careers by combining storytelling, branding, and strategic visibility.

In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with Debra Gilels — a veteran film PR strategist, producer’s rep, and distribution consultant who has helped launch award-winning documentaries and indie features into global release. With over 20 years of experience guiding films from festivals to streaming platforms, Debra breaks down how distribution really works today, why most filmmakers misunderstand the process, and what creators must do before seeking a distribution deal. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to use the film festival circuit to build an audience before distributionWhy PR and marketing must start long before your release dateHow documentaries secure advocacy groups and partner communitiesWhat distributors actually look for when acquiring indie filmsMinimum guarantees, contract terms, and revenue splits explainedWhy social media presence affects your distribution leverageHow to drive visibility on VOD and streaming platformsReal-world case studies of documentaries and indie features that succeededThe difference between self-distribution and professional sales agentsDebra explains why simply uploading a film to Amazon Prime is not a distribution strategy — and how smart filmmakers combine festival exposure, PR outreach, audience-building, and sales representation to maximize both impact and revenue. If you're a filmmaker, producer, documentary creator, or festival director trying to understand how films get picked up, marketed, and monetized in today’s crowded content landscape — this episode is essential listening.

In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with Emilio Hughes Martinez — award-winning filmmaker, writer, and former Vice President of Development at Eclectic Pictures (Olympus Has Fallen, The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard, Lovelace). Emilio shares his journey from studio development executive to independent filmmaker, revealing what production companies really look for in scripts, how to finance films without studio backing, and why the next wave of cinema belongs to bold indie creators. In this episode, we explore: What studio development executives actually look for in scriptsCommon mistakes new screenwriters make when pitching producersHow his award-winning shorts (The Method and The Fourth Branch) were created on micro-budgetsFinancing indie films through friends, family, and creative resourcefulnessGuerrilla filmmaking tactics to bypass costly permitsWhy more productions are leaving California — and what comes nextAI’s impact on screenwriting and why human storytelling still mattersThe shift from $200M studio films to smaller, high-impact indie projectsHis upcoming feature about fame, exploitation, and AI-generated performanceEmilio also breaks down his writing process, working with Oscar-winning co-writer Nick Vallelonga (Green Book), and why instinct-driven storytelling often beats rigid outlining.

In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage welcomes Rabbi Noam Raucher — educator, divorce coach, and Executive Director of FJMC International (Friendship, Judaism, Mentorship & Community) — to explore an unexpected but urgent topic: how media, masculinity, and meaning intersect in today’s culture. Noam shares his personal journey through divorce, career loss, and men’s support groups — experiences that inspired him to launch Mama’s Boy, a bold new podcast co-hosted with comedy writer Rob Kutner. Together, they’re creating content that challenges toxic masculinity, offers healthier models of brotherhood, and brings Jewish wisdom into modern conversations about manhood. In this episode, we explore: Why a rabbi entered entertainment and podcastingThe rise of toxic masculinity in digital mediaMen’s support groups and the power of authentic brotherhoodPodcasting as the new modern pulpitHow humor and storytelling open men to vulnerabilityJewish tradition as a framework for healthy masculinityWhy film and entertainment shape cultural identityCountering the manosphere with meaningful mediaBuilding a global movement for men’s emotional growthNoam explains how today’s media landscape floods young men with damaging messages about dominance, success, and power — and why it’s critical to offer alternative narratives rooted in compassion, accountability, and connection.

In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with Lauren Reins — director, producer, choreographer, and Enneagram coach — to explore how self-awareness fuels creativity and why understanding your inner motivations may be the key to creating meaningful, sustainable work. Lauren shares her journey from professional dancer to educator and filmmaker, and how a life-altering accident led her to psychology, coaching, and ultimately the Enneagram, a nine-type personality framework now central to her new dance-driven docuseries. In this episode, we discuss: What the Enneagram isHow creatives can use the Enneagram to build better charactersWhy dance is the perfect medium to express personality and psychologyTurning personal growth into a docuseries conceptUsing self-knowledge to overcome creative blocksHow companies like Nike, Amazon, and State Farm use the EnneagramWhy self-awareness matters more than talent aloneBalancing creativity, leadership, and life as a working artistPremiering an Enneagram-based series at Dances With Films New YorkLauren explains how creatives often struggle not because of the industry — but because they haven’t fully understood their own fears, motivations, and strengths. By using the Enneagram as a framework, artists can move forward with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with Alan Green, Head of Sales & Acquisitions at 123 Media, to break down how film distribution actually works — and why most indie filmmakers misunderstand it. With decades of experience spanning 20th Century Fox, Pathé, international sales, and producing, Alan offers a brutally honest look at what sells, what doesn’t, and how filmmakers can avoid costly mistakes when trying to monetize their films. In this episode, we cover: Which film genres are most distributableSVOD vs AVOD vs TVODWhy Netflix deals are flat fees (and not per-view payouts)The myth of self-distribution on Amazon PrimeWhy distributors sell film packages, not individual titlesPresales, minimum guarantees (MGs), and why names still matterHow production quality impacts distribution decisionsVertical content, short-form storytelling, and the future of filmTurning genre films into viable distribution assetsFestival strategy as a business tool — not just prestigeAlan also discusses producing the WWII revenge thriller Vindictive, opening at Dances With Films New York, and explains how hybrid genre films can bridge the gap between festivals and commercial success. If you’re an independent filmmaker, producer, or content creator trying to understand how films make money after they’re finished — this episode is essential listening.

In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with Jessica Rizk (director, writer, producer, animator) and Soren Anderson (composer and sound designer) to unpack the creation of Cracked — a haunting, hand-drawn 2D animated short exploring mental health, self-neglect, and emotional collapse. Over the course of a two-year DIY production, Cracked was animated frame-by-frame, scored from scratch, and built without shortcuts — revealing the true scope of independent animation today. In this episode, we explore: What it really takes to make a hand-drawn animated shortHow mental health and self-neglect shaped the story, visuals, and pacingWhy flickering light, grime, and stillness were used as psychological storytelling toolsDIY sound design & Foley workAnimation vs. AITurning a short film into a feature-length proof of conceptCollaborating creatively as a married filmmaking teamPremiering on the festival circuitDances With Films New YorkCracked is a powerful example of how independent filmmakers can create deeply resonant, festival-ready work with limited resources — if they’re willing to commit fully to the craft. 🎟️ Cracked premieres at Dances With Films New York — Midnight Block, January 16.

What does it really take to build a career as a feature film director — starting at age 15 and continuing across continents, cultures, and film festivals? In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage, Director of the La Femme International Film Festival, sits down with Dominik Sedlar, an award-winning director whose career spans documentaries, narrative features, international co-productions, and major festival premieres. Born in Croatia, raised in New York, and educated through hands-on experience in theater and film, Dominik shares what he’s learned from directing his first documentary as a teenager, making ultra-low-budget features, working with veteran actors, and navigating the increasingly competitive festival and distribution landscape. This conversation is a must-listen for filmmakers, directors, producers, and actors who want an honest look at the craft, business, and psychology behind making films that actually get seen. 🎥 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: first documentary at age 15theater acting and film actingbetter performanceslimited money and free locationsseasoned actors vs. inexperienced onessingle-room, dialogue-driven filmCOVID under tight timelinesfestival circuit and film distributionfirst-time directors and emerging filmmakersWhether you’re developing your first feature, transitioning from documentary to narrative, or trying to break through the noise of today’s content-saturated film world, this episode delivers practical insights and hard-earned wisdom from a director who’s lived it. 🎧 Subscribe to Best in Fest for in-depth conversations with filmmakers, festival directors, and industry insiders shaping the future of independent film.

In this inspiring episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with Danielle Hobbs—a true multi-hyphenate creative force whose career spans dance, choreography, acting, education, authorship, and filmmaking. Danielle Hobbs Full Episode Danielle shares her remarkable journey from concert dance and global tours to choreographing for Beyoncé, performing on Michael Jackson’s Immortal World Tour, and ultimately expanding her creative mission through children’s books and narrative filmmaking. In this episode, Danielle discusses: dance foundation shaped her confidence, performance presence, and storytelling instinctsconcert dance to choreography for major recording artistsDanny Girl Adventures: Dream It, Do ItAmethyst Girl: Destinyproof of conceptThis episode is packed with insight for filmmakers, dancers, performers, creative entrepreneurs, and storytellers navigating career pivots, passion projects, and purpose-driven work. 🎬 Watch the full video episode on YouTube 🎙️ Listen on your favorite podcast platform ⭐ Rate, review, and share Best in Fest to support independent creators

In this powerful episode of Best in Fest, Leslie LaPage sits down with Marcia S. Ross—Emmy-nominated documentary producer and former SVP of Casting at Walt Disney Pictures—to reveal the real Hollywood career path that led her from discovering breakout stars to producing globally recognized documentaries like Terrence McNally: Every Act of Life, Nazarene, and The Savoy King. Marcia opens up about: Her rise through New York theater and castingHow she identified early star powerWhat filmmakers get wrong about distributionbeforeBuilding social media momentum for documentariesRaising money, navigating approvals, and surviving the business sideWhy filmmakers—not distributors—must drive viewershipHer passion for films centered on activists, underdogs, and global changemakersCareer advice for actorsWhy comparison is career-killingWhether you’re a filmmaker preparing to pitch distributors, an actor trying to understand casting, or a creative searching for a sustainable path in the industry, this conversation delivers deep, actionable insight from someone who has shaped careers and stories for over three decades.

In this inspiring Best in Fest episode, host Leslie LaPage sits down with award-winning writer, director, and musician Paula Tiberius — one of the very first La Femme Film Festival winners — to explore her incredible evolution from indie rocker and filmmaker to in-demand screenwriter for Hallmark, Lifetime, and Netflix. Paula opens up about her early days making the cult rock-and-roll movie Goldie Rocks, her journey breaking into Hollywood, and how she found creative freedom writing beloved TV romances like Hearts Around the Table, Crossroads Springs, and Santa’s Got Style. 🎥 In This Episode: Goldie RocksDeath or Story💡 Key Takeaway: Paula proves that discipline, reinvention, and a love for story are what turn a rock-and-roll dreamer into a Hollywood powerhouse.

In this powerful Best in Fest episode, host Leslie LaPage sits down with award-winning actress, producer, and entrepreneur Jacqueline Fleming — known for Love Jones, Losing Isaiah, and collaborations with stars like Halle Berry, Morgan Freeman, and Mark Wahlberg. Jacqueline shares her remarkable journey from Denmark to Hollywood, revealing how she turned frustration into fuel — building a multi-hyphenate career as an actress, producer, and now the founder of Slate Distribution and At the Kitchen Table Productions. 🎥 Inside This Episode: Love Jones💡 Key Takeaway: Jacqueline proves that talent opens the door — but knowledge, hustle, and ownership build the house.

In this inspiring Best in Fest episode, host Leslie LaPage spotlights the award-winning filmmakers of the 2025 LaFemme International Film Festival. From a Ukrainian refugee’s moving documentary Mama’s Voice, to the hilarious and heartfelt short The Whole Truth about motherhood and hemorrhoids, to the genre-bending Nepo Baby exploring identity and fame, to the chilling psychological thriller Don’t Let Them Out, and the emotional documentary The Ramba Effect about Chile’s last circus elephant—each story celebrates female creativity, courage, and vision. 🎥 Featured Films & Creators: Mama’s VoiceNepo BabyDon’t Let Them OutThe Whole TruthThe Ramba Effect✨ Tune in for exclusive filmmaker interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and a celebration of women redefining cinema across every genre.

In this inspiring Best in Fest episode, host Leslie LaPage spotlights the award-winning filmmakers of the 2025 LaFemme International Film Festival. From a Ukrainian refugee’s moving documentary Mama’s Voice, to the hilarious and heartfelt short The Whole Truth about motherhood and hemorrhoids, to the genre-bending Nepo Baby exploring identity and fame, to the chilling psychological thriller Don’t Let Them Out, and the emotional documentary The Ramba Effect about Chile’s last circus elephant—each story celebrates female creativity, courage, and vision. 🎥 Featured Films & Creators: Mama’s VoiceNepo BabyDon’t Let Them OutThe Whole TruthThe Ramba Effect✨ Tune in for exclusive filmmaker interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and a celebration of women redefining cinema across every genre.

In this episode of Best in Fest, filmmaker, educator, and Army veteran Shannan Wynn shares her extraordinary journey from serving in the armed forces and counseling at-risk youth to building her own production company, Winquest Entertainment. Shannan reveals how her life experiences inspired her debut thriller A Life of Sunshine—a female-driven, murder mystery now streaming on Amazon Prime and Apple TV—and how she navigated the challenges of self-funding, casting, and distribution Shannan Wynn. She also dives into her collaboration on the relationship documentary The Love Script, the importance of partnerships in indie filmmaking, and her future plans to adapt her children’s book The Tales of Chance and the Faithful Few (with a foreword by CeCe Winans) into an animated series Shannan Wynn. Along the way, Shannan shares advice on building relationships, supporting other filmmakers, and why you should “never put a period where a comma belongs.” Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a fan of thrillers and documentaries, or simply looking for inspiration to pivot careers, this conversation is a masterclass in creativity, resilience, and following your passion.

In this episode of Best in Fest, branding strategist, publisher, and fashion-to-film trailblazer Lela Christine Thompson shares how she built a dynamic career at the intersection of fashion, entertainment, and digital media. From designing for Queen Pen and collaborating with 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment on campaigns for Moulin Rouge, Soul Food, and The Hunger Games, to launching her own digital magazines like Power Player Lifestyle, Fab Five Lifestyle, and Goddess Couture News, Lela reveals how creative vision and persistence can open unexpected doors. She dives deep into brand marketing for independent filmmakers, the power of social impact media, and how to leverage product placement, blogs, and digital magazines to grow your film’s reach. With practical tips on creating a social media calendar, saving behind-the-scenes content, and pitching to online outlets, this conversation is a masterclass in building a digital footprint that lasts. Whether you’re an indie filmmaker, content creator, or entrepreneur looking to elevate your brand, this episode will inspire you to think outside the box and embrace the ever-evolving media landscape.

In this powerhouse episode of Best in Fest, award-winning producer and industry trailblazer Kimberly Ogletree shares her incredible journey through music videos, television, and independent filmmaking. From working with icons like Russell Simmons, Stevie Wonder, and Julie Dash to producing groundbreaking content for BET, Viacom, and MTV, Kimberly reveals how she transitioned from million-dollar music videos to producing ten original TV movies on a shoestring budget—paving the way for Black storytelling in Hollywood. Now serving as the President of Greenlight Women, Kimberly discusses her mission to champion women over 40 in entertainment, tackle ageism, and create inclusive, family-focused content. Tune in as she dives into the art of creative producing, the challenges of studio-level oversight, and the importance of saying "yes" even when the odds are stacked against you. Whether you're a filmmaker, a fan of behind-the-scenes Hollywood insights, or looking to break into the industry, this episode is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and representation.

In this inspiring episode of Best in Fest, entertainment attorney turned filmmaker Sauda Johnson-McNeal shares her journey from studying acting at USC to founding her own production company, Ron Ash LLC, and creating the award-winning independent film Love the Skin You’re In. What began as a personal story of healing and self-discovery evolved into a powerful film about self-acceptance, resilience, and learning to love yourself at every stage of life riverside_sauda_johnson-mcneal_…. Sauda opens up about self-funding her debut feature, working alongside Hollywood legends Obba Babatundé and Marla Gibbs, and the lessons she learned from balancing her dual worlds as a lawyer and creative riverside_sauda_johnson-mcneal_…. She also discusses the importance of representation, mentorship, and perseverance in today’s changing entertainment landscape—and why “believing in yourself” isn’t just a cliché, it’s a strategy. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a creative professional facing self-doubt, or someone seeking a reminder that your story matters, this episode will leave you empowered to love the skin you’re in—literally and figuratively.

In this episode of Best in Fest, Emmy-nominated supervising sound editor Bobbi Banks shares her inspiring journey from starting as an assistant with no film background to becoming one of Hollywood’s most respected post-production voices. With over 120 film and TV credits—including Desperately Seeking Susan, Poetic Justice, Self Made, Snowfall, and When They See Us—Bobbi reflects on her early mentors, her groundbreaking work with John Singleton, and her path to leadership in the Motion Picture Sound Editors and Editors Guild riverside_leslie_lapage_raw-vid…. Bobbi dives deep into the artistry of ADR, the evolving role of technology and AI in sound, and why mentorship is critical for the next generation of filmmakers. She also opens up about navigating Hollywood as a woman of color in a male-dominated field, her perspective on unions, and the creative choices that make sound one of the most powerful storytelling tools in cinema riverside_leslie_lapage_raw-vid…. Whether you’re a filmmaker, sound enthusiast, or just curious about what makes movies truly come alive, this episode is a masterclass in resilience, creativity, and the craft of sound.

In this inspiring episode of Best in Fest, producer and filmmaker Christine La Monte takes us on a globe-spanning journey through her extraordinary career—from pioneering studio marketing campaigns in the 1980s to producing award-winning documentaries like Viva Verdi and Ai Weiwei: Yours Truly. Christine shares how she broke into the male-dominated entertainment industry, the spiritual force behind her creative choices, and how saying “yes” led to collaborations with cinematic legends and global human rights icons. Tune in to hear how she weaves opera, activism, ageism, and artistry into unforgettable storytelling—and why she believes miracles show up when you stay open to them. A must-listen for anyone navigating career pivots, indie film, or the fine line between passion and purpose.