to get on our “seminar/party alert” list: Email suzanne at snowfallfilms@aol.com
testimonials for:
SEMINAR LEADER: SUZANNE LYONS
“SUZANNE IMPACTED MY LIFE ENORMOUSLY THIS PAST YEAR. HER ‘LAUNCHING THE FUTURE [aka having the best year ever]’ WORKSHOP PUT ME ON A PATH THAT BECAME THE ROAD MAP TO ADVANCING MY CAREER. WITH SUZANNE’S GUIDANCE I GAINED A GREATER BELIEF IN MYSELF AND MY WORK. SHE PUSHED ME OUT OF MY COMFORT ZONE AND ENCOURAGED ME TO STRETCH BEYOND FAMILIAR MEDIUMS. SUZANNE IS A CONSUMMATE PROFESSIONAL WITH SOLID CREDITS, A QUICK WIT, A GOOD HEART AND A GREAT ATTITUDE.”
PAMELA HARRINGTON LANE, AUTHOR ROLLER COASTER TO THE EDGE
“suzanne has that rare ability to combine artistic creativity and smart business sense. to me that is the key to success in this industry.”
mark smith, writer, vacancy, hole,
writer/director, seance
“suzanne lyons is a beacon of positive energy! anyone can improve their skill set following her valuable tips on success. staying focused, making the most of your opportunities, pushing forward to reach your goal... whatever she’s recommending, do it!
juliette youngblood, producer, petrified
“if you want to make it in this business [or any business!] you’ve got to master the art of pitching. suzanne has been called the “queen of pitch” for a reason. she is an expert at pitching and she has trained thousands of people in the entertainment industry over the years. the tips and techniques that she offers are worth their weight in gold.”
james thorpe, co-executive producer/writer, sanctuary syfy channel
"Networking, networking, networking... did i mention networking? creating relationships... real, authentic relationships... it’s the key to success in this business, and every business. suzanne is brilliant at it... put her suggestions to work and you’ll be amazed at the extraordinary results you’ll produce.”
ross grayson bell, producer, fight club
testimonials for:
flash forward one month intensive
“Flash Forward 77 absolutely, positively kicked my ass into high gear and I'm now directing my second feature, sold a feature script that goes into production in January, and have my next feature directing gig lined up with a bigger budget and the financing dance in full swing.
THANK YOU SUZANNE! & the whole FF 77 family.” JOHN MILTON BRANTON, Director/casting director
“Ever feel like you're sleepwalking? Flash Forward is your wake up call. It reminds you to be present and take control of your own life rather than waiting for it to happen. It brings out the best part of you - the hardest working, the most positive, and the part that is destined to succeed.”
Shelby Bond, actor
“On Thursday, November 17th, I finished an incredible month. I, and forty-five others, had just spent a month of workshops, team meetings, exploring contacts and in general accelerating into a higher level of success in the entertainment industry. Some of you will suspect that I know something about writing. But a month ago, I knew virtually nothing about the business of movies or television.
The forty-six of us were the 77th group to join a program called Flash Forward, co-founded by Suzanne Lyons, a charismatic and inspiring speaker who led us through the busiest month any of us had ever spent. We came from all areas of the entertainment industry: writers, actors, film technicians, producers and directors, and each of us had a goal to move farther ahead in our careers than we could imagine doing in a month. Remarkably, many of us actually reached and exceeded their goals.
But the most relevant result of the program was not about reaching goals. It was learning that each of us can do more than we ever thought. That the fears that have lived with us all our lives are nothing more than toggle switches, and we can choose to turn them on or off. We simply have to make the choice. Want to live in fear of walking up to someone and getting to know them? Spending your life telling yourself you can’t do something? Afraid of the adventure of doing something extraordinary? Flash Forward showed us all how to dump this kind of crap.
Finally, we came to the realization that as we finished the month, we could never step back into the low level hum that came from lack of commitment, energy or motivation. Most of us plan on continuing meeting in person and online, extending the support we’ve all enjoyed during Flash Forward. I know this raft of new friends and colleagues I’ve found will help keep me from sinking in the future. Right now, I’m excited about a series of meetings I’ve set up with industry insiders. And I’m more than ever motivated to continue my writing. The end of Flash Forward is just the beginning.”
VIC WARREN, WRITER
“I absolutely loved the flash forward program. It is so much more than a ‘class’. I feel more confident about marketing myself to the film industry. It has also given me renewed enthusiasm in my craft which is creating a positive reaction all around me on set as well as with producers and others I work with. I would highly recommend this class.”
Sue LaPrelle
"From this out of body experience, I learned that fear is not a signal to stop or run back to my comfort zone, but can be an indicator that I’m going to the next level and what I’m feeling is the old, scared me dying to self as the new, empowered ME steps boldly and unashamedly forward. Because of Flash Forward, I pitched 3 projects to the director of development at a major cable network! And, he wants to see the pilot script for one of them as soon as it’s ready. For the first time in years, my dreams are tangible realities again."
Jenean Atwood Baynes, writer
“When I first moved to Los Angles, I had no idea how the business worked or even where to start. Then I found the Flash Forward program that not only educated me about our awesome business, it gave me real world tools on how to kick start my career and keep it moving up. Now, every film, television or new media project I am hired on, I can honestly say I landed using the networking tools I learned in Flash Forward.”
Jim Orr, Director of Photography
FIVE (Lili), directed by Alicia Keys, A Proper Send Off, Directed by Eva Longoria, Sodales, Directed by Jessica Biel, Deadliest Warrior - 2 Seasons, Intervention - 18 Episodes, The FlyBoys
“I can honestly say Flash Forward changed my life. Almost everything I know about pitching, networking and presenting myself I learned from Heidi and Suzanne, and I can't imagine having had the success that I've had without it.”
Bill lundy, writer
“Flash Forward is a great motivational tool that helps you to get out your own way, and the support system of encouragement and understanding is what really helps you to get through the program sucessfully, if you do the work, magical things happen that you did not plan.”
Ed Gutentag,
"I was overwhelmed by the support structure within FF. The participants can't help but succeed."
Sharon Lawrence, Two-time Emmy-nominated actress, NYPD BLUE, FIRED UP, drop dead diva
”your class has been a real life-changing experience. For me it would have been a bargain at three times the price. I am definitely one of those people who make one or two phone calls, send out one or two scripts and sit at home and hope. I feel that now I have the power and the skills to actually go out and get myself work in the entertainment industry.”
sam cleaver, WRITER
While participating in Flash Forward I got new theatrical agents and soon after booked Jurassic Park 3 and "Training Day a New Denzel Washington Film....I have continued to work with my coach from flash forward and now have wonderful managers, a new commercial agent, a voice over agent and have worked on a pilot as well as doing an AD campaign for Sony.
SARAH D. GOLD, actress
”Just wanted to let you know that I booked and shot a new Pilot - ‘Bizz’ for Frank Brill Productions. It's a comedy take on entertainment news- like ‘The Daily Show meets Saturday Night Live’. I wanted to thank you all for your support and the entire Flash Forward Institute and A-team.”
gerry katzman, comedian, standup teacher
“favorite comedy teacher 2010” backstage magazine
"For me, I see the Flash Forward workshop as helping people in the entertainment industry to envision something possible for themselves, figure out means to attain that end, take action, and adapt as time goes on.”
kevin aldrich
"Flash Forward was INVALUABLE to me for helping shape my mindset for how to make things happen and not allow obstacles to dissuade me from moving forward. Along the way of making the film, the source of half of the money pulled out and there was a major decision to make. After the initial shock, the words of Suzanne and Heidi along with the energy of all my Flash forward teams came back to me, and I realized that this sudden obstacle had come up simply to allow me to firmly decide what I stood for in myself. I suddenly saw the 5-year vision I had of myself in my first Flash Forward. I felt how it connected to my purpose in life. The choice was clear -- I decided, yes, I was a director and that I was damn well going to make this movie to show it. The solutions came. I shortened the script and found a credit line to fund the movie myself. Now it's ready to be screened. Also through FF, I connected with the film's composer who did an incredible job to bring the mood of the film to life."
Suzanne O'Keeffe, writer/director/producer
Imagine Festival, portfolio productions,
e luminate films
”in the spirit of FF, I wanted to let you know that although my Flash Forward goal is to book 4 national VOiceover spots... I wanted to let you know that I booked one! It's a national SAG TV commercial! And, the cool part is, I didn't audition. One of my mentors brought my demo to the creative team, and even though I wasn't the voice they wanted, they liked my voice and re-wrote the part to fit me! Don't give up on your goals! Keep the faith... it can take time. I wish you all loads of prosperity!”
Tori Hartman, voiceover artist
“I completed my fifth film on Sunday before last. Feature Film called Champion by DirECTOR Kwak, who is the biggest DirECTOR in Korea, and featuring their No. 1 actor Mr. Yu. Recreation of the Ray Boom Boom Mancini fight where he killed a Korean fighter. (The fighter is an Icon to the Koreans like James Dean to us Americans) I played Bob Arrom the promoter for Boom Boom. In the Orient it will be a block buster. Today I was Taft Hartlied by Paramount for the Feature Film The Hunted with Benicio Del Toro for VOICEOVER. I have achieved my goal!!!! Thank you all for your good thoughts,prayers, and efforts. I wish all of you nothing but the best! Stay strong and forge ahead!!!”
Sasha Maravich, actor, voiceover
”Dear Flash Forward Coaches:
I have to say you are great and very, very intelligent. You have artist's hearts and educationer's brains. The class designed so smartly that there is no time wasting, and it shoots and solves everybody's most common problems. The curriculum is wonderful and very helpful too. I learned so much from the class and I believe that I will continually benefit from it. Please forgive me if I talked in Chin-gerlish, [or] Chinese-English.”
Jinbin Bacon
“My primary Flash Forward goal was/is to write, create and/or produce in children's TV. I am very pleased to say that I now have my first writing credit. My partner and I have written two episodes of Rugrats, which will air on Nickelodeon this Spring, 2002. We also took part in a writers round table at Klasky Csupo (producers of Rugrats) to pitch story ideas for a Rugrats spin-off. (This was a job, not on spec.)”
Nan Friedman, writer, rugrats
"When I spoke at FF I notice that the combination of high calibre industry guests and the intimate group dynamic provided an extraordinary opportunity for creating important relationships."
Anne Marie Gillen, Exec. Prod. Flight Entertainment, President, FRIED GREEN TOMATOES
"I got my dream mentor Jane Campion, who introduced me to acquisitions people at Fox, Searchlight and Propaganda Films."
Julie Oxendale, writer, BETTER THIS WAy
"The follow-up group work was an integral part of the workshop. It was a rare feeling to know there was such a supportive group of people who were there to help, advise and most of all buy into my vision and make me get off my butt."
Carla Nolan, Producer
"I got my first screenplay optioned, got a fabulous job in the television industry and started coordinating the WIFT-T Studio."
Ronalda Jones, Writer/Director
"Flash Forward is a caffeinated connection for the heart and the mind. It's about clarifying your personal vision, seeing a path to it's completion and building the right relationships in the right way to make your dream real. It's just what your life's script doctor ordered."
Dave Zaboski, The Divine Line Studios
www.thedivineline.posterous.com
"FF has advanced my career further than I would have been able to on my own. I would not be in the position with my documentary or other projects had I not taken the course. I strongly suggest FF for anyone who is serious about succeeding."
Joe Costa, Producer/Director
"I started with an idea for a documentary. And after taking the course, I find myself negotiating broadcast rights for it to Canada and the UK, have had Allison Anders (GAS FOOD LODGING, GRACE OF MY HEART) agree to Executive Produce it, have joined forces with Producer Rep. Jeff Dowd (BLOOD SIMPLE, GANDHI), and am currently in discussion with several major Canadian and American distributors. I can unequivocally say that without FF none of this would have happened."
Alison Reid, Lounge Productions Inc.
“It is a direct tribute to Flash Forward that my first film, When Buffalo Roam, won the NY International Independent Film & Video Festival as Best Social Documentary Short.”
Elizabeth Gaylynn Baker, FILMMAKER
“There’s no question that I would not have directed and produced the feature Happy, Texas (‘Miramax “Happy” Distributor captures comedy after bidder battle’ at Sundance, ’99, quote Variety) without the tools, discipline and training that I picked up at FLASH FORWARD.”
Mark Illsley, Director, Happy, Texas
“With my Flash Forward training I sold my first feature screenplay Johnny Be Good to Flat Top Entertainment.“
Gwen Lester, Screenwriter
“Using the Flash Forward skills I went from being a partner in a law firm to having my own practice where I’m happier and earning more money.”
Jeff Kichaven, Attorney
“Before I took Flash Forward training I didn’t know what a development deal was, now I’ve got a contract for four years with MAD TV and a development deal at MTV, HBO and FOX.”
Corky Quakenbush, Writer/Director
“Flash Forward gave me a method of attacking the business and some results have been a short film and two animated series.”
Steve Marston, Composer
“My mentor pursuit brought me to Kappa Studios and now I’m the Director of Marketing!”
Joe Lotito, Kappa Studios
“Had I known I would land one of Hollywood’s top TV talk show jobs after completing Flash Forward, I would have taken it years ago!”
Silvia Gambardella, Sr. Producer,
Jackie Collins’ Hollywood
“As a result of Flash Forward brainstorming, I will be on MTV's FEAR"
Melanie Ann Foshee, Actress
”when I came to Flash Forward one of my goals was to get a book published. Attending Flash Forward helped to make it a reality. This fall Simon & Schuster will be publishing my motivational book Starring in Your Own Life: Reveal Your Hidden Star Quality and Make Your Life a Blockbuster Hit!“
Emmy-award winning TV personality/producer/author, Lena Nozizwe
"Taking Flash Forward was the best move I could have made. With the support of my team and the people that I met, and with the organizational and motivational tools which FF provided, I made my first short comedy film called Space Monkey, which premiered on ifilm.com, and was named as the ‘ifilm Pick’. Geoff Alexander, Filmmaker/Writer
Flash Forward literally changed my life. By the end of the class, I was calling up production companies and pitching my scripts over the phone, with great success - something I never would've dreamed of doing before! Thanks to Flash Forward, I received the tools and motivation to become Chairman of the Scriptwriters Network [in 2000] (a 750-member non-profit organization). In addition, my first script option deal was to a fellow Flash Forward alumnus, with whom I'm now collaborating on a second project!
Bill Lundy, Screenwriter
After only one month in the entertainment business, I got a job as an additional PA on Spielberg's Minority Report. This is completely due to Flash Forward's commitment to its participants having mentors.
Todd Stauder, Production Assistant
[in 2001] “I'm working lots these days--lately operating B camera (it's an every day job on this show--yea!) on Raising Kate a new CBS midseason replacement from Danny DeVito's company starring Mary Stuart Masterson, Hector Elizondo and Rhea Pearlman. Also this month worked on The Jersey, Even Stevens and a John Singleton movie Baby Boy for DPs that I have systematically kept in touch with.....the system you taught me in FF and the A-Team is really working for me and I'm eternally grateful.” Bonnie Blake, DP/Camera Operator
“As a former ‘graduate’ of FF... I can say that I've acheived several of the goals I set for myself that day.
1. I obtained Shane Black (Lethal Weapon; Long Kiss Goodnight) as my mentor.
2. I wrote, produced and directed three short plays.
3. I just wrapped production on my first feature film The Chocolate Fairy, which stars Sally Kirkland, Morgan Brittany, Alice Ghostley and Tom Bosley. I wrote the script and funded the entire production myself and we are now about to start post.
I can say that FF did in fact help me to realize that Yes you have to do it yourself. Thanks.
Robin Mackenzie, TATBLUE PRODUCTIONS, LLC
“I am presently in pre-production of my first feature film, HARD RIDE, which I wrote and am producing with Stella Stevens. Stella is directing this in late September, and we just gave a formal offer to Paul Newman to star... Love to everyone at Flash Forward.
Robert forte, writer/producer
“Just wanted to share with you all the realization of my goal to book a film or tv series. I did it today at 10:30am for the television film Dawn of a Nation, and I have already been measured for a costume. A tv series will be spun off of this movie. It will be called Colonial Women, Yahoo!!!! Thanks to everyone for all your support and love. I truly would not have had the guts to accomplish this goal without you. Keep in touch!”
Susan walker, actress
“Listen, folks: LA (and the webbernet as a whole) is full of seminars and schools and classes and groups and gurus and peeps who offer to tell you the "secret" in exchange for your money. I've been here for 20 years, and there ain't many of them I haven't tried. Most of them are run by failed wannabes and give you fluff that's useless.
But Flash Forward got my career going! I am a ‘real’ writer/producer/director now - not a ‘wannabe’ writer/producer-director - directly because of what I learned through this course. I would not have accomplished anything I've accomplished w/out the direction, wonderful instruction and most importantly relationships I got from Flash Forward.
I would still be sitting in my little writer-cave, pounding out scripts no one would ever read, instead of being where I am - in post on my third feature film (w/22 projects of my own shot out in the past three years!) and ‘choosing’ between four great opportunities to make my fourth in the fall. Simply put: Flash Forward gave me the tools that made it happen.
So if you're anywhere near LA, I'm telling you: check this out! cheers.”
Calix Lewis Reneau, writer/director
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3189564/
“After taking FF54, I had one of my best interviews with a major production company’s Executive Producer to warm-up the audience of a revised syndicate gameshow. We talked about everything BUT those items on my resume. We just talked about things, my qualifications, humor and so on; to give him an idea of what I’m all about. He said if it was his sole decision, he’d hire me. The only thing stopping me from getting hired is how their superiors are structuring the staff. He takes all my calls and lets me call him on the cell phone...
I did my first warm-up last nite for a new show on the WB and it was ALL THANKS TO FF!!! stemming back from finding a mentor!”
Steve Howard, TV supervising Producer, Studio Audience Warm-up
-”just a note to you folks out there. If you remember on the second night of Flash Forward (Sunday) we met with producers. I pitched my creature feature CROAK to Sherri Strain, and she wanted to see the script.
After many reads and discussions her company wants to option it. They faxed me the contract this evening.
I want another Flash Forward to happen. So much good has happened in my professional life directly related to my participation in Flash forward.
The Game Show is going well but slowly. I meet with CAA next week. The horror movie that I am directing is in stasis but still warm.”
Eric forsberg, writer
testimonials for:
how to produce a low budget indie film
“suzanne lyons walks the walk and talks the talk. with all her years of experience in the film business and her expertise leading 100s of workshops... coaching literally 1000s of professionals in the entertainment industry, there is no one i would trust more to guide me through the critically important topic of planning a sales presentation.”
jim pasternak, director, certifiably jonathan,
writer-producer, filmdada, llc
“I love Suzanne. Her courses and her energy and joy in what she does is a breath of fresh air. I feel very lucky to have her in my life and to be one of her many successful alumni. I am proud to announce the film I co-wrote, produced and directed, Part Time Fabulous, has won several awards on the festival circuit. They include ‘the Audience Award’, 2 ‘Best Actress Awards’, ‘Best Actor Award’ and the prestigous ‘Film 4 Change award’ from the Albuquerque Film Festival. Suzanne Lyons' Ultra Low Budget Film Workshop gave me the tools and the courage to go out and make my own film. I am looking forward to taking her Flash Forward course.”
Alethea root, filmmaker
“Excited to announce to this group that I am launching a short film project with an anti-smoking message for kids. We're revving up for action, with director, producers, cast, crew, and locations mostly in place. All that's needed is the financing (!!!) but that's starting to trickle in. Would reeeeeally appreciate a "like" on our Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/THE-CALL/230595950296388?sk=info”
felice bassuk, film producer
“Suzanne Lyons is the ‘SUPERWOMAN OF HOLLYWOOD’! She has done things in film production that I thought were impossible.
She is a natural educator and an inspiration to all producers who are trying to defy the odds.
Even though I went to USC School of Cinematic Arts, I learned an amazing amount of practical information from her seminar, that I could not learn in school.
I am in the process of taking over my Father’s production company and attending her course was probably the best investment I have made in the industry so far!
Gigi Garner, President, Cherokee Productions
http://pro.imdb.com/company/co0071153/
”Suzanne always delivers 110% with timely information in a fun manner that makes me laugh out loud. Everyone needs a Suzanne on their team.”
Susan Shearer, Producer, I'm Not A Turkey Productions
“Suzanne is the reason why I'm doing the things that I'm doing today. she rocks. here is a link to my recent work and honestly if it wasn't for Suzanne I would not have done the things I did, the way I did them. the work speaks for itself. I used her model for thriller/ horror movies and applied it to Latino action drama. seriously, go check out my link and watch ‘Strike One’. When all is said and done you are looking at a 7D 200k movie!!!! that looks like a million dollar one! With Stars attached!!! Thanks Suzanne!!!”
www.machineroominc.com/davidllaugermeiselman“
David meiselman, director, writer, producer
testimonials for:
having the best year ever aka launching the future workshop
“i took on the theme ‘to share the vision of artists around the world.’ How it has shown up is in expanded television consulting business in europe through invitations to consult at: the RomaFiction fest in rome, at northern film and media in newcastle, england, at mipcom in cannes, france and at TRC in Glasgow, Scotland. This is three times the amount of international exposure and exchange that I had in 2009.”
pat quinn, partner/manager, quinn media management
“After working on the theme of ‘creative abundance,’ I was empowered to truly create a year that reflected creativity and abundance on so many different levels.
My company, 360 Degree Communications, worked on the grass roots publicity campaign for the incredible documentary, The Cove, that won the Academy Award for best documentary. I served as Executive Producer of a new film dedicated to the farm to table movement, titled, “Ingredients” and I created a signature film series that will premiere in January of next year!
Additionally, I completed my book proposal “Cinema Journeys: A mythic exploration of film”! This was a truly creatively abundant year!!”
Corinne Bourdeau, Founder and President
360 Degree Communications
“I realized I was all work and no play, so I set for my theme “Party Girl Year.” I gave parties, I went to parties, and above all I made sure to build fun into my day - coffee with friends, dates with my hubby, adventures with my son. Amid all this fun, I made vastly more money from writing this year than I did last year, most of it in partnership with friends.”
Laura Brennan, Writer/Producer www.MamaMakesMovies.com
“I used the theme ‘Make My Own Opportunities’. I am a filmmaker - and had “waited” for years for somebody to give me a “green light” to direct a feature film. When I focused on the idea that I would make it happen myself, I also focused on the steps, the real and practical steps, to make it happen. I wrote a feature I wanted to direct (8 months), I fund raised (4 months), and I pre-produced (6 weeks). Just a little over a year after creating my theme - I was on location with a cast and crew, making ‘16 to Life’, which went on to win six “Best Feature” awards at festivals internationally, and opened theatrically in the U.S.”
Becky Smith, Writer, Director, Producer, 16 to Life
“My same old worn track wasn’t getting me where I wanted to be career-wise. I decided to take on the theme “New Visions” and explore whatever new ideas came to me. It had me look at my career in a fresh way. What could I do to take control of my career and life that
I wasn’t doing? What could I create that would help me AND others simultaneously?
To open myself to new opportunities, I took classes in Photoshop, Photography (talk about taking my theme literally!), Web Design and Sign Language.
My career has always been in film and television production. What new vision could I create with those tools? Coincidentally, my sign language teacher turned out to be a very entertaining actor. And the sign language tapes he showed in class were dreadful. That wonderful “aha!” moment struck!!!We started collaborating, and have now almost completed photography on the second in a new series of funny and entertaining sign language instructional dvd’s called “Shut Up and Sign.”
The photography classes sparked my imagination both visually and economically. I love shooting people in places that are special to them with the things they love, and what better subjects than High School seniors who are about to embark on the next phase of their lives? I created a classy demo book and am in the process of contacting high schools to turn these specialty photo books into a passion side business. I became immersed in 3-D still photography, and won the last four 3-D photo competitions. Talk about new visions!
So of course, my film career turned around while pursuing my other passions. I was recently hired to Assistant Direct on a new TV series, and have been hired to direct an exciting and inspirational film project as soon as the TV series ends.”
Marty Elcan, Director Feature Film Next of Kin, Fox’s Beyond Belief’ Multi-award-winning shorts, Crossing The Line, The Hit, There Goes the Groom
“My theme for 2007 was Commitment and that year I launched three Internet businesses when for 15 years prior it was my dream to one day have one! My boyfriend proposed which was a major dream come true!
My theme for 2008 was Adventure. I got married and spent a month sight-seeing all over Thailand, visited Laos, the Golden Triangle, and a spent week exploring Hong Kong.
My theme for 2009 was Family. I spent a month exploring Turkey and meeting extended family there. I spent a week getting to know Berlin, my husband’s favorite city. We saw family from San Francisco, Washington, Texas, Wisconsin, and Ohio.
My theme for 2010 is Abundance and so far I’m pregnant!”
April McKay-Dudsic, ACTRESS, VOICEOVER ARTIST, EVENTS PRODUCER, ENTREPRENEUR www.BestCoffeemakers.com www.APartStore.com www.VegAbby.com
“My theme for 2010 was The Year of Powerful Breakthroughs. Little did I know the amazing journey I was about to take.This year has been life changing. I got a divorce, started a production company, attached A-list talent to a film, sold a script and have signed with an amazing commercial agency. My theme refined and streamlined my goals and really created space for amazing results. I can’t wait to discover my theme for 2011.”
Ryan Angel, Producer, AngelBaby Productions
“As I understood it, choosing a theme was about exploring a new way of being in the world. Creating a theme was an invitation to make an internal, perceptual shift of sorts. Theme doesn’t necessarily need to fix anything - adopting it can be an inquiry into pathways yet unexplored. This was definitely outside my comfort zone.
I came up with the theme, “swagger”. It sounds funny, I know, but the idea of swaggering for me was a whole new way of appearing in the world. My mother taught me to be modest, courteous and above all pleasing to others. Swagger was the last thing in her mind when she raised me. But here I was, a screenwriter, a creator of worlds and as such, I realized that my good little girl image of myself was wearing out.
So I started to explore my new theme. Swagger started with a confident walk into a meeting. It continued with a certain turn of phrase or a lilt in my voice when I talked about my writing. Swaggering created a whole new relationship between my work and me for I became more aware of swaggering than of the Mother-May-I Voice I had heard for so long.
The year came and went and I got lots of work. It would be great to say it was all because of the swaggering; but my lesson was even more important than that: whether or not someone buys my work or hires me on a job, I can still swagger. And it’s fun. This year’s theme? Joy. And it’s even more fun.”
Alison Lea Bingeman, Screenwriter CSI: Miami, The New Outer Limits, Hurt
“Publication of my first book happened by following my theme, ‘Serve with Magic’. I was conducting a follow-up telephone interview with President Obama’s dog trainer for a freelance magazine article on dog training. After the interview, I asked her how she was handling all the attention after her identity had first been “outed” a couple of weeks ago. We got into a lengthy conversation and I helped her sort through some opportunities, without regard for personal gain. She wondered
if she could find a way to publish a book. I offered to help her find a publishing deal. To shorten a long story, I brought multiple deals to the table for us to co-write a book on family dog training. You can see the results at: www.lovethatdogbook.com ... where I am currently serving the project by updating our great reviews, writing blogs...and fielding some unexpectedly magical queries.”
Larry Kay, Creator/Producer of family media www.animalwow.com
“One year I took on the theme of ‘new beginnings,’ and I went from earning $0 to $50,000 as a writer. The next year my theme was ‘prosperity,’ and I more than doubled my income earning over $100,000 as a writer!”
Lauren Johnson, Writer
“MY THEME FOR 2001 WAS ‘IT’S A GAME’. I APPROACHED EVERYTHING THAT YEAR AS IF WORK AND THE PURSUIT OF WORK WAS ALL LIKE A GAME--FUN AND NOT LIFE-OR-DEATH. AFTER WORKING WITH SUZANNE TO DESIGN THAT THEME, I WAS HIRED TO DIRECT FIVE TV EPISODES IN A ROW! EVERY YEAR I USE HER COACHING TO CREATE A NEW THEME AND EVERY YEAR I HAVE BREAKTHROUGHS. THIS BOOKLET WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE!”
MARK ROSMAN, DIRECTOR, A CINDERELLA STORY, GHOST WHISPERER, GREEK
“I had been belly-aching and fretting so much over my 9 to 5 day-job that I’d actually lost sight of my dreams. I took on the theme “having it all.” That theme gave me the freedom to not only accept my day-job but to see it as a gift that keeps me and mine afloat while I pursue my dreams.”
Jeff Western, Actor
“Suzanne Lyons empowers and inspires me year after year to manifest my creative dreams with greater ease and passion than I ever imagined. Her life and being and engagement stands as a beacon of light for all of us who have been graced by her presence. She walks her talk, is funny as hell and wears her heart on her sleeve. Thanks to Suzanne Lyons and Launching the Future, I am in the process of launching my new musical thriller, Finding Venus – Come hell or High Waters, in Oslo, New York and Los Angeles.”
Caroline Waters, musician
testimonials for:
THE RELATIONSHIP COURSE
I want to thank you personally for your work. Writers, in particular, desperately need someone to drag their butts out of their safe little rooms and into the glare of human interactions... THE CONNECTIONS MADE THERE [IN CLASS] WERE SO EFFECTIVE, I HAVE HAD TO USE ALL OF MY TIME TO KEEP UP
WITH THE POSITIVE DEVELOPMENTS ARISING FROM THE
RELATIONSHIPS CLASS...one of my classmates gave me the number of their entertainment attorney to discuss avenues to pursue in regards to my reality show ‘Easy Come’. The attorney, in turn liked the idea so much he set up a meeting with Paul Kelmenson - producer (Ronin...etc), and literary manager. In a meeting with Paul, I was instructed to increase the level of specificity in my presentation considerably, at which point he will set up pitch meetings for me with top TV execs, and production companies. So, that's what I've been doing: working on the presentation - from the set designs, to the dialogue, to a CD ROM to leave after meetings. I just wanted you to know that your work is both effective and necessary, and a blessing to many.
Douglas Stuart Ross
“I had to call my former Coordinating Producer from when I worked on Blind Date last year. On a Friday, I left a message asking for a reference. I heard from him 5 days later and he apologized for not calling me back. He’s now on a new show at a new company and is in a position to hire staff. We spoke over 10 minutes, laughed, shared stories and I updated him on my career. I did NOT ask him for a job. Now we’re having lunch in a few weeks.
Steve Howard, TV Producer, Studio Audience Warm-up
"I met the number one person on my hit list who is a top radio personality and his contact person thinks he would love to do the voice for my animation project "Sonambulo". Before THE MAGIC AND POWER OF CAREER RELATIONSHIPS seminar I would've been too hesitant to approach them.
[Also,] I had had a falling out with an old partner and re-connected due to THE MAGIC AND POWER OF CAREER RELATIONSHIPS seminar. From that one conversation our animation project has been resurrected and he has set up a meeting with an agent for me regarding my live action screenplays."
Peter Tomaszewicz, Director/Writer/Editor
testimonials for:
alumni follow up
indie film producing course
“Excited to announce... that I am launching a short film project with an anti-smoking message for kids. We're revving up for action, with director, producers, cast, crew, and locations mostly in place. All that's needed is the financing (!!!) but that's starting to trickle in.”
felice bassuk, producer
testimonials for:
alumni follow up success stories
"I am currently in Oslo, prepping for the final three concerts of this summer's Norway adventure. Will be back in LA mid September."
Caroline Waters, Singer/Songwriter/Musician and Vocal Coach
”THE SHORT FILM SCARS OF WAR WILL BE AIRING ON THE PUBLIC ACCESS TELEVISION SYSTEM ON MAY 25TH AT 8PM, IN WEST LA FROM SANTA MONICA NORTH TO WOODLAND HILLS, EAST THROUGH HOLLYWOOD TO PASADENA, AND SOUTH TO MARINA DEL REY. IT WILL BE ON ADELPHIA PUBLIC ACCESS CABLE SYSTEM, CHANNEL 3 IN W. HOLLYWOOD AND MARINA DEL REY, CHANNEL 37 IN BEVERLY HILLS, AND CHANNEL 77 EVERYWHERE ELSE. I PLAY HARRY PIERCE AN OLD WWII AND KOREAN WAR VETERAN.”
TONEEY ACEVEDO, actor
“This Tuesday night, April 30th, at 10 PM on ABC, I am playing a Guest Star on NYPD Blue as ‘Eileen Healey’...
a nasty chic!”
Kathleen Gati, actress
www.kathleengati.com
“I was Chairman of the Scriptwriters Network for seven years, sold stories to "Star Trek: Voyager" off pitches, and have written two well-received movies for SyFy. And I doubt I would have been able to do any of that without Flash Forward.”
Bill lundy, writer
“I hope you can catch the upcoming episode of "State of Grace" I directed entitled Of Diamonds and Deli Meats. It airs this Friday night, March 8, at 8:00pm on ABC Family Channel.
If you don't know the series, State of Grace is a highly acclaimed dramedy in the vein of The Wonder Years. TV Guide called it ‘the best half-hour currently on television.’ Last Friday's Los Angeles Times wrote that my episode ‘has more of the warm, deft touch that is the show's strength.’
I'm very proud of this episode. Hope you can tune in.”
Mark Rosman, DIRECTOR
“2001 was a remarkable year for us. Our first feature production, NO TURNING BACK written and directed by Jesus Nebot and Julia Montejo (with Nebot also producing and starring in the film), was completed in June. We have since then enjoyed tremendous critical acclaim and success in the film festival circuit. NO TURNING BACK has been invited to participate in the Official Competition of 8 prestigious International Film Festivals within the last 6 months. Just recently we won the AUDIENCE AWARD FOR BEST FEATURE FILM at the Alcala Film Festival in Spain. Here are some of the accolades our film has received so far:
MALAGA FILM FESTIVAL, SPAIN. AUDIENCE AWARD FOR BEST FEATURE FILM
RHODE ISLAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL. GRAND JURY AWARD FOR BEST FOREIGN FILM
BIG BEAR INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL, CA. GRAND JURY AWARD FOR BEST FEATURE FILM
HOPE AND DREAMS FILM FESTIVAL, NJ. GRAND JURY AWARD FOR BEST FILM OF THE FESTIVAL
COMUNIDAD DE MADRID FILM FESTIVAL, SPAIN. AUDIENCE AWARD FOR BEST FEATURE FILM.
GOLDEN EAGLE AWARD TO JESUS NEBOT AS OUTSTANDING INDEPENDENT FILMMAKER OF 2001”
Chris Sablan
Associate Producer
&
JESUS NEBOT, ACTOR, WRITER, DIRECTOR, PRODUCER
www.noturningback.com
”I’m contacting you on behalf of Yolanda Nava to let you know that she will host a live chat entitled, "Embracing Spiritual Diversity," on www.spirituality.com.”
Ms. yolanda Nava, award-winning television journalist and author of It’s All in the Frijoles
follow up alumni success
“I was thinking about acknowledgement today as I spread the word about a show I worked on last June that I'm very proud of. It's called PROJECT FIVE for Lifetime. An unusual TV movie -- five different stories concerning breast cancer that are linked together by a wonderful doctor played by Jeanne Tripplehorn. Each story was directed by a different female director and a different camera crew. I was fortunate to work on the ‘Cheyanne’ segment with director Penelope Spheeris and director of photography Christopher Popp. Jim Orr (another FLASH FORWARD and A TEAM 1 participant) was the director of photography on the segment directed by Alicia Keyes. Pretty amazing, eh?
The cast includes Patricia Clarkson, Rosario Dawson, Taylor Kinney, Kathy Najimy, Bob Newhart, Annie Potts, Tony Shalhoub and Jeffry Tambor.
If it wasn't for all the career building skills that I received from you and Heidi's workshops, I might never have had such a terrific and creative experience. So -- all these years later, just wanted to acknowledge you for all your help in changing my perspective on work relationships, marketing and so much more!
I hope you can take a look at this one. It airs this Monday night, October 10th at 9PM on Lifetime.”
Bonnie Blake, SOC
(818)693-6519 cell
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0086496/
David Couper, Writer (TV), Finalist in Acclain TV Writing Competition with Sex in the City script Luck Be a Lady Tonight.
David Couper, Writer
he has written over 100 teleplays, Sliders (Writer/Producer), and Lazarus Man (Writer/Co-Producer).
Marc Zicree, Producer/Writer
she is at Danny Glover's Carrie Productions.
karen bolt
one episode of Family Law.
Susan Hamilton Brin, Writer (TV)
she has a Short in Cannes and Prod. Feature in Chicago now with Mike Ditka, Joan Van Ark, Erik Estrada, and John Waite.
April Sugarman, Actor/Writer/Producer
he worked at VP of Dev. at Valerie McCaffrey's Blue Raven Pictures.
Dan Stroncak, Independent Producer/Freelance Story Analyst
Paul Bennett, President, PB Management
President of Talent Managers Association (FKA, Conference Of Personal Managers). I am also attached as Executive Producer for a project currently in
development at HBO.
paul bennett, pb management
Stacey Zackin, Certified Professional Co-Active Coach, Trained at Coaches Training Institute and of course being a Flash Forward Coach.
stacey zackin, coach
“Currently in Spain our film "No Turning Back" is going to have wide theatrical release. We are now negotiating the distribution of the film in other territories as well. This is a film that I wrote, produced and directed. I also played the lead. It was the first project of my production company Zokalo Entertainment. This year we will be shooting our second feature, the romantic thriller In The Name of Love. I'm also happy to report that I recently received The Southern California Motion Picture Council's Golden Star halo Award for my Outstanding Contribution to the Entertainment Industry.”
Jesus Nebot, Actor/Writer/Producer/Director
Harvey R. Cohen, Successful alum with Emmy's to prove it.
harvey r. cohen
“I Optioned a screenplay From Exile to Honor to Stone Harbor Films - hopefully it'll become another Lifetime Movie Of the Week for me (or maybe CBS or USA). Also, I just placed in the top 5 at Moondance with one of my spec scripts - winners announced next weekend in Colorado.”
heather hale, writer
“We are raising funds for our feature film, ‘Rubbernecking.’ Although it took a few years to film, we not only got it in the can, but finished post production and are currently trying to sell it. Our film is in an upcoming LA film festival called AngelCiti in February.”
Ross Martin, Producer, "Rubbernecking"
"I had an exciting year. My writing partner and I hit our stride, we were hired to write a spec cable series bible & pilot and we wrote 4 spec scripts landing an agent. now we're ready for staffing season. I launched Paramount's first interactive broadband trial based on a syndicated TV show and developed an amazing new convergence property that we began pitching at NAPTE."
Vito Montone, Paramount Digital Entertainment, Executive Producer
Jan is just finishing a script entitled MI CORAZON, a music-driven love story for New Line with Jennifer Lopez attached to star and produce. Her script HEART OF THE ATOM (story by Jan Eliasberg and Michael Hauge) is going into pre-production in November with Wild at Heart and Zenith producing and Luis Mandoki attached to direct. She sold SPIRIT OF ST. LOUIS, a dramatic pilot, to CBS, and she will executive produce with Grossbart/Barnett and ATG.
Jan Eliasberg, Writer
She is a vfx producer at R!OT, a liberty media company.
Sabrina Silver, vfx producer
He has an entertainment transactional and litigation practice. Some of his clients include MTM Distribution, Odyssey Entertainment, Edward James Olmos and Natalie Cole.
Richard Rosenthal, Entertainment Atty. At Grakal, Root & Rosenthal
she Optioned 2 screenplays.
Margot Black, Writer
she executive produced Jackpot with the Polish Brothers (directors of Twin Falls Idaho) last year. she has another one with them going into production in March. Louis Mandoki attached to direct a third, and has projects with Martin Scorcese and Forrest Whitaker.
marlise Karlin, President of Wild at Heart Films
Michael Hauge is working directly with Morgan Freeman on a screenplay.
michael hauge, screenwriter instructor
Pat Quinn has a new job as a literary agent at Paradigm.
pat quinn, agent
James Egan is writing features for Disney and Showtime.
James egan, writer
John C. Midby is president of LUCID CINE, LLC, a company that produces films that creatively alter our perception of the world. As a producer he has made several independent features including the recent video release Equinox Knocks. Prior to that he had a career writing, directing and producing live action and documentaries for such companies as Showtime and PBS.
John C. Midby is president of LUCID CINE, LLC
Robbie Noll, Owner of the Casting Break and Actor has now become a Manager. He and his wife Robin (also an Alum) shot a $50,000 film for less than a $1,000 due to their relationships!
robbie and robin noll, the casting break
she Guest Starred on Judging Amy.
Katherine Brunk, Actress
“I take care of all the needs of the writer/producers working on shows or have term deals with the company.”
Shannon Muir, Office Assistant, Writers' Building, Artists Television Group
I have a big lecture I'm doing at the Los Angeles Film School.
James Pasternak, Directing Consultant/Director
Model Behavior and LifeSize which aired on ABC.
Mark Rosman, Writer/Director Film & TV
he wrote and directed a History Channel special THE WHITE HOUSE: 200th Anniversary, featuring behind the scenes filming at the White House and interviews with Presidents Ford, Carter and Bush. he wrote and directed a TLC special THE NAPOLEON MURDER MYSTERY, with extensive period re-creations of Napoleon's final years in exile on St. Helena.
Noah Morowitz, Writer/Director
