The smith society

THE SMITH SOCIETY is a podcast featuring storytellers. We talk with actors, writers, directors, producers, editors, and more — discussing a variety of topics related to the film and television industry. Hear successful creators talk about everything from writing a screenplay to selling an idea and preparing for that next big project.

The Smith Society
S1:E5 Clifton Collins Jr. and the jockey
S1:E5 Clifton Collins Jr. and the jockey

Clifton Collins Jr. has acting in his blood. His grandfather, Pedro Gonzalez Gonzalez, became an American icon, starring alongside John Wayne and Mel Blanc throughout his career. Clifton burst onto the scene in 1997, but it was his portrayal of Frankie Flowers in Traffic that forever cemented his status as an actor to be taken seriously. Since then he’s stolen the screen in films like Capote and Sunshine Cleaning.

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S1:E4 Alice Gu and the Donut King
S1:E4 Alice Gu and the Donut King

In this episode of The Smith Society we have the incredible opportunity to chat with the extraordinary director (and dear friend of VOKSEE), Alice Gu and learn more about The Donut King.

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S1:E3 Justin Chon and the Blue Bayou
S1:E3 Justin Chon and the Blue Bayou

In this episode we’re going to feature a true triple threat, Justin Chon. Justin Chon is a writer, director and actor who also produced (he’s technically a quadruple threat!) the film “Blue Bayou,” a moving and timely story of a uniquely American family fighting for their future.

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ABOUT
THE HOST:
Duane
Fernandez

I am a writer, director, and producer with roots in marketing and advertising. In 2015, I once dreamed of becoming an archaeologist, and that passion never really faded -- it just evolved. Instead, I became my own kind of anthropologist, driven to understand how people live, connect, and find meaning in their lives. Why do people do what they do? What are their untold stories? And most importantly, how can we make the world a better place by telling them?

My career has been dedicated to amplifying stories in bold and innovative ways. I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with some of the greatest leaders in the industry -- partnering with Focus Features, Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, Disney, Marvel, Searchlight, A24, Universal Pictures, Lionsgate, Paramount, Sony Pictures, NBC and 20th Century Studios.

I’ve been honored to help launch marquee films, shows, franchises, networks and studios, but it was my work on awards films that truly inspired me. Getting to collaborate with some of the greatest filmmakers in history refined my understanding of storytelling -- deepening my commitment to bringing meaningful stories to life.

What is
The Smith Society?

Smith (noun) - MAKER

Since the beginning of time, secret societies have existed to preserve history, stories, knowledge and folklore. Now, it’s your turn. The Smith Society is the club, and you have the password. This space is for storytellers to pass along their wisdom, retell their stories, and connect with those who have shared experiences. The Smith Society is an intimate look at how creatives who often go against the grain make their presence known. By discovering this secret passageway and diving in, you’ve made a commitment to learn and be a part of something bigger than yourself. This interview-style series is here to focus on our members to strengthen the collective, not the other way around. Our goal is to make the world a better place through sharing experience, struggles, passions, advice and thoughtful stories.

The Smith Society’s goal is to make the world a better place through representing and sharing the experiences, struggles, and passions directly from creative professionals.

The Smith Society. Follow your dreams, no matter where they take you.

All will be revealed in time.