Indie Film Production in NYC! Rugby Otis Productions: Episode 11

LAST INTERVIEW OF SEASON 2!!! My heart is so full. Season 3 coming in August! This episode features the host, Breonn Lyons, interviewing the founding team of Rugby Otis Productions: Jacob Boatsman (CEO/creative director), Sadie Prenda (CFO/creative director), and Chris Stucker (sound and post-designer). *Rugby Otis Productions Origins and Philosophy* Based in Brooklyn, the independent production company was founded by roommates Jacob and Satie. Their philosophy is built on "scrappy creativity," bold ideas, and a refusal to wait for permission. The founders were motivated by a desire to remain independent rather than pursuing traditional paths in the "Hollywood machine". After facing personal hardships and professional uncertainty, they solidified their partnership, emphasizing that their "ignorance is bliss" and naivety helped them drive their business forward. The group gained momentum through a year-long challenge of creating 52 films in 52 weeks. Cardboard Island is highlighted as a major project, showcasing their ability to create high-concept visual effects on a negligible budget—reportedly costing only $60 to film—by teaching themselves technical skills through trial and error. Their work is characterized by "wearing too many hats" and utilizing a supportive community of friends and local business owners to secure locations and resources. They advocate for "changing the industry" by treating actors with dignity, ensuring transparent production practices, and creating stories driven by hope and love rather than anger. The team minimizes costs by using owned equipment and leveraging sponsorships, while also crowdfunding for larger projects like their feature *Poor Man's Palace*. They emphasize the importance of mentors, specifically mentioning their connection to a comedian and Kickstarter board member who provided guidance on crowdfunding and navigating the business. To manage the demands of their creative pursuits, they adhere to a strict schedule of weekly meetings to hold each other accountable. The guests stress that "closed mouths do not get fed," encouraging creators to simply ask for what they need and to be kind in the process. They suggest that while fame may play a factor in the current industry, the primary goal should be to inspire others and prove that unconventional, independent routes are viable. They urge creators to be the change they wish to see, emphasizing that they do not have to replicate the traditional industry models that they find unsustainable. *Filmography and Creative Process**Funding and Operational Challenges**Advice for Aspiring Creators* SUBSCRIBE!!! NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY!! Follow the show! Instagram:   / whatstheratepod   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7IoUxOa... Youtube:    / @whatstheratepod   Follow Rugby Otis! Instagram:   / rugbyotisproductions   Website: rugbyotis.com Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/rugbyotis Linktree: linktr.ee/rugbyotis #indiefilm #filmmaking #nycpodcast #filmproduction #podcast #productionhouse #sounddesign #director #brooklyn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices