Rob Hollocks: From Film Studio Marketing to Indie Mayhem

Rob Hollocks is proof that storytelling instincts don’t disappear—they evolve. After 15 years leading global campaigns at Paramount for hits like “Indiana Jones,” “Mission: Impossible,” “Star Trek,” and “Saving Private Ryan,” Rob stepped away from the studio system to write, direct, and produce original work. His indie company, Bloody Marvelous Pictures, is now home to bold, genre-bending films that explore the emotional and the eerie with equal intensity.

In this cinematic conversation, Rob shares how a childhood love of classic monster movies shaped his creative eye, how his theatre roots taught him to trust actors and take risks, and why building a “creative family” on set matters more than ever. From “Encounter” with Luke Hemsworth to the haunting new thriller “The Observance,” Rob brings both a marketer’s strategy and a filmmaker’s soul to every project he touches.

This episode is a ride through reinvention, legacy, and the power of horror to say something deeper. If you’ve ever dreamed of making a second act as meaningful as your first, don’t miss this one.

Mattie Scariot: Building a Global Film Festival From the Heart

Mattie Scariot is proof that when you lead with passion, anything is possible. As Director of the Poppy Jasper International Film Festival, Mattie has built more than a showcase for global cinema. She has created a movement rooted in equity, creativity, and connection.

In this joyful, energizing conversation recorded during last year’s festival, Mattie shares how she grew a local event into an internationally recognized celebration of diverse voices. With over 30 countries represented, her festival has become a hub for emerging talent, bold storytelling, and genuine community where filmmakers feel truly seen, supported, and celebrated.

Don’t miss this powerful episode filled with creative vision, inclusive leadership, and unforgettable moments from a director who is changing the landscape of film one story at a time.

From Spain to “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” — Juan Cabrera on Color, Craft, and Creative Grit

Juan Cabrera’s journey from a small town in Spain to some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters is a masterclass in creative grit and technical mastery. A self-taught artist with roots in animation and VFX, Juan found his calling in color grading, where storytelling meets science.

Whether contributing to "Star Trek Into Darkness" or "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," Juan’s work brings clarity, emotion, and cohesion to the screen. Today, he leads LightBenders, a post-production studio built on collaboration, innovation, and heart.

Juan opens up about how color shapes narrative, why early collaboration across departments matters, and what it means to build a career by staying curious and committed to the craft. If you’re navigating a creative path or want a behind-the-scenes look at how stories come to life on screen, tune in and be inspired.

Lyle Workman: Guitarist and Film Composer Behind “Superbad” and “The 40-Year-Old Virgin.”

Lyle Workman has done what few musicians can. He mastered the art of hit songs and the craft of film scores, building a career that spans rock legends and Hollywood blockbusters.

Whether trading guitar licks with Beck and Sting or scoring comedies like "The 40-Year-Old Virgin" and "Superbad," Lyle’s work has quietly shaped the soundtrack of pop culture. His journey moves between studio sessions and scoring stages, blending instinct, precision, and creative trust. His career is a masterclass in blending artistic freedom with the demands of both rock stages and Hollywood scoring rooms.

Don’t miss this exclusive conversation with a multi-genre artist whose work bridges music, film, and cultural moments. Lyle shares insights on creativity, collaboration, and the passion that keeps him exploring new sounds after decades in the business.

Paul Farberman: The Man Behind the Deals That Shaped Music and Film

What do Celine Dion, "Titanic," and a Spielberg film have in common? Paul Farberman.

Paul Farberman’s career spans continents, formats, and cultural icons. From representing artists at Sony Music Canada to working alongside legends like Sting and Celine Dion, Paul became one of the most trusted voices behind the scenes in both the music and film industries. He helped guide the launch of one of the most iconic songs of all time, navigated billion-dollar franchises, and now brings his experience to Broadway and beyond.

In this intimate episode, Paul opens up about the real business of entertainment. He shares what it takes to earn an artist’s trust, how major moments often come down to quiet decisions, and why staying relevant means putting people before platforms. His journey moves through record labels, studio lots, and global stages with a steady focus on integrity, timing, and service.

Don’t miss this exclusive conversation with an industry insider whose career helped shape modern music and film. Tune in to hear Paul’s reflections on creativity, connection, and what still inspires him to keep going.

Kwame Patterson (“The Wire”) on Acting, Purpose & Breaking Barriers

From street corners to soundstages, Kwame Patterson’s journey is a masterclass in grit, determination, and the power of purpose.

Known to fans as Monk from HBO’s groundbreaking series "The Wire," Kwame Patterson’s story is built on raw determination, hustle, and unshakable faith. Born in Atlanta and raised in the unforgiving streets of New Jersey and Baltimore, he defied staggering odds, earning his GED through Job Corps and serving in the U.S. Army as he carved out a better future.

Landing a role on "The Wire" wasn’t just luck; it was a turning point that ignited Kwame’s acting career and reshaped his life. Over two decades later, he’s still breaking barriers with bold, dynamic roles while using his journey to motivate and empower others.

When he’s not lighting up the screen, Kwame is all about family and fighting for change. He dedicates his time to guiding young actors and pulling at-risk youth away from the grips of the juvenile justice system.

This episode also features Shelton Benjamin, AEW's “Standard of Excellence” superstar, who joins the conversation to share how he’s giving back to his community and living by his own code.

Join us as Kwame takes us through his rise from the streets to the screen, sharing raw stories of resilience and his impact off-camera. This is a journey you won’t want to miss!

AEW’s Standard of Excellence: Shelton Benjamin’s Journey Beyond the Ring

You know the wrestler.
Meet the man rewriting his story—on his own terms.

Shelton Benjamin has dominated the wrestling world, leaving an indelible mark in WWE, NJPW, ROH, and now AEW as a member of “The Hurt Syndicate.” Known for his electrifying athleticism and record-breaking title reigns, Shelton’s journey spans decades of grit, glory, and reinvention. But now, he’s setting his sights on a new arena.

We sit down with Shelton to unpack his storied career—from growing up in Orangeburg, South Carolina and excelling in multiple sports, to winning collegiate championships. He shares candid insights about his transition to AEW and his ambitions beyond wrestling, including acting and voice-over work. Fans are in for a treat as Shelton reveals a side of himself rarely seen—his passion for storytelling and performance outside the ring.

Don’t miss this exclusive conversation with a legend exploring uncharted territory. Tune in to hear Shelton’s thoughts on his next chapter, his creative ambitions, and what’s driving him to redefine his legacy.

Dropout to Dealmaker: Ricky Blair’s $30M Journey

What if the kid who dropped out of school at 16 came back to sell his company for $30 million?

Ricky Blair didn’t follow the traditional path—but he forged one hell of a journey. This is the story of how mentorship, grit, and bold vision turned a teenage outsider into a game-changing entrepreneur.

At just 16, Ricky Blair left school feeling like the odds were stacked against him. A year later, a mentor unlocked his potential and set him on a path to defy expectations. Fueled by grit and unrelenting drive, Ricky entered London’s cutthroat real estate market, ready to prove everyone wrong.

By 24, he launched Hatton Real Estate, transforming the industry with bold ideas. Six years later, he sold it for $30 million. Now in Los Angeles, Ricky channels his success into Platform Seven, a mentoring platform reshaping how future leaders are made.

During this conversation, Ricky shares lessons from his rise, the power of mentorship, and his mission to inspire others to chase audacious goals. His story proves that with determination and vision, anyone can write their narrative.

Don’t miss this journey of resilience and reinvention. Tune in to discover how Ricky challenges the status quo and empowers others to own their success.

Pablo Hidalgo (Lucasfilm) – Part 2

If you thought Part 1 was epic—strap in. In the second half of our conversation with Pablo Hidalgo, Director of Franchise and Story at Lucasfilm, we go beyond “Star Wars” lore and into the heart of what makes a lifelong creative tick.

Pablo is one of the key architects behind the modern “Star Wars” galaxy. From vetting books, comics, and scripts to preserving continuity across decades of storytelling, his role keeps the galaxy far, far away on course.

In Part 2, Pablo opens up about his time embedded on the set of “Revenge of the Sith”, including how he landed a cameo in the opera scene (green robe and all). He also shares what it means to be a “story steward,” how trust was earned behind the scenes, and why passion—not planning—was the secret to his success.

Whether you're a fan of behind-the-scenes magic, filmmaking wisdom, or creative careers that don’t follow a straight line, this episode delivers.

And if you missed Part 1… trust us, you’ll want to go back.

Hit play and let’s make the jump to hyperspace—because the Force is strong with this one.

Pablo Hidalgo (Lucasfilm) – Part 1

Happy “Star Wars” Day! To celebrate May the 4th, we’re kicking off the Energis Podcast with a very special guest—Pablo Hidalgo, loremaster of a galaxy far, far away.

As the Director of Franchise and Story at Lucasfilm, Pablo has spent over two decades shaping and preserving the “Star Wars” galaxy. From advising top filmmakers on story accuracy to co-authoring essential “Star Wars” books, his fingerprints are on nearly every corner of the franchise.

In Part 1 of this exclusive two-part episode, Pablo shares how he went from passionate fan in Winnipeg to walking the halls of Skywalker Ranch. We dive into his early days, the wild story of his Lucasfilm job interview, and what it really means to be the “canon keeper” for one of the most beloved stories of all time.

So whether you're a lifelong fan or just love hearing how people turn passion into purpose—this one’s for you.

Hit play, and May the Force Be With You.