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PODCAST

Film Ladder

Lexi Wisniewski

Welcome to Film Ladder—the podcast that breaks down careers in the film industry, one conversation at a time. If you"re trying to figure out how people actually get into the business, what different jobs look like behind the scenes, or how to build a creative career without a map — you’re in the right place!Tune in as industry professionals share career tips and the lessons they"ve learned along the way—helping you navigate your own ascent on the film ladder.

tv & film film interviews

All Episodes

33:15

#12 - How to be a Camera Loader

Film Ladder ·

2025/10/10

In this episode, Najee Rawlings, a camera loader, shares insights into his role in the film industry, detailing the responsibilities, challenges, and experiences that come with the job. He discusses the importance of organization, preparation, and building relationships within the industry, as well as the misconceptions surrounding the role of a camera loader. Najee also reflects on his career journey, memorable moments on set, and offers valuable advice for aspiring camera loaders.

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36:47

#11 - How to be a Set Lighting Technician

Film Ladder ·

2025/10/03

In this conversation, Froy Madrigal, a set lighting technician, shares insights into his role in the film industry, discussing the responsibilities, challenges, and daily operations of lighting on set. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork, networking, and having a strong work ethic, while also addressing common misconceptions about the job. Froy recounts memorable experiences on set, including a unique cultural moment during a shoot, and offers advice for aspiring technicians looking to b...

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45:02

#10 - How to be an Assistant Production Coordinator

Film Ladder ·

2025/09/26

In this conversation, Sarah Himes, an Assistant Production Coordinator, shares her journey in the film industry, detailing the multifaceted role of an APC, the challenges of production, and the importance of mentorship. She discusses the various stages of production, the significance of effective communication, and the misconceptions surrounding production offices. Sarah also reflects on her career transition to accounting, emphasizing the need for work-life balance and the importance of know...

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45:05

#9 - How to be a Set Dec Coordinator

Film Ladder ·

2025/08/22

In this insightful episode of Film Ladder, I sit down with Darby Abraham, an accomplished Set Dec Coordinator whose credits include The Outsider, The Walking Dead, and Civil War. Darby shares her journey from a props PA to a set decoration coordinator, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the intricate world of set design. Discover the challenges and triumphs of coordinating art departments, the importance of clearances, and the collaborative spirit that fuels the film industry. Whether you'r...

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39:23

#8 - How To Be A Line Producer Assistant

Film Ladder ·

2025/08/15

In this special solo episode, join me as I take the mic alone to share my journey from film school in Chicago to becoming a line producer's assistant in Atlanta. Discover the ins and outs of my role, the challenges and triumphs, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Whether you're aspiring to break into the film industry or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes magic, this episode offers a candid glimpse into the life of a line producer's assistant. Tune in to hear my story, ...

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29:21

#7 - How to be a Key Makeup Artist

Film Ladder ·

2025/08/08

In this episode of Film Ladder, we dive into the world of film and TV makeup artistry with Sylvia Ramos, a seasoned key makeup artist. Sylvia shares her journey from working at Sephora to becoming a key player in the industry, offering insights into the collaborative nature of makeup and hair departments, the challenges of long hours, and the nuances of working on set. Whether you're an aspiring makeup artist or a film enthusiast, Sylvia's experiences and advice provide a fascinating glimpse ...

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33:02

#6 - How to be a Key Grip

Film Ladder ·

2025/08/01

Join Lexi on the Film Ladder Podcast as she sits down with Luis Pagan, a key grip with an impressive portfolio including projects like "Tell Me Lies" and "Scream 7." In this episode, Luis shares his journey from Puerto Rico to becoming a key player in the film industry. We explore the vital role of grips in film production, the importance of collaboration on set, and the balance between technical skill and personal relationships. Whether you're curious about the behind-the-scenes magic of fil...

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35:58

#5 - How to be an Assistant Location Manager

Film Ladder ·

2025/07/25

Join Lexi as she dives into the world of film locations with Kyle Snipes, an Assistant Location Manager whose credits include "Bad Boys 4," "Tulsa King," and "The Pickup." Discover the intricacies of pre-production and production, the challenges of merging the real world with the film world, and the logistics behind creating seamless shooting experiences. Kyle shares his journey from a set PA to his current role, offering insights into the traits needed to excel in the industry and the import...

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36:11

#4 - How to be an Assistant Costume Designer

Film Ladder ·

2025/07/18

In this episode Lexi is joined by Valeria Chelala, an assistant costume designer. She shares her journey in the film industry -- detailing the multifaceted role of costume design, the challenges faced during production, and the importance of teamwork and communication. She emphasizes the need for organization, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills in navigating the fast-paced environment of film production. Valeria also reflects on her memorable experiences on set and offers valuable ...

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39:54

#2 - How to be a Digital Utility

Film Ladder ·

2025/07/11

Join Lexi in this insightful episode chatting with Ryanne Whyte, a digital utility in the camera department, whose credits include Dynasty and Jackpot!. Discover what it takes to excel as a digital utility, the importance of adaptability, and the challenges of maintaining job security in the film industry. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or curious about behind-the-scenes roles, this episode offers a candid look at the realities of working in film. Tune in to learn about the unique respo...

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16:43

#1 - How to be a Showrunner's Assistant

Film Ladder ·

2025/07/11

Join Lexi on Film Ladder as she chats with Jason Sheradsky, a showrunner's assistant with credits on "Get Out," "Good Girls," and "Grosse Pointe Garden Society." Discover the ins and outs of his role, from pre-production to post, and gain insights into how he got there and what it takes to excel. Whether you're aspiring to break into the business or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this episode offers valuable advice and a peek into the world of TV production from the very b...

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54:35

#3 - How to be a 2nd 2nd Assistant Director

Film Ladder ·

2025/07/11

Dive into the dynamic world of film production with Lauren Candela, a seasoned second second assistant director. With credits including "The Menu," "Manhunt," and the upcoming "Alien Earth," Lauren shares her journey from a PA to a pivotal role in the industry. She is giving all the tips on what a 2nd 2nd AD does and how to succeed in the role. She also shares the mistake that should have gotten her blacklisted. She does not hold back on all the fun behind the scenes stories!

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12 results

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