The Story Lab

“Creating During Hard Times” | The Story Lab

What happens when life gets messy—but the work still needs to get made? In this episode of The Story Lab, we get honest about what it means to stay creative when you're not okay. From burnout to uncertainty, we talk about: • Creating when you're depressed, anxious, or just disconnected • Why your best work might come from your hardest moments • Letting go of perfection and leaning into honesty • How getting out of your medium can spark inspiration • The balance between being a professional and being a person If you’ve ever struggled to show up and make something real—this one’s for you. 🎧 Full podcast available wherever you listen: https://linktr.ee/thestorylabfilm #CreatingThroughIt #MentalHealthAndCreativity #StorytellerStruggles #TheStoryLab #CreativeProcess #RealTalkForCreators #filmmakingpodcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2467750/support] Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more!

"Freelance vs. Full-Time: The Creative Identity Struggle" with Seth Hunt | The Story Lab

What do you sacrifice—and what do you gain—when you choose the in-house route over freelancing? In this episode of The Story Lab, we sit down with EP&Co Director/DP Seth Hunt who’s wrestled with both sides of the creative coin. From navigating agency expectations to carving out a personal style, we talk about: • The tension between creative freedom and brand consistency • What it really takes to survive (and thrive) in an in-house role • Why being a generalist can help—or hurt—your chances in this industry • How to claim your title before the world gives it to you • Building a portfolio that backs up your pitch Whether you’re freelancing, full-time, or figuring it out—this one’s for the filmmakers in the trenches. Follow Seth on Instagram: @seth_hunt 🎧 Full podcast available wherever you watch or listen: https://linktr.ee/thestorylabfilm #FreelanceVsInHouse #FilmmakingCareers #CreativeIdentity #DirectorOfPhotography #DPThoughts #TheStoryLab #FilmmakingPodcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2467750/support] Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more!

"Severance and The Art of World Building" with Nate Bonsell | The Story Lab

World-building isn't just for fantasy and sci-fi—it's the invisible foundation behind every great film, commercial, or video. In this episode of The Story Lab with Nate Bonsell, we dive into what world-building really means for filmmakers today. From the genius of Severance to the budget realities of $5K productions, we explore how setting creative limitations can lead to stronger storytelling, greater immersion, and higher impact. Learn how cinematography, sound, and design choices create the "playground" for your characters—and why embracing constraints can be your most powerful tool. 🎬 Topics covered: What world-building really is (and isn't) Why limitations unlock creativity How aspect ratios, lenses, and gear impact the world Getting the most from low-budget productions The evolving role of DPs and directors in storytelling 👀 Bonus episodes are coming soon, where we break down specific projects and how we built worlds from the ground up—what worked, what didn’t, and what we learned. Watch or listen to the full conversation now! Follow Nate: https://www.instagram.com/nbonsell24/ #WorldBuilding #FilmmakingTips #TheStoryLab #Cinematography #LowBudgetFilm #DirectorDP #Storytelling #FilmProduction Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2467750/support] Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more!

"Is Filmmaking Losing Its Soul? The Ethics & Redemption of Storytelling" | The Story Lab

Has modern filmmaking become too agenda-driven? Are we losing the heart of storytelling in the name of expression? In this episode of The Story Lab, we dive into the ethics of filmmaking, the power of redemptive arcs, and why the most impactful stories often come from a place of humility—not ideology. From indie films to advocacy docs, we explore why your why matters more than ever. 🎥 Topics we cover: The fading moral compass in modern cinema Why agenda-pushing alienates audiences The role of redemption in the best stories How faith, purpose, and ethics shape creative work If you're a filmmaker wondering how to tell stories that matter—without preaching—this one’s for you. 👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments. What’s your take on storytelling and ethics in 2025? Subscribe for more and watch on YouTube: https://linktr.ee/thestorylabfilm Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2467750/support] Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more!

"Why Your Brand Needs a Mission, Not Just a Logo" with Teddy Giard | The Story Lab

Too many entrepreneurs jump straight into building businesses without realizing the real key to success—branding yourself first. In this episode of The Story Lab, we break down why personal branding is more valuable than any single business and how it sets you up to solve problems in a way that attracts the right opportunities. 📌 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ Why your personal brand matters more than any one company ✔️ How to position yourself as a problem solver, not just a business owner ✔️ The real reason people trust brands before they buy solutions ✔️ Actionable steps to start building your brand today 🚀 Don’t just build businesses—build a brand that lasts. 🔔 Subscribe for more deep-dive conversations on filmmaking, creativity, and entrepreneurship! Check out Teddy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teddyg111?igsh=MWx4NmNrcDE0M2d0Yg== Check out Teddy's Work: giard.co Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2467750/support] Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more!