Good Bye Hollywood Podcast

Teamsters, they are the workhorses of the industry. Hours before call time these boys are on set warming up Gennies cleaning and moving trailers constantly. Operating pettybones and forklifts, loading and unloading trucks right at break time cause it seems the vendors time it like that. We move like Gypsies and the teamsters are the force that moves us forward in all departments. Mr. Mike Stevens is a retired teamster of over 40 years and he's got some stories to prove it. From Rin tin tin to Pirates of the Carribean, stunt driver, SAG card holder, this Man has done it all. His son Duke is a Teamster as well and grew up in this industry similar to my experience, running around sets before we were old enough to work. He as well has made a name for himself running commercials and TV shows. Buckle up and Enjoy episode 2.

Kicking things off ...I sat with Mr. Alex Aguilar who is the business representative for our Labor Union Local 724 . I've known this man for over 30 years and it was good to catch up on whats happening in our industry. We discuss the PA's joining the union force, politics of keeping work in L.A., and also family and friends.

A more detailed personal version of what I'm trying to accomplish here. Its simple ....Connection

I've been working in the Motion picture and television industry for 30 years and worked along side some of the most talented and creative people. We are the construction crews, Grips, teamsters, set dressers, and lighting crews. We are a little further from the camera but still a vital piece of the puzzle.Sometimes they disappear into retirement, with nothing more than a handshake and a lunchtime barbeque. Even more heartbreaking is that they pass on from this world, but their stories of the hustle and bustle that made them a living and participated in some of the biggest productions in hollywood are one of a kind. I've taken it upon myself to track them down and have an intimate conversation about our beloved industry.