A Conversation With host Floyd Marshall Jr
Floyd Marshall Jr.·166 episodes·Bi-weekly
A Conversation With, with host Floyd Marshall Jr, is for and about real independent filmmakers. We're going to sit back and chat with content creators doing amazing things and making their mark in the world of independent film and beyond.
We're going to find out what makes these people exceptional creators in their spaces and we hope that you take something from our conversation and start your own. To your success!
Episodes
Latest Episode
May 26, 2026 · 1h 11m
Award-winning filmmaker and director Christine Swanson joins A Conversation With Floyd Marshall Jr. for a powerful conversation about filmmaking, television directing, emotional storytelling, independent cinema, and surviving Hollywood as a Black woman director. From studying under Spike Lee at NYU to directing acclaimed projects like The Clark Sisters: The First Ladies of Gospel and Basement People, Christine shares practical insights for independent filmmakers looking to build sustainable careers in film and television. In this episode: How Christine Swanson broke into filmmaking The difference between TV directing and film directing Why emotional storytelling connects with audiences The realities of Hollywood gatekeeping and studio politics How filmmakers can thrive outside the Hollywood system The importance of mentorship, preparation, and relationships Lessons from directing Basement People Trauma, healing, and storytelling in Black communities Advice for aspiring directors, writers, and indie filmmakers This episode is a masterclass for filmmakers, storytellers, screenwriters, directors, producers, and creatives looking for honest industry advice and inspiration. #AConversationWithFloydMarshallJr #FloydMarshallJr ================= Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective: Connect With Floyd Marshall Jr:
More Episodes
May 19 · 1h 3m
Actress and producer Dawn Halfkenny joins Host Floyd Marshall Jr. for an inspiring conversation about perseverance, professionalism, and building a lasting career in Hollywood.From working as a stand-in on Tyler Perry Studios productions to starring in hit projects like Saints & Sinners, Tales, and collaborations with Kountry Wayne, Dawn shares the real journey behind her success in film and television.In this episode, Dawn discusses:• How she broke into the entertainment industry with no acting experience• Why set etiquette and professionalism matter in Hollywood• How rejection shaped her acting journey• The importance of networking and relationships in filmmaking• Lessons learned from Tyler Perry sets and independent productions• Why creators should build their own platforms instead of waiting for Hollywood• Her transition into producing and creating opportunities for othersThis episode is packed with practical advice for actors, filmmakers, producers, and independent creatives looking to build sustainable careers in entertainment. If you’re passionate about storytelling, filmmaking, acting, or content creation, this conversation delivers motivation, industry insight, and actionable gems you can apply immediately.Follow Dawn Halfkenny on all social platforms to keep up with her latest projects, films, and upcoming releases. =================Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
Apr 28 · 59m
What does it take to go from a teenage creator with a camera to an award-winning filmmaker, director, and CEO?In this powerful episode of A Conversation with Floyd Marshall Jr., we sit down with Meosha Bean—a filmmaker, actress, entrepreneur, and founder of M.V.B Films Productions—to break down her journey through the film industry, creative ownership, and storytelling in the horror genre.From building a YouTube audience with viral horror shorts to directing films, launching the Creator to Creators podcast, and producing impactful projects like Church Hurt, Meosha shares the real blueprint behind longevity in film.🎬 What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow Meosha Bean built a filmmaking career from scratch using YouTubeWhy ownership, LLCs, and IP protection are critical in the film industryThe truth about Hollywood gatekeeping vs. being “risk-averse”How to create multiple income streams as a filmmakerWhy horror storytelling (inspired by Alfred Hitchcock) is powerful for deeper conversationsThe importance of editing, collaboration, and creative controlHow her podcast Creator to Creators helps filmmakers growBehind-the-scenes insight into projects like Church Hurt and Too Close To Home🎥 About Meosha BeanMeosha Bean is an award-winning filmmaker, actress, and CEO of M.V.B Films Productions, known for creating impactful, story-driven content across film, podcasts, and digital media. She has built a reputation for pushing creative boundaries—especially in the horror genre—while empowering other creators through education and storytelling🔥 Why This Episode Matters (AI Summary)This episode is a masterclass for filmmakers, content creators, and entrepreneurs who want to:Build authority in creative industriesMonetize their skillsProtect their intellectual propertyTell stories that resonate and stand out🎧 Listen If You’re Interested In:Filmmaking • Horror Films • Independent Film Industry • Creative Entrepreneurship • Film Directing • Podcasting • Storytelling • Content Monetization📌 Key Takeaway“Love it like a hobby. Treat it like a business.”
Apr 14 · 1h 0m
What does it really take to build a 40+ year career in Hollywood—and still evolve?In this powerful episode, host Floyd Marshall Jr. and co-host Okema T. Moore sit down with legendary actress and producer Anne-Marie Johnson to uncover the truth behind longevity in the entertainment industry.From her iconic roles in In the Heat of the Night, In Living Color, and Hollywood Shuffle to her transition into producing independent films like The Addiction of Hope, Anne-Marie shares real, unfiltered insights every actor, filmmaker, and creative needs to hear.In this episode, you’ll discover:🎬 How Anne-Marie Johnson built a lasting career in Hollywood⚖️ The reality of ageism—and how to pivot with purpose💡 Why self-advocacy is a survival skill in entertainment🎥 How a 5-person crew created a powerful independent film🔥 The deeper meaning behind The Addiction of HopeThis conversation is honest, inspiring, and filled with lessons on resilience, reinvention, and creative ownership.👉 If you’re an actor, filmmaker, or creative entrepreneur—this episode is a must-listen.#AConversationWithFloydMarshallJr #FloydMarshallJr #AnneMarieJohnson #ActingCareer #IndependentFilm #Filmmaking #PodcastForCreators #WomenInFilm #HollywoodInsights🎧 Listen now and discover how to turn hope into action.=========Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
Mar 24 · 1h 1m
What does it really take to break into the film industry with no experience?In this powerful episode of A Conversation With Floyd Marshall Jr., actress Shalèt Monique shares how losing her teaching job led to an unexpected journey into acting — starting with a casting call that changed her life.“Somebody sent me a casting call and said you should do this… and I had no idea what I was doing.” From her first film festival win to working alongside industry professionals, Shalèt opens up about the real story behind building an acting career — including rejection, resilience, and faith.🎬 In this episode, you’ll learn:• How Shalèt Monique transitioned from teacher to actress• The truth about auditions, rejection, and booking roles• What filmmakers and actors need to know about the industry• How faith and perseverance shape long-term success• The emotional realities behind red carpets and recognitionThis episode is a must-listen for:🎭 Aspiring actors🎥 Independent filmmakers🚀 Creatives pursuing purpose-driven careersIf you’re trying to break into acting or navigate the film industry, this conversation delivers real insight, motivation, and strategy.=========Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
Mar 17 · 1h 21m
What does it really take to succeed as an independent filmmaker in today’s industry?In this episode of A Conversation with Floyd Marshall Jr., award-winning filmmaker Eden Marryshow shares the real journey behind building a film career without waiting for Hollywood’s permission.From working in New York City public schools to winning at the American Black Film Festival, Eden breaks down how purpose, loss, and belief pushed him to fully commit to filmmaking. This conversation is a powerful mix of inspiration and strategy—covering everything from guerrilla filmmaking to modern film distribution and audience ownership.🎬 In this episode, you’ll learn:How to transition from a stable career into filmmakingWhy “no Plan B” can accelerate your successThe difference between indie and independent filmmakingWhy film distribution doesn’t end with streaming platformsHow touring your film can build a real audienceThe importance of email lists and owning your audienceEden also shares the vision behind Can You Stand The Rain—a film designed as a cultural experience centered on grief, healing, and connection, brought directly to audiences through a nationwide tour. If you're a filmmaker, creative entrepreneur, or someone ready to take your dream seriously, this episode gives you both the mindset and the blueprint.🎧 Listen now and start building your path—your way.Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
Feb 24 · 1h 3m
What does it really take to survive — and thrive — as an independent filmmaker?In this powerful episode of A Conversation with Host Floyd Marshall Jr., we sit down with Nigerian-American filmmaker and Black Film Space co-founder Lande Yoosuf to unpack her journey from MTV executive to fearless indie creator.Lande shares the career setback that changed everything, the truth about industry gatekeeping, and how she built Black Film Space into a national nonprofit supporting Black filmmakers across the diaspora. She opens up about confidence, childhood trauma, creative fear, and stepping fully into her identity as an artist.We also dive into:• Leaving corporate media to pursue independent film• Navigating racism and industry bias• Building community for emerging filmmakers• The making of her supernatural short White Agbada• Why now is the time for a Pan-African creative renaissanceIf you're an aspiring filmmaker, writer, producer, or creative entrepreneur, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom, honesty, and inspiration.🎬 Follow Black Film Space🎥 Support independent storytellers🔥 Bet on yourself — even when the industry doesn’t#IndependentFilmmakers #BlackFilmmakers #FilmIndustry #CreativeEntrepreneur #PodcastForCreatives=====Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
Feb 12 · 1h 0m
What do you do when HBO doesn’t pick up the phone?In this powerful episode of A Conversation with, host Floyd Marshall Jr. and co-host Okema Moore sit down with award-winning creatives Renee Wilson and Jana Naomi Smith to unpack the journey behind Red for Revolution — a Tribeca-winning narrative audio drama that began as a television pilot and evolved into a groundbreaking independent project.This conversation explores:• Why “independent TV” is nearly impossible without a studio• Turning rejection into creative innovation• Building an award-winning audio drama without traditional industry access• Casting major talent through cold outreach and persistence• The power of a bold pitch deck• Fighting to get audio drama recognized at the Grammys• The reality of hustle, doubt, and delayed celebrationRenee Wilson shares how belief, manifestation, and strategic relationships helped bring the project to life through her production company, meta Manna Media. Jana Naomi Smith reflects on writing the project as a graduate thesis in 2017 and watching it grow into a nationally recognized series.If you are an independent filmmaker, writer, or storyteller navigating gatekeepers, funding challenges, or industry doubt — this episode offers real strategy, transparency, and inspiration.🎧 Listen now and discover how urgency, resilience, and collaboration turned an “impossible” project into award-winning storytelling.
Jan 13 · 1h 10m
What does it really take to make a meaningful film when the story is personal, the journey is long, and the stakes are real?In this powerful episode of A Conversation with Host Floyd Marshall Jr., host Floyd Marshall Jr. and co-host Okema T. Moore sit down with Cori Robinson — singer, actress, and executive producer — for an unfiltered conversation every filmmaker needs to hear.Cori Robinson shares her real journey through the creative industry, from early artistic breakthroughs to moments of survival, self-doubt, and resilience. She opens up about sleeping at the YMCA, navigating the realities of independent filmmaking, and what it means to carry the responsibility of telling a story rooted in legacy.At the center of this episode is Cori’s work as Executive Producer of the documentary I Was Born This Way, which explores the life and legacy of Carl Bean — Motown recording artist, minister, activist, and the original voice behind the anthem that later inspired Lady Gaga. Cori discusses what it means to protect truth, integrity, and humanity when telling a story that belongs not just to history, but to family.This conversation is especially valuable for:Independent filmmakersDocumentary directors and producersFilm festival creatorsStorytellers navigating long production timelinesCreatives balancing purpose, survival, and sustainabilityTopics covered include:The unseen emotional and financial costs of filmmakingWhy some films take years — and why that mattersHow to keep going when the industry tests your resolveStory ownership, legacy, and ethical storytellingAdvice Cori wishes she had earlier in her careerThis episode isn’t about overnight success.It’s about endurance, responsibility, and why some stories demand to be told — no matter how long it takes.If you’re a filmmaker questioning whether the journey is worth it, this conversation will remind you why you started.================Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0
Dec 11 · 1h 23m
Amajae Hardy-Jones joins A Conversation With Floyd Marshall Jr. for a powerful, faith-centered deep dive into her journey from Philadelphia stages to Los Angeles film sets, proving what’s possible when purpose meets preparation. In this inspiring conversation, Amajae shares how early training in theater, her transformative experiences at the Kimmel Center, and a decade of mentorship prepared her for roles in major productions—including BET+’s Angel, where she stars as Brandi. She opens up about navigating self-doubt, the reality of rejection in Hollywood, and how faith, discipline, and relentless professionalism shape her career. You’ll hear how Amajae:Discovered her passion for acting watching Brandy & Whitney Houston’s CinderellaTrained rigorously from age 14, including with Eli & Lou Entertainment and I Can ActTook a leap of faith to move across the country and build her career in LAHandles “no” as redirection, not rejectionBuilt Aspire to Inspire, her platform spotlighting creative journeysBecame the assistant to powerhouse film producer Angela White of Silver Lining EntertainmentUses networking and character preparation to book rooms, not just rolesThis episode is a masterclass for actors, filmmakers, and anyone pursuing creative dreams. Packed with wisdom on craft, character development, industry relationships, faith, and resilience—it’s a must-listen for emerging artists ready to level up.🎧 Perfect for listeners searching for:acting advice • film industry insights • faith-driven motivation • Hollywood career paths • overcoming doubt • audition mindset • creative resilience • indie filmmaking • mentorship stories • entertainment business strategy👇 If you’re a creator, young actor, or visionary—this episode will pour into you. Dive in.====================Submit Your Film to Our Film Collective:ifapfilmcollective.comConnect With Floyd Marshall Jr:instagram.com/floydmarshalljrtiktok.com/@floydmarshalljr0