Balancing Acts Podcast

Michele Wilson has built her career in high-pressure television environments, from Oprah and nightly news to the 2008 Democratic National Convention and nationally syndicated talk programming. Shes worked on large scale social impact projects like One Nation One Project. Her focus now is developing culturally rich programs like Made In Italia and Cocktails & Bites. She also leads her own production company, Taylored Productions. In this episode, Michele reflects on the personal toll of working under pressure, what keeps her in the industry, and how those experiences have shaped her work across documentary series, branded content, and collaborative productions.

What does it really take to build a lasting career in filmmaking? In Episode 11 of Balancing Acts, Roy Wanguhu sits down with filmmaker, director, and cinematographer Khamisi Norwood for an honest conversation about creativity, perseverance, and building a body of work that lasts. Khamisi shares how a seventh-grade writing assignment sparked his passion for filmmaking, his journey from Oakland to Vancouver Film School and New York, and the lessons he learned working in lighting, grip, cinematography, reality television, and directing. He also discusses creating films for the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, balancing art with business, and why curiosity continues to drive his work. The conversation also explores AI in filmmaking, the future of storytelling, entrepreneurship, editing, and what it means to create meaningful work in an ever-changing industry. In this episode you'll learn: How curiosity became the foundation of Khamisi's filmmaking career Why every job can prepare you for your next opportunity The importance of editing as a director Building confidence through your body of work The realities of balancing passion with financial responsibility Starting and running a production company Ethical uses of AI in storytelling Why commitment matters more than talent alone Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, creative entrepreneur, or simply someone pursuing meaningful work, this episode offers practical insights and timeless lessons about building a creative life. 🎙 Guest: Khamisi Norwood 👉 Watch & Listen: https://taplink.cc/balancingactsofficial Follow Balancing Acts for conversations with filmmakers, cinematographers, entrepreneurs, and creatives sharing the journeys behind their success.

In Episode 10 of Balancing Acts, Roy Wanguhu sits down with executive producer Lathan Hodge for a deep conversation about storytelling, Hollywood, media evolution, and surviving decades in the entertainment industry. From working in Chicago newsrooms and producing at BET to selling scripts, launching syndicated television, and navigating the future of AI and digital storytelling, Lathan shares invaluable lessons from over 35 years in film, television, and media. This episode explores: • Building a career in Hollywood • Selling scripts and producing television • The realities of distribution and syndication • Working with Chuck D, BET, and major networks • AI’s impact on creators and filmmakers • Why storytelling and cultural preservation matter • Mentorship, creativity, and longevity in media If you're a filmmaker, producer, storyteller, or creative entrepreneur, this episode is packed with wisdom, history, and practical insight from someone who has truly lived the journey. 🎧 Watch & Listen: https://taplink.cc/balancingactsofficial Follow Balancing Acts for more conversations with filmmakers, creatives, and industry leaders shaping the future of storytelling.

Earned Not Given. In Episode 9 of Balancing Acts, Roy Wanguhu sits down with filmmaker Keston to talk about building a filmmaking career from the ground up — through trial, collaboration, and years of earned experience. From learning storytelling at Pixar University, navigating the early days of YouTube-era content, and landing long-term clients, to evolving his creative philosophy and redefining how filmmakers get paid for their value — this episode is a candid look at what it really takes to last in the industry. Keston also shares insights on gear, lenses, documentary vs narrative work, and how he’s balanced family life alongside a demanding creative career. This is a conversation about craft, growth, and the long game. 🎙️ Episode Highlights: Early mentorship and creative collaboration Story-first filmmaking principles Client retention and creative boundaries Gear insights from real-world use Balancing family and filmmaking 🎧 Listen now on Balancing Acts.

Cinematographer Jason Joseffer joins host Roy Wanguhu to reflect on nearly two decades as a DP in San Francisco. From high school cable access TV and film studies at UC Santa Cruz to news cameraman work and a traditional AC path, Jason shares how closely studying DPs shaped his eye and career. He dives into his camera journey from the Panasonic HVX200 and Canon 7D to the RED SCARLET family and how building DIY gear early on deepened his respect for the tools. Jason talks artistic intent over paychecks, director-led vision, and the realities of documentary filmmaking, fatherhood, and freelance life. The conversation also touches on shooting abroad, the uncertain future of the industry, thoughts on AI vs real-world capture, and why passion projects still matter most.

Photographer and director Alexis Cuaresma joins the show to break down why photography is 90–95% about people, not gear. He shares how he overcame shyness, learned to champion his own work, and built confidence by tackling technical weaknesses head-on. A pivotal moment photographing Floyd Mayweather erased his stage fright and prepared him for fast, high-pressure shoots with A-list talent for clients like HBO.   Alexis reveals the two sides of his creative life: the artistic mode behind his 8–12 hour ballet dancer shoots, and the get-it-done mode required for commercial work where meeting client expectations is key to consistent success. He explains how following exact client instructions led to one of his most profitable niches, and why listening often matters more than adding creativity. He also discusses why ballet dancers became his ideal subjects, his rigorous pre-shoot interview process, and the importance of personal projects to keep his creativity sharp. After a period of burnout, Alexis rebuilt his health and discipline, emphasizing that presentation and self-care are essential in this industry. The episode wraps with his love for storytelling through video and his affinity for the Fuji GFX system paired with vintage lenses.   A thoughtful, inspiring conversation for photographers, filmmakers, and creatives looking to grow both personally and professionally.

In Episode 6 of Balancing Acts, host Roy Wanguhu sits down with filmmaker, documentarian, and AI innovator Kevin Kunze to explore how truth, technology, and storytelling collide. From filming on his dad’s S-VHS camera at age 6 to creating global-impact documentaries like Mobilize, Kevin shares how filmmaking can challenge industries, spark legislation, and shift public awareness. His work spans cell-phone radiation research, VR innovation, AI-driven filmmaking, and the evolving creator landscape. This episode uncovers: • Why truth-driven storytelling matters more now than ever • How AI can enhance creativity without replacing the artist • The global battle over phone radiation safety and public policy • The rise, fall, and return of VR filmmaking • How creators can stay human in an AI-powered world • Balancing massive ideas, filmmaking, and personal well-being   🔗 All platforms & links: https://taplink.cc/balancingactsofficial #BalancingActs #TruthThroughFilm #KevinKunze #BayAreaFilmmakers #OaklandCalifornia

In this episode, filmmaker Evan Lee shares his journey from darkroom photography to leading high-tech productions in the Bay Area. With a background in cinematography, audio, directing, and drone operation, Evan discusses how his passion for technology shapes his filmmaking approach. He opens up about his work on corporate interviews, short-form projects, and the documentary series Meet the Producers, featuring Bay Area legends like E-40 and Too Short. Evan also dives into his camera preferences (PIXIS vs. Z Camera), his evolving gear setup, and his deep interest in AI and data management for modern film workflows. From building a mobile production van to recovering 24TB of lost footage, Evan’s story blends technical mastery with creative vision. Tune in for insights on lighting, audio, and the future of filmmaking in an AI-driven era. 🎧 Listen now to learn how passion, tech, and storytelling come together in Evan Lee’s cinematic world.

What do West Side Story, combat cameras, and Tubi films have in common? 🎥   In this episode of Balancing Acts Podcast, host Roy Wanguhu sits down with Ben Dennis, a Bay Area cinematographer and artist, to explore his remarkable journey, from serving in the military’s combat camera unit to building a career in independent filmmaking.   Ben opens up about: ⚡ The realities of indie filmmaking and Tubi distribution ⚡ Lessons from film school and the 9/11 GI Bill ⚡ Balancing creativity with burnout in corporate and union gigs ⚡ How fatigue impacts safety and storytelling on set ⚡ AI’s growing role in filmmaking — and why emotion still wins   Ben also shares his philosophy on filmmaking as a daily craft, not a race — and why finishing projects, not chasing perfection, builds longevity in the industry.

🎬 Balancing Acts: Passion. Pixels. Resilience. In this episode, cinematographer DeKeydrick Curry (DK) shares his journey from Memphis to the big screen. From childhood storytelling with toys and quoting movie lines with his dad, to navigating film school struggles, first feature experiences, and building resilience through community, DK’s story is one of persistence, creativity, and vision.   Hear how he turned setbacks into stepping stones, found his voice through cinematography, and why his passion for filmmaking is his Plan A through Z.

What happens when a Division I athlete trades the basketball court for the film set?   🎬 In this episode, Roy Wanguhu sits down with Brittany, a documentary filmmaker who turned her sports background into a powerful foundation for storytelling.   Brittany opens up about the lessons she carried from athletics, teamwork, adaptability, leadership, and how they shaped her craft as a cinematographer in the unpredictable world of documentaries. She shares the highs and hurdles of self-funded passion projects, including her recent trip to Guyana, and her long-term vision of giving back to her home community in Maryland.   The conversation also dives into self-criticism, navigating social media, and the role of AI in today’s filmmaking, both its potential and its limits. Brittany leaves aspiring filmmakers with practical advice: reach out, get on set, learn by doing, and embrace “failures” as stepping stones.   This is a story about resilience, chasing stories that matter, and finding balance between passion, craft, and survival in the creative industry.

🎬 Balancing Acts – Episode 1 | Noah Stout: Mastering the Balance   In this debut episode of Balancing Acts, we sit down with cinematographer Noah Stout to explore the art of balancing a thriving creative career with personal life. From the challenges of life on set to the quiet moments that keep him grounded, Noah shares candid insights, lessons learned, and the mindset that helps him stay focused on what truly matters.   Whether you’re a filmmaker, creative professional, or simply navigating your own balancing act, Noah’s story offers valuable inspiration and practical takeaways for finding harmony in a demanding industry.   In this episode you’ll learn: How Noah started his cinematography journey The challenges of managing career growth and personal well-being Tips for staying inspired and avoiding burnout The role of discipline, passion, and perspective in creative success