The DiME Podcast

Joe Kwaczala | Season 2 Episode 5

This week on The Dime podcast, student host Shannon Lipscomb welcomes Mason Kacma, a current Film, Television, and Theatre (FTT) major at the University of Notre Dame. Together, they sit down with comedian and alum Joe Kwaczala. Joe shares his unique journey taking time off from Notre Dame to pursue comedy, first by studying for a semester in Chicago, then eventually heading out to California, where his career truly took off. He emphasizes an important lesson: don’t wait around for someone to hand you an opportunity—take it. Joe also talks about how thriving in comedy isn’t limited to just New York or L.A.—there are creative communities and chances to grow everywhere.

Anne Thompson | Season 2 Episode 4

This week on The DiME Podcast, student host Zora Rodgers welcomes Lillian Ashworth, a current student at the University of Notre Dame majoring in Film, Television, and Theater (FTT). Together, they sit down with Anne Thompson, NBC News’ Chief Environmental Affairs Correspondent. Thompson discusses her journey as a journalist, the lessons she learned from her time at WNDU, and the inspiration behind the Hesburgh Women of Impact initiative, which highlights women leaders at Notre Dame. In this episode, Thompson shares her insights on the importance of curiosity, effective storytelling, and the art of writing. She emphasizes that no matter how small you start, great accomplishments are always within reach, and she delves into what makes a compelling story and how to execute it with precision and purpose.

Greg Kohs | Season 2 Episode 3

This week on The DiME Podcast, student host Zora Rodgers welcomes Ben Bailey, a current student at the University of Notre Dame majoring in Film, Television, and Theater (FTT), Together, they sit down with ten-time Emmy®-winning filmmaker and Notre Dame alumnus Greg Kohs. Known for his passion for grounded, emotional, and human storytelling, Kohs applies this talent across all his branded content, commercials, and film projects. In this episode, Kohs discusses the purpose behind his documentaries, highlighting how his work captures the endurance and spirit of the people he documents. He shares how these stories fuel his own journey, offering inspiration and perspective while showcasing the resilience and humanity of his subjects.

Michael Swanson | Season 2 Episode 2

This week on The DiME Podcast, student host Zora Rodgers welcomes Thomas Larson, a current senior at the University of Notre Dame majoring in Film, Television, and Theater (FTT). Together, they sit down with accomplished Notre Dame alumnus and film producer Michael Swanson. Swanson, known for producing acclaimed movies such as Love Under New Management: The Miki Howard Story and All About Us, recently released his latest film, Albany Road, a moving story described as "a story this world needs now." In this engaging conversation, Swanson shares how his time at Notre Dame shaped his career and how his faith inspired him to create his production company, FaithFilmWorks, rooted in values drawn from the Bible. Together, they discuss his journey in the film industry, his reflections on maintaining a balance between work and life, and his steadfast commitment to his beliefs.

Kelly Cooney Cilella | Season 2 Episode 1

This week on The DiME Podcast, student host Zora Rodgers welcomes Robin Sanders, a current junior at Notre Dame majoring in Film, Television, and Theater (FTT). Together, they sit down with Kelly Cooney Cilella, a Notre Dame alumna and accomplished producer at DreamWorks Animation.Known for her work on beloved films like Shrek, Puss in Boots, Kung Fu Panda, Trolls, and many more, Kelly shares insights from her remarkable career as a producer at DreamWorks. Together, they explore Kelly's journey from her days at Notre Dame to her success in the animation industry. Dive into this inspiring episode to hear Kelly reflect on the magic behind creating animated classics and offer advice to aspiring creators.