The Scrap Paper Podcast with Natalie K. Hodge

🎙️ Scrap Paper Podcast Ep. 8 (Season Finale) | Featuring Kelly Dansby: Basketball Coach-Turned-Filmmaker & Visionary ProducerIn the season finale of Scrap Paper, host Natalie K. Hodge sits down with Kelly Dansby, an independent film producer whose path to storytelling was anything but traditional.Before stepping behind the camera, Kelly served as an assistant men’s basketball coach at Phoenix College—a role that sharpened his sense of leadership, perseverance, and teamwork. These qualities would later become the foundation of his filmmaking career.In 2020, Kelly made waves as the producer of STASH: The Movie, a raw and emotionally gripping indie film that caught the attention of audiences for its unapologetic storytelling. He followed up with STASH 2: The Heartless, proving he’s not just a one-hit wonder, but a consistent creative force in the indie film world.🎥 In This Episode, You'll Hear:– How coaching athletes prepared Kelly for the film industry– The origin story of STASH and how it turned into a franchise– Why discipline and creativity go hand-in-hand– What independent filmmakers should know about producing real stories– His vision for the future of authentic, heart-centered storytelling

🎙️ Scrap Paper Podcast Ep. 7 | Featuring Sean Kearney: Strategic Technologist & Ambient MusicianIn this thought-provoking episode of Scrap Paper, host Natalie K. Hodge sits down with Sean Kearney, a visionary leader with over two decades of experience driving innovation at the intersection of technology, strategy, and creativity.Once nicknamed the “Cheap A.I.” by sci-fi icon William Gibson, Sean has a reputation for marrying technical expertise with emotional intelligence. With a career spanning e-commerce, retail, and technology sectors, Sean shares his insights on leading teams through rapid change, staying agile in uncertain times, and the power of storytelling in innovation.But there's more to Sean than tech—he’s also a musician and member of The 0pen, an ambient electronic music group based in Martinsville, VA. In this episode, Sean opens up about how music fuels his creative process, and why balancing logic and artistry is key to sustainable success.

🎙️ Scrap Paper Podcast Ep. 6 | Featuring Andrew "Dr. Butcher" Venable In this inspiring episode of Scrap Paper, host Natalie K. Hodge speaks with Dr.Butcher — an underrated hip hop legend who has proven time again to choose people, purpose and pride over profits. Andrew Venable, better known as Dr. Butcher, is a legendary DJ, producer and rapper whose career has shaped the soundscape of hip-hop and beyond. A pioneer in the industry, Dr. Butcher has worked with icons like LL Cool J, Kool G Rap, Large Professor, and MF Grimm, lending his unique touch to some of the genre's most influential tracks. His artistry extends beyond music, with collaborations spanning major brands and platforms, including FUBU, ESPN, Sony Music, and even Spike Lee.As an original member of the iconic DJ coalition, the X-Men (later known as the X-Ecutioners), Dr. Butcher helped define the art of beat of beat juggling, cementing his place in hip-hop history. With a career bridging music, media, and culture, Dr. Butcher remains a dynamic force, inspiring artists and audiences worldwide.

🎙️ Scrap Paper Podcast Ep. 5 | Featuring Heidi Grandberry: Civil Engineer-Turned-Comedian Taking NYC by StormIn this hilarious and heartfelt episode of Scrap Paper, host Natalie K. Hodge chops it up with Heidi Grandberry—a rising star in New York City’s stand-up comedy scene with a backstory that’s just as bold as her punchlines.Originally from the Midwest and formerly a civil engineer, Heidi traded blueprints for belly laughs, moving to NYC to pursue stand-up full-time. Before the Big Apple, she sharpened her skills at Second City Chicago, where she developed a love for improv, storytelling, and commanding a room with nothing but a mic and raw truth.Since then, Heidi’s been crushing it on stage—producing her own shows like Injured Comedy Show, Heidi’s HaHa Halloween, and Valentine’s Hangover, and she’s not stopping anytime soon. With her sights set on performing at The Comedy Cellar and touring nationally, Heidi shares what it really takes to pivot, pursue passion, and keep your joy intact.🎤 In This Episode, You'll Laugh and Learn About:– How Heidi went from corporate to comedy– Navigating NYC's comedy grind as a newcomer– The power of reinvention and starting over– Why comedy is her calling—and what’s next

🎙️ Scrap Paper Podcast Ep. 4 | Featuring Artie Pasquale: Actor, Producer & Sopranos LegendIn this episode of Scrap Paper, host Natalie K. Hodge welcomes Artie Pasquale, a seasoned actor known for his unforgettable role as Burt Gervasi on HBO’s The Sopranos. From growing up in Providence inspired by mob movies and Westerns to taking a break for family life before reigniting his acting career—Artie's story is one of resilience, transformation, and undeniable talent.Trained by industry greats and shaped by both theater and film, Artie has built a body of work that spans gritty crime roles to heartfelt character portrayals. Beyond The Sopranos, he’s brought depth to roles in films like Red Corvette and contributed to socially conscious projects like Last Will of Embezzlement alongside Mickey Rooney.In this heartwarming episode, we revisit our time on the set of Mourning on Charlotte Street, where Artie took on dual roles as actor and producer, and I stepped behind the camera for the very first time as Script Supervisor.🎬 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:– What it was like working on The Sopranos– How Artie transitioned back into acting later in life– The impact of family, mentorship, and perseverance– Why storytelling still excites him today– Lessons from indie film production and collaboration

🎙️ Scrap Paper Podcast Ep. 3 | Featuring Jailyn Draper: Influencer, Actor, Entrepreneur & Branding PowerhouseIn this dynamic episode of Scrap Paper, host Natalie K. Hodge sits down with the unstoppable Jailyn Draper—multi-hyphenate influencer, actor, musician (Jai Jemini), and the creative force behind Social Butterfly Branding and Design.Jailyn first stepped onto the digital scene as a preteen and has since built a thriving personal brand, captivating hundreds of thousands of followers with her viral content, lifestyle storytelling, and collaborations with global brands.From teaching content development workshops to starring in the dramatic series Molasses as the mysterious Sandra, Jailyn shares how she balances creative freedom, business strategy, and authentic storytelling in everything she does.🔥 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:– How Jailyn grew her online presence from scratch– The mindset behind creating viral content and lasting brand partnerships– Behind the scenes of Molasses and acting in character– Why consistency and confidence are everything in digital entrepreneurship– Tips for aspiring influencers, creators, and content coaches

🎙️ Scrap Paper Podcast Ep. 2 | Featuring Frank M. Calo: Award-Winning Producer, Director & Humble StorytellerIn this powerful episode of Scrap Paper, host Natalie K. Hodge sits down with the legendary Frank M. Calo—a producer, director, and writer whose work has shaped Hollywood for over 30 years. From humble beginnings as the son of immigrant parents to producing the Sundance Grand Jury Prize-winning film “The Believer”, Frank’s journey is one of grit, growth, and gratitude.Frank opens up about the importance of staying humble, being a lifelong learner, and how the groundbreaking play A Raisin in the Sun sparked his passion for storytelling. He shares what it’s like working with stars like Robert DeNiro, Madonna, Queen Latifah, and Ryan Gosling, and how he built a career grounded in respect, resilience, and creativity.🎬 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:– How Frank’s immigrant upbringing shaped his work ethic– Why A Raisin in the Sun changed his life– The real story behind The Believer and its success at Sundance– What it takes to work with A-list talent and stay grounded– His advice to aspiring creatives on humility and never stopping the learning process

🎙️ Scrap Paper Podcast Ep. 1 | Featuring L.S. Jones: Author, Producer, Visionary StorytellerWelcome to the debut episode of Scrap Paper — the podcast that celebrates the transformative power of creativity and the moments that shape every dreamer’s journey. Hosted by Natalie K. Hodge and produced by Rudy’s Girl Media, Scrap Paper dives into the real, raw, and rewarding sides of the creative process.In this premiere episode, we sit down with L.S. Jones — celebrated author of The Queenpin’s Daughter and Flight of Phoenix, Executive Producer of the upcoming TV adaptation, and a powerhouse creative whose work explores themes of power, legacy, resilience, and cultural identity.

Discover the transformative power of creativity with Scrap Paper, the dynamic podcast by Rudy’s Girl Media CEO, Natalie K. Hodge. Join us as we dive deep into the pivotal moments that shape the journeys of artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators. From heartfelt conversations to inspiring stories, Season One features an incredible lineup of guests, including award-winning director/producer Frank Calo, comedian Heidi Grandberry, and author L.S. Jones.Whether you're a dreamer, creator, or simply seeking inspiration, Scrap Paper is your new go-to podcast. Watch the trailer now and join us on a journey of authenticity and artistry.🎧 Subscribe for updates and never miss an episode!#ScrapPaperPodcast #CreativeJourney #RudysGirlMediaLink to RGM projects: www.rudysgirl.com