Introducing the VFS Storyteller's Studio Podcast
Every week, notable figures from entertainment, media, and the arts join us in the studio to discuss how they perfected their craft and became leaders in their field. Whether you're an aspiring creative or simply want to be inspired, this podcast is for you.
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Featured episode
Gabrielle Carteris: 90210 to SAG-AFTRA President
Gabrielle sits down with host and soap opera super-fan Christopher Ian Bennett in the Storyteller’s Studio to discuss Deepfakes, equality in Hollywood, and running the most important union in entertainment.
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Highlights
Graham Qually: Changing the Game in Motion Capture
Graham talks us through the mindset needed to succeed in an industry defined by ever-evolving technology, how to break into the performance capture industry as a performer, and his plans to finally rig up a kangaroo in Beyond Capture Studios in 2020.
Omari Newton: From Black Panther to Dragon Prince
Omari is currently a City of Vancouver funded Artist-in-Residence with Urban Ink Productions. In this episode, Omari joins us in the studio to share how he found success as an actor, voice actor, and playwright.
Lino DiSalvo: From VFS to Disney, Frozen & Oscars
Lino tells the story of growing up in his family’s pizzeria in Long Island, moving to Vancouver to study animation at VFS, and graduating with a job at Disney at age 23. A must for animation lovers, Disney fans, and aspiring artists everywhere.
Frank Palmer: Finding Truth in Advertising
Frank offers insights from his 50-year career building and leading the advertising industry in Canada. He discusses what it was like in the "Mad Men" days and how today’s over-saturated market has dramatically altered consumer trust and the media landscape.
Susan Fox: How Casting Directors Find You
Susan discusses the evolution of the casting process and how talent gets matched to projects. An invaluable resource for all working actors and aspiring performers.
Tim Holloway: Why Esports is Here to Stay
Tim offers unique insights into the fascinating lives of professional players, the importance of storytelling to the evolution of the industry, and why Esports isn’t the sport of the future - it’s the sport of right now.
Graham Clark: How to Write Comedy
Graham shares deep insight into the craft of being funny. A must for comedy fans and anyone who’s aspired to write or perform stand-up.
P. Lynn Johnson: How to Direct a Great Sex Scene
P. Lynn is focused on ensuring the safety and security of actors and production crew during scenes involving nudity and simulated sex.
All Episodes
Aaron Gilman: VFS3D to Head of Animation @DNEG
Aaron recounts how spotting a VFS ad on a bus got him started towards a long and successful career in animation on films like Avatar, The Avengers, and The Hobbit. A career learner and generous insight dispenser, Aaron’s episode is a must for aspiring animators.
Erich Saide: How to Create Award-Winning Photos
Erich reflects on how a series of accidents spurred him on his creative journey, how his artistic process has evolved over the years, and offers tips for creating unforgettable images. A must for photography enthusiasts.
Matt Toner: Re-Inventing How Kids Play
We sat down with Matt to discuss where he finds inspiration for his inventions, being recognized by Time Magazine and Fast Company as one of the most innovative companies of 2019, and the future of socially responsible game development.
Ahsan Nanji: Creating the Future of Game Development
Ahsan takes us deep into the forefront of technology, design, and development at one of the world’s biggest studios. A must watch for aspiring game designers and technologists everywhere.
Riaz Meghji: How to Snag Your Dream Job
Riaz has hosted for brands such as Citytv’s Breakfast Television Vancouver, CTV News, TEDxVancouver, MTV Canada’s 969 and marquee events like the Toronto International Film Festival.
Prem Gill: Building BC’s Creative Economy
Prem discusses the state of the industry both globally and in BC (flourishing), and the worldwide rise in demand for content that makes right now such an exciting time to be a part of the creative economy.
Victor Lucas: Mastering the Art of the Interview
Victor sits down with Christopher Ian Bennett to discuss the evolution of video games, Stephen Colbert, and the importance of not faking it.
Cameron Herold: Storytelling for Entrepreneurs
In this episode, we unpack Cameron’s proven strategies for growing successful businesses in any industry. A must watch for entrepreneurs.
Steven Ogg: Grand Theft Actor Exploring the Craft
Steven discusses where he finds inspiration (hint: it’s not other actors), the highs and lows of his job, and his celebrated performances as the bad guy in some of entertainment’s biggest franchises.
Dan Payne: From Pro Volleyball to IMDB's 100 Club
Dan chronicles how he transitioned from professional volleyball to a different kind of stage. Travelling the world as an actor has given Dan a deep appreciation and love of performing, and he breaks down the approach to his craft that has allowed him to have an enduring career in both film and on television.
Sarah Edmondson: NXIVM and How I Escaped a Cult
Sarah takes us through the shocking story of how she became a high-ranking cult member, her escape, and the physical, mental, and emotional scars she still carries with her today.
Julie Vu: Transitioning on YouTube
Julie opens up on starring in movies, what her identity means to her, and why she invited the world to follow along on the intensely personal journey of her transition.