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Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. I'm Justin Younts, and in this episode I sit down with casting director Tiffany Little Canfield for part one of our conversation.Season 6 is here. Tiffany Little Canfield is the perfect way to kick it off — a casting director who's been on both sides of the table and has a lot to say about what actors are getting wrong.Tiffany's path into casting wasn't a straight line. She started in acting, moved into directing — including work with opera singers — and eventually found her way to casting, where her directing background changed how she reads actors and scene work. That experience in the room as a director is something she brings to every project.We get into what a casting director actually does day to day, what it looks like to interview for those jobs, and how Tiffany thinks about actors differently because of her background. We also talk about the misconception around acting and fame, why continuous training is non-negotiable, how subjective casting really is, what self-tapes mean for the audition process now, and the biggest challenges actors are facing in the industry.In this episode we discuss:Tiffany's path from acting to directing to castingWhat casting directors actually doWorking with opera singers and how it shapes her approachThe misconception of acting and fameWhy continuous training matters at every levelThe subjectivity of casting and what that means for actorsSelf-tapes and how auditions have changedThe biggest challenges in the acting industry today00:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:00:28 - Early Life and Influence on Career 00:00:39 - Journey into Acting and Realization 00:01:57 - Transition from Acting to Directing 00:03:10 - Transition from Directing to Casting 00:09:02 - Understanding the Role of a Casting Director 00:09:45 - Interviewing for Jobs as a Casting Director 00:11:52 - Working with Opera Singers 00:13:21 - Understanding Actors and Scene Work 00:13:37 - Influence of Directing Degree in Casting 00:15:01 - Closing Thoughts on Actor Expectations 00:15:30 - The Misconception of Acting and Fame 00:17:08 - The Importance of Continuous Training for Actors 00:18:47 - The Subjectivity of Acting and Casting 00:22:04 - The Role of Self-Tapes in Auditions 00:24:29 - The Biggest Challenges in the Acting Industry#DMF #TiffanyLittleCanfield #CastingDirector #Acting #TelseyCompany #ActingTips #SelfTape #Audition #Filmmaking
Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. I’m Justin Younts, and in this episode I continue my conversation with filmmaker, producer, and author Brent Lindstrom as we dive into the realities of writing, editing, and building a career as an author.Brent shares his journey through writing what he calls “trunk novels” — early works that helped him develop his voice and understand the craft of storytelling. Through this process, he realized just how much there is to learn when it comes to structure, character development, and refining a story.We explore the two primary writing approaches — outlining vs. pantsing — and why Brent believes outlining can help writers avoid writer’s block and create a more efficient storytelling process.In this episode we discuss:• Common writing and editing mistakes authors make• How to edit your book effectively• Outlining vs pantsing in storytelling• Developing characters and narrative structure• The financial realities of being an author• Marketing your book and building an audienceBrent also shares lessons from writing his novel “Swing Low, Hangman of the Woods,” including the challenges he faced and how those experiences shaped his growth as a storyteller.This episode highlights the importance of patience, persistence, and continuous learning — whether you're writing your first book or refining your craft as a creative professional.Join us as we explore the writing process, editing strategies, and what it really takes to succeed as an author.🌐 Learn More About Brent LindstromVisit Brent’s website:https://lightmindedarts.com📖 Check Out Brent Lindstrom’s BookOne for the Money, Two for the Soulhttps://www.lightmindedarts.com/books/one-for-the-money-two-for-the-soul/00:00:00 - Introduction00:00:08 - Learning Editing and Storytelling00:00:52 - Two Kinds of Writing: Outlining and Pantsing00:03:21 - The Cost of Writing and Marketing00:03:21 - The Importance of Physical Books00:05:04 - Building an Audience and Brand Recognition00:10:17 - The Value of Multiple Formats00:12:56 - Reading vs. Listening to Books00:15:33 - The Impact of Technology on Reading Habits00:16:27 - The Shift to Short-Form Content and Its Effects00:17:09 - The Unique Experience of Reading00:18:22 - Publishing Strategies with Amazon00:21:05 - The Future: Writing, Podcasting, and Building a Film Studio00:24:04 - Conclusion and Call to Action
Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. I’m Justin Younts, and in this episode I continue my conversation with filmmaker, producer, and author Brent Lindstrom as we explore the intersection of filmmaking, technology, and creative storytelling.We dive into the real challenges filmmakers face during the editing process. Brent shares his experience spending hours editing every second of his short film while dealing with an unreliable computer that constantly crashed. After struggling through that process, he eventually built a powerful editing machine that transformed the way he works and dramatically improved his workflow.Our conversation also explores the growing role of artificial intelligence in filmmaking. While AI tools can streamline certain tasks and assist with production, Brent emphasizes that technology should enhance creativity — not replace it. The craft of storytelling, directing actors, and building meaningful narratives still depends on human insight and artistic vision.In this episode we discuss:• The realities of film editing and post-production• How technology is changing filmmaking workflows• The benefits and risks of AI in film production• Maintaining creativity in an age of automation• Writing and developing complex characters• The importance of feedback when refining storiesBrent also discusses his book “One for the Money, Two for the Soul,” which explores powerful themes through storytelling and examines how creative work can balance artistic purpose with financial realities.Whether you're an actor, filmmaker, writer, or creative professional, this episode offers insight into navigating new technologies while protecting the core principles of storytelling.Join us as we explore the future of filmmaking and how creators can use new tools without losing the heart of their craft.Visit Brent’s website:https://lightmindedarts.comCheck out Brent Lindstrom’s book One for the Money, Two for the Soul:📖 https://www.lightmindedarts.com/books/one-for-the-money-two-for-the-soul/00:00:00 - Introduction00:00:05 - Editing Experience and Challenges00:01:44 - Discussion on Adobe Suite and AI00:01:54 - AI as a Tool, Not a Solution00:02:46 - The Evolution of Filmmaking00:03:18 - The Importance of Craft in Filmmaking00:05:20 - Discussion on the Book 'One for the Money, Two for the Soul'00:05:47 - Inspiration Behind the Book00:11:17 - Discussing the Characters in the Book00:16:00 - Character Analysis and Writing Challenges00:18:36 - Self-Publishing vs Traditional Publishing00:22:35 - The Importance of Peer Review in Writing00:25:08 - Writing Process and Routine
Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. I’m Justin Younts, and in this episode I sit down with filmmaker, producer, and author Brent Lindstrom to discuss storytelling, filmmaking, and the business side of building a career in the film industry.Brent shares his journey from growing up in a small town in Utah — where many people doubted his dream of making movies — to building a successful career producing films and founding his company Light-Minded Arts.Throughout our conversation, Brent explains his mission to create family-friendly films and clean fiction that resonate with audiences across generations. He believes storytelling has the power to connect people, inspire empathy, and create meaningful entertainment without relying on sensationalism.In this episode we discuss:• The most common filmmaking mistakes creators make• Why filmmakers must understand the business side of movies• Building a production company from the ground up• Creating family-friendly and clean fiction films• Storytelling that connects with audiences across generations• Financial planning for filmmakers and creative entrepreneursBrent also talks about his book “One for the Money, Two for the Soul,” where he shares insights into balancing creativity with financial responsibility in the entertainment industry.Whether you're an actor, filmmaker, producer, or storyteller, this episode explores the practical lessons needed to navigate the complex world of filmmaking while staying true to your creative vision.Join us as we dive into storytelling, filmmaking strategy, and how to turn a passion for movies into a sustainable career.00:00:00 - Introduction00:00:09 - Guest Introduction00:00:38 - Early Life and Background00:01:22 - Initial Career Aspirations00:01:45 - Influence of Movies and Storytelling00:02:28 - Favorite Films and Filmmakers00:07:01 - Educational Background00:09:02 - Transition from Finance to Filmmaking00:11:33 - Establishing Light-Minded Arts00:11:42 - Discussion on Clean Fiction and Branding00:14:37 - First Steps into Filmmaking00:15:10 - Creating Own Curriculum for Filmmaking00:16:02 - Learning from Short Films00:16:22 - Keeping a Filmmaking Journal00:17:23 - The 10-Year Plan00:20:20 - Influence of Books and Learning00:23:19 - Balancing Theory and Practical Application00:23:39 - Filmmaking as a Team Effort00:24:43 - Specific Goals for The Matrix00:26:36 - Importance of Creative Vision and CollaborationCheck out Brent Lindstrom’s book One for the Money, Two for the Soul:https://www.lightmindedarts.com/books/one-for-the-money-two-for-the-soul/
Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. I’m Justin Younts, and in this full interview I sit down with Emmy-winning filmmaker and producer Leif Bristow to explore storytelling, empathy, and the power of film to connect cultures.Leif shares his filmmaking journey from Toronto to Alaska and eventually into international film production, explaining how travel and diverse life experiences shaped his approach to storytelling.At the center of our conversation is his latest project, “Dancing Through the Shadow,” a film based on the book by his wife Agnes Bristow, which tells the story of a family struggling during the Chinese Cultural Revolution.In this episode we discuss:• The power of global storytelling in film• Adapting powerful books into movies• Directing actors and building authentic performances• The role of empathy in filmmaking• Cultural perspective in storytelling• The challenges filmmakers face todayLeif also offers insights into working with actors, the importance of collaboration on set, and how filmmakers can create stories that resonate with audiences across cultures.This conversation highlights how film can bridge cultural divides, spark dialogue, and remind us of our shared humanity.Whether you’re an actor, filmmaker, or film lover, this episode explores how storytelling can deepen our understanding of the world.Join us as we dive into filmmaking, empathy, and the stories that bring us together.00:00:08 - Introduction and Guest Background00:00:39 - Leaf Bristow's Early Life and Travels00:01:26 - The Importance of Cultural Understanding00:02:45 - The Power of Film in Building Empathy00:03:31 - Exploring Different Cultures at Home00:06:27 - Leaf Bristow's Film Career00:10:12 - Leaf Bristow's Early Interest in Arts00:10:16 - Incorporating Financial Knowledge in Filmmaking00:11:58 - Understanding the Capital Required for Filmmaking00:15:39 - The Art of Collaboration in Filmmaking00:16:20 - Leaf Bristow's Entrepreneurial Spirit00:19:35 - The Balance Between Career and Family00:21:27 - The Value of Practical Knowledge and Formal Education00:24:26 - Influence of Mentors and Wisdom from Various Sources00:26:54 - The Role of AI in the Film Industry00:30:19 - Transition into Directing and Setting Standards00:31:36 - Themes in Leaf Bristow's Films00:32:58 - The Power of Family-Friendly Content00:35:43 - Cultural Understanding in Filmmaking00:42:25 - The Challenges of Adapting a Book into a Movie00:46:10 - The Fear of Retaliation in Filmmaking00:47:04 - The Process of Adapting 'Dancing Through the Shadow'00:47:37 - Challenges and Decisions in Filmmaking00:48:41 - The Importance of Authentic Representation00:51:00 - Language and Cultural Barriers in Filmmaking00:52:15 - Filming Locations and Visual Effects00:53:52 - Directing Actors and Building Relationships00:58:14 - Working with Hallmark01:00:27 - Family Involvement in Filmmaking01:01:40 - Future Projects and Plans01:03:36 - Leaf Bristow's Daily Routines01:04:10 - Leaf Bristow's Physical Fitness Routine01:04:24 - Leaf Bristow's Current Reading Preferences01:04:56 - Leaf Bristow's Music Preferences01:05:14 - Leaf Bristow's Viewing Preferences01:05:32 - Contacting Leaf Bristow01:05:49 - Conclusion and Appreciation
Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. I’m Justin Younts, and in Part 2 of my conversation with Emmy-winning filmmaker and producer Leif Bristow, we dive into the ethical challenges of working in Hollywood and the values that guide his filmmaking career.Leif shares why he made an early decision to avoid projects that glorify violence or rely on exploitative themes. Instead, he focuses on the power of suggestion over graphic content, creating films that uplift audiences and emphasize resilience, strength, and meaningful storytelling.In this episode, we explore:The dark side of Hollywood filmmakingEthical film production decisionsFamily-friendly content in a competitive marketCreating strong female leads and role modelsProducing films with purpose and integrityEmpowering women through storytellingAs a producer of over 40 films, Leif discusses how his personal life — including being a father to daughters — has influenced his commitment to portraying women as strong, capable, and multidimensional characters.We also examine the broader question facing filmmakers today: Can you build a successful career without compromising your values?Whether you’re an actor, filmmaker, producer, or creative professional, this episode offers insight into maintaining integrity in an industry often driven by trends and commercial pressure.Join us as we explore how storytelling can inspire, empower, and create lasting impact.00:00:00 - Introduction00:00:05 - Transition to Directing00:00:18 - Personal Directing Philosophy00:01:51 - Preference for Family Friendly Content00:02:45 - Success of Family Friendly Movies00:04:15 - Making Movies for Hallmark00:05:06 - About the Aggies Book00:08:33 - Cultural Differences and Similarities00:10:35 - Relating to Other Cultures00:11:54 - Repeating Atrocities00:12:12 - Origin of Dancing Through the Shadow00:12:27 - Writing Process00:14:52 - Challenges of Making the Movie00:15:24 - Filming Challenges Due to COVID-1900:16:49 - Adapting the Book into a Movie00:21:48 - Choosing the Filming Locations00:23:39 - Directing Actors00:23:39 - Working with Family00:26:30 - Relationship with Jonathan Rhys-Davies00:28:00 - Working with Hallmark00:31:25 - Future Projects00:32:22 - Closing Remarks00:33:18 - Inside the Actor's Studio Questions00:35:21 - Contact Information and Closing
Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. I’m Justin Younts, and in this episode I sit down with Emmy-winning filmmaker and producer Leif Bristow for Part 1 of our conversation on global storytelling, film production, and the power of empathy in cinema.Leif shares his filmmaking journey — from Toronto to Alaska and eventually to Hollywood — producing over 40 films across networks including Hallmark and HBO. His work spans genres and international locations, giving him a unique perspective on how storytelling can connect audiences across cultures.In this discussion, we explore:Producing films for Hallmark and HBOInternational film productionTravel and cultural storytellingBuilding empathy through cinemaGlobal perspectives in filmmakingThe responsibility of filmmakers to audiencesLeif also discusses his latest project, “Dancing Through the Shadow,” based on the book by his wife, Agnes Bristow, and how the film aims to resonate emotionally while highlighting shared human experiences across cultures.This episode highlights how film can foster dialogue, bridge cultural divides, and remind us of our global interconnectedness — both as storytellers and as audiences.Whether you’re an actor, filmmaker, or film enthusiast, this conversation offers insight into how travel, empathy, and storytelling shape meaningful cinema.Let’s dive in.00:00:00 - Introduction00:00:39 - Leaf Bristow's Early Life and Travels00:01:26 - Understanding Cultural Similarities00:02:45 - Importance of Empathy and Understanding00:03:21 - Cultural Diversity in Toronto00:06:24 - Leaf Bristow's Film Career00:09:04 - Influence of Travel on Filmmaking00:10:11 - Leaf Bristow's Early Interest in Arts00:11:58 - Understanding Film Finance00:13:11 - Leaf Bristow's Career Journey00:16:04 - Leaf Bristow's Early Entrepreneurial Journey00:19:34 - Leaf Bristow's Passion for Performing00:21:27 - Value of Practical Experience and Formal Education00:24:26 - Influence of Mentors and Importance of Openness00:26:55 - Perspective on AI and Change in the Film Industry
Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. Justin Younts sits down with award-winning filmmaker Jaze Bordeaux to discuss independent filmmaking, cultural perspective, and storytelling craft. From Brooklyn to Toronto, Jaze shares insights on directing, producing, and bringing original films like EFC to life in today’s film industry.http://jazebordeaux.com/00:00:00 - Introduction00:00:42 - Guest Background00:04:03 - Cultural Differences00:06:35 - Impact of Diverse Cultures00:09:37 - Entrepreneurial Journey00:14:02 - Inspiration00:15:28 - Understanding Film Financing00:16:39 - The Artwork of Film Structure00:18:25 - Learning from Startup Companies00:19:32 - Preparing for Film Financing00:19:47 - The Importance of Budgeting00:20:37 - Learning from Mistakes and Ventures00:22:19 - Advice for New Filmmakers00:24:23 - The Importance of a Clear Pitch00:28:46 - The Changing Film Industry00:29:58 - Improving the Industry from a Budget Standpoint00:31:12 - Comparing Film Production Costs Globally00:31:40 - Challenges in the American Film Industry00:35:26 - The Impact of Inflation and Human Capital on Film Budgets00:39:37 - The Consequences of Rushed Film Production00:41:06 - Going Outside the System: An Alternative Approach to Film Production00:43:51 - The Vision for a Global Independent Film Platform00:46:31 - The Evolution of Online Streaming00:48:42 - The Challenges of Online Streaming00:49:14 - The Experiment and Lessons Learned00:50:58 - The Issue of Digital Rights Management00:52:33 - The Future of Piracy00:53:57 - The Demand for Physical Copies00:54:35 - The Uncertainty of Digital Ownership00:54:48 - The Return to Physical Media00:59:08 - The Potential of Personalized Streaming00:59:48 - The Future of Media Consumption01:02:04 - On-Set Learning and Experience01:05:08 - The Importance of Acting01:10:57 - The Journey into Filmmaking01:14:11 - Directing Actors: A Collaborative Approach01:16:06 - The Significance of Casting and Performance01:17:38 - The First Notable Film: Excelsis01:17:56 - The Name Change to EFC01:18:10 - The Importance of Film Title01:18:56 - The Challenge of Translating Film Titles01:19:28 - The Marketing Aspect of Film Titles01:20:50 - The Impact of Unexpected Events on Film Production01:25:15 - The Decision Between Story and Action01:28:00 - The Rise of Women's Mixed Martial Arts01:30:00 - The Initial Reception of Women's MMA Film01:32:22 - The Evolution of Women's Roles in Combat Sports Films01:35:00 - Recognition and Awards01:37:00 - The Experience of Winning Best Director01:42:36 - The Story Behind 'Starry-Eyed'01:43:36 - Adapting the Story and Characters01:46:00 - Incorporating Film School Graduates01:47:03 - The Evolution of 'Starry-Eyed'01:48:16 - Supporting Other Filmmakers01:49:23 - Introduction to 'Let Go'01:49:41 - The Making of 'Let Go'01:50:48 - The Role of Carly Rose in 'Let Go'01:53:14 - The Story of 'Let Go'01:53:58 - Release of 'Let Go'01:54:22 - Current Projects of Alex Cruz01:55:00 - Distribution of EFC01:55:34 - Introduction to 'Genesis'01:55:41 - The Evolution of 'Genesis'01:56:18 - The Concept of 'Genesis'01:57:35 - The Writing Process of 'Genesis'01:59:31 - The Genre and Influence of 'Genesis'02:01:58 -
The DMF with Justin Younts is an acting and filmmaking podcast for actors, creatives, and filmmakers. Hosted by actor Justin Younts, this show explores acting technique, audition tips, industry insights, career development, casting perspectives, and the craft of film and theatre. Guests include actors, directors, casting directors, filmmakers, and industry professionals who share real-world advice actors can use to grow their careers. Whether you’re preparing for auditions, building your reel, or navigating life as a working actor, The DMF offers in-depth, research-driven conversations that
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