BackStage at TENCROW Studios Podcast
Our Podcast takes you inside the creative pulse of Eastern North Carolina. Broadcasting from the heart of Jacksonville, we spotlight the filmmakers, musicians, artists, and entrepreneurs who are building something bold—right here in our own backyard. These unfiltered conversations explore the real stories, gritty challenges, and big wins behind the scenes. If you’re passionate about creativity, community, and carving your own path, welcome backstage.
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Latest Episode:
Episode 9 – First Cut Productions – First Cut Horror Film Festival
In this episode of Backstage at TENCROW Studios, the founders of First Cut Film Productions – Christine Golden and Marc Bellinger – recount their grassroots approach to launching the First Cut Film Festival in Eastern North Carolina. With no major backing, they break down how they secured a venue, attracted filmmakers, and generated buzz through community engagement and strategic local partnerships. They share insights on budgeting, marketing, and the importance of building relationships with regional creatives to grow an authentic festival experience. The conversation offers practical, candid advice for anyone looking to fund and run a film festival from the ground up.
Episode 8 – Bob Worden pt. 2 – The Civil War
In this follow-up episode, mediator and author Bob Worden continues his exploration of the Civil War through the lens of conflict resolution, examining how alternative decisions—such as earlier recognition of economic interdependence and reframing slavery as a solvable federal issue—might have defused rising tensions. Drawing parallels to modern polarization, Worden dissects how entrenched narratives and failed dialogue strategies fueled national division, while suggesting that a more proactive, empathetic approach could have led to negotiated outcomes. The conversation bridges historical insight with present-day relevance, offering a compelling case for rethinking how societies handle moral and structural disagreements.
Episode 7 – Honey Head Films – Indie Filmmaking in Eastern NC
In this episode of Backstage at TENCROW Studios, we sit down with Kristi Ray and Erika Arlee of Honey Head Films to explore their journey from grassroots filmmaking to developing their next feature — a high-concept, female-led dystopian thriller. They share what it took to make A Song for Imogene on a $200K budget in Eastern North Carolina, why trusting your gut matters when building a crew, and how creative vision and business strategy must go hand in hand. Along the way, they reflect on intuition, collaboration, and the emotional cost — and power — of telling authentic stories outside the Hollywood system.
Episode 6 – How to Fund a Film – Ross Campbell
In this episode, producer and filmmaker Ross Campbell (of Wasted Potential Studios) dives deep into the essentials of indie film financing, sharing practical insights on raising capital, structuring deals, and navigating the complex world of film investment. He also highlights the strategies behind developing greenlight-ready projects, discusses the importance of building strong investor relationships, and offers candid anecdotes from his own financing journeys—all aimed at empowering fellow creators to bring their cinematic visions to life.
Episode 5 – Bob Worden pt. 1 – The American Revolution
In this episode of Backstage at TENCROW Studios, author and mediator Bob Worden joins the conversation to explore the roots of human conflict and the surprising pathways to peace. Drawing from his book How to Stop Wars and Save the World, Worden shares thought-provoking insights on war, diplomacy, and the patterns of power that shape our world. With a background in law and mediation, he offers a compelling perspective on how individuals and nations can shift from destructive cycles toward resolution and transformation.
Episode 4 – Wasted Potential & Ark Entertainment
In this special roundtable episode of Backstage at TENCROW Studios, leaders from Wasted Potential Studios and Ark Entertainment sit down to discuss the future of creative collaboration across film, gaming, and immersive media. The conversation dives into their ambitious joint venture with TENCROW Studios, exploring how regional talent, cutting-edge technology, and shared vision are reshaping content creation in Eastern North Carolina and beyond. From cinematic universes to interactive storytelling, the episode highlights how these powerhouse studios are building an ecosystem designed to fuel innovation, economic growth, and artistic freedom.
Episode 3 – Jesse LaFlair – Actor & Freerunning Pro
In this dynamic episode of Backstage at TENCROW Studios, professional freerunner, stuntman, and actor Jesse La Flair opens up about his journey from YouTube pioneer to Hollywood performer. He shares the highs and lows of breaking into the entertainment industry, how parkour shaped his creative identity, and why building authentic community matters more than ever. From viral videos to major film sets, Jesse offers candid insight into navigating imposter syndrome, chasing bold dreams, and crafting a career with purpose.
Episode 2 – Joe Tracey, Co-Owner of Orion Studios
In this episode of Backstage at TENCROW Studios, we sit down with Joe Tracey—musician, member of the band Pale Discretion, and co-owner of Orion Studios, Baltimore’s largest music recording and rehearsal facility. Joe shares the story behind Orion’s rise as a creative hub, the challenges they faced during the pandemic, and how the studio continues to support musicians and artists throughout the region. The conversation spans music, community, and even a bit of film, offering a grounded look at what it takes to build and sustain a creative space that truly serves its scene.
Episode 1 – James Jones, Founder Bearhug Productions
In this premiere episode of Backstage at TENCROW Studios, filmmaker James Jones joins us to discuss his powerful body of work, including the feature film PAYDERT, which recently screened at the studio. Based in Greenville, NC, James opens up about his journey as an independent director, the inspiration behind his storytelling, and the challenges he faced during production and distribution. With a deep passion for uplifting local voices and untold stories, James shares his vision for growing the Eastern North Carolina film scene and what’s next on the horizon for his creative career.