How SeriesFest Is Changing TV & Helping Filmmakers Break In | Set Talks with Nick Fiorella and Randi Kleiner

In this episode of Set Talks, host Nick Fiorella sitsdown with Randi Kleiner, co-founder and CEO of SeriesFest, one of the leading festivals dedicated to episodic storytelling.Randi shares how SeriesFest was built to become a discoveryplatform for independent creators, connecting emerging filmmakers with studios, networks, and industry professionals. We dive into:• How SeriesFest helps filmmakers sell pilots and launch careers• The rise of independent television and new distribution models• What makes a great pitch (and how to stand out)• The importance of networking, collaboration, and being open to opportunity• How the film and TV industry is evolving in the streaming era• The growth of the Colorado film industry and its futureRandi also shares insights on how creators can maximizeopportunities at festivals — from pitching projects to building relationships that can change their careers.One key takeaway:Success at festivals isn’t just about selling one project — it’s about opening doors to long-term career opportunities.If you're a filmmaker, writer, or creative looking to breakinto TV or grow your career, this episode is packed with actionable advice and industry insight. For more information visit SeriesFest.comFor tickets/passes to SeriesFest, check out the link below. https://seriesfest.com/festival/box-office/passes/ Set Talks is a podcast exploring the Colorado filmindustry and the creatives shaping it.Hosted by filmmaker Nick Fiorella, each episodefeatures conversations with filmmakers, actors, producers, crew, and industry leaders about storytelling, career strategy, and the future of film and television in Colorado.Follow Set Talks for more conversations with the creativesshaping the industry. Connect with the LocalColorado Film community!Become a member of WIFMCO - https://www.wifmco.org/membersBecome a Member at CFVA - https://www.cfva.com/memberships #SetTalks #FilmmakingPodcast #FilmIndustry #IndependentFilm#FilmProducer #FilmDirector #SetTalksPodcast #ColoradoFilmIndustry#FilmmakingPodcast #FilmLighting #Gaffer #FilmCrew #Cinematography#BehindTheScenesFilm #IndependentFilmmaking #ColoradoFilmmakers #SeriesFest 00:00 Introduction01:53 SeriesFest Year one to now08:28 SeriesFest 2026 Lineup12:31 SeriesFest 2026 Panel Discussions18:28 Supporting up incoming talent20:41 SeriesFest Pitch-a-thon Advice25:35 Advice for Shows Premiering at SeriesFest28:97 Colorado Film and TV Scene31:52 What’s next for episodic television?34:00 Follow and support SeriesFest