50% Business, 50% Creative. Hosted by 50/50 founder Luke Steinfeld, and 50/50 Head of Talent Wyatt Sarkisian, the podcast builds on the mission of the platform: to nurture and empower the next generation of industry talent. Join us every tuesday as we sit down with voices from all corners of the entertainment industry, offering educational insight into process, production, and execution.
This week, we're joined by writer/director Parker Fenady (2x 50/50 Alum). Parker reflects on growing up around the film industry while still forging her own creative identity, the pivotal feedback from a professor that challenged her to look beyond technical skill, and how studying acting in London helped shape not only her craft, but her perspective as a storyteller. Together, we explore her mission to tell stories about women coming of age through one another, and why understanding your artistic purpose is just as important as mastering the craft itself. We also dive into Parker's acclaimed short I Didn't Like You , unpacking its grassroots success, why she chose to promote the film with a zine instead of a traditional trailer, and how the growing appetite for fresh queer stories helped audiences discover the film. The conversation then turns personal as we discuss the realities of balancing relationships with a creative career, navigating love as an artist, and finding harmony between the people you care about and the work you're passionate about. I DIDN'T LIKE YOU (50/50 COMEDY 2026) ZINE/WEBSITE - I DIDN'T LIKE YOU Gen Z Creatives List - Parker F. SEANCE Short Film (early 50/50 Selection) Submit Your Horror Short!
Fear has always fascinated Nolan Lampson. This week on the 50/50 Podcast, Nolan joins us to unpack his lifelong love of horror—from sneaking scary movies while his parents were away to discovering why we're so drawn to the genre's darkest corners. We dive into the anatomy of a great scare, why horror needs moments of levity to truly work, and Nolan's belief that the genre is ultimately about catharsis—scratching a primal itch that no other type of storytelling can. Nolan goes on to share how college screenwriting courses gave him both a creative community and the discipline that's carried him through his professional career. We talk about building momentum through ambitious internships, knowing when to bet on yourself and call in your network, and why lasting relationships are often the key to the next opportunity. Plus, Nolan reveals the film he believes is the best horror movie released since Hereditary . Nolan's Website Nolan's Letterboxd Nolan's Instagram Submit Your Horror Short
This week, actor/comedian Johnny Marx returns to the pod one year after his first appearance, and a lot has changed. We catch up on the first anniversary of LINDA, the monthly comedy show he co-hosts with Bebe Katsenes, and how building the show has helped him find a true community within comedy. Johnny reflects on meeting some of his comedy heroes through the experience and shares how stand-up has become one of the most valuable tools in shaping his identity as an actor—helping audiences, casting directors, and producers understand exactly who he is as a performer. We also dive into Johnny's recent success on social media after a string of viral Instagram reels. He breaks down his authentic approach to creating content, why finding the right audience matters more than chasing trends, and the mindset that's helped him grow an engaged following - the right audience. LINDA Johnny Insta SUBMIT: 50/50 Horror Fest
This week, we're joined by filmmaker, actor, and singer/songwriter Nathan Xia, who we got to know through his short FLAVOR OF THE MONTH, which was an Official Selection of our 50/50 Comedy Fest in May. Nathan kicks things off with a heartfelt, original song dedicated to the roommates he's spent years living with—a fitting tribute as the six friends, who first met at LMU, begin going their separate ways. Nathan reflects on how building a creative home with like-minded collaborators shaped his filmmaking, from discovering shared tastes and ambitions to finding a collaborative rhythm that has lasted well beyond college. He also dives into CHASING SUNDANCE, the feature he made alongside Jacob Staudenmaier amongst other longtime collaborators, sharing how a road trip, mutual trust, and a safe creative environment helped the team find their flow while making their first feature together. CHASING SUNDANCE - Indie Film made w/ Jacob Staudenmaier Nathan's Instagram Nathan's Short on 50/50 IG Nathan's Website Nathan's Music Submit Your Horror Short!
This week, it's a 50/50 re-release! We harken back to Episode 18 of the pod, where we welcomed our bud Alaman Diadhiou (actor/singer/dancer) on the pod. Just a couple days ago, Alaman wrapped a successful run of La Cage aux Folles at the NY City Center, where he starred opposite Wayne Brady and Billy Porter in the highly regarded musical. ANNE ON MY ARM (w/ Alaman, Wayne Brady, Rachel Webb) PLAYBILL REVIEW ALAMAN INSTA SUBMIT YOUR HORROR SHORT!
This week, we're joined by composer Nicolas Snyder, whose work can be heard in acclaimed animated series like SCAVENGERS REIGN and COMMON SIDE EFFECTS , both on HBO Max. Nicolas reflects on his path to composing—from playing in bands and studying narrative writing to discovering that his meticulous, trained approach to crafting sentences was secretly training him to become a songwriter. We also discuss his long-running creative partnership with creator/showrunner Joe Bennett, how their collaboration evolved organically over time, and why Nicolas rejects the idea of being a musical genius. Instead, he embraces imperfection as a creative strength, arguing that uniqueness and humanity matter far more than technical perfection. Plus, we dive into his composing process, from working with samples and juggling multiple projects to learning the art of delegation. Lastly, he shares valuable advice for filmmakers on how to communicate more effectively with composers. Common Side Effects (HBO) Common Side Effects INTRO SCAVENGERS REIGN (HBO) NICOLAS INSTA New Show - DEALIES Submit Your Horror Short!
This week, we're joined by writer/director, and 50/50 selectee Kate Saltel. From the formative experience of screening a student film at the Austin Film Festival while growing up in Texas to secretly creating a viral YouTube alter ego that forever changed her relationship with social media, Kate reflects on the unconventional path that's shaped her voice and her approach to connecting directly with audiences. She also explains why she's intentionally remained an assistant at a management company, and how working on the corporate side of the industry has been instrumental in her growth as a filmmaker. We also dive into Kate's strategy of writing shorts specifically for her favorite up-and-coming comedians and how that philosophy has helped her build lasting creative relationships. Finally, she breaks down the rollout for her 50/50-selected short HEADSHOT , revealing how an ambitious satirical marketing campaign has transformed the film into a genuine event, earning hundreds of thousands of views and demonstrating how filmmakers can create momentum around their work long after production wraps. HEADSHOT (Instagram) HEADSHOT (Youtube) THE LAST CHAPEL (Kate Saltel / Cam Gavinski short film) GREEN @ Elysian Vault (Monthly Show) SUBMIT TO 50/50 HORROR!
This week, we're joined by Variety TV reporter Ethan Shanfeld. From his early days studying journalism at Northwestern and freelancing for outlets like Nylon and Pitchfork to landing major cover stories at his current employer, Variety, Ethan breaks down what makes a great pitch email, how he prepares for interviews without over-preparing, and why every celebrity requires a completely different approach. We dive deep into his unforgettable SEVERANCE cover story, including the surreal experience of interviewing Ben Stiller and Adam Scott over a 4pm dinner at an Italian restaurant on Manhattan's West Side Highway—without quite knowing what he was walking into. Along the way, we discuss building trust with interview subjects, broaching the tough questions, and navigating the ever-present publicists in the room. Plus: stories from interviewing a silver-handed Benny Safdie, an incredibly candid Miley Cyrus, and the unique challenge of sitting down with Nintendo's notoriously guarded president through a translator. Welcome to the 50/50 fam, Ethan! Ethan Shanfeld - Variety Page Ethan Shanfeld - Twitter Subit your Horror Short!
Andrew Gerstenblatt and Arthur Goldbart of Silver & Gold Pictures are back on the Pod! The longtime roommates and creative collaborators join us to discuss their latest short film, The Extraordinaries , which recently screened at 50/50 Comedy AND won the Audience Award at NFFTY. We dive into the making of the short, from crafting its timeless aesthetic to maximizing the possibilities of a single-location shoot inside a treasure-filled antique store. Andrew and Arthur share how extensive preparation creates room for spontaneity on set, and why they're passionate about bringing back the kind of theatrical studio comedies that audiences can't stop quoting. Plus, we talk about what's next for the duo as they gear up to make the leap to their debut feature. SILVER & GOLD PICTURES ANDREW INSTA ARTHUR INSTA SUBMIT YOUR SHORT TO 50/50 HORROR
This week, we speak with Mahalia Latortue-Pridgett, director's assistant on ABBOTT ELEMENTARY. She breaks down her journey from interning at Viola Davis’s production company in its early days to now carving out her own path as a writer in television. She talks about starting her career in Atlanta, realizing she needed to make the leap to Los Angeles, and balancing a day job at a management company while quietly dedicating an hour every day to writing. Using the relationships and industry knowledge she gained in talent representation, Mahalia eventually signed a shopping agreement and sold her script — all before many people around her even knew what she was building. We also get into the realities of surviving the entertainment industry, and how hardship and rejection can ultimately sharpen your voice as a writer. Mahalia opens up about working with Randall Einhorn on Abbott Elementary, the value of mentorship, and why strong characters and clear comedic engines are the foundation of great TV writing. Plus, we discuss representation, collaboration, and what it looks like to build a creative partnership with a manager who truly understands your voice. MAHALIA INSTAGRAM SUBMIT TO 50/50 HORROR!
This week , we sit down with Janie Kahan to trace her path through the animation industry — from learning the studio pipeline at DreamWorks on TROLLS WORLD TOUR and CROODS 2, to Nickelodeon’s PLANKTON: THE MOVIE, and eventually Netflix Animation, where she found a creative home working on Charlie Kaufman’s ORION AND THE DARK. Along the way, Janie reflects on gravitating toward more emotionally mature storytelling and the kinds of projects that align with her artistic instincts. The conversation also dives into the larger purpose Janie brings to every workplace: advocacy, allyship, and creating more inclusive environments for disabled creatives in the industry. We discuss practical ways productions can better support disabled team members day-to-day, the importance of communication and adaptability, and how meaningful social change can happen through both art and workplace culture. DISABILITY FILM CHALLENGE THE MIRACLE PROJECT DEAF WEST THEATRE SUBMIT TO 50/50 HORROR!
This week, we sit down with 50/50 FESTIVAL WINNER Myles Hodder! We dive into his upbringing in Newfoundland — “straight off the rock” — to becoming an award-winning comedy director. A Second City-trained performer who originally started as an actor, Myles breaks down how a small addition to his commercial directing reel unexpectedly became the project that won him 50/50 Comedy, and why simplicity almost always wins in comedy. We also get into the mechanics of directing funny material — from balancing improv with preparation on set to the importance of timing, rhythm, and why some of the best comedy lives in close-ups. Plus, Myles shares his approach to navigating the wave of industry meetings that followed the festival, including how to take the pressure off generals and build long lasting relationships. MYLES WEBSITE THREE COLORS SCREENING: BUY YOUR TIX NOW! SUBMIT TO 50/50 HORROR FEST RACHEL - John Early/Kate Berlant/Andrew DeYoung
This week, we sit down with writer and animator Anca Vlasan -- we start by discussing how her Romanian heritage shaped her love of storytelling, particularly her pull toward “fish out of water” narratives. She reflects on her debut short Lizard Queen, which became her calling card and helped her break into Adult Swim, where she also formed a close creative partnership with Mike Lazzo. We also get into how Anca approaches animation from a writer’s perspective, with a strong emphasis on structure, and how working on Adult Swim’s bumps became an unexpected comedy bootcamp. She talks about recently teaching herself to animate as a step toward becoming a showrunner, and why taking control of the full process has been so creatively important to her. SUBMIT TO 50/50 HORROR FESTIVAL! ANCA'S WEBSITE COSMIC ZOOM (Anca's first animated short!) KOALA MAN YOLO Best Adult Swim BUMPS!
This week, we sit down with writer and comedian Grace Guy to unpack the complicated, often unspoken dynamics of assistant culture in the entertainment industry. Drawing from her own experience as a former assistant, Grace shares the inspiration behind her deeply personal play Deckhand —a sharp, emotionally charged story about a boss and assistant trapped together on a boat. We dive into the love/hate tension that defines so many of these relationships, and the uncomfortable truth that while assistants are often told their proximity to power will lead to opportunity, that promise rarely materializes. Grace also opens up about recognizing when it’s time to leave a job, the importance of self-care and building a real support system, and the danger of tying your dreams to someone else’s success. The conversation then shifts to her creative process—how she approaches writing “forced proximity” stories, and the journey of developing Deckhand , including testing it in front of audiences ahead of its Edinburgh run. TIX FOR 50/50 COMEDY FESTIVAL MAY 3RD!! Grace's Insta (see upcoming show dates & more!) DECKHAND SHOW Books Mentioned: Artist's Way , Rick Rubin's Book , Anne Lamont ( Bird by Bird , Good Writing )
This week, Chloë Kerwin reflects on church basements, circuses, ghost-hunting, and oh yeah... acting! Chloë grew up dreaming of Broadway, later finding herself drawn to films like True Grit and Moonrise Kingdom . After high school, she brought that curiosity to Emerson , where she collaborated with filmmakers like her cousin (previous podcast guest) Wylie Anderson, and began building the kind of reel that would eventually open doors. We get into the realities of auditioning (including Little Women with Greta Gerwig ), navigating relationships with reps, and her intentional pivot toward comedy—a space she’s found both more challenging and more creatively rewarding. Chloë shares how she’s shaped her artistic voice through on-set experience on shows like MARVELOUS MRS. MAISEL , creative outlets that sustain her passion, and why patience and stability remain central to building a fulfilling career in the industry. 50/50 COMEDY TICKETS MAY 3RD! CHLOË IMDB CHLOË WEBSITE
This week, we sit down with director/producer Talia Light Rake to talk about what it really means to self-empower as an artist. Talia dives into redefining her creative identity, how aligning who you are with what you make can unlock new momentum, and the unexpected ways social media gave her work legitimacy and reach. We also get into her algorithm-driven networking events—bringing creatives together across cities—and the recent success of her indie pilot Too Romantic . TICKETS for 50/50 FILM FESTIVAL (MAY 3rd) TOO ROMANTIC Pilot (FESTIVAL DATES ETC) HEAVY SHOVEL PRODUCTIONS TALIA'S INSTA
This week, we’re joined by Allie Kahan, producer at Headgum, who carved out her own lane into entertainment by doing something deceptively simple—paying close attention. After immersing herself in podcasts about the industry, Allie found an authentic entry point that led her to Artists First, where she began building both her career and her creative voice in tandem. We talk through her transition to Headgum, including the nuanced balance of being a genuine fan of the company while stepping into a professional role. From there, the conversation expands into her work today—navigating high-profile talent, what actually goes into podcast acquisitions, and the evolving process of developing shows in-house. It’s a candid look at a modern producing career, and how staying curious can quietly open doors. HEADGUM Podcasts! SUBMIT TO 50/50 FESTIVAL! 'Making It' with Ricky Lindhome (Podcast Archive)
This week, we sit down with Jared Corwin, Co-Executive Director of Silverlake Shorts. After feeling stuck following his first feature, Jared found renewed purpose by helping launch a monthly, sold-out, non-profit film festival alongside collaborator Benjamin Sharpe. What started as a grassroots community event has grown into a meaningful creative engine—one that’s not only spotlighting emerging filmmakers, but actively shaping Jared’s own career as a writer and animator. We dive into the evolution of the festival, from screening films to funding them through their fellowship program, and what kinds of projects they’re looking to support. Jared also shares insights on expanding beyond Los Angeles, including a recent festival in Atlanta, and how the organization is thinking about local audiences as well as potential collaboration with the broader studio system. The conversation widens into the state of the LA film scene, the cultural value of short films, and Jared’s mission to elevate shorts to the same artistic stature as features—all while helping bring filmmaking energy back to Los Angeles in a major way. SILVER LAKE SHORTS Website SILVER LAKE SHORTS Instagram SUBMIT TO 50/50 COMEDY FESTIVAL
This week, we’re joined by John Li (Development at Amazon TV) where we dive deep into how careers in entertainment really take shape. From being the guy who’s always grabbing drinks to mastering the art of authentic networking, John shares how genuine relationships—not transactional ones—have driven his path. He reflects on landing at USC just as the industry was being flipped upside down, and why adaptability, curiosity, and getting specific about what you actually want are key to finding your footing. We also dive into why being an assistant might be one of the most fun—and valuable—jobs in Hollywood, offering unmatched exposure early on, and how to reach the point where people rely on you so much your mistakes are actually felt. John opens up about what working at an agency taught him (including the reality that everyone’s “faking it” to some extent), how his taste has evolved over time, and why he’s focused on making impactful, high-quality content that reaches the largest possible audience. JOHN LI LINKEDIN SUBMIT TO 50/50 COMEDY HERE!
This week, we sit down with actor/comedian Natalie Ortega to talk about carving out your own lane in an industry that rarely hands you one. Natalie shares how she found her niche in musical comedy (and why it’s not just because the bar is low), her complicated relationship with stand-up, and why she believes actors shouldn’t sit around waiting for the next audition. We get into her time performing in Wicked on Broadway — including the unspoken rules of the Broadway social scene — and what she learned on set alongside Brett Goldstein and J.Lo, where stand-up unexpectedly became her greatest asset. Natalie also opens up about her evolving relationship with agents and managers, and how taking initiative in your own career changes everything: do more for yourself, and your reps will too. Plus, we dive into her creative partnership with Cam Gavinski on PARTNERS , what’s next for the project, and some exciting TV development news on the horizon. NATALIE'S INSTA (Watch PARTNERS HERE TOO!) Submit Your Comedy Short
