20 Years in Hip-Hop TV: TRL, Yo! MTV Raps, Chris Brown & More | Esteban Serrano

20 Years in Hip-Hop TV: TRL, Yo! MTV Raps, Chris Brown & More | Esteban Serrano

Read More: [your blog link here] In this episode of On The Set Podcast, host Steven Strickland sits down with the multifaceted Esteban Serrano - supervising producer at ViacomCBS/Paramount with 20 years in music and television. Broadcasting live from the iconic Ironbound Film and Television Studio in Newark, NJ, this conversation takes you deep behind the scenes of hip-hop television, fatherhood, faith, and what it truly means to build a legacy in the entertainment industry. From producing Jay-Z's legendary TRL appearance to directing Chris Brown's Beautiful People music video, relaunching Yo! MTV Raps in the US, and co-creating the Rap Dads show, Esteban pulls back the curtain on a career defined by culture, community, and purpose. We explore: 🎬 His journey from PA on TRL to supervising producer at Paramount 🏀 How a Mountain Dew NBA Finals spot came together during a pandemic 🎤 The story behind Chris Brown's Beautiful People and the Fame album 📖 Writing The Ten Dad Commandments: Fatherhood Through the Lens of Hip Hop 🖊️ Creating Symbol of Solidarity and sparking Pennsylvania's Day of Racial Healing 🌟 Building diverse, inclusive sets in front of and behind the camera 🎙️ Launching the Rap Dads show and the power of unscripted fatherhood conversations 🤖 How AI is reshaping the future of television production ⚖️ Balancing creativity, family, and faith in a constantly evolving industry Whether you're an aspiring producer, hip-hop lover, or creative building your own lane, this episode is loaded with gems. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction & Highlights 02:17 – Sponsor: On The Set Apparel 01:47 – Welcome to Season Dos & Guest Introduction 05:11 – Growing Up in West Philly in Will Smith's Shadow 08:04 – Landing at TRL & a Dream Realized 10:27 – Producing Jay-Z's Iconic TRL Appearance 17:54 – The 48 Laws of Power & Learning to Produce 20:30 – Leveling Up: From PA to Segment Producer 25:55 – Big Breaks & the Chris Brown Era 31:41 – The Beautiful People Music Video Journey 36:47 – The Mountain Dew NBA Finals Commercial 42:05 – Creative Vision: Watch It on Mute 44:46 – One Big Break vs. a Series of Breaks 51:57 – Creating Yo! MTV Raps & The Hustle for Fuse TV 01:06:48 – Building Diverse Sets & Inclusive Culture 01:08:00 – Hosting Fuse TV's Top 20 Despite Dyslexia 01:15:33 – Challenges: Getting Out of the Industry's Way 01:22:52 – The Rap Dads Show: Behind the Scenes 01:29:00 – The Sprinter & Rolling Loud Collaboration 01:38:33 – A Family of Creatives & Balancing It All 01:24:06 – Symbol of Solidarity & The Day of Racial Healing 01:10:48 – The Staple Question: One Word for Being on Set 🧘 01:15:14 – Launching Audio Vision with His Wife 01:53:07 – The Ten Dad Commandments & Evolving as a Father 02:07:54 – Navigating Self-Doubt with Faith & Preparation 02:14:31 – Advice for Creatives Who Want to Pivot 02:17:35 – Outro & Final Thoughts 📲 Follow Esteban: Instagram – @theestebanserrano YouTube – The Rap Dads Show 📲 Follow Steven: Instagram – @iamstevenstrickland 📲 Follow On The Set Podcast: YouTube – @onthesetpodcast Instagram – @onthesetpodcast 👕 Sponsor: 🎬 On The Set Apparel 👉 https://www.onthesetapparel.com/ [https://www.onthesetapparel.com/] 🎟 Use Code: OTSP20 at checkout! Instagram – @onthesetapparel

Gabrielle Mendoza: Women in Media, Cosplay & Crushing It in Creativity

In this episode of On The Set Podcast, host Steven Strickland sits down with the dynamic Gabrielle Mendoza, a multimedia powerhouse and 2017 Rutgers-Newark alum. Broadcasting from the legendary Ironbound Film and Television Studio in Newark, NJ, this conversation dives deep into the creative world of digital storytelling, cosplay culture, and what it takes to thrive in today’s evolving media landscape. From working behind the scenes at BBC America and Sundance TV to running her own anime comic shop, Peach Manga 🍑📚, Gabby opens up about her journey, challenges as a woman in the industry, her love for cosplay, and how she uses creativity as a force for community and self-expression. We explore: * 🚀 Her leap from journalism to editing and design * 🎭 The intersection of cosplay and creativity * 💡 How AI is shifting the post-production world * 🛡️ The power of creating safe spaces on set * 🎶 The soundtrack that scores her life * 💼 Tips for creatives building their brand and business Whether you're an aspiring editor, nerd culture lover, or looking for inspiration from a creator who does it all — this episode delivers the gems!

Kenneth Gifford: From Indie Films to Hollywood – A Journey of Perseverance

In this inspiring episode of On The Set Podcast, host Steven Strickland sits down with Kenneth Gifford, a maverick in the film industry. As a director, producer, and CEO of multiple film ventures, Kenneth takes us on his journey from high school auditions to working on major films like Hancock and Cadillac Records. He reflects on the importance of indie films, mentoring the next generation, and contributing to the craft that shapes the film industry. Kenneth also discusses his role in founding the New Jersey Motion Picture Museum and his latest project, The Studio. Kenneth's story is one of perseverance, faith, and embracing the multifaceted nature of success. From his humble beginnings to his incredible rise in the industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights and behind-the-scenes stories that will inspire aspiring filmmakers and creatives alike.

Greg Cally: Breaking Barriers & Telling Untold Stories

In this episode of On The Set Podcast, host Steven Strickland sits down with acclaimed director, producer, and screenwriter Greg Cally for an in-depth conversation on the art of storytelling, creative ownership, and navigating the film industry. From his early beginnings as a poet to directing and producing projects for major networks like ESPN and HBO, Greg shares his journey of passion, perseverance, and purpose. Throughout the episode, Greg reflects on the impact of Michael K. Williams, the importance of authentic storytelling, and how he balances commercial demands while staying true to his creative vision. He breaks down his experiences working on projects like Black Market and Never Would've Made It, explores industry trends, and offers insights into the evolving landscape of filmmaking. Greg also delves into his upcoming ventures, including his entry into the action film genre, and provides practical advice for aspiring filmmakers looking to break into the industry. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an emerging creative, this episode is packed with valuable insights, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes gems that you won’t want to miss.

Rock Davis: Your Blueprint to Directorial Success

In the premiere episode of On the Set Podcast, host Steven Strickland sits down with acclaimed filmmaker Rock Davis for an unfiltered deep dive into the art and business of filmmaking. With over 20 years of experience, Rock shares the challenges and triumphs of being a director in today’s evolving industry, from navigating the Instagram era to crafting cinematic stories that resonate. Discover behind-the-scenes insights on directing iconic music videos for artists like Nas and Mary J. Blige, his inspirations rooted in family, and his passion for local film initiatives. In this conversation, Rock breaks down the filmmaking process—from concept to screen—highlighting the importance of lighting, pre-production, and collaboration. He also teases his upcoming documentary on co-parenting and provides invaluable advice for aspiring filmmakers looking to stay relevant in the digital age. Whether you're an industry veteran or a curious film enthusiast, this episode delivers wisdom, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look into cinematic storytelling.