Lexi Wisniewski
Welcome to Film Ladder—the podcast that breaks down careers in the film industry, one conversation at a time. If you're trying to figure out how people actually get into the business, what different jobs look like behind the scenes, or how to build a creative career without a map — you’re in the right place! Tune in as industry professionals share career tips and the lessons they've learned along the way—helping you navigate your own ascent on the film ladder.
Dec 12
Send us a text Join Lexi as she dives into the fascinating world of film stand-ins with Kirsten Lee Anderson, whose credits include Marvel's The Falcon and The Winter Soldier and Pain Hustlers. Discover the intricacies of this unique role, from setting up scenes to working closely with directors and actors. Kirsten shares her journey, insights, and the challenges of being a stand-in, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the film industry. Whether you're an aspiring actor or a film enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable advice and captivating stories.
Dec 5
Send us a text Join Lexi in this insightful episode as we she sits down with Joaquin Elizondo, a seasoned editor whose credits include "Griselda," "Narcos Mexico," and "The Abandons." Joaquin shares his journey from aspiring cinematographer to a Hollywood editing mentor, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the world of scripted television. Discover the art of storytelling through editing, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of navigating the film industry. Whether you're an aspiring editor or a film enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.
Oct 10
Send us a text In this episode, Najee Rawlings, a camera loader, shares insights into his role in the film industry, detailing the responsibilities, challenges, and experiences that come with the job. He discusses the importance of organization, preparation, and building relationships within the industry, as well as the misconceptions surrounding the role of a camera loader. Najee also reflects on his career journey, memorable moments on set, and offers valuable advice for aspiring camera loaders.
Oct 3
Send us a text In this conversation, Froy Madrigal, a set lighting technician, shares insights into his role in the film industry, discussing the responsibilities, challenges, and daily operations of lighting on set. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork, networking, and having a strong work ethic, while also addressing common misconceptions about the job. Froy recounts memorable experiences on set, including a unique cultural moment during a shoot, and offers advice for aspiring technicians looking to break into the industry.
Sep 26
Send us a text In this conversation, Sarah Himes, an Assistant Production Coordinator, shares her journey in the film industry, detailing the multifaceted role of an APC, the challenges of production, and the importance of mentorship. She discusses the various stages of production, the significance of effective communication, and the misconceptions surrounding production offices. Sarah also reflects on her career transition to accounting, emphasizing the need for work-life balance and the importance of knowing one's career goals. Her insights provide valuable advice for newcomers in the film industry, highlighting the collaborative nature of film production and the hard work that goes into every role.
Aug 22
Send us a text In this insightful episode of Film Ladder, I sit down with Darby Abraham, an accomplished Set Dec Coordinator whose credits include The Outsider, The Walking Dead, and Civil War. Darby shares her journey from a props PA to a set decoration coordinator, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the intricate world of set design. Discover the challenges and triumphs of coordinating art departments, the importance of clearances, and the collaborative spirit that fuels the film industry. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or a seasoned professional, Darby's experiences and advice are sure to inspire and inform. Tune in for a deep dive into the art of film production!
Aug 15
Send us a text In this special solo episode, join me as I take the mic alone to share my journey from film school in Chicago to becoming a line producer's assistant in Atlanta. Discover the ins and outs of my role, the challenges and triumphs, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Whether you're aspiring to break into the film industry or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes magic, this episode offers a candid glimpse into the life of a line producer's assistant. Tune in to hear my story, insights, and the heart behind this podcast. 🎬
Aug 8
Send us a text In this episode of Film Ladder, we dive into the world of film and TV makeup artistry with Sylvia Ramos, a seasoned key makeup artist. Sylvia shares her journey from working at Sephora to becoming a key player in the industry, offering insights into the collaborative nature of makeup and hair departments, the challenges of long hours, and the nuances of working on set. Whether you're an aspiring makeup artist or a film enthusiast, Sylvia's experiences and advice provide a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of film production.