Best in Fest

In this powerful Best in Fest episode, host Leslie LaPage sits down with award-winning actress, producer, and entrepreneur Jacqueline Fleming — known for Love Jones, Losing Isaiah, and collaborations with stars like Halle Berry, Morgan Freeman, and Mark Wahlberg. Jacqueline shares her remarkable journey from Denmark to Hollywood, revealing how she turned frustration into fuel — building a multi-hyphenate career as an actress, producer, and now the founder of Slate Distribution and At the Kitchen Table Productions. 🎥 Inside This Episode: Love Jones💡 Key Takeaway: Jacqueline proves that talent opens the door — but knowledge, hustle, and ownership build the house.

In this inspiring Best in Fest episode, host Leslie LaPage spotlights the award-winning filmmakers of the 2025 LaFemme International Film Festival. From a Ukrainian refugee’s moving documentary Mama’s Voice, to the hilarious and heartfelt short The Whole Truth about motherhood and hemorrhoids, to the genre-bending Nepo Baby exploring identity and fame, to the chilling psychological thriller Don’t Let Them Out, and the emotional documentary The Ramba Effect about Chile’s last circus elephant—each story celebrates female creativity, courage, and vision. 🎥 Featured Films & Creators: Mama’s VoiceNepo BabyDon’t Let Them OutThe Whole TruthThe Ramba Effect✨ Tune in for exclusive filmmaker interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and a celebration of women redefining cinema across every genre.

In this inspiring Best in Fest episode, host Leslie LaPage spotlights the award-winning filmmakers of the 2025 LaFemme International Film Festival. From a Ukrainian refugee’s moving documentary Mama’s Voice, to the hilarious and heartfelt short The Whole Truth about motherhood and hemorrhoids, to the genre-bending Nepo Baby exploring identity and fame, to the chilling psychological thriller Don’t Let Them Out, and the emotional documentary The Ramba Effect about Chile’s last circus elephant—each story celebrates female creativity, courage, and vision. 🎥 Featured Films & Creators: Mama’s VoiceNepo BabyDon’t Let Them OutThe Whole TruthThe Ramba Effect✨ Tune in for exclusive filmmaker interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and a celebration of women redefining cinema across every genre.

In this episode of Best in Fest, filmmaker, educator, and Army veteran Shannan Wynn shares her extraordinary journey from serving in the armed forces and counseling at-risk youth to building her own production company, Winquest Entertainment. Shannan reveals how her life experiences inspired her debut thriller A Life of Sunshine—a female-driven, murder mystery now streaming on Amazon Prime and Apple TV—and how she navigated the challenges of self-funding, casting, and distribution Shannan Wynn. She also dives into her collaboration on the relationship documentary The Love Script, the importance of partnerships in indie filmmaking, and her future plans to adapt her children’s book The Tales of Chance and the Faithful Few (with a foreword by CeCe Winans) into an animated series Shannan Wynn. Along the way, Shannan shares advice on building relationships, supporting other filmmakers, and why you should “never put a period where a comma belongs.” Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a fan of thrillers and documentaries, or simply looking for inspiration to pivot careers, this conversation is a masterclass in creativity, resilience, and following your passion.

In this episode of Best in Fest, branding strategist, publisher, and fashion-to-film trailblazer Lela Christine Thompson shares how she built a dynamic career at the intersection of fashion, entertainment, and digital media. From designing for Queen Pen and collaborating with 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment on campaigns for Moulin Rouge, Soul Food, and The Hunger Games, to launching her own digital magazines like Power Player Lifestyle, Fab Five Lifestyle, and Goddess Couture News, Lela reveals how creative vision and persistence can open unexpected doors. She dives deep into brand marketing for independent filmmakers, the power of social impact media, and how to leverage product placement, blogs, and digital magazines to grow your film’s reach. With practical tips on creating a social media calendar, saving behind-the-scenes content, and pitching to online outlets, this conversation is a masterclass in building a digital footprint that lasts. Whether you’re an indie filmmaker, content creator, or entrepreneur looking to elevate your brand, this episode will inspire you to think outside the box and embrace the ever-evolving media landscape.

In this powerhouse episode of Best in Fest, award-winning producer and industry trailblazer Kimberly Ogletree shares her incredible journey through music videos, television, and independent filmmaking. From working with icons like Russell Simmons, Stevie Wonder, and Julie Dash to producing groundbreaking content for BET, Viacom, and MTV, Kimberly reveals how she transitioned from million-dollar music videos to producing ten original TV movies on a shoestring budget—paving the way for Black storytelling in Hollywood. Now serving as the President of Greenlight Women, Kimberly discusses her mission to champion women over 40 in entertainment, tackle ageism, and create inclusive, family-focused content. Tune in as she dives into the art of creative producing, the challenges of studio-level oversight, and the importance of saying "yes" even when the odds are stacked against you. Whether you're a filmmaker, a fan of behind-the-scenes Hollywood insights, or looking to break into the industry, this episode is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and representation.

In this inspiring episode of Best in Fest, entertainment attorney turned filmmaker Sauda Johnson-McNeal shares her journey from studying acting at USC to founding her own production company, Ron Ash LLC, and creating the award-winning independent film Love the Skin You’re In. What began as a personal story of healing and self-discovery evolved into a powerful film about self-acceptance, resilience, and learning to love yourself at every stage of life riverside_sauda_johnson-mcneal_…. Sauda opens up about self-funding her debut feature, working alongside Hollywood legends Obba Babatundé and Marla Gibbs, and the lessons she learned from balancing her dual worlds as a lawyer and creative riverside_sauda_johnson-mcneal_…. She also discusses the importance of representation, mentorship, and perseverance in today’s changing entertainment landscape—and why “believing in yourself” isn’t just a cliché, it’s a strategy. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a creative professional facing self-doubt, or someone seeking a reminder that your story matters, this episode will leave you empowered to love the skin you’re in—literally and figuratively.

In this episode of Best in Fest, Emmy-nominated supervising sound editor Bobbi Banks shares her inspiring journey from starting as an assistant with no film background to becoming one of Hollywood’s most respected post-production voices. With over 120 film and TV credits—including Desperately Seeking Susan, Poetic Justice, Self Made, Snowfall, and When They See Us—Bobbi reflects on her early mentors, her groundbreaking work with John Singleton, and her path to leadership in the Motion Picture Sound Editors and Editors Guild riverside_leslie_lapage_raw-vid…. Bobbi dives deep into the artistry of ADR, the evolving role of technology and AI in sound, and why mentorship is critical for the next generation of filmmakers. She also opens up about navigating Hollywood as a woman of color in a male-dominated field, her perspective on unions, and the creative choices that make sound one of the most powerful storytelling tools in cinema riverside_leslie_lapage_raw-vid…. Whether you’re a filmmaker, sound enthusiast, or just curious about what makes movies truly come alive, this episode is a masterclass in resilience, creativity, and the craft of sound.

In this inspiring episode of Best in Fest, producer and filmmaker Christine La Monte takes us on a globe-spanning journey through her extraordinary career—from pioneering studio marketing campaigns in the 1980s to producing award-winning documentaries like Viva Verdi and Ai Weiwei: Yours Truly. Christine shares how she broke into the male-dominated entertainment industry, the spiritual force behind her creative choices, and how saying “yes” led to collaborations with cinematic legends and global human rights icons. Tune in to hear how she weaves opera, activism, ageism, and artistry into unforgettable storytelling—and why she believes miracles show up when you stay open to them. A must-listen for anyone navigating career pivots, indie film, or the fine line between passion and purpose.

Actress-turned-documentarian Marta György-Kessler joins Best in Fest to share her fascinating transformation from the stages of Budapest to uncovering untold spiritual journeys through film. In this episode, Marta dives into the backstory of her award-winning documentary Hannah: Buddhism's Untold Journey, her deep connection to Buddhist icon Hannah Nydahl, and her current film chronicling the life of the 16th Karmapa—one of Tibetan Buddhism’s most revered figures. Host Leslie Lippa explores Marta's unique path from the post-communist struggles of Hungary to discovering lost archival footage in basements, building a multi-continent documentary team, and navigating festival circuits and Netflix distribution. Marta also unpacks the challenges women face in the film industry, the emotional depth of true storytelling, and how Buddhist philosophy continues to shape her creative process. If you're a filmmaker, spiritual seeker, or documentary lover—this episode is a must-listen.

In this powerful episode of Best in Fest, Leslie LaPage sits down with legendary actor, director, teacher, and empowerment leader Richard Lawson. With a career spanning over 55 years—from Poltergeist to Tyler Perry productions—Lawson shares his journey of resilience, integrity, and artistry. He discusses his groundbreaking philosophy from The Artist’s Roadmap, why “no” is never the end but a reroute, and how mastering both craft and business creates lasting success in Hollywood. Along the way, he opens up about teaching icons like George Clooney, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Jim Carrey, while offering invaluable lessons on preparation, purpose, and pursuing dreams at any stage of life. Whether you’re an actor, filmmaker, or dreamer, this episode is a masterclass in turning passion into a lifelong career

In this insightful episode of Best in Fest, Leslie LaPage sits down with Sam Goff—creative talent manager at Fourth Wall Management and self-proclaimed “animation activist.” From her early days at DreamWorks and Netflix to teaching animated perspectives at Loyola Marymount and Cal State Long Beach, Sam shares how authentic voices are reshaping the future of animation. She dives into the importance of DEI in storytelling, why projects like K-Pop Demon Hunters succeed where others fall flat, and how marginalized creators can break into the industry through indie projects, web comics, and direct-to-market platforms. Whether you’re an aspiring animator, filmmaker, or simply a fan of global stories, this episode reveals why authentic perspectives matter and how they’re transforming the entertainment landscape

What does it take to transform a lifetime of dance into powerful storytelling for film, opera, and television? In this episode of Best in Fest, host Les LaPage sits down with Jermaine McGhee—scholar, choreographer, educator, and former principal dancer for the LA and San Francisco Opera, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning Omar. Jermaine shares his journey from performing in blockbuster films like Dance Flick to choreographing works that merge ballet, jazz, and American dance culture. He opens up about: White NightsTuleWhether you’re a filmmaker, choreographer, or dance enthusiast, Jermaine’s insights reveal why movement is more than performance—it’s storytelling with purpose and impact . 👉 Listen in and discover how to elevate dance sequences from background filler to unforgettable cinematic moments.

In this episode of Best in Fest, Leslie LaPage chats with television producer Audrey Smith about the art and strategy behind reality TV’s evolving sub-genres. Audrey breaks down the difference between docu-follow and soft-scripted formats, revealing how casting, storytelling, and audience expectations shape each style. From Girlfriend Confidential to today’s surge in true documentary content, Audrey shares insider tips on creating compelling narratives, keeping viewers hooked, and navigating a media landscape hungry for authenticity. Perfect for filmmakers, producers, and fans curious about what really goes into making “reality” real.

In this inspiring episode of Best in Fest, Les Lippa sits down with filmmakers David Morrison, Penny Edmondson, and Judy Marlin to talk about their dynamic documentary It’s Our Ball—the untold story of senior women dominating the basketball court and redefining age, athleticism, and respect. From heartfelt personal journeys to the challenges of authentic storytelling, the trio shares how they brought these powerful voices to the screen and why this project is changing the conversation around women, sports, and aging. Whether you’re a filmmaker, sports fan, or just love a great underdog story, this episode will leave you motivated to get in the game—at any age.

What does it take to go from indie filmmaker to Emmy-winning director? In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with Bridget Stokes—trailblazing director of A Black Lady Sketch Show, Hello, Jack!, and Boy Genius—to unpack her inspiring rise through the film and television world. From waiting tables in New York to winning an Emmy as the first woman in her category, Bridget shares the real hustle behind her success. She dives deep into the contrasts between episodic TV and feature films, her collaborative producing roots, and her passion for building immersive story worlds. Plus, hear the behind-the-scenes story of The Rachel Divide, her pivot into children's television during the pandemic, and why she believes now is the perfect time to chase what sets your soul on fire. 🎯 Key Takeaways: The GoldbergsGabby DuranA Black Lady Sketch Show📲 Follow Bridget on Instagram @murphystokes and on LinkedIn.

What do PlayStation, storefront media, and cutting-edge documentaries have in common? Nathan Elliott. In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with the Canadian entrepreneur, technologist, and filmmaker to discuss how he's revolutionizing advertising and storytelling. Nathan reveals how his company, FrontRunner Technologies, transforms vacant storefronts into immersive media platforms—and how that tech-savvy mindset shaped his foray into film production. They explore Black Mark, a powerful documentary about NBA star Matt Barnes’ near-fatal high school experience with the KKK, and its evolution into a gripping series concept. Plus, Nathan shares behind-the-scenes insight into With Love, Charlie, a Korean War-era short film now hitting Samsung platforms on August 1. From branded entertainment to virtual production and beyond, this episode is packed with game-changing ideas for creators, producers, and marketers alike. 🎯 Topics Covered: 📲 Follow Nathan: @elliottnate8 🔗 Company: @frontrunnertech 🎬 Shorts to stream: Black Mark and With Love, Charlie

What happens when an aerospace engineer-turned-actor and a multilingual actress-turned-writer join forces? You get Reminisce—a compelling new short film exploring a May-December romance, generational gaps, and power imbalances in love. In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with Ashna Sharan and Wayne Jay to unpack their creative journey, from meeting in a virtual writers' group to developing a short that’s captivating the festival circuit. They discuss character development, drawing from real-life relationships, and how to turn personal stories into powerful proof-of-concept films. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, actor, or just love great storytelling—this episode is full of insights and inspiration. 🎟️ Catch Reminisce at LA Shorts on July 26 at LA Live. 📲 Follow the film @reminiscetheshortfilm and the creators @ashkash009 and @waynemjjay.

In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with powerhouse filmmaking duo Blue and Jason Gerber. From directing award-winning commercials for brands like Walgreens, Chipotle, and Lincoln Park Community Services, to creating emotionally resonant documentaries, this married team shares their evolution from the fast-paced world of high-budget commercials to the deeply personal realm of documentary filmmaking. They unpack their process for winning commercial pitches, the art of co-directing, and the creative inspiration behind their new documentary Dawn Dusk—a powerful story of grief, healing, and wearable art. Learn how they balance artistic integrity with client expectations, how fashion becomes narrative, and what it really takes to tell meaningful stories that last. 🎥 Dawn Dusk premieres August 15 on Tubi, Amazon, and The Roku Channel. 🔗 Visit: dawnduskfilm.com | IG: @dawnduskfilm

In this inspiring episode of Best in Fest, Leslie speaks with Jack Teeter—marketing legend behind iconic Universal hits like Back to the Future, Scarface, and The Breakfast Club. Now a director and producer, Teeter shares how his old-school marketing chops fueled the creation of Blind Logic: The Ralph Teeter Story, a powerful documentary about his blind great-uncle who invented cruise control. Discover what still works in film marketing today, how to compete with indie budgets, and why testing your content might be the most underrated tool in your kit. A must-listen for filmmakers, marketers, and movie buffs alike.