Welcome to Film Ladder—the podcast that breaks down careers in the film industry, one conversation at a time. If you're trying to figure out how people actually get into the business, what different jobs look like behind the scenes, or how to build a creative career without a map — you’re in the right place!
Tune in as industry professionals share career tips and the lessons they've learned along the way—helping you navigate your own ascent on the film ladder.
Send us Fan Mail What really happens behind the scenes of a major Hollywood movie? In this episode of Film Ladder, Lexi sits down with behind-the-scenes producer and camera operator Jason Cox, whose credits include Click, This Is the End, Happy Gilmore 2, and The Comeback King. Jason pulls back the curtain on a filmmaking career most people don’t even know exists, from capturing candid moments with actors and directors to knowing when to keep the camera rolling and when to put it down. He als...
21 Aug 2026
#18 - How To Be A First Team PA
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of FilmLadder, host Lexi sits down with Kyla Dill to break down the demanding role of a first team production assistant and what it really takes to keep a set running smoothly. Kyla shares what the job looks like day to day, from helping cast move through hair, makeup, wardrobe, wiring, and last looks, to staying constantly aware of schedules, call sheets, and shifting scene setups. She also explains why relationships, communication, and anticipation are essen...
13 Aug 2026
#17 - How To Be An On Set Costumer
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Film Ladder, Lexi sits down with on-set and key costumer Emmie Phelps Thompson, whose credits include Saturday Night, His & Hers, and the upcoming Comeback King, to pull back the curtain on the Costume Department. Emmie breaks down the different roles within the costume department, how costumes move from design and prep to set, and the incredible amount of continuity, problem-solving, preparation, and actor care that happens behind the scenes. As Emmie ...
30 Jul 2026
#16 - How To Navigate Your Film Ladder & Advice On Climbing Up
Send us Fan Mail What does it really take to build a lasting career in the film industry? In this episode of Film Ladder, production supervisor and UPM Rose Houdek shares the honest realities of climbing the film ladder—from starting as an intern and office PA to working on major productions like Bad Moms, Just Mercy, and The Big Door Prize. Together, we discuss career strategy, networking, taking calculated steps backward to move forward, navigating today's challenging industry, and why succ...
26 Jan 2026
#15 - How To Be A 1st Assistant Director
Send us a text In this episode of Film Ladder, Lexi sits with 1st AD Matthew Goodwin, With insights from his extensive career, Matthew shares the responsibilities and challenges faced by a 1st AD, including coordinating schedules, managing on-set dynamics, and ensuring the director's vision is realized. He also discusses the importance of work ethic, leadership, and maintaining a positive attitude on set. The conversation touches on Matthew's personal journey, from his beginnings in Chicago t...
12 Dec 2025
#14 - How To Be A Hollywood Stand-In
Send us a text Join Lexi as she dives into the fascinating world of film stand-ins with Kirsten Lee Anderson, whose credits include Marvel's The Falcon and The Winter Soldier and Pain Hustlers. Discover the intricacies of this unique role, from setting up scenes to working closely with directors and actors. Kirsten shares her journey, insights, and the challenges of being a stand-in, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the film industry. Whether you're an aspiring actor or a film enthusiast,...
5 Dec 2025
#13 - How to be a Film Editor (Scripted Television)
Send us a text Join Lexi in this insightful episode as we she sits down with Joaquin Elizondo, a seasoned editor whose credits include "Griselda," "Narcos Mexico," and "The Abandons." Joaquin shares his journey from aspiring cinematographer to a Hollywood editing mentor, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the world of scripted television. Discover the art of storytelling through editing, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of navigating the film industry. Whether you're an aspi...
10 Oct 2025
#12 - How to be a Camera Loader
In this episode, Najee Rawlings, a camera loader, shares insights into his role in the film industry, detailing the responsibilities, challenges, and experiences that come with the job. He discusses the importance of organization, preparation, and building relationships within the industry, as well as the misconceptions surrounding the role of a camera loader. Najee also reflects on his career journey, memorable moments on set, and offers valuable advice for aspiring camera loaders.
3 Oct 2025
#11 - How to be a Set Lighting Technician
In this conversation, Froy Madrigal, a set lighting technician, shares insights into his role in the film industry, discussing the responsibilities, challenges, and daily operations of lighting on set. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork, networking, and having a strong work ethic, while also addressing common misconceptions about the job. Froy recounts memorable experiences on set, including a unique cultural moment during a shoot, and offers advice for aspiring technicians looking to b...
26 Sept 2025
#10 - How to be an Assistant Production Coordinator
In this conversation, Sarah Himes, an Assistant Production Coordinator, shares her journey in the film industry, detailing the multifaceted role of an APC, the challenges of production, and the importance of mentorship. She discusses the various stages of production, the significance of effective communication, and the misconceptions surrounding production offices. Sarah also reflects on her career transition to accounting, emphasizing the need for work-life balance and the importance of know...
22 Aug 2025
#9 - How to be a Set Dec Coordinator
In this insightful episode of Film Ladder, I sit down with Darby Abraham, an accomplished Set Dec Coordinator whose credits include The Outsider, The Walking Dead, and Civil War. Darby shares her journey from a props PA to a set decoration coordinator, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the intricate world of set design. Discover the challenges and triumphs of coordinating art departments, the importance of clearances, and the collaborative spirit that fuels the film industry. Whether you'r...
15 Aug 2025
#8 - How To Be A Line Producer Assistant
In this special solo episode, join me as I take the mic alone to share my journey from film school in Chicago to becoming a line producer's assistant in Atlanta. Discover the ins and outs of my role, the challenges and triumphs, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Whether you're aspiring to break into the film industry or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes magic, this episode offers a candid glimpse into the life of a line producer's assistant. Tune in to hear my story, ...
8 Aug 2025
#7 - How to be a Key Makeup Artist
In this episode of Film Ladder, we dive into the world of film and TV makeup artistry with Sylvia Ramos, a seasoned key makeup artist. Sylvia shares her journey from working at Sephora to becoming a key player in the industry, offering insights into the collaborative nature of makeup and hair departments, the challenges of long hours, and the nuances of working on set. Whether you're an aspiring makeup artist or a film enthusiast, Sylvia's experiences and advice provide a fascinating glimpse ...
1 Aug 2025
#6 - How to be a Key Grip
Join Lexi on the Film Ladder Podcast as she sits down with Luis Pagan, a key grip with an impressive portfolio including projects like "Tell Me Lies" and "Scream 7." In this episode, Luis shares his journey from Puerto Rico to becoming a key player in the film industry. We explore the vital role of grips in film production, the importance of collaboration on set, and the balance between technical skill and personal relationships. Whether you're curious about the behind-the-scenes magic of fil...
25 Jul 2025
#5 - How to be an Assistant Location Manager
Join Lexi as she dives into the world of film locations with Kyle Snipes, an Assistant Location Manager whose credits include "Bad Boys 4," "Tulsa King," and "The Pickup." Discover the intricacies of pre-production and production, the challenges of merging the real world with the film world, and the logistics behind creating seamless shooting experiences. Kyle shares his journey from a set PA to his current role, offering insights into the traits needed to excel in the industry and the import...
18 Jul 2025
#4 - How to be an Assistant Costume Designer
In this episode Lexi is joined by Valeria Chelala, an assistant costume designer. She shares her journey in the film industry -- detailing the multifaceted role of costume design, the challenges faced during production, and the importance of teamwork and communication. She emphasizes the need for organization, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills in navigating the fast-paced environment of film production. Valeria also reflects on her memorable experiences on set and offers valuable ...
11 Jul 2025
#1 - How to be a Showrunner's Assistant
Join Lexi on Film Ladder as she chats with Jason Sheradsky, a showrunner's assistant with credits on "Get Out," "Good Girls," and "Grosse Pointe Garden Society." Discover the ins and outs of his role, from pre-production to post, and gain insights into how he got there and what it takes to excel. Whether you're aspiring to break into the business or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this episode offers valuable advice and a peek into the world of TV production from the very b...
11 Jul 2025
#3 - How to be a 2nd 2nd Assistant Director
Dive into the dynamic world of film production with Lauren Candela, a seasoned second second assistant director. With credits including "The Menu," "Manhunt," and the upcoming "Alien Earth," Lauren shares her journey from a PA to a pivotal role in the industry. She is giving all the tips on what a 2nd 2nd AD does and how to succeed in the role. She also shares the mistake that should have gotten her blacklisted. She does not hold back on all the fun behind the scenes stories!
11 Jul 2025
#2 - How to be a Digital Utility
Join Lexi in this insightful episode chatting with Ryanne Whyte, a digital utility in the camera department, whose credits include Dynasty and Jackpot!. Discover what it takes to excel as a digital utility, the importance of adaptability, and the challenges of maintaining job security in the film industry. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or curious about behind-the-scenes roles, this episode offers a candid look at the realities of working in film. Tune in to learn about the unique respo...
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