Indie Film Podcast

Burnout in indie filmmaking doesn’t always hit all at once. Sometimes it builds quietly, through overcommitment, creative exhaustion, and the pressure to always do more. And before you know it, the work you love stops being fun.In this episode of the Indie Film Podcast (S2E02), we talk honestly about burnout: sharing personal stories from post-pandemic projects, unpacking unrealistic productivity expectations, and exploring why burnout can linger even after your workload lightens. We also discuss dangerous filmmaking myths, hard-earned technical lessons, and what it really looks like to set boundaries without walking away from film entirely.This episode covers:Burnout and creative exhaustion in indie filmmakingWearing too many hats and overcommittingPost-pandemic hustle cultureA humbling lesson about Poly WAV audio filesIndustry news on movie theaters and changing audience behaviorFilmmaker of the Week: Trisha Furhman on self-reflection and growth_____________________________________Links & resources:Submit Your Story: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.com/submitTheaters are making a comeback: https://cinemaunited.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Strength-of-Theatrical-Exhibition-December-2025-Update.pdf_____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072 

"Become a better filmmaker” sounds like a great resolution, until it leads to burnout and unfinished projects. In this episode, we break down why vague filmmaking goals fail, how indie filmmakers accidentally sabotage themselves, and what to do instead to set realistic, sustainable goals you can actually finish. _____________________________________Links & resources:Submit Your Story: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.com/submitLearn about Idaho’s next horror feature at www.lowergentrystudios.com Victoria’s favorite After Effects tutorials: www.videocopilot.net _____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/73sAVvvHVMl7KwoYc4zTxo

The Chicago Horror Film Festival packs 250 films into one epic weekend of indie horror, filmmaking energy, and nonstop screenings. In this episode, we break down what makes this IMDb-certified festival so special, from the massive programming slate and passionate horror community to the filmmaker lounge, networking, and a few unexpected tech hiccups at the Logan Theater.We cover submission value, festival communication, audience turnout, neighborhood vibes, and whether indie horror filmmakers should submit (or attend) this long-running Chicago staple. If you're planning your festival run or love hearing how big genre festivals operate behind the scenes, this review has you covered._____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072

The Portland Under the Stars Film Festival delivered one of the most packed, electric nights we’ve ever had as indie filmmakers. In this episode, we break down what made this first-year event stand out, from the standing-room-only screenings at McMenamins Mission Theater to the wildly engaged, arts-loving Portland crowd.We cover submission value, communication, networking in the theater bar, award experiences, and whether Portland Under the Stars is worth adding to your festival run. Plus, we compare it to its sister festivals in LA and Austin and share why this one might become a major stop for filmmakers._____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072

In this episode, we review the first annual She/Her Fest in Seattle, a women-focused indie film festival celebrating bold voices, tiny budgets, and revolutionary storytelling. We break down everything from the festival’s strong communication and phenomenal theater tech to its intimate programming block, unique award categories, and the kind of filmmakers who will thrive there. If you're considering submitting to She/Her Fest or just love hearing honest festival insights from the indie trenches, this one’s for you.Learn more about the She/Her Fest: https://www.sheherfest.com_____________________________________Follow us for more indie film content:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiefilmpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indiefilmpodcastWebsite: https://www.indiefilmpodcast.comNewsletter: https://indie-film-podcast.kit.com/68f74bc072