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Persistence of Vision: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Clint Till
Personal stories from creative professionals about their career experiences and the lessons they learned along the way. clinttill.substack.com
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- 3 weeks ago54 min
It might be time to take a break
OverviewThis month’s episode of the podcast features a remarkably candid and vulnerable conversation with writer, director, and cinematographer Michael Williams—a brilliant independent filmmaker whom I first met through our shared history with the Magnolia Film Festival.Michael has directed the indie features Oz Land and the supernatural horror film The Atoning, and he brings a beautifully raw perspective to what it actually takes to survive a lifelong career in the arts.In this episode, we step away from the usual glossy success stories to dissect the heavy physical and psychological realities of severe creative burnout. Michael opens up about the borderline traumatizing nature of grueling indie film sets, the exhausting friction of navigating moving studio targets, and his conscious decision to step away from writing and directing for a bit.Timestamps00:00 – Episode introduction, meeting through the Magnolia Film Festival, and the reality of the indie film hustle.01:36 – Reconnecting with the early Mississippi filmmaking roots that shaped his career trajectory.02:40 – The power of a mentor: How Pat Raspberry and the Tupelo Film Festival opened the first vital doors of opportunity.06:05 – Set connections over cutthroat metrics: Why sincere relationships matter more than raw talent in southern film markets.07:45 – Thrust into the fire: Surviving a chaotic first job as a college kid pulling focus on 17+ hour days.14:15 – Learning the delicate art of collaboration and expanding the creative boundaries of an initial script.18:00 – Communicating intention: Why directors should discuss deep character emotions and prop motivations rather than arbitrary choices.21:00 – Dynamic camera movement vs. stagnant staging: Finding narrative inspiration in Steven Spielberg's blocking styles.25:12 – The grueling timeline of The Atoning: Navigating intense creative friction and a rapid six-month production cycle.28:51 – Confronting the fight-or-flight nervous system response that triggers severe filmmaker burnout.33:18 – Pruning the Creative Tree: Stepping completely away from film sets to discover therapeutic healing in the garden.35:35 – Transitioning to novels: How living life over the past four years unlocked a deeper, more authentic writing voice.39:04 – Redefining the title of "Filmmaker" and shattering the artificial glass ceilings imposed by industry gatekeepers.42:22 – Clout vs. Cash Flow: The sobering financial reality of a Hollywood theatrical release for Oz Land.45:10 – The Redbox Deal: How a powerful poster and trailer layout ultimately saved The Atoning's bottom line.46:17 – Looking forward: Defining the strict boundaries, resource requirements, and humane hours for his next feature.52:20 – Where to connect with Michael online and tracking down the self-distributed 10th Anniversary Oz Land Blu-ray.Key TakeawaysThe Dream is Free, but the Hustle is Sold Separately: Surviving on the ultra-low-budget indie level means wearing five different hats simultaneously, enduring extreme physical strains, and figuring out how to deliver a million-dollar look on a $10,000 budget. Wide-eyed optimism is necessary to start, but you must find your voice and learn to establish firm professional boundaries before the industry takes complete financial and physical advantage of you.Indie Film Sets Can Mimic Trauma: Running a set with consistent 17 to 24-hour workdays while forcing actors and crews to live in heavy, artificial emotional spaces locks the human body into a perpetual state of fight-or-flight. Filmmakers frequently fail to realize their nervous systems are entirely fried until long-term burnout completely stalls their ability to generate original work.Prune Yourself to Bloom Bigger Later: Stepping away from your primary creative outlet is not a sign of failure or giving up. Much like an athlete resting an injury or a gardener pruning a plant, stepping back to explore alternative visual mediums—like drawing, poetry, or artisanal gardening—awakens dormant parts of the brain. It allows your subconscious to heal so you can eventually return to screenwriting with authentic life experience rather than simple imitation.Reject Artificial Industry Milestones: Do not let gatekeepers or external glass ceilings define your creative legitimacy. If you write, you are a writer; if you make a film
- Jul 29, 202652 min
Don't let words become your cage
In this episode of The Persistence of Vision podcast, host Clint Till sits down with writer-director Marti King Young. Tracking her diverse 20-year creative path, Marti pulls back the curtain on discovering her calling as a visual storyteller. From auditing university screenwriting classes to prepping her upcoming 2027 feature film, Marti shares masterclass-level wisdom on handling brutal script notes, transforming transactional networking into real friendships, and completely shattering the limiting beliefs of ageism in the entertainment industry.Timestamps are approximate00:00 – Episode introduction and Marti’s work with the DeSoto Arts Institute.02:15 – The sudden midnight epiphany: Transitioning from an entirely different career to that of a screenwriter.05:40 – Auditing Vanderbilt University film classes and connecting with mentor William Akers.09:12 – The Olympian mindset: Treating the pain of harsh script revisions like physical training.14:30 – Subjective vs. Objective notes: Knowing which critiques to execute and which to throw away.19:15 – Flipping the script on networking: Ditching the transactions to make actual friends.25:40 – Mid-show break: Elevating independent film aesthetics with Dehancer Film Emulation Plugin.28:50 – Overcoming imposter syndrome and building a resilient, long-term production career.34:15 – Breaking down the invisible barriers of ageism and owning your creative timeline at 50+.41:10 – Exclusive Scoop: Pre-production details for Marti’s upcoming 2027 feature film debut.46:25 – Protecting your mental space: Knowing when to say no and establishing professional boundaries.50:12 – Closing reflections: Why you must refuse to let anyone else's words become your cage.Resources and Links MentionedFeatured Post-Production Tool: Dehancer Film Emulation Plugin (Get 10% off with promo code VISION).Recommended Reading: Your Screenplay Sucks: 100 Ways to Make It Great by William Akers.Educational Programs: Media and Screenwriting Departments at Vanderbilt University.Community & Non-Profit Work: Independent filmmaking initiatives at the DeSoto Arts Institute.Show Substack & Articles: Read weekly filmmaker profiles and behind-the-scenes essays at clinttill.substack.com.Connect Online: View Clint's complete directing portfolio and corporate video services at linktr.ee/clinttill.Calls to ActionSubscribe to the Show: Tap the follow button on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred player to get fresh, inspiring interview episodes delivered every month.Rate and Review: Love the insights from this conversation? Leave a 5-star rating and a brief review to help our indie film podcast climb the charts!Join the Paid Tier: Support independent media production by unlocking premium articles, bonus audio clips, and exclusive filmmaker resources on our Substack page.Share the Vision: Know a fellow director, writer, or editor wrestling with imposter syndrome? Send them a link to this episode to give them an extra boost of creative momentum today. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clinttill.substack.com/subscribe
- Jun 24, 202651 min
Why Producers Shouldn't Be Happy
ShownotesTimestamps are approximate00:00 – Introduction and reconnecting after 30 years.02:08 – VHS filmmaking roots and the evergreen power of practical, in-camera creative solutions.05:32 – Moving to Los Angeles without a career plan and navigating the union art department.06:53 – How a micro-budget of $6,000 birthed the independent horror feature Entrance.09:40 – The danger of waiting for the stars to align versus building a daily creative writing habit.15:15 – Are film festivals still worth it? Navigating FilmFreeway and setting submission budgets.18:45 – Faking it until you make it: First days on set driving box trucks and working on Punk'd.22:45 – Redefining "making it" in your 40s and managing creative anxieties.26:03 – Mid-show break: Elevating your digital footage with Dehancer Film Emulation Plugin.31:20 – The heartbreak of studio deals falling apart and major lessons learned directing The Pact II.35:30 – Why a "perfectly happy" production can be a red flag for independent film directors.41:55 – Handling the crushing uncertainty of the commercial video production and movie industry.43:58 – Exclusive Scoop: Dallas announces his new horror movie Interaction and a distribution deal with Antenna Releasing.47:08 – Quick hits: Reading Ross MacDonald’s Lew Archer detective novels and finding inspiration.48:41 – Where to watch Entrance, The Pact II, and anthology horror film Southbound.Resources and Links MentionedFeatured Filmmaking Gear & Tools: Dehancer Film Emulation Plugin (Use promo code VISION for 10% off).Film Distribution Platforms: Film Hub, FilmFreeway.Distributor: Antenna Releasing.Books Mentioned: Lew Archer Detective Series by Ross MacDonald.Where to Watch Dallas Hallam's Work:The Pact II on ShudderEntrance on Apple TV / AmazonSouthbound Anthology FeatureSubscribe: Never miss an episode of creative deep dives by subscribing on your favorite podcast app.Leave a Review: Head over to Apple Podcasts or Spotify to rate the show and leave a review—it helps other filmmakers find us!Join the Newsletter: Subscribe to Clint's weekly articles and behind-the-scenes insights at clinttill.substack.com.Connect Online: Explore all of Clint's video production work and social media channels at linktr.ee/clinttill. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clinttill.substack.com/subscribe
- May 27, 202651 min
Don't Die
Persistence of Vision Podcast: Jeremy BurgessEpisode SummaryScreenwriter, copywriter, and film critic Jeremy Burgess joins Clint to talk about building a creative career through persistence, collaboration, and learning not to be precious with your ideas. Jeremy shares how a Shakespeare parody unexpectedly launched his advertising career, how copywriting shaped his screenwriting discipline, and what it took to write and produce his first feature film, Don’t Die.SponsorAdd authentic film emulation to your footage with Dehancer. Use my promo code VISION on any Dehancer product and get 10% off your purchase.Timestamps & Topics00:00 – Introduction & Jeremy’s background02:49 – Sidewalk Film Festival & screenplay competition06:11 – From Shakespeare parody to copywriting career10:11 – Making your own opportunities as a writer13:01 – Surviving tough notes and client feedback16:30 – How copywriting improved Jeremy’s screenwriting18:44 – Finding your voice and moving past imitation25:38 – Outlining, note cards, and story structure33:17 – Collaboration, conflict, and creative compromise37:21 – Writing and producing the feature film Don’t Die39:16 – Lessons from shooting a feature in 12 days45:03 – Advice for first-time feature filmmakers46:44 – Dust on the VCR and writing about classic films49:26 – Where to watch Don’t Die & closing thoughtsAbout the Film: Don’t DieA crime thriller about a desperate man seeking life‑saving medication who becomes trapped inside a dangerous black‑market pharmacy operation.Available on Amazon, Apple, Fandango, and Tubi (free with ads). DVD available via Amazon.Guest LinksDon’t Die – Feature filmDust on the VCR – Jeremy Burgess’s Substack newsletterEnjoy the episode?Subscribe, leave a review, and share with a writer or filmmaker who needs encouragement. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clinttill.substack.com/subscribe
- Apr 29, 202654 min
Mother Nature Has Something In Store For You
Episode SummaryScreenwriter, producer, and Page Craft Writing co-founder Heidi Hornbacher joins Clint to share her journey from UCLA to Los Angeles, founding writing retreats in Italy, and helping writers avoid common pitfalls. Heidi opens up about creative mistakes, the importance of mentorship, and why getting agreements in writing matters. This episode is packed with honest advice, memorable stories, and practical wisdom for anyone pursuing a creative path.Timestamps & Topics (Time is approximate)00:00:02 – Introduction & Guest Overview00:01:04 – Heidi’s Journey & Page Craft00:04:00 – Italy Retreats & Creative Inspiration00:05:57 – Lessons Learned & Writing Mistakes00:08:41 – The Rewrite Process00:10:32 – Breaking into Filmmaking00:13:35 – Saying Yes & Learning on the Job00:16:38 – Mentorship & Community00:20:44 – Directing & Producing00:24:00 – Production Mishaps & Problem Solving (“Washed Away”)00:29:22 – Agreements, Credits & Professional Boundaries00:35:04 – Navigating Low Points & Self-Doubt00:45:12 – Community, Success & Validation00:52:32 – Plugs & Contact InfoKey TakeawaysMistakes are learning opportunities—embrace them!Always get agreements in writing to protect your work and relationships.Mentorship and community are crucial for creative growth.Resilience and adaptability are essential in the unpredictable film industry.Redefine success: it’s about community, learning, and persistence.Resources & LinksPage Craft Writing: https://pagecraftwriting.comSlamdance Script Clinic“Washed Away” (short film) - https://youtu.be/OMi51zjil5c?si=E1aqpu2tVPreiVtdEast Side Writers Meetup (Los Angeles)WGA West: https://www.wga.org/contracts/contracts/mbaHeidi’s interview with Canvas Rebel - https://canvasrebel.com/meet-heidi-hornbacher/Clint’s Newsletter: https://clinttill.substack.com/Clint’s Linktree: https://linktree.com/clinttillConnect with Heidi HornbacherX (Twitter), Blue Sky, Instagram, LinkedIn: @HeidiHornbacherWebsite: https://heidihornbacher.comCalls to ActionSubscribe and leave a review!Share this episode with a friend in the creative industry.Join the East Side Writers Meetup if you’re in LA.Check out Page Craft’s Italy Retreat for immersive writing experiences. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clinttill.substack.com/subscribe
- Mar 18, 202621 min
Empowering future filmmakers
This week, Persistence of Vision is participating in Podcasthon—a global podcasting initiative where creators around the world dedicate one episode of their show to a nonprofit they care deeply about.For me, that organization is Desoto Arts Institute (DAI).DAI was founded by my friend and longtime collaborator Robb Rokk, and it exists to give young people something I wish I’d had at their age: a hands‑on, welcoming place to explore creativity. Filmmaking. Music. Writing. Acting. Storytelling. Real tools, real mentorship, and real responsibility.In this episode, Robb and I talk about how DAI started, why it exists, and what happens when you challenge young people to take their creativity, and their future, seriously. It’s an honest conversation about mentorship, access, and the long game of investing in the next generation.If this conversation resonates with you, I hope you’ll take a few minutes to learn more about Desoto Arts Institute. Whether that means donating, becoming a member, or simply sharing their work, every bit of support helps keep the doors open and the lights on for young creatives who need a place to start. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clinttill.substack.com/subscribe
- Feb 25, 202637 min
Behind the Seams
SummaryThis month on Persistence of Vision, I sit down with Augusta Rivera Campbell—better known as Goose—a costume designer for film and TV whose creative journey is anything but ordinary. From her accidental start in the industry to working on major network shows and heartfelt indie films, Goose shares how storytelling through costume shapes every production, no matter the budget. We dive into the challenges and triumphs of working behind the scenes, the lessons learned from on-set mistakes, and the importance of collaboration and kindness in the film community.Whether you’re a director, aspiring costume designer, or just curious about what really happens on set, this episode offers honest advice, memorable stories, and a fresh perspective on creative resilience. Join me as we explore Goose’s world—where every detail matters and every setback is a chance to grow. If you’ve ever wondered how costumes help tell the story, or how to thrive in a tough industry, you won’t want to miss this conversation.TimestampsTimestamps are approximate00:00:00 – 00:01:03: Introduction & Guest RevealClint introduces the podcast and Augusta (“Goose”), a costume designer with a unique perspective on storytelling through wardrobe.00:01:03 – 00:04:08: The Art of Costume DesignGoose discusses the importance of costume design, attention to detail, and collaboration with directors.00:04:08 – 00:06:08: Low-Budget CreativityAdvice for filmmakers working with limited resources and how constraints can fuel creativity.00:06:08 – 00:08:02: Goose’s Origin StoryGoose shares how she fell in love with film and entered the industry, influenced by family and serendipity.00:09:17 – 00:12:18: Lessons Learned on SetGoose recounts her first big lesson on “Bluff City Law” and the realities of working in TV production.00:17:20 – 00:21:06: On-Set Mistakes & GrowthStories of mistakes made on “Women of the Movement” and how personal perspective helps overcome challenges.00:21:28 – 00:23:25: Perseverance Through Industry LowsGoose reflects on the impact of the writers’ strike and the importance of resilience.00:25:13 – 00:27:32: Mentorship & CommunityThe value of mentors and supporting peers in the film industry.00:28:11 – 00:30:31: Advice for DirectorsGoose offers guidance for both seasoned and new directors working with costume designers.00:33:07 – 00:35:00: Favorite Projects & Set CultureGoose shares her love for indie films and the importance of camaraderie on set.00:35:00 – 00:35:47: Current Work & PlugsGoose highlights recent projects.Key TakeawaysCostume Design is Storytelling: Goose emphasizes that costumes are a vital part of character development and narrative, often speaking before the actor does.Collaboration is Crucial: Open communication between directors and costume designers leads to better results and smoother productions.Creativity Thrives Under Constraints: Low-budget projects challenge filmmakers to think outside the box and can be just as rewarding as big-budget productions.Resilience Matters: Perseverance through industry challenges, like strikes and setbacks, is essential for long-term success.Community & Mentorship: Building relationships and supporting peers is key to career growth and satisfaction.Resources & Links MentionedBluff City Law: NBC series filmed in Memphis.Women of the Movement: ABC series about Emmett Till.Calls to ActionSubscribe to Persistence of Vision – https://clinttill.substack.comConnect at https://linktree.com/clinttillLeave a review on your favorite podcast platform to help others discover the show.Share this episode with friends in the film and creative industries. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clinttill.substack.com/subscribe
- Jan 28, 202659 min
I Do It Because I Love It
🎙 Episode Title“I Do It Because I Love It”🧵 Episode SummaryActor, writer, producer, and mom of four Lauren Cox joins me for a conversation about navigating creative ambition, motherhood, and faith. From her early days in theater to on-set experiences while working on House of Cards, Lauren shares how she’s learned to balance her passion for storytelling with the realities of family life and the unpredictability of the entertainment industry. Whether you’re an aspiring actor or a creative juggling multiple roles, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and some awkward audition stories.⏱ Timestamps are approximate00:00 – 05:00 — Life as an NFL player’s wife05:00 – 15:00 — Getting started in theater and transitioning to film15:00 – 25:00 — Auditions, representation, and finding her voice25:00 – 35:00 — Producing short films and learning on the fly35:00 – 45:00 — Balancing motherhood and creative ambition45:00 – 55:00 — Regret, resilience, and redefining success55:00 – End — Writing for joy, staying humble, and trusting the process🔑 Key Takeaways“Just do it because you love it.” Lauren’s mantra for staying grounded in a competitive industry.Faith and conviction play a central role in how she selects roles and writes stories.Motherhood reshaped her priorities, but not her passion.Audition nightmares can teach humility, resilience, and the power of preparation.🔗 Resources & MentionsLauren on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenbellcoxWatch Lauren in my short film The Milky Way – https://clinttill.net/themilkywayfilmConnect with me at https://linktree.com/clinttillMTC (Formerly Actors, Models & Talent for Christ; Now Shine Talent Success) https://www.shine.us/Traveling Soldier (short film by Lauren Cox) https://youtu.be/-HquPPjfkKc?feature=sharedBryan Cranston’s A Life in Parts (book)📣 Calls to Action🎧 Listen and subscribe to the podcast⭐️ Leave a review if you enjoyed the episode💬 Share this episode📩 Join the newsletter for behind-the-scenes extras and upcoming guests (https://clinttill.substack.com) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit clinttill.substack.com/subscribe
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Personal stories from creative professionals about their career experiences and the lessons they learned along the way. clinttill.substack.com
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