Has modern filmmaking become too agenda-driven? Are we losing the heart of storytelling in the name of expression?

In this episode of The Story Lab, we dive into the ethics of filmmaking, the power of redemptive arcs, and why the most impactful stories often come from a place of humility—not ideology. From indie films to advocacy docs, we explore why your why matters more than ever.

🎥 Topics we cover:

The fading moral compass in modern cinema
Why agenda-pushing alienates audiences
The role of redemption in the best stories
How faith, purpose, and ethics shape creative work

If you're a filmmaker wondering how to tell stories that matter—without preaching—this one’s for you.

👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments. What’s your take on storytelling and ethics in 2025?

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Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso

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Too many entrepreneurs jump straight into building businesses without realizing the real key to success—branding yourself first. In this episode of The Story Lab, we break down why personal branding is more valuable than any single business and how it sets you up to solve problems in a way that attracts the right opportunities.

📌 What You’ll Learn:
✔️ Why your personal brand matters more than any one company
✔️ How to position yourself as a problem solver, not just a business owner
✔️ The real reason people trust brands before they buy solutions
✔️ Actionable steps to start building your brand today

🚀 Don’t just build businesses—build a brand that lasts.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep-dive conversations on filmmaking, creativity, and entrepreneurship!

Check out Teddy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teddyg111?igsh=MWx4NmNrcDE0M2d0Yg==
Check out Teddy's Work: giard.co

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Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso

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How do you craft a powerful edit? When should you show instead of tell? This episode dives deep into the storytelling process—how filmmakers can shape narratives by stripping away excess and letting the audience discover meaning for themselves.

We explore the evolution of In the Blood, a documentary that started as a family business story but became a personal, intimate portrait of legacy, loss, and connection. From shifting perspectives in the edit to the fragility of life, this conversation is a masterclass in documentary storytelling.

▪️ How to find the true heart of a story in the edit
▪️ The difference between information vs. emotion in filmmaking
▪️ Lessons from David Mamet on why narration often weakens a scene
▪️ Why capturing less can sometimes mean more

🎧 Subscribe for more deep dives into filmmaking, storytelling, and the creative process!

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Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso

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In a world dominated by massive blockbusters and over-the-top spectacle, is there still room for stories that find beauty in the everyday? In this episode of The Story Lab, we explore the contrast between Hollywood’s obsession with sensationalism—think Marvel movies and billion-dollar franchises—and the raw, quiet power of storytelling rooted in real life.

We dive into:
✅ Why mainstream filmmaking often prioritizes spectacle over substance
✅ The overlooked magic of simple, human-driven narratives
✅ How up-and-coming filmmakers can embrace authenticity in their work

If you’ve ever felt like your stories need to be bigger to matter, this episode is for you. Sometimes, the most powerful storytelling isn’t about explosions—it’s about emotion.

Subscribe for more and start shaping your own unique filmmaking path!

#Filmmaking #Storytelling #IndieFilm #Hollywood #MarvelMovies #TheStoryLab

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Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso

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In this episode, we dive deep into the realities of gatekeeping in the film industry—how mentorship can elevate your career and how toxic attitudes can hold you back.

Topics Covered:

▪️ The role of mentors in shaping a filmmaker's journey
▪️ How insecurity and ego can affect career growth
▪️ The reality of gatekeeping in the industry
▪️ Why reputation matters more than talent alone
▪️ The power of generosity and connection in filmmaking

Whether you're just starting out or have been in the industry for years, this conversation will challenge you to rethink how you approach collaboration and success.

📢 Subscribe for more filmmaking insights!
💬 Drop a comment below—what are your experiences with gatekeeping in the industry?

#Filmmaking #Podcast #Gatekeeping #FilmIndustry #IndieFilmmaking #thestorylab

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Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso

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Filmmaking is a passion, a career, and—let’s be honest—a relentless hustle. But is it possible to build a sustainable career in this industry without sacrificing personal relationships, family time, or even your own well-being?

In this episode of The Story Lab, we dive deep into the push-and-pull of work-life balance as filmmakers. We discuss:
✅ The grind vs. long-term sustainability
✅ How to set boundaries in a career that never “clocks out”
✅ The sacrifices needed to create meaningful work
✅ Why success in filmmaking doesn’t have to mean burnout

If you’re a filmmaker, creative, or anyone struggling with balancing work and personal life, this episode is for you! Let’s redefine success—one story at a time.

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👍 Like & Comment: How do YOU manage work-life balance in your creative career?

#Filmmaking #CreativeLife #WorkLifeBalance #TheStoryLab

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Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso

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Welcome to the first ever episode of The Story Lab!

Lucas and Evan breakdown:
- Finding your voice and confidence in a project
- The challenges of fighting for your vision with clients
- Knowing the product you are selling as well as the client on commercials

Filmed in San Diego, CA

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Find us on Instagram
@TheStoryLabFilm ​

Hosted by Evan Rogers and Lucas Cardoso

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more!