A Filmmaker’s Look Inside Sundance

Stopping the Cycle of Incarceration

DONATE [https://thelastmile.org/donate] 🔥 Join Crewvie & The Last Mile for a Game-Changing Live Talk! 🔥📅 Tuesday, May 20 ⏰ 12 PM PT / 3 PM ETSince the 1970s, the U.S. prison population has skyrocketed 700%, but change is happening. The Last Mile is proving that incarceration doesn’t have to be the end— it can be the beginning of something greater.Through cutting-edge technical training, incarcerated individuals become highly skilled professionals, ready to re-enter the workforce with motivation, expertise, and unstoppable drive. The results? ✔ Radically reduced recidivism ✔ TLM alumni thriving in careers ✔ A growing network of industry partners investing in real changeThis isn’t just education — it’s transformation. Backed by Corrections Departments, Government Agencies, and Corporations nationwide, The Last Mile is changing lives and proving what’s possible.🌟 Be part of the conversation. See how skills opportunity = real change.Visit https://thelastmile.org to learn more about The Last Mile.🚀 RSVP now & help shape the future. You won’t want to miss this. A conversation with The Last Mile’s Director and Associate Program Manager of Partnerships—championing education and tech training to empower justice-impacted individuals with personal and professional growth opportunities. 🚀 🔥 Join Crewvie & The Last Mile for a Game-Changing Live Talk! 🔥📅 Tuesday, May 20 ⏰ 12 PM PT / 3 PM ETSince the 1970s, the U.S. prison population has skyrocketed 700%, but change is happening. The Last Mile is proving that incarceration doesn’t have to be the end— it can be the beginning of something greater.Through cutting-edge technical training, incarcerated individuals become highly skilled professionals, ready to re-enter the workforce with motivation, expertise, and unstoppable drive. The results? ✔ Radically reduced recidivism ✔ TLM alumni thriving in careers ✔ A growing network of industry partners investing in real changeThis isn’t just education — it’s transformation. Backed by Corrections Departments, Government Agencies, and Corporations nationwide, The Last Mile is changing lives and proving what’s possible.🌟 Be part of the conversation. See how skills opportunity = real change.Visit https://thelastmile.org to learn more about The Last Mile.🚀 RSVP now & help shape the future. You won’t want to miss this. Chatmosa Session - Stopping the Cycle of Incarceration In the latest episode of Chatmosa, hosts Chad ZenMaster Zorro and Cody engaged in a compelling discussion with Caroline Shamiya and Shamiya Anderson, two dynamic members of the Last Mile (TLM) team. With their focus on reducing recidivism and improving reentry outcomes for formerly incarcerated individuals, the conversation highlighted the transformative power of education and community support within the criminal justice system. Key Insights: The Last Mile is dedicated to increasing access to education for incarcerated individuals, preparing them for successful integration back into their communities. Caroline Shamiya, the Director of Partnerships and Innovation, elaborated on how TLM’s programs focus on teaching technology skills, such as web development and audio-visual production, to empower individuals with the tools they need for meaningful employment. “We really don’t stop our work once people leave prison,” Caroline stated, Click to https://chatmosa.com/live/summary/P9DNF0BKU37Q3OTFBOFVCEID13345 [https://chatmosa.com/live/summary/P9DNF0BKU37Q3OTFBOFVCEID13345] to learn more about this episode and see the visuals being shared on the jumbotron.

From Lock-Up to Liberation

DONATE [https://homeboyindustries.org/donate/donate-online] 🔥 Breaking Cycles, Building Futures: A Live Talk with Homeboy Industries 🔥Since 1988, Homeboy Industries has grown into the largest gang intervention, rehab, and reentry program in the world, welcoming 10,000 people each year who are ready to transform their lives.CLICK HERE TO DONATEThrough healing, kinship, and job training, Homeboy provides free wraparound services and an 18-month flagship program that empowers over 450 individuals annually. With 12 social enterprises, clients gain real-world skills, reclaim their identities, and break the cycle of intergenerational trauma—building healthier lives for themselves, their families, and their communities.This isn’t just rehabilitation—it’s a movement for lasting change. With two-thirds of Homeboy’s senior staff being graduates of the program, the proof is in the transformation.🌟 Learn how opportunity, support, and resilience create real change.🚀 LIsten and be part of the movement. You won’t want to miss this. Join a conversation with representatives from Homeboy Industries, the nonprofit transforming lives through job training and support for formerly incarcerated and gang-involved individuals. 🔥 Breaking Cycles, Building Futures: A Live Talk with Homeboy Industries 🔥Since 1988, Homeboy Industries has grown into the largest gang intervention, rehab, and reentry program in the world, welcoming 10,000 people each year who are ready to transform their lives.CLICK HERE TO DONATEThrough healing, kinship, and job training, Homeboy provides free wraparound services and an 18-month flagship program that empowers over 450 individuals annually. With 12 social enterprises, clients gain real-world skills, reclaim their identities, and break the cycle of intergenerational trauma—building healthier lives for themselves, their families, and their communities.This isn’t just rehabilitation—it’s a movement for lasting change. With two-thirds of Homeboy’s senior staff being graduates of the program, the proof is in the transformation.🌟 Learn how opportunity, support, and resilience create real change.🚀 LIsten and be part of the movement. You won’t want to miss this. Chatmosa Session - From Lock-Up to Liberation In the latest Chatmosa session, “From Lock-Up to Liberation,” hosts Cody and Chad were joined by Melody and Alexa, co-managing directors of Homeboy Media, a fresh initiative within the broader Homeboy Industries framework. Established three decades ago, Homeboy Industries has evolved into the world’s largest gang rehabilitation and reentry program, serving as a beacon of hope for previously incarcerated individuals. This session explored the transformational work being done at Homeboy Media, highlighting the power of storytelling and artistic expression for those within the Homeboy community. A Call to Action: The conversation kicked off with an engaging introduction to the aims of Homeboy Media, which strives to empower individuals by telling their own stories rather than having them told by outsiders. As Alexa emphasized, “The stories of our constituents have long been commodified without proper recognition. It’s time for them to tell their own narratives and reap the rewards.” This shift not only aims to restore agency to individuals but also encourages the creation of a vibrant cr Click to https://chatmosa.com/live/summary/2KT0PCVP0I158DLI8MX8CEID13216 [https://chatmosa.com/live/summary/2KT0PCVP0I158DLI8MX8CEID13216] to learn more about this episode and see the visuals being shared on the jumbotron.

A Filmmaker’s Look Inside Sundance

Meet the artists: Special conversation with filmmakers Spencer Wardwell and Miss Dylan to discuss the Sundance experience with their new film, SWEET TALKING GUY Meet the artists: Chatmosa Session - A Filmmaker’s Look Inside Sundance In this illuminating Chatmosa Session titled "A Filmmaker’s Look Inside Sundance," hosts Cody and Chad welcomed sibling filmmakers Spencer and Dylan Wardell to discuss their journey crafting the short film *Sweet Talking Guy* and their recent experiences at the Sundance Film Festival. The conversation, rife with insight, candid anecdotes, and actionable advice, provided a window into the intricate world of independent filmmaking and festival navigation. The session kicked off with Spencer and Dylan sharing their backgrounds, which laid a perfect foundation for understanding their artistic dynamic. With Spencer’s filmmaking expertise, including a stint at AFI and creative roles in high-end commercial projects, coupled with Dylan's modeling background and recent forays into casting and directing, the duo brought a multifaceted approach to their collaboration. “We’ve always talked about wanting to collaborate together,” Dylan expressed, emphasizing their close-knit relationship as siblings and creative partners. As they delved into the conception of *Sweet Talking Guy*, they shared that the idea was born three years ago, echoing Spencer’s sentiment, “We knew pretty much the exact approach and tone,” from their initial brainstorming session. Their emphatic storytelling resonated through their short film, which intricately weaves monologues from male dates with non-verbal acting from Dylan. Key Takeaways: 1. Creative Collaboration: Spencer and Dylan's success stems from their willingness to collaborate openly and draw on each other's strengths. “Having each other to hold accountable is great,” Dylan noted, highlighting the importance of mutual support in filmmaking. 2. Festival Strategy: When discussing their Sundance journey, both expressed the importance of preparation and submission timing. They submitted their film on the final day of the deadline, underscoring the need to polish their work before submission. They also advised filmmakers to keep their short films concise, with Spencer sharing, “Ours clocks in at 4 minutes and 40 seconds… we wanted it to be exactly as long as it needed to be.” 3. Networking at Sundance: Their experience at Sundance highlighted the value of building connections. Following their film's premiere, they took numerous meetings while enjoying the festival atmosphere, which they described as both thrilling and overwhelming. They encouraged filmmakers to attend events and engage with peers to foster community. 4. Candidness About Costs: The realities of financial expenditure in filmmaking were addressed openly. They discussed the various expenses involved in both the production of their short and the costs incurred during the festival, emphasizing that budgeting is crucial for success. Spencer advised, “You have to accept that this is damn expensive, and you just dig deep into all of your savings to do this,” encapsulating the sacrifices necessary for pursuing passion projects. 5. Future Aspirations: As the session wound down, both filmmakers teased the potential for a feature based Click to https://chatmosa.com/live/summary/GS50WJUV5WQQBWFS0MS2CEID13167 [https://chatmosa.com/live/summary/GS50WJUV5WQQBWFS0MS2CEID13167] to learn more about this episode and see the visuals being shared on the jumbotron.

It Starts With A Concept (Artist)

Storyboard and concept artist, Doug Brode, details his illustrious career, working for films including Iron Man, Star Trek and Planet of the Apes, as well as discussing his new book! Storyboard and concept artist, Doug Brode, details his illustrious career, working for films including Iron Man, Star Trek and Planet of the Apes, as well as discussing his new book! Chatmosa Session - It Starts With A Concept (Artist) In this engaging session titled "It Starts With A Concept (Artist)," the hosts welcomed Doug Brody, a seasoned storyboard and concept artist, to discuss his dynamic career in the entertainment industry and his recent ventures into novel writing. The atmosphere was lively, filled with personal anecdotes and valuable insights about the intricacies of the creative process, both in visual arts and literature. Doug Brody, known for his work on iconic films such as *Star Trek*, *Planet of the Apes*, and *Iron Man,* shared how his journey began with a childhood passion for comic books, leading him to a formal education at Joe Kubert School and Columbia College in Chicago. A pivotal moment in his career came when he discovered the art of storyboarding while watching Francis Ford Coppola’s *Dracula*, stating, "I really noticed the art of it. I learned he'd also done some storyboards... and I didn't know what that was." This curiosity sparked a career that has spanned over two decades, where he explains, "Only 25% of storyboards has anything to do with drawing." Brody explained the duality of his work as both a storyboard artist, who translates scripts into visual formats, and a concept artist, where he designs props and settings. His approach to storyboarding focuses on conveying ideas rather than obsessing over the minutiae of drawing, guided by a “10-year-old rule” — that if a child can interpret the drawing, it’s effective. He emphasized the importance of understanding screen direction, camera angles, and the collaborative nature of filmmaking, stating, “You’re being paid for your perspective.” A significant takeaway from Brody's insights is the relationship between writing and visual storytelling. He articulated the challenge and necessity of adapting to different directorial styles, noting, "I've learned the nuances of filmmaking over the years," and illustrating this with his experience on set during productions, where he often had to adjust his storyboards on the fly. For instance, he mentioned the demanding timeline on *Men in Black International*, where he storyboarded scenes based purely on outlines, leading to an iterative process that contributed to budgetary constraints. As the conversation shifted towards Doug's recent novel, *Shelly*, a narrative about an android detective navigating human complexities, he reflected on the freedom of owning one’s intellectual property. Unlike screenwriting, which often leads to a loss of creative control post-sale, Doug expressed satisfaction in the direct engagement of readers and the positive reception of his work, noting the careful balance between art and marketing in today’s literary landscape. “For any artist who might hear this, the only barrier anymore is the marketing aspect…getting your work out there,” he advised. The session also touched on the challenges posed by emerging technologies like A Click to https://chatmosa.com/live/summary/7GU1MDBR1R0CMDUIIWYFCEID13158 [https://chatmosa.com/live/summary/7GU1MDBR1R0CMDUIIWYFCEID13158] to learn more about this episode and see the visuals being shared on the jumbotron.

Juggling Hollywood and Motherhood

A Conversation with Gabby Revilla Lugo: Writer, Actor, Producer, and Mother. Gabby Revilla Lugo is a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry, known for her work as a writer, actor, producer, and mother. Her journey is a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and the ability to balance multiple roles. In this conversation, we delve into her experiences, insights, and the wisdom she has gained along the way. A conversation with seasoned writer, actor, producer and mother Gabby Revilla Lugo A Conversation with Gabby Revilla Lugo: Writer, Actor, Producer, and Mother. Gabby Revilla Lugo is a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry, known for her work as a writer, actor, producer, and mother. Her journey is a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and the ability to balance multiple roles. In this conversation, we delve into her experiences, insights, and the wisdom she has gained along the way. Chatmosa Session - Juggling Hollywood and Motherhood In our latest Chatmosa Session, "Juggling Hollywood and Motherhood," hosts Cody and Marcy welcomed the dynamic and multifaceted Gabby Lugo, a talented director, writer, and producer who shares her experiences navigating the chaos of creative pursuits alongside the challenges of motherhood. The session unfolded a rich tapestry of insights, personal stories, and actionable takeaways for both aspiring filmmakers and parents juggling their careers. Key Takeaways: 1. Creative Paths and Resistance: Gabby discussed how her journey in the film industry, marked by relentless determination, led her to embrace directing. After being told her screenplay couldn't get made due to a lack of representation, she took it upon herself to challenge that norm. "I wanted to show them otherwise," she said, highlighting the importance of persistence and self-belief in creative endeavors. 2. Making Room for Compassion: Gabby shared poignant anecdotes from her parenting journey and how it has deepened her empathy as a director and artist. Her experiences with her children have not only transformed her perspective on storytelling but also helped her communicate effectively with diverse personalities on set. She recalled, "Having two children that are so different was really helpful. It taught me to be adaptable and patient." 3. Creating a Supportive Workplace: Discussing Hollywood's need for better support systems for working parents, Gabby emphasized the importance of open communication within teams. She noted that flexibility in schedules and fostering an environment where creativity can flourish yields better results. "If you can hire people that maybe don’t have a million credits but have done some work, I think we're all going to be a lot better for it," she articulated, reinforcing the idea that nurturing talent from diverse backgrounds leads to richer storytelling. 4. Fostering Inclusion in Storytelling: Gabby's work not only reflects her own experiences as a Latina and Jewish woman but also serves as a platform for marginalized voices. She recently released her short film "Illegally Brown," which cleverly tackles societal perceptions of undocumented individuals through humor and heart. “At the end of the day, what makes someone an American? These girls are just as Californian as anyone else,” she ex Click to https://chatmosa.com/live/summary/VOO5E14RIYQMENG7YT27CEID13130 [https://chatmosa.com/live/summary/VOO5E14RIYQMENG7YT27CEID13130] to learn more about this episode and see the visuals being shared on the jumbotron.