Best Ab5 Podcasts (2025)

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From Actor to Director: Robert Larriviere’s Indie Journey With "This Is Jan" 28:24

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1d ago28:24

28:24

What does it take to make your first film? Robert Larriviere shares the journey from conceptualizing to having an award-winning debut. John Cooke and Bishop Porter sit down with Robert to unpack the making of This is Jan, discussing topics such as crowdfunding, casting, securing a SAG-AFTRA contract, and creating space for queer stories rooted in h…

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Revolutionizing Indie Film Production Through Technology With Ben Arnon 33:59

6d ago33:59

33:59

What if your next film could do more than win awards… What if it could spark a movement? John Cooke sits down with Ben Arnon, co-founder of Color Farm, to discuss how independent filmmakers can use storytelling to spark social change. With his unique background in both Hollywood and Silicon Valley, Ben shares how innovation and community organizing…

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Understanding Types of Production Incentives for Your Film 1:46

13d ago1:46

1:46

Want to make your budget go further? The right production incentives, from tax credits to rebates, can put real money back into your project if you know how each one works. In this episode of Inside Indies, John Cooke breaks down the two main types of production incentives, explains terms like refundable and transferable, and shares why early plann…

1
How To Protect Your Film and Attract Investors With an LLC 1:55

20d ago1:55

1:55

An LLC might seem like just another legal formality, but in independent filmmaking, it’s a smart tool that safeguards your vision, your team, and your wallet. In this episode of Inside Indies, host John Cooke shares how and why to create an LLC for your next project. You’ll learn how it protects personal assets, what it means for investors, and the…

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How Completion Bonds Protect Investors and Filmmakers With Fred Milstein 10:14

27d ago10:14

10:14

What happens when a film runs over budget or misses its deadline? For many filmmakers, this could mean disaster. That’s where completion bonds come in. In this episode, Fred Milstein, President and CEO of Media Guarantors, joins John Cooke to explore the world of completion bonds and how they play a crucial role in ensuring independent films are co…

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AB5 Employee Classification Explained With John Cooke 1:58

1M ago1:58

1:58

The last thing you want on set is a legal headache. In this episode, host John Cooke explains California’s AB5 law, something every filmmaker should understand to keep their production on track. Key insights from this episode: The basics of California's AB5 law The legal risks of misclassifying workers in production How an employer of record simpli…

1
Digital Onboarding Made Simple for Indie Films 1:19

1M ago1:19

1:19

Skip the paperwork, not the progress. In this episode, John Cooke walks you through how digital onboarding tools are streamlining production from day one. Whether you're hiring a crew of five or fifty, discover how online start work, centralized document management, and paperless workflows can save you time, money, and stress. Key insights from thi…

1
How Indie Producer Scott Glassgold Turns Short Stories Into Studio Films 34:22

2M ago34:22

34:22

When producer Scott Glassgold flew across Europe with a monster’s head in his carry-on, it wasn’t a stunt. It was part of making Tarot, a breakout horror film that turned an $8 million budget into a nearly $50 million box office haul. That kind of hands-on hustle is exactly what defines Scott’s approach to indie filmmaking, and what’s helped him ca…

1
Inside SAG-AFTRA Contracts With Jessica Johnson and Olga Rodriguez-Aguirre 14:54

2M ago14:54

14:54

A well-crafted union agreement can make or break your indie production, and no one knows that better than Jessica Johnson and Olga Rodriguez-Aguirre of SAG-AFTRA. John Cooke sits down with Jessica and Olga to demystify the SAG-AFTRA contracts that apply to independent films with budgets of $2 million and up. From common pitfalls to budgeting for re…

1
How To Use Exhibit G To Stay SAG-Compliant 1:07

2M ago1:07

1:07

Timecards are the quiet MVP of any union set. Boring? Maybe. Essential? Absolutely. In this episode, John Cooke breaks down Exhibit G, the daily timecard required by SAG-AFTRA to document performer work hours, breaks, and approvals. If you’re producing under a union agreement, this form is a non-negotiable. Whether you’re stepping onto your first u…

1
The Quick Guide To Becoming a SAG-AFTRA Signatory 1:30

2M ago1:30

1:30

Thinking about casting SAG-AFTRA actors? Before you can call “action,” you’ve got to get your paperwork in order, and that starts with becoming a signatory. In this episode, John Cooke guides you through the process, covering everything from timelines and required paperwork to selecting the right agreement for your budget and production. Whether yo…

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Key Costs When Hiring SAG-AFTRA Talent 1:25

3M ago1:25

1:25

Hiring SAG-AFTRA talent can boost your film’s profile, but the costs can add up fast if you’re not prepared. In this episode, host John Cooke breaks down the essential expenses you’ll face when working with union actors, from scale pay to performance bonds. He offers clear, practical advice to help independent filmmakers plan wisely, stay compliant…

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How To Cast Indie Films Effectively With Kimberly Sparks 6:39

3M ago6:39

6:39

Every great performance starts with one powerful choice: casting. In this episode, John Cooke sits down with casting director Kimberly Sparks to explore how she approaches indie casting with an eye for story and a heart for people. Kimberly walks us through her process of interpreting scripts, working closely with directors and talent agents, and f…

1
How To Discover New Talent: A Casting Guide With Gerardo Maravilla 7:21

3M ago7:21

7:21

Casting can make or break your film. But how do you find the right talent without a big budget or industry connections? In this episode, host John Cooke sits down with Gerardo Maravilla from Backstage to break down what indie filmmakers need to know about the modern casting process. Gerardo shares tips for discovering fresh faces and collaborating …

1
How Talent Agents Help You Cast Faster and Smarter 1:24

3M ago1:24

1:24

Talent agents aren’t just for A-listers. For indie filmmakers, they’re a secret weapon for casting smarter and moving faster. In this episode, John Cooke breaks down the role of talent agents and explains why partnering with one can make the casting process smoother, faster, and more strategic. Whether you’re planning your first short film or geari…

1
Stop Losing Money Over Crew Meal Penalties 1:04

4M ago1:04

1:04

Meal breaks might not seem like a big deal…until they cost your production thousands. In this episode, John Cooke discusses the rules around crew meals and the costly penalties that can sneak up on independent filmmakers. He also shares practical tips on union and nonunion requirements to help you stay compliant, on schedule, and within budget. Key…

1
How Joe Wein Turned a Survival Story Into a Feature Doc 16:57

4M ago16:57

16:57

Stranded in the Atlantic Ocean for 76 days with nothing but a life raft, a spear, and sheer will, Steven Callahan’s true survival story became the obsession of filmmaker Joe Wein. In this episode, host John Cooke sits down with Joe to explore how he transformed this impossible story into an award-winning documentary. Joe shares the behind-the-scene…

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What Your Film Insurance Really Covers 1:25

4M ago1:25

1:25

Insurance may not be glamorous, but it’s one of the most important safeguards in film production. In this episode of Inside Indies, host John Cooke explains the must-know terms of production insurance, from general liability and workers’ comp to Certificates of Insurance, to protect your crew, gear, and peace of mind. Key insights from this episode…

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This is Inside Indies 0:23

4M ago0:23

0:23

This is Inside Indies, powered by Cast & Crew. In each episode, we take a look at what it takes to make an indie film and share advice on things like funding, planning, and getting a project across the finish line, without a studio-sized budget.By Cast & Crew

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What exactly can you do with AI in freight sales? 45:06

2y ago45:06

45:06

Kevin welcomes the founder and CEO of Tai Software, Walter (Mitch) Mitchell on the show to discuss the role AI will play in freight sales. The key takeaway is that sales will remain the same, but AI will do what we are doing and using now even better, easier, and quicker. What does this mean? It will increase your sales velocity. Follow the Put Tha…

1
When your niche goes mainstream with Kyle Gholston 43:47

2y ago43:47

43:47

Kevin welcomes the first person he worked for in logistics on this episode. It was 10 years ago and much has changed in the brokerage world. Over the past 10 years technology changed the game. What’s the big trend for the next 10 years? Kevin and Kyle discuss the buzzwords sweeping across the brokerage world. What’s the buzzword? Reshoring and near…

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Caring more about your net worth than Netflix with Brent Orsuga 44:08

2y ago44:08

44:08

Kevin welcomes Brent Orsuga on the show to discuss some positive signs in the job market. We also cover how you should and shouldn't dress for interviews and sales meetings, and how you should live your life if you care more about your net worth than your Netflix account. Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more a…

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Moving freight from phone calls to dashboards with Bill Hale 42:58

2y ago42:58

42:58

Bill Hale, CEO and co-founder of FetchGoat joins Kevin to talk about moving from phone calls to dashboards. FetchGoat is on a mission to take the confusing communication networks of LTL networks and move this to a new streamlined dashboard system. We also talk about his career and lessons in freight sales. And yes the goat in FetchGoat stands for g…

1
The Richie Daigle Update 27:56

2y ago27:56

27:56

Kevin welcomes former co-host Richie Daigle from Tive on the show to talk about the importance of the word “Why” and what is the difference between adversity and enemy and how this matters in sales. #sales #PutThatCoffeeDown #marketing #freightsales #freightwaves #sonar Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more abo…

1
Where does freight sales go from here? 28:05

2y ago28:05

28:05

Kevin welcomes Ryan Schreiber, CGO, of Metaphora on the show to talk about the latest trends in freight sales. #sales #PutThatCoffeeDown #marketing #freightsales #freightwaves #sonar Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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Taking freight data to a higher level with Ilya Preston 43:06

2y ago43:06

43:06

Kevin is joined by Ilya Preston, co-founder & CEO of Paxafe, on this episode to discuss big data. Whether it’s the internet of things or metadata, the industry is just now getting its arms wrapped around it. The big plus is taking granular data of isolated events and converting it into a predictable macro pattern that helps businesses manage future…

1
Being an extension of your customer’s brand with Rob Bussey 33:19

2y ago33:19

33:19

Kevin welcomes Rob Bussey from BWS Logistics onto the show to discuss the importance of being an extension of your customer’s brand. You become the transportation face without the overhead and payroll. If you can tell this narrative and nail down the execution then you have a long-term client on board. Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast Other …

1
Taking notes and being organized in sales 27:17

2y ago27:17

27:17

Kevin welcomes Josh Lyles, Founder of Salesdash on the show today to talk about notes and organization for freight sales. Josh started out as a freight broker, saw a problem with CRMs and decided to build one from the ground up for the freight industry. #sales #PutThatCoffeeDown #marketing #freightsales #freightwaves #sonar Follow the Put That Coff…

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Freight horror stories with Ash McMillan 29:14

2y ago29:14

29:14

Kevin welcomes Ash McMillan, Director of Business Development, at Lake Shore Logistics on the show to discuss her LinkedIn short story newsletter series about horror stories in freight called Friday Night Confessionals. Marketing yourself is all about creativity. #sales #PutThatCoffeeDown #marketing #freightsales #freightwaves #sonar Follow the Put…

1
Is scheduling trucks the biggest headache for the freight industry? 40:14

2y ago40:14

40:14

Kevin welcomes Jeff Booth from Opendock on the show to talk about the warehouse industry and scheduling trucks. From Kevin and Jeff’s experience it’s a task that shouldn’t be anywhere as complicated as it is today. Learn how many warehouses are out there and whether one day calling facilities to schedule appointments will feel like faxing around ra…

1
Selling cities and regions to freight companies with Teclo Garcia 29:27

2y ago29:27

29:27

Kevin welcomes Teclo Garcia the CEO of the Mission Economic Development Corporation to the show today. Reshoring and nearshoring are hot topics and we discuss what he’s seeing on the ground at the largest crossing points in South Texas. #sales #PutThatCoffeeDown #marketing #freightsales #freightwaves #sonar Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast O…

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The health of the trucking industry with Mark Manera 41:06

2y ago41:06

41:06

Kevin welcomes Dr. Mark Manera from Supply Chain Fitness to the show to talk about driver health issues. It’s important to understand the dangers of driving a truck day after day. In fact, the life span of drivers is 16 years shorter than the general population. Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your …

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Using the virtual world to qualify prospects with Hiram Hartnett 30:43

2y ago30:43

30:43

Kevin drops by Pegasus Logistics in Texas to chat with their SVP of Sales, Hiram Hartnett. It's all about the hybrid world of sales these days. Part video meetings along with the face to face. One of the most important trends discussed is how to use video calls to qualify prospects. It's a much better process than flying around the country hoping y…

1
How ears open, mouth shut closes more deals 29:41

2y ago29:41

29:41

Kevin welcomes Matt Perkins, Co-Owner of Business to Business Logistics on the show again this week to talk about listening vs. talking when on a sales call. It’s part of the curse of knowledge and the fear of failure that causes us to vomit information all over the place during presentations, rather than sitting back and asking great questions. #s…

1
Being proactive to control churning customers in brokerage with Freight 360 41:18

2y ago41:18

41:18

Kevin welcomes Nate Cross and Benjamin Kowalski from Freight 360 to the show to talk about the topic everyone likes to avoid, customer churn. There’s what you can control and there’s what you can’t control. Being proactive about what you can’t control though will help you out in the long run though. Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast Other Fre…

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Using the FreightTech top 100 to leverage your sales 29:55

2y ago29:55

29:55

Kevin welcomes Senior Researcher here at FreightWaves, Joe Antoshak, to the show to discuss all your questions on the FreightTech 100 process. Plus, we discuss how startups use a placement on the list to drive sales. #sales #PutThatCoffeeDown #marketing #freightsales #freightwaves #sonar Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast Other FreightWaves Sh…

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Reshoring and nearshoring trends with IGL Logistics 1:07:34

2y ago1:07:34

1:07:34

Kevin welcomes Jim Burke and Alan Levesque from IGL Logistics to discuss trends in nearshoring and reshoring. It’s a trend that all freight sales pros should have in their arsenal. Not only is it top of shippers' minds now, this trend will only accelerate as supply chains readjust to become more resilient to shocks to the system. Follow the Put Tha…

1
Your biggest competition is from the status quo 29:53

2y ago29:53

29:53

Kevin welcomes Dyrc McLeod from HylanderTek to discuss how your biggest competitor isn’t another company, but the buyer’s aversion to taking any action at all. It’s all how to influence your prospects to take action. Any action at all, beats no action whatsoever. #sales #PutThatCoffeeDown #marketing #freightsales #freightwaves #sonar Follow the Put…

1
Always looking for selling points with Brad Perling 29:43

2+ y ago29:43

29:43

Kevin welcomes Brad Perling, the managing partner and co-founder of Bitfreighter on the show to discuss how you can use technology as selling point with shippers. #sales #PutThatCoffeeDown #marketing #freightsales #freightwaves #sonar Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.…

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More on creating your own luck with Nate Shutes 32:29

2+ y ago32:29

32:29

Kevin and Nate continue their discussion on creating your own luck in life and sales in this episode. It’s all about creating and placing yourself where luck can find you. That's just what Nate is doing now, creating an ideal luck factory with his new venture Balast. Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about …

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Paradoxes in sales with Richie Daigle 25:52

2+ y ago25:52

25:52

Kevin welcomes his former co-host, Richie Daigle from Tive, back on the show to discuss a paradox or two in sales. Then we discuss the pros and cons of using AI in our sales messaging and cold outreach. Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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Selling freight using content with Joe Lynch 25:50

2+ y ago25:50

25:50

Kevin welcomes one of the original content creators in logistics to the show this week to discuss how to start your own content generating machine. It’s none other than Joe Lynch, the founder of The Logistics of Logistics podcast and LinkedIn community and he will share his secrets of creating your own content engine that will drive sales for your …

1
Building relationships between brokers and carriers with Dan Lindsey 23:53

2+ y ago23:53

23:53

Kevin welcomes Dan Lindsey from Linkage Logistics on the show to discuss how bringing brokers and carriers together lifts the tides of all boats in logistics. Dan has put his money where his mouth is by creating conferences designed to bring brokers and carriers together to learn about each other and develop those long lasting business relationship…

1
How to make your own luck with Nate Shutes 26:41

2+ y ago26:41

26:41

Kevin welcomes Nate Shutes VP of Fulfillment at Blu Dot and founder of Ballast to the show to discuss how putting yourself in the the right positions is the key to generating luck in life and in sales. Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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The deal makers guide to M&A and sales with Spencer Tenney 31:15

2+ y ago31:15

31:15

Spencer Tenney, the President and CEO of the Tenney Group drops by the show to discuss how M&A is pure sales in action. We talk about the deals so far in 2023, and what we can expect for the second half of the year. Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
Transparency in freight sales with Andrew Lockwood 26:26

2+ y ago26:26

26:26

Andrew Lockwood, Senior Director of Managed Logistics at Suddath Global Logistics joins the show to talk about how using transparency and vulnerability in sales is a game changer. #sales #PutThatCoffeeDown #marketing #freightsales #freightwaves #sonar Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices.…

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How knowing the financials can help with your freight sales game with Seth Holm 26:17

2+ y ago26:17

26:17

Kevin welcomes hedge fund founder Seth Holm from West Brow Capital Management on the show to talk earnings and financials. Seth and I co-hosted, Great Quarter, Guys, back in the day at FreightWaves and we picked up the conversation of how quarterly earnings can give you insights into new sales strategies. #sales #PutThatCoffeeDown #marketing #freig…

1
Your fear of rejection probably isn’t as intense as you think with TJ Knudson 26:12

2+ y ago26:12

26:12

Kevin welcomes TJ Knudson, Vice President of Business Development at Packer Transportation & Logistics and host of Hold My Beer We’re Talking Freight to the show to discuss how to handle rejection. Research shows there are four key ways to tell how well you handle rejection. Listen in and test where you land on the rejection scale. #sales #PutThatC…

1
Are new regulations about to hit freight brokers? 26:31

2+ y ago26:31

26:31

Kevin welcomes Matthew Leffler, The Armchair Attorney on the show to discuss double brokering and rate transparency. #sales #PutThatCoffeeDown #marketing #freightsales #freightwaves #sonar Follow the Put That Coffee Down Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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It’s more of a job interview than winning a bid with enterprise shippers 37:01

2+ y ago37:01

37:01

Paul Estrada drops in on Put That Coffee Down to discuss how the onboarding process to haul for enterprise shippers is much like a new employee onboarding process. It takes quite a bit of time and resources to train new transportation providers and that is one of the main reasons why enterprise shippers are so selective. We go through an example of…