From Radio Sales to Indie Film Deals: The Leap and Lessons with Steven Esparza

From Radio Sales to Indie Film Deals: The Leap and Lessons with Steven Esparza

Filmmaker Steven Esparza joins Leila Adnani and Kendal Macumber on Behind The Success to reveal how he left a 15-year radio sales career and built Echohouse Films into a sustainable indie operation. He breaks down the true mechanics of film distribution, from landing international deals to why a 4K export led to a $50,000 Direct TV license and steady “mailbox money.” Steven contrasts those wins with long payout timelines on certain platforms, shares how he protected rate integrity by rejecting a lowball airline offer, and opens up about crafting Girl on Wave, Pistoleros, and the new Life on Waves—capturing a world-record windsurfing moment along the way. He also digs into the craft: shooting at Jaws in Maui, working with in-water cinematography, editing discipline, and the gear that makes it possible. What You'll Learn: * How a 15-year radio veteran relaunched as a full-time filmmaker and recouped revenue streams * The step-by-step of getting distribution and why deliverables (and 4K) matter * A practical comparison of TV/network licenses vs. certain streamer payout timelines * The importance of saying no to bad deals to preserve brand and pricing integrity * The story and business journey behind Girl on Wave, Pistoleros, and Life on Waves * How big-wave and in-water cinematography at Jaws is captured safely and cinematically * Editing organization, collaboration, and AI upscaling tactics for clean 4K delivery Learn more and follow updates at Echohousefilms.com [http://www.Echohousefilms.com] and @echohousefilms [https://www.instagram.com/echohousefilms/]. Don’t miss the upcoming premieres and the Life on Waves trailer. #BehindTheSuccess #IndieFilmmaking #DocumentaryFilm #SurfDocumentary #StevenEsparza Steven B. Esparza is a filmmaker, director, cinematographer, and producer known for bringing visually driven stories to life through his work with EchoHouse Films. Steven has built a reputation for creating cinematic projects that blend compelling storytelling with striking visuals, with credits including the feature film Pistoleros: Death, Drugs and Rock N' Roll and projects such as Girl on Wave and Life on Waves. His films have gone on to receive worldwide distribution through The Orchard [https://www.theorchard.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] and 1091 Pictures, helping bring his work to global audiences across multiple platforms. Through his production company and creative platforms, he continues to develop film and media projects that push creative boundaries and connect audiences through authentic storytelling.  https://www.echohousefilms.com/ [https://www.echohousefilms.com/] https://www.instagram.com/echohousefilms/ [https://www.instagram.com/echohousefilms/] https://x.com/echohousefilms [https://x.com/echohousefilms] https://www.facebook.com/EchoHouseFilms/ [https://www.facebook.com/EchoHouseFilms/] https://vimeo.com/echohousefilms [https://vimeo.com/echohousefilms] What does it really take to make dreams a reality? In each episode, we go beyond the trophies, titles, and accolades, uncovering the real stories of leaders, athletes, and visionaries who turned their dreams into success. From their wins to their wounds, we dive deep into what truly fuels their relentless drive. At PS Creative, we specialize in delivering high-quality, personalized creative services designed to amplify your brand's story and engage your audience. From podcast production and video marketing to digital branding, we bring your vision to life with impact. PS Studios is our full-service podcast studio, offering expert recording, post-production, and distribution services. We handle every detail, so you can focus on creating incredible content. Whether you're just starting or looking to elevate your podcast, we ensure it stands out in the digital landscape. Discover more at PSCreative.co and PSStudios.co. For more behind-the-scenes stories and to stay updated with new episodes, subscribe to Behind The Success and hit the notification bell! 🔔 #BehindTheSuccess #Podcast #Leaders #Visionaries #DreamBig #PSCreative #PSStudios #SuccessJourney #Inspiration #PodcastProduction This show is proudly produced at PS Studios — learn more https://www.psstudios.co [https://www.psstudios.co/]

BTS with Team PS - Get To Know Our AZ Team

Step inside the studio with the Arizona production team at PS Studios for a rare look at the people who build authority-building content for top entrepreneurs. In this episode, hosts Leila Adnani and Kendal Macumber sit down with their producers and editors to discuss the realities of life in a high-stakes creative environment. From managing million-dollar client expectations to navigating the technical hurdles of content distribution, the team shares what it really takes to succeed behind the lens. You will get a glimpse into the diverse backgrounds of these creative professionals and the unique team culture that keeps them motivated. This conversation explores the intersection of technology, artistry, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in media production. What You'll Learn:  * How professional media teams manage tight deadlines and complex client workflows;  * The surprising backgrounds of top-tier producers and editors * Why social skills are just as important as technical skills in production * The role of AI and modern technology in scaling creative content * How a small, dedicated team maintains high quality standards for luxury brands.  Successful media happens when craftsmanship meets character—join us for an inside look at how we create excellence every day. #MediaProduction #BehindTheScenes #CreativeTeam #ContentScaling #ScottsdaleCreative What does it really take to make dreams a reality? In each episode, we go beyond the trophies, titles, and accolades, uncovering the real stories of leaders, athletes, and visionaries who turned their dreams into success. From their wins to their wounds, we dive deep into what truly fuels their relentless drive. At PS Creative, we specialize in delivering high-quality, personalized creative services designed to amplify your brand's story and engage your audience. From podcast production and video marketing to digital branding, we bring your vision to life with impact. PS Studios is our full-service podcast studio, offering expert recording, post-production, and distribution services. We handle every detail, so you can focus on creating incredible content. Whether you're just starting or looking to elevate your podcast, we ensure it stands out in the digital landscape. Discover more at PSCreative.co and PSStudios.co. For more behind-the-scenes stories and to stay updated with new episodes, subscribe to Behind The Success and hit the notification bell! 🔔 #BehindTheSuccess #Podcast #Leaders #Visionaries #DreamBig #PSCreative #PSStudios #SuccessJourney #Inspiration #PodcastProduction This show is proudly produced at PS Studios — learn more https://www.psstudios.co [https://www.psstudios.co/]

Golfing For Good to End Prostate Cancer with Chris Hyslop

How does a late-night idea become a must-play charity golf tradition? Behind The Success hosts Leila Adnani and Kendal Macumber sit down with Chris Hyslop to share the fifth year of the Drive Fore a Cure tournament in Phoenix—born from honoring his father, championing Movember, and building a year-round grassroots engine. Discover the unique on-course activations, the new venue at the Biltmore Golf Club, and the partnership with the Prostate Cancer Foundation. With a 144-golfer goal, registration is open, sponsors are welcome, and volunteers make the day unforgettable. And yes—there’s a mustache contest. What You'll Learn: * Why a 50th-birthday idea turned into a purpose-driven tournament centered on prostate cancer awareness and Movember * - The year-round playbook for growth: clubhouse pitching, leveraging everyday relationships, and building sponsor loyalty * The on-course magic: DJ Ajaxx at sunrise, golf ball air cannons, C2 Tactical air pistols, long drive champion Andrew Eigner * How a partnership with the Prostate Cancer Foundation (founded in 1993; raised a billion dollars toward research through 2,600+ grants) expands local reach via clinicians * Why the Biltmore Golf Club’s renovated clubhouse and 400-person ballroom elevate the experience on Friday October 30th in Phoenix * The path to 144 golfers, how to get involved as a sponsor or volunteer, and why a portion of every foursome is tax-deductible through the 501(c)(3) Ready to tee it up for impact? Register, sponsor, or volunteer—http://www.driveforeacure.com 🏌️ 5th Annual Hyslop Drive fore A Cure Charity Golf Tournament 📅 Date: Friday, October 30, 2026 ⏰ Time: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Shotgun Start) 📍 Location: Arizona Biltmore Golf Club – Phoenix, Arizona 🌐 Register / Learn More: DriveForeACure.com [https://www.driveforeacure.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Join us for a day of golf, community, and purpose as we raise awareness and funds for prostate cancer while supporting men’s health. Chris Hyslop is the Founder and Director of Hyslop Drive Fore A Cure Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness and funding research for prostate cancer. Inspired by the loss of his father in 1999, Chris launched the organization’s annual charity golf tournament in 2022, turning personal loss into a mission to make a lasting impact in the fight against prostate cancer. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585898387749 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585898387749] https://www.driveforeacure.com/ [https://www.driveforeacure.com/] https://www.instagram.com/driveforeacure [https://www.instagram.com/driveforeacure] https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-hyslop-03036230/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-hyslop-03036230/] What does it really take to make dreams a reality? In each episode, we go beyond the trophies, titles, and accolades, uncovering the real stories of leaders, athletes, and visionaries who turned their dreams into success. From their wins to their wounds, we dive deep into what truly fuels their relentless drive. At PS Creative, we specialize in delivering high-quality, personalized creative services designed to amplify your brand's story and engage your audience. From podcast production and video marketing to digital branding, we bring your vision to life with impact. PS Studios is our full-service podcast studio, offering expert recording, post-production, and distribution services. We handle every detail, so you can focus on creating incredible content. Whether you're just starting or looking to elevate your podcast, we ensure it stands out in the digital landscape. Discover more at PSCreative.co and PSStudios.co. For more behind-the-scenes stories and to stay updated with new episodes, subscribe to Behind The Success and hit the notification bell! 🔔 #BehindTheSuccess #Podcast #Leaders #Visionaries #DreamBig #PSCreative #PSStudios #SuccessJourney #Inspiration #PodcastProduction This show is proudly produced at PS Studios — learn more https://www.psstudios.co [https://www.psstudios.co/]

Behind The Scenes Horror Stories

Dive deep into the shocking, hilarious, and often unbelievable world of business ownership with Leila and Kendal in this Behind The Success: Business Horror Stories. This episode pulls back the curtain on the behind-the-scenes chaos, from hiring nightmares and costly mistakes to outlandish client encounters and full-blown PR crises. Discover the raw truths of entrepreneurship, learning from real-world examples of integrity, resilience, and the sheer absurdity some business owners face. Prepare for an unfiltered look at what it truly takes to survive and thrive when things go spectacularly wrong. What You'll Learn: * The unexpected costs and lessons from hiring mistakes, even with friends. * How to navigate difficult client relationships and protect your business from fraud. * Strategies for handling negative online reviews and managing public perception. * The importance of clear contracts and communication in client agreements. * Real-life examples of business challenges, from financial discrepancies to bizarre personal hygiene issues. Join Leila & Kendal for a wild ride through their most memorable business horror stories that prove truth is stranger than fiction. #BusinessHorrorStories #EntrepreneurLife #PodcastFails #ClientNightmares #SmallBizReality What does it really take to make dreams a reality? In each episode, we go beyond the trophies, titles, and accolades, uncovering the real stories of leaders, athletes, and visionaries who turned their dreams into success. From their wins to their wounds, we dive deep into what truly fuels their relentless drive. At PS Creative, we specialize in delivering high-quality, personalized creative services designed to amplify your brand's story and engage your audience. From podcast production and video marketing to digital branding, we bring your vision to life with impact. PS Studios is our full-service podcast studio, offering expert recording, post-production, and distribution services. We handle every detail, so you can focus on creating incredible content. Whether you're just starting or looking to elevate your podcast, we ensure it stands out in the digital landscape. Discover more at PSCreative.co and PSStudios.co. For more behind-the-scenes stories and to stay updated with new episodes, subscribe to Behind The Success and hit the notification bell! 🔔 #BehindTheSuccess #Podcast #Leaders #Visionaries #DreamBig #PSCreative #PSStudios #SuccessJourney #Inspiration #PodcastProduction This show is proudly produced at PS Studios — learn more https://www.psstudios.co [https://www.psstudios.co/]

The Power of Relationships: How to Build Your Network (and Net Worth) with David Guttman

Join us for an inspiring conversation with entrepreneur and longevity advocate David Guttman. In this episode, David shares his incredible journey, starting with a life-altering misdiagnosis at age 24 that profoundly shaped his perspective on life, leadership, and success. He dives into his unique business philosophy, emphasizing servant leadership, the importance of humility and curiosity, and how these principles have guided his career from a search fund to his latest venture in the longevity space with Titan Arc. Discover his disciplined approach to health, wellness, and personal growth, alongside his passion for making a positive impact. What You'll Learn: * The profound impact of a near-death experience on life's trajectory. * David Guttman's philosophy of servant leadership and why he prioritizes people over profit. * Insights into the longevity industry and personalized wellness strategies. * Practical tips for incorporating discipline and optimization into your daily routine. * The value of strong relationships and mentorship in business and life. * How AI is transforming industries and creative processes. * David's inspiring new initiative, "30 Acts of Kindness," aimed at fostering a nicer world. Learn how to create a life of purpose, health, and fulfillment by redefining your definition of success. #DavidGuttman #Longevity #Entrepreneurship #ServantLeadership #PodcastInsights David Guttman is a serial entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience, several 8- and 9-figure business exits, and a passion for helping others create lives of financial independence, meaning, and balance. https://www.instagram.com/p/DWzn1lYj1dG/ [https://www.instagram.com/p/DWzn1lYj1dG/] https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-business-of-wellness/id1818631393 [https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-business-of-wellness/id1818631393] https://www.youtube.com/@RealDaveGuttman [https://www.youtube.com/@RealDaveGuttman] https://www.guttmanmedia.com/ [https://www.guttmanmedia.com/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/drguttman/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/drguttman/] https://www.facebook.com/drguttman [https://www.facebook.com/drguttman] https://x.com/realdaveguttman [https://x.com/realdaveguttman] What does it really take to make dreams a reality? In each episode, we go beyond the trophies, titles, and accolades, uncovering the real stories of leaders, athletes, and visionaries who turned their dreams into success. From their wins to their wounds, we dive deep into what truly fuels their relentless drive. At PS Creative, we specialize in delivering high-quality, personalized creative services designed to amplify your brand's story and engage your audience. From podcast production and video marketing to digital branding, we bring your vision to life with impact. PS Studios is our full-service podcast studio, offering expert recording, post-production, and distribution services. We handle every detail, so you can focus on creating incredible content. Whether you're just starting or looking to elevate your podcast, we ensure it stands out in the digital landscape. Discover more at PSCreative.co and PSStudios.co. For more behind-the-scenes stories and to stay updated with new episodes, subscribe to Behind The Success and hit the notification bell! 🔔 #BehindTheSuccess #Podcast #Leaders #Visionaries #DreamBig #PSCreative #PSStudios #SuccessJourney #Inspiration #PodcastProduction This show is proudly produced at PS Studios — learn more https://www.psstudios.co [https://www.psstudios.co/]