Best SpecialEffect Podcasts (2026)

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Dr Mick Donegan MBE: Founder and CEO of SpecialEffect 29:47

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27d ago29:47

29:47

Dr Mick Donegan, MBE, is the Founder and CEO of SpecialEffect, a charity helping people with severe physical disabilities access and enjoy technology for leisure, creativity and communication. Dr Mick joins Elliot to chat about the very moving impact of this life-changing work and the battles won to make it possible.…

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Start Your First Haunted Attraction | Imminent Doom 1:41:32

1d ago1:41:32

1:41:32

What's it really like to open and operate a Haunted Attraction business? Can your dream really come true? Can you do it by yourself? We answer all of your questions in this Master Class with Conner Beets from Imminent Doom Haunted House. Conner, a lifetime Haunt enthusiast, started and operated his first commercial haunted attraction this year (202…

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Ep 405 - Quick Cuts: No Other Choice, Jay Kelly, Eyes Wide Shut 1:00:11

8d ago1:00:11

1:00:11

From nostalgic classics like 'Broadcast News' and 'Moonstruck' to the latest releases such as 'Jay Kelly' and 'No Other Choice,' we offer insightful commentary on performances, direction, and cinematography. We talk about Adam Sandler's standout role in Jay Kelly, the artistry of Park Chan-wook, and the moving portrayals in 'Train Dreams.'…

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James Hirst: Co-Founder and COO of Tyk 26:58

12d ago26:58

26:58

For the last Jazz Shapers of the season, Elliot is joined by James Hirst, the Co-Founder and COO of Tyk, an API Management Platform on a mission to connect every system in the world. James joins Elliot to talk about leaping on the internet's potential and the joy and surprise of developing your ideas with a global community.…

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David Mansfield: Ex-CEO of Capital Radio and creator of The Monday Revolution 29:46

1M ago29:46

29:46

David Mansfield is the ex-CEO of Capital Radio and the creator of The Monday Revolution, aiming to help you seize control of your business life. David joins Elliot to talk about his journey from being the worst chocolate salesman in the UK to building Capital Radio into a multimillion-pound company, and the 'privilege' of helping people reach their…

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Remembering Jan Knuth 34:52

1M ago34:52

34:52

In this episode, we remember our friend and fellow Haunter, Jan Knuth. The Haunt world lost a good one. R.I.P. Jan Skaggs Knuth She was always a kind soul, loved Haunting, was an admin for this group, & even thought about me enough to include my opinion in her book "Not Afraid to Slay: Women of the Haunt Industry". You will be missed… Here is part …

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Ep 404 - Frankenstein 1:11:12

1M ago1:11:12

1:11:12

In this episode we delve into Guillermo del Toro's latest work, Frankenstein. We discuss our overall impressions and highlights. Key points include critiques of the film's pacing and character development, the standout skills of the actors, and an examination of del Toro's unique storytelling style.By Paul James and Josh Knapp

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Renée Elliot: Founder of Planet Organic 27:45

1M ago27:45

27:45

Renée Elliot is the founder of Planet Organic, the UK’s first organic supermarket. Renée joins Elliot to talk about the shock realisation that changed her life and the impact of getting pushed out of her own company and then returning to rescue it from administration

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Oli Broom: Founder of The Slow Cyclist 25:37

2M ago25:37

25:37

Oli Broom is the Founder of The Slow Cyclist, a cycle tour operator leading adventures across Europe and Africa. Oli joins Elliot to share how he left his uninspiring desk job in London, to cycle 28,000 km (over 14 months) to Brisbane, to watch the Ashes cricket series between England and Australia. And how this life-changing adventure led to a bel…

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Ep 403 - Bugonia 1:00:32

2M ago1:00:32

1:00:32

In this episode we delve into the latest film by Yorgos Lanthimos, 'Bogonia.' We discuss the film's intricate themes, complex characters, and unique narrative style. We also exploring the themes of hope, agency, and societal critique. The hosts debate the effectiveness of the film's ending and its impact on the audience.…

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Alice Wainwright and Ben Charalambous: Co-founders of RISE 27:22

2M ago27:22

27:22

Alice Wainwright and Ben Charalambous are the co-founders of RISE, a B Corp certified coffee subscription club. Alice and Ben join Elliot to share how frustration (during lockdown) at the lack of sustainable, ethical coffee options led them to launch their own multi-brand business, as well as their 'Friendly Coffee Fund', supporting coffee-growing …

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Lisa and Alana Macfarlane: Founders of The Gut Stuff 25:14

2M ago25:14

25:14

Lisa and Alana Macfarlane are founders of The Gut Stuff, a multi-industry platform democratising gut health education. The former DJ's join Elliot to chat about how taking part in Twin research with Professor Tim Spector, led them on a mission to shake up the confusing, elitist communication around gut health and make it accessible and fun.…

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Ep 402 - One Battle After Another 1:25:53

2M ago1:25:53

1:25:53

In this episode we dive into the latest Paul Thomas Anderson movie. We explore the film's intricate layers, masterful performances, and unparalleled storytelling. We break down the film's standout scenes, including its tension-filled chase sequence and the complex interplay of its characters. We get into the captivating performances by Sean Penn an…

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Ben Branson: Founder of Seedlip 28:26

2M ago28:26

28:26

Ben Branson, Founder of Seedlip, the world’s first distilled non-alcoholic spirit; and the Founder of Pollen Projects, a venture studio that have so far created Seasn, (a range of cocktail bitters) and Sylva (a distillery and maturation lab making non-alcoholic spirits from trees). Ben is also the Founder of neurodiversity charity The Hidden 20%.…

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Ryan Edwards: Founder and CEO of Audoo 30:08

3M ago30:08

30:08

Ryan Edwards is the Founder and CEO of Audoo, a music technology company, tracking the music played in public spaces so artists and songwriters are paid fairly. Ryan joins Elliot to talk about the soul destroying impact of his band being dropped after coming off stage to 80,000 people, and how hearing his band's song in a department store led Ryan …

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Amelia Christie-Miller: Founder and CEO of Bold Bean Co 25:27

3M ago25:27

25:27

Amelia Christie-Miller is the Founder and CEO of Bold Bean Co. on a mission to make people obsessed with beans. Amelia joins Elliot to talk about the hangover in Madrid that led to a game-changing moment and how (she says) beans can change the world!

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Midnight Syndicate: The Birth of Gothic, Horror, & Haunt Music 1:42:04

3M ago1:42:04

1:42:04

Join the guys behind Midnight Syndicate, Edward Douglas & Gavin Goszka! We ask them questions like: How to create your own haunt music? What inspires them to make music? Sound tips and tricks? Plus, we play the first 3 tracks from their NEW album Darkened Corners. Midnight Syndicate is an American musical duo known for creating dark, atmospheric, a…

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Kimberlee Perry: Founder and CEO of Bouncefitbody 22:06

3M ago22:06

22:06

Kimberlee Perry is the founder and CEO of Bouncefitbody, the resistance-based fitness class company. Kimberlee shares with Elliot how loneliness (and a missed promotion at work) led her to buy 8 second-hand trampolines and launch her now global business.

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Nick Hird: Co-founder & Managing Director of Vidrate 25:01

3M ago25:01

25:01

Nick Hird is the Co-founder & Managing Director of Vidrate, the natural hydration supplements, created to help you drink more water. Nick joins Elliot to talk about his drive to create a hydration product that wasn't loaded with sugar, calories and artificial ingredients despite 30 factories telling them their ‘holy grail’ was impossible to create.…

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Ep 401 - Weapons 1:04:44

3M ago1:04:44

1:04:44

This week we start with Paul recounting his recent performance in a play up in Virginia, sharing his thoughts on the experience and the audience's reception. We also touch on the emotional and technical challenges faced during his performance. Then we get into the film 'Weapons,' directed by Zach Cregger. We discuss the film's characters, notable s…

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Total Terror Haunted House: From Home Haunter to Pro 1:30:39

3M ago1:30:39

1:30:39

Join us as we discuss the Total Terror Haunt with Chip Wells in Virginia. Going from a home haunter to a commercial haunted attraction Create your own props with papier-mache How to operate and grow a haunted attraction How to manage your haunt crew and lots more... Start and grow your Haunted Attraction at HauntersToolbox.com Stalk Total Terror at…

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Serial entrepreneur Heather Frankham 23:41

4M ago23:41

23:41

Serial entrepreneur Heather Frankham is the Founder of Lifetime Training, (an apprenticeship provider) and Origin Workspace (a co-working space), as well as the co-founder of Bud, an apprenticeship management company. Heather joins Elliot to share the make or break moment while growing her first business, and her drive to connect with people and ma…

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Scare Actor Training & Managing with Fright Nights 1:51:08

4M ago1:51:08

1:51:08

Sammy Days & David Gricius are the Scare Actor Trainers and Scare Actors at Fright Nights in Southern Florida. Join us as we pick their brains... Learn how to recruit scare actors Learn how to train scare actors Learn how to manage scare actors Fright Nights is an annual Halloween event that occurs at the South Florida Fairgrounds in West Palm Beac…

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Sidney Neuhaus: Co-founder of Kimai 25:23

4M ago25:23

25:23

Sidney Neuhaus is the co-founder of Kimai, the lab-grown diamond jewellery brand. Sidney joins Elliot to share how she's disrupting an industry that for hundreds of years has created a huge environmental and social cost.

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Ahti Heinla: Co-founder and developer of Skype 28:15

4M ago28:15

28:15

Ahti Heinla is the co-founder and developer of Skype, the internet communication platform, And co-founder of Starship Technologies, a robot delivery business. Ahti joins Elliot to talk about revolutions - how he changed the world of communication and is now reshaping delivery with a fleet of over 2,000 "much loved" robots.…

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Ep 400 - Top 4 Performances and Tech Achievements 1:05:50

4M ago1:05:50

1:05:50

Welcome to the 400th episode of The Actor and the Engineer! Paul shares his top four acting performances seen during the podcast's run, discussing the tremendous talent showcased in movies like 'If Beale Street Could Talk' and 'Birdman.' Meanwhile, Josh delves into advancements like digital film projection, drone usage, the ARRI Alexa cameras, and …

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Gary Crosby OBE & Janine Irons OBE: Founders of Tomorrow's Warriors 28:45

4M ago28:45

28:45

Kicking off the new season of Jazz Shapers and recorded live at Love Supreme Jazz Festival 2025, Elliot Moss is joined by Gary Crosby and Janine Irons, Founders of Tomorrow’s Warriors, the creative producer and talent development agency, increasing opportunity, diversity and excellence in and through jazz.…

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Halloween Hollow Haunted House: Starting from ground zero 1:45:01

5M ago1:45:01

1:45:01

Halloween Hollow Haunted House in Silver Point, TN, Has Everyone Screaming From Nashville to Knoxville, Tennessee, With Its Massive Outdoor Halloween Event! We answer your questions to the owners, Carroll Lee Moore III and Erica McElroy, as we discuss what it takes to own and operate the most unique haunted attraction in Tennessee. Start and grow y…

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Ep 399 - Eddington 1:14:02

5M ago1:14:02

1:14:02

In this episode we kick off with Paul announcing his new play, 'The Lifespan of a Fact'. Then we have an in-depth analysis of the film 'Eddington', directed by Ari Aster. We explore various plot points, character motivations, social media's impact, and the film's complex themes.By Paul James and Josh Knapp

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Ep 398 - Superman 1:01:57

6M ago1:01:57

1:01:57

In this episode we delve into the latest DC film, Superman, directed by James Gunn. They discuss their excitement for Gunn's take on the DC Universe, our impressions of the cast and the film's overall tone and stylistic choices. We also touch on various plot elements, special effects, and how the movie fares against the backdrop of other superhero …

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Woods of Terror: Scare acting, snakes, midways, & more! 1:18:54

5M ago1:18:54

1:18:54

Eddie McLaurin is the creator and owner of the Woods of Terror haunted attraction in Greensboro, North Carolina. Here's a brief overview of his story: Family Legacy: The Woods of Terror sits on land that has been in McLaurin's family for generations, dating back to his great-grandfather, Simon Peter "Pa Pete" McCormick. Inspired by the Land: McLaur…

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Ep 397 - Breathless 50:29

6M ago50:29

50:29

In this episode we dive into Jean-Luc Godard's influential 1960 film, Breathless. We discuss Godard's journey from critic to filmmaker, the unique production techniques that shaped the film, and the impact of its groundbreaking style, including the use of jump cuts and overdubbing.By Paul James and Josh Knapp

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Terror in the Corn with Bart Butler 1:49:28

6M ago1:49:28

1:49:28

Ask the Haunt Expert: Bart Butler from Terror in the Corn Hosted by HauntersToolbox.com Bart Butler is the show director for Terror in the Corn in Eerie, Colorado. Bart answers all of your haunted attraction-related questions. We'll discuss: -Scare Acting management -Scenic design & construction -Character Development -Getting more people to your H…

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Ep 396 - Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning 47:07

7M ago47:07

47:07

Join us as we get into 'Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning.' We analyze the movie's storyline, character development, and overall execution. We compare it to 'Dead Reckoning' and other Mission Impossible films, touching on our thoughts about the movie's pacing, action sequences, and emotional impact. Don't miss our exploration of the film's hi…

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Joe McDonald: Co-founder and CEO of tem 26:59

7M ago26:59

26:59

Joe McDonald is the co-founder and CEO of tem, a clean energy company changing the way renewable energy is bought, sold and powered. Joe joins Elliot - for the final Jazz Shapers of the season - to chat about disrupting the stagnant energy market, and the myths around renewable energy that hold back its potential.…

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Haunt Marketing, Haunt Dolls, & Conjured Media 1:13:21

7M ago1:13:21

1:13:21

Vendor Spotlight: Haunt Dolls/Conjured Media Hosted by HauntersToolbox.com Before Haunt Dolls was even a thought, Alex Berland, who also runs Conjured Media, a marketing agency that specializes in haunted attractions, would get crochet dolls as holiday gifts for his clients of the characters his team would create with them. The dolls were so well r…

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David Abrahamovitch: Founder and CEO of coffee brand Grind 29:45

7M ago29:45

29:45

David Abrahamovitch is the Founder and CEO of coffee brand Grind. David joins Elliot to talk about turning his late Father's mobile phone shop into a side-hustle coffee store, that he's since grown into a chain of “café by day, cocktail bar by night” venues and a thriving Direct-to-Consumer and grocery business.…

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Ep 395 - Thunderbolts* 59:39

7M ago59:39

59:39

Join us as we dive into Marvel's Thunderbolts*. We discuss the depth and complexities of the characters, the overarching themes of mental health and familial bonds, and how the movie stands out in the vast Marvel Cinematic Universe. From reflections on performances to the significance of character development, we cover how Thunderbolts shows us a l…

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Flavilla Fongang: Founder of 3 Colours Rule/GTA Black Women in Tech/Black Rise 24:25

8M ago24:25

24:25

Joining Elliot is serial entrepreneur Flavilla Fongang, founder of 3 Colours Rule, a branding and marketing agency; the Founder of GTA Black Women in Tech, a non-profit organisation improving representation, diversity and opportunities in the technology industry and Founder of Black Rise, an AI-powered platform aiming to 'bridge the gap between bus…

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Haunt Law: How to cover your a$$ with waivers, contracts, & preparation. 1:30:50

7M ago1:30:50

1:30:50

Matthew Murphey is a Haunter and a trial attorney. Matt has worked in courtrooms since starting his legal career as a court-martial clerk in the United States Army in 1985. He also knows Haunted Attraction's legal roadblocks. We'll discuss: -Protecting yourself from legal battles -How to start a non-profit attraction -Employee contracts & applicati…