Vixen to Vixen

From the Founder is a new series by Screen Vixens founder Leonie Marsh.A raw, behind-the-scenes look at building a business in the screen industry and navigating a producing slate as a female indie producer and mother. -------This episode of Vixen to Vixen was proudly brought to you by Screen Vixens - the essential community for women indie screen producers.Check out our website & memberships  here | @screenvixens

Today, I'm thrilled to introduce a truly inspiring guest, Liza van der Smissen, who has made remarkable strides in the film industry. Starting her journey as an actress, Liza founded the Female Film Club during the pandemic, which has quickly grown into the go-to online members club for female filmmakers. Her work has been recognised multiple times in Variety, underscoring her impact and dedication. Beyond her role as a founder, Liza is a dynamic presenter, hosting panel discussions and Q&As with some of the industry's most prominent women. She continues to stay active in the film industry, not only as an actress but also as a producer and AD.Liza and I connected on Instagram earlier this year, and from one female founder to another, we instantly clicked. Our Zoom conversation was nothing short of amazing, and I'm confident that our communities will learn so much from each other. So, without further ado, let's dive into this conversation with Liza and explore the incredible insights she has to share. Female Film ClubFFC's 2025 Christmas Party - LondonLiza's LinkedIn FFC Bulgaria FFC as featured on Variety Coca-Cola - Holidays Are Coming (AI-Generated 2025 Christmas Ad)Apple Holiday | A Critter Carol | Shot on iPhone 17 ProNu Boyana Film Studios Lisa Cole - FFC European Short Film Fund Winner Cinelibri Film Festival ----- This episode of Vixen to Vixen was proudly brought to you by Screen Vixens - the essential community for women indie screen producers. Check out our website & memberships here | @screenvixens ----------

Ep 15: My Tech Stack – The Tools That Power Screen VixensEssential Tools and Strategies for Running a Creative BusinessIn this special Business Mini Series episode of Vixen to Vixen, host Leonie Marsh, an indie producer and founder of Screen Vixens, shares the essential tools, systems, and strategies she uses to run Screen Vixens. Leonie introduces key software such as Kajabi for managing digital resources and community, Descript for podcast editing, Later for social media scheduling, and Canva for design needs. She explains how these tools help her manage her time, energy and maintain consistency without burnout. The episode aims to provide valuable insights for anyone building their own business, especially in the production and creative industries.---00:00 Welcome to Vixen to Vixen: Behind the Scenes01:13 The Heart of the Business: Kajabi03:00 Editing Made Easy with Descript05:18 Scheduling Social Media with Later07:58 Designing with Canva09:45 Conclusion: Empowering Women in Screen Production---For more information about Screen Vixens please visit our website: ⁠⁠www.screenvixens.com⁠⁠---This episode was recorded on the lands of the Saltwater Murramarang People on Yuin Country - NSW South Coast of Australia. We pay our respects to all Elders; past, present and emerging and give deep thanks for their ancient traditions of storytelling.

Making Strategic Choices: When to Attach to a Project as a ProducerIn this episode of 'Vixen to Vixen,' host Leonie Marsh discusses how women screen producers can strategically assess when to attach to a project. She delves into the pressures to say yes, the importance of aligning with compelling stories, the significance of the creative team, and strategic career moves. Leonie also touches upon market potential, timing, capacity, creative challenges, and the deep need for values alignment. This episode aims to empower producers to make decisions that are not only strategic but aligned with their personal and professional goals.-----00:00 Introduction 01:03 The Importance of Story in Project Selection01:52 Evaluating the Team and Creative Partnerships02:36 Strategic Career Moves and Market Potential03:46 Considering Timing and Capacity06:43 Creative Challenges and Values-Driven Projects08:08 Trusting Your Gut and Making Final Decisions08:30 Recap and Final Thoughts----For more information about Screen Vixens please visit our website: ⁠⁠www.screenvixens.com⁠⁠---This episode was recorded on the lands of the Saltwater Murramarang People on Yuin Country - NSW South Coast of Australia. We pay our respects to all Elders; past, present and emerging and give deep thanks for their ancient traditions of storytelling.

In this episode of Vixen, Leonie Marsh discusses the impactful and free behaviours that can significantly enhance your reputation, relationships and career as a female indie screen producer. Leonie shares 15 simple yet powerful practices, such as being kind, respectful and timely with communication. These habits are essential for building trust and setting yourself apart in the industry. Tune in to learn how small, consistent actions can make a huge difference without costing a penny.00:00 Introduction to Vixen Podcast00:52 The Power of Free Acts: Kindness and Respect01:12 Effective Communication and Boundaries02:01 Generosity and Honesty in the Industry02:50 Building Trust and Leading by Example04:24 The Importance of Small Consistent Behaviors05:09 Conclusion and Call to Action----For more information about Screen Vixens please visit our website: ⁠⁠www.screenvixens.com⁠⁠This episode was recorded on the lands of the Saltwater Murramarang People on Yuin Country - NSW South Coast of Australia. We pay our respects to all Elders; past, present and emerging and give deep thanks for their ancient traditions of storytelling. ----

Finding the Right Producer: Building Lasting Creative PartnershipsIn this episode of Vixen to Vixen, host and founder of Screen Vixens, Leone Marsh, addresses one of the most frequently asked questions from women screen producers: how to find a producer or creative partner. Leone dispels common misconceptions and highlights the importance of creating value-aligned relationships. She emphasises the necessity of offering a compelling story, strategic vision, and a spirit of collaboration to attract high-quality producers. Leonie shares insights on building connections through communities, networking, and fostering genuine relationships over time. This episode is a guide on how to build lasting and meaningful producing partnerships in the film industry.00:00 Introduction to Vixen to Vixen Podcast00:18 The Quest for a Producer: Common Questions01:23 Building a Compelling Offer for Producers02:05 Understanding Producers' Motivations03:11 Networking and Building Relationships05:09 The Power of Community and Networking05:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts----For more information about Screen Vixens please visit our website: ⁠www.screenvixens.com⁠This episode was recorded on the lands of the Saltwater Murramarang People on Yuin Country - NSW South Coast of Australia. We pay our respects to all Elders; past, present and emerging and give deep thanks for their ancient traditions of storytelling.

Finding Mentors and Collaborators in the Film Industry with Screen Vixens Founder Leonie Marsh In this episode of Filmesque, Sage interviews Leonie Marsh, an accomplished producer who shares her journey from working in development and production at the New South Wales Film and Television Office to gaining significant producing credits in London. Leonie discusses the challenges she faced balancing her career and raising a family, and the impact of joining Screen Vixens—a supportive network for female producers. She highlights the importance of peer-to-peer mentoring, the unique support that women-led spaces provide, and offers advice to aspiring producers. The episode underscores the significance of persistence, community, and collaboration in the screen industry.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:34 Balancing Career and Family02:15 The Role of Screen Vixens07:49 Mentorship and Peer Support13:01 Career Highlights and Turning Points15:43 Gender Parity in the Film Industry21:07 Advice for Aspiring Producers26:18 Conclusion and Contact Information----For more information about Screen Vixens please visit our website: ⁠www.screenvixens.com⁠About Filmesque: A podcast for those who dare explore the multi-dimensional world of interactive and immersive media, Web 3 and all things film and story-driven.Each guest shares their experience alchemically changing their passion for art and storytelling into gold. Join the host Sage, an emerging, award-winning scriptwriter and actor whilst stepping over the rainbow with the guests exploring their fantastic careers in film and transmedia.www.rocketshot.tv---This episode was recorded on the lands of the Saltwater Murramarang People on Yuin Country - NSW South Coast of Australia. We pay our respects to all Elders; past, present and emerging and give deep thanks for their ancient traditions of storytelling.

Navigating the Producer's Journey with Screen VixensLeonie Marsh (producer, mother and founder of Screen Vixens) provides an overview of the indie producer's career journey. She highlights five key stages: emergingin developmentmomentum buildingfreelancing and scalinginternational and leadershipLeonie shares her personal experiences and insights, emphasising the importance of going at one's own pace, seeking community and mentorship and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. ----She offers practical advice for each stage and invites producers to connect with Screen Vixens for support and resources.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:12 Understanding the Non-Linear Path of Producing01:01 Embracing Your Own Pace02:21 Stages of a Producing Career02:28 Stage 1: Emerging Producers03:14 Stage 2: In Development04:25 Stage 3: Momentum Building05:07 Stage 4: Freelancing and Scaling05:54 Stage 5: International and Leadership08:06 Final Thoughts and SupportFor more information about Screen Vixens please visit our website: www.screenvixens.comThis episode was recorded on the lands of the Saltwater Murramarang People on Yuin Country - NSW South Coast of Australia. We pay our respects to all Elders; past, present and emerging and give deep thanks for their ancient traditions of storytelling.

Please note this episode has a trigger warning and contains discussions regarding assault and abuse. Michela's Bio: Michela Carattini is a Panamanian-Australian who grew up a U.S. Army-brat in Germany. She graduated magna cum laude from Columbia University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Creative Writing, and with distinction from the University of Sydney Law School with a Masters in Criminology. An award-winning filmmaker and industry veteran who believes in the power of story to influence thinking and create change, she made her acting debut at the age of fourteen, featuring as New York street kid, “Gloria Jinx” in The Houston Grand Opera’s movie version of STREET SCENE. Thirty years, innumerable acting credits and human rights advocacy jobs later, she now also produces and directs at Charcol Pictures, where her credits include CARMEN & BOLUDE, WHEN HOME IS WHERE THE HURT IS, UNSPOILED BY FEMINISM, REMOTE ACCESS and AMERICANS IN OZ. Michela is also Australia’s first SAG-AFTRA accredited intimacy coordinator, and her company, Key Intimate Scenes, provides the only accredited intimacy coordinator training programme in Australia and New Zealand. Her intimacy coordination credits include WHILE THE MEN ARE AWAY, NINE PERFECT STRANGERS, BIRDEATER, BLAZE and MONI. She is mixed Latin Indigenous & European, specialises in industry cultural competency and mental health, and has been an expert instructor and speaker for AFTRS, WIFT, SBS News, ABC News, Berlinale, Intimact Spain and Intimacy Coordinators Switzerland to name a few. For more about Michela, follow @michelacarattini or @keyintimatescenes on Insta or FB, or go to michelacarattini.com. KIS (Key Intimacy Scenes) - Michela's company Deb Verhoeven - academic focused on gender inequality in the screen industry Carmen and Bolude - Michela's Feature which was shot in 4 day shoot weeks Stolen Focus - book

Today Leonie speaks to OG Vixen and producer extraordinaire Andrena Finlay. Andrena has been producing films since 1983 and mentoring up and coming producers alongside her the whole time. In this episode we hear about her early career - her approach to filmmaking and what makes a great producer. Grab a cuppa and relax, this is a must listen. Show Notes: Jodi Matterson - Good Weekend Article, SMH Joan Long Screen ABC - Andrena's company David Puttnam Al Clark Stephan Elliott Jan Chapman Sue Milliken "PRODUCING FOR THE SCREEN: A HANDBOOK" by Andrena Finlay & Sue Milliken Andrena's Bio: Andrena Finlay has been producing films since 1983. She has produced or executive produced ten feature films, three short films and two television films. Her first film The Privilege won the 1983 BAFTA award for Best Short Film and the Gold Prize and the Bilbao Film Festival, Spain. Her feature films include Emma’s War starring Lee Remick and Miranda Otto; Paws, starring the voice of Billy Connolly, released worldwide by Polygram Film Frauds, written and directed by Stephan Elliott and starring Phil Collins, Hugo Weaving and Josephine Byrnes (in competition Cannes Film Festival 1993); Razzle Dazzle – A Journey into Dance, starring Kerry Armstrong and Ben Miller; Goddess, an original musical/comedy starring Laura Michelle Kelly, Ronan Keating and Magda Szubanski. And as executive producer - Blessed starring Frances O’Connor, Miranda Otto, Deborra-Lee Furness and directed by Ana Kokkinos; Thunderstruck directed by Darren Ashton; Unfinished Business, written and directed by Bob Ellis. Andrena has been an investment manager for feature film and television drama at the Australian Film Finance Corporation, and Head of Producing at the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS). Her new initiative is Screen Arts. Business. Consulting (www.screenabc.com). Her new book, written with producer Sue Milliken, is “Producing for the Screen: A Handbook”. -------- Vixen to Vixen is produced and edited by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Leonie Marsh⁠⁠⁠⁠. ⁠Become a Vixen today.⁠ Follow us on ⁠Instagram @screenvixens⁠ and ⁠LinkedIn⁠.

Lin Tam is an award-winning Director, Producer, and Writer renowned for her pioneering work in animation and technology. She is a trailblazer in the field of AI-enhanced storytelling, consistently pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the animation industry. Her acclaimed short film "Friendship," has garnered international recognition, being featured in over 25 esteemed film festivals worldwide. At Immix Studios, Lin's leadership has significantly boosted the studio's output, setting new benchmarks for AI-integrated content creation. Lin's expertise spans complex product and content development projects, with a portfolio that includes Generative AI, AR/VR, mobile gaming, and interactive content. Her groundbreaking work with initiatives like Village Roadshow’s Xperience Program and ACMI X underscores her position as an innovator, utilizing emerging technologies to redefine animation and entertainment. As a distinguished member of the Producers Guild of America and Screen Producers Australia, Lin is a sought-after speaker at events focusing on AI in animation and the broader entertainment industry. She has shared her insights at notable venues such as Producers Guild of America, SXSW Sydney, Screen Forever, and more, inspiring industry peers and enthusiasts alike. Her presentations highlight her role at the forefront of merging creative storytelling with technological advancements, shaping the future of entertainment. Show Notes: ⁠Lin's LinkedIn Immix Watch Lin's short 'Friendship' AI Her Way by Dr Nici Sweaney (Leonie's friend) -------- Vixen to Vixen is produced and edited by ⁠⁠⁠Leonie Marsh⁠⁠⁠. Become a Vixen today. Follow us on Instagram @screenvixens and LinkedIn.

Shideh Faramand is an award-winning writer, director, actor and producer, residing in Toowoomba, Queensland. Her short films ‘A Reluctant Bride’ and ‘Amalia Lucia Gomez is Gluten Intolerant’ have screened at festivals with audiences across Australia, North America and Europe, as well as being broadcast on national television in Romania and Sweden. Passionate about creating strong female driven content and diverse stories, Shideh is currently developing several film and television projects under her newly founded company, Immigrants Daughter Production House, reflective of the ever-changing face of Australia. Shideh is a founding member of Raising Films Australia, committed to supporting positive changes towards a more family-friendly industry. Show Notes: Shideh's LinkedIn Shideh's Instagram @shideh19 'A Reluctant Bride' 'Amalia Lucia Gomez Is Gluten Intolerant' (Shortlisted, Tropfest Australia 2013) Raising Films Australia Screen Queensland's Diversity Plan -------- Vixen to Vixen is produced and edited by ⁠⁠Leonie Marsh⁠⁠. Use code GIFT-20 to save 20% off your annual membership via www.screenvixens.com⁠⁠ (code valid until June 30th 2024)⁠⁠⁠

Brooke Collard is a beloved Regional WA Vixen, a writer/producer and a mum to one. In this episode, she discusses her First Nations production company, producing as a parent and what Screen Vixens means to her. About Brooke: Brooke Collard is a Ballardong/Whadjuk Noongar woman, and proud mother of a toddler. As a Producer and Writer, Brooke is creating opportunities for authentic representation for those who have been marginalised in media, such as stories of First Nations people and LGBTQIA+.  Brooke currently works as a Games & Narrative Designer with Awesome Black, a First Nations game company who centre First Nations voices, stories, and creatives in everything they do. Brooke and their partner Gary Hamaguchi won the AACTA Regional Pitch for 2023 with their project “Reclamation”, a Noongar Horror. In 2023 Brooke collaborated with Common Ground for their educational series “First Nations Bedtime Stories - Noongar”, and she produced short film “Marlu Man” which is in development as a feature film. In 2022 she was shortlisted for web series Digital Originals with “Red Dress Woman”. Brooke also has a successful podcast series with SBS Radio, Noongar Wellbeing which has over 16,000 plays. Brooke wrote and produced web series “Yokai”, and award winning short film “Aboriginal Warrior”. She is also in development for “Anangu Way” with emerging Director & Writer Tace Stevens. Brooke is also a part of the Goolarri Writers Group, the only group of its kind in the country which supports First Nations writers to develop their ideas. She has also worked on projects such as TV Series “The Great”, movie “Sweet As” and many others. With a primary focus on facilitating stories that encourage others and help on the journey of healing. Brooke is a firm believer in "No Stories About Us, Without Us." Show Notes: ⁠Brooke's Instagram Brooke's LinkedIn Brooke's Podcast, Noongar Wellbeing - SBS Radio Broad Horizons - Screen Forever 2024 Mums in Film podcast -------- Vixen to Vixen is produced and edited by ⁠Leonie Marsh⁠. Visit ⁠www.screenvixens.com⁠ to join us today.

In this episode Leonie catches up with WA Regional Vixen Chanel Bowen at Screen Forever in March 2024. Chanel is not only a producer but an advocate for Access Coordinating - a specialised role bringing expert knowledge of film and TV production, plus experience in advocating for access required for DDN (Deaf, Disabled and Neurodivergent) talent in all roles on set or production. About Chanel: Chanel is a proud member of the disability and hard of hearing communities and is a passionate advocate for disability stories on screen. Chanel was recognised by Screen Producers Australia as a ‘One to Watch’ and was mentored throughout 2023 by Goalpost Pictures founder, Rosemary Blight. Chanel is trained as an Access Coordinator with Bridge06 and Screen Australia. Chanel was awarded the Regional to Global Australians In Film and Screenworks Internship in LA for 2022 allowing her to expand her producing experience with Animal Logic Entertainment and Truant Pictures in the USA. Having acquired her disability as an established film practitioner and experiencing difficulty re-entering an industry she knew, Chanel felt deeply committed to ensuring that disabled practitioners were given seats at our creative table. In her spare time, Chanel likes to cook dumplings from scratch, surf in the ocean and talk to her chickens about the meaning of life. Show Notes: Chanel's website Sofya Gollan's website  Screenworks Announces Regional Screen in LA Intern - IF Mag Keely Cat-Wells, Entrepreneur & Disability Rights Advocate Find an Access Coordinator via Crew HQ Stephanie Dower -------- Vixen to Vixen is produced and edited by Leonie Marsh. Visit www.screenvixens.com to join us today.

We kick off 2023 with writer / director / producer Julie Kalceff and producer Kirsty Stark. They chat about how they met and working on their first project together (the Emmy award winning TV Series FIRST DAY), what makes a good producer and how their values drive their work. Acknowledgement of Country - Lisa Jacobi Show Notes: - First Day - Starting From Now - Wastelanda Panda - Crew HQ - The Long and The Short of It Podcast - Chat 10 Looks 3 Podcast

Vixens Ellenor Cox (Producer, Personal Coach and Professional Mentor) and Renée Brack (storyteller, journalist, writer and screen professional) discuss how they met and why networking is still important, their collaboration on Ticketyboo - a documentary about Renée's relationship with her father as he declined with dementia, and the changes they want to see in our industry going forward including a village style crewing system that celebrates and honours our women of a certain age and beyond. Acknowledgement of Country - Diana Fisk Show Notes: - Ticketyboo - Ellenor's website for coaching - Brendon Burchard - high performance coach podcast - ACS Report - The Magic Faraway Tree by Enid Blyton - Silk by Alessandro Baricco - Brene Brown - Judge Judy

Vixens Racheal Rauch (Development Exec and Co-Founder of LIFT) and Nicole Delprado (Producer, Writer, Director) discuss the concept of job sharing in our industry. Acknowledgement of Country - Lark Lee Show Notes: - LIFT (Ladies in Film & TV - UK) - IF Mag Article "Job sharing: Is it one of the answers to equity, diversity, and the skills shortage?" - BFI Skills Review 2022 - A Wider Lens, ACS Report 2022 - Share My Telly - UK - Media Parents - UK - BECTU - UK - The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons - The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

Vixen to Vixen is coming soon! Make sure you are a Yearly Vixen so you don't miss a thing. And if you would like to feature in an episode or want to produce an episode, email [email protected], we want to hear from all of you!