Logo
    Search

    7/21/23: Inside The Hollywood Strike w/ Ron Perlman, Susan Sarandon, Michelle Hurd

    enJuly 21, 2023

    Podcast Summary

    • Exploring forgotten women's stories, diverse perspectives, and raw emotions through podcastsPodcasts offer unique storytelling formats and human connections, with creators relying on listener support for growth

      The podcast medium continues to offer unique and engaging content, with hosts exploring various themes and formats. Jenny Kaplan invites listeners to uncover forgotten women's stories in Womanica, Minnie Driver poses seven questions to diverse guests in Mini Questions, and Ron Perlman shares raw emotions during the Hollywood strike in Breaking Points. These podcasts showcase the power of storytelling and the human connection that transcends traditional media. Additionally, the creators rely on listener support to expand their reach and enhance the overall experience.

    • Writers' Strike: A Call for Decency and FairnessThe writers' strike highlights the growing divide between haves and have-nots, with frustration and desire for fairness fueling the movement. Controversial comments, media focus on clickbait, and power-hungry individuals seeking control through division are symptoms of a larger issue. Finding solutions that benefit all parties is crucial.

      The ongoing writers' strike in the motion picture industry is a response to the growing disparity between the haves and have-nots, with many feeling that the middle class is under threat. Ron's controversial comments, which were initially misconstrued as threatening, became a rallying cry due to the palpable frustration and desire for decency and fairness. The media's focus on clickbait and incendiary content often overshadows more nuanced discussions. Studio heads' claims of financial struggles and unreasonable demands from actors were met with anger and disbelief, highlighting a growing cynicism and devaluation of workers. The strike is a symptom of a larger issue, with power-hungry individuals seeking to control through division and devaluation. The conversation should be about finding solutions that benefit all parties involved, rather than continuing the cycle of gaslighting and dismissal.

    • Prominent Figures Speak Out for Working-Class Actors During Hollywood StrikeWell-known figures like Ron Perelman, Michelle Hurd, and Susan Sarandon advocate for economic fairness for working-class actors during the Hollywood writers and actors' strike. They call for fair wages and recognition of shared humanity to foster a more compassionate society.

      Well-known public figures like Ron Perelman and Michelle Hurd, along with political activists like Susan Sarandon, have a responsibility to speak out for those who are less fortunate, particularly in labor disputes like the ongoing Hollywood writers and actors' strike. The core issue is economic fairness for working-class actors who face misconceptions about their wealth and lifestyles. By recognizing our shared humanity and values, we can foster a more compassionate and equitable society. This conversation extends beyond individual struggles and addresses the systemic issue of corporate greed impacting working people across the country. The key demands in the negotiations include fair wages to ensure a living income for actors. These prominent voices speaking out on this issue can help shift the national conversation and bring about positive change.

    • Negotiations for fair wages in entertainment industryActors and crews fight for living wages, fair health insurance, and pension benefits, especially in independent films. Outdated caps on contributions hinder progress.

      The ongoing negotiations in the entertainment industry between SAG-AFTRA and the AMPTP are about ensuring fair wages for actors and crews, many of whom struggle to afford health insurance despite working in the industry. The issue is particularly pressing for those working on lower-budget projects, including independent films, which are vital to the art world but often offer minimal compensation. The caps on employee contributions to health plans, pensions, and retirement funds, which haven't been raised since 1983, are a significant barrier. Furthermore, the use of avatars and self-tapes for auditions, as well as the exploitation of minimum wages, are other contentious issues. Ultimately, the fight is for a living wage and fairness in an industry that generates billions of dollars.

    • Actors face unpredictable careers due to streaming platforms' business modelStreaming platforms' focus on new content over renewals leaves actors uncertain about their income and careers

      The shift from linear television to streaming platforms has significantly changed the business model for actors, making it more unpredictable and financially challenging. With the introduction of short series and holding shows for extended periods before release, actors face uncertainty about their careers and income. Streaming platforms prioritize creating new content over renewing shows, which can leave actors without work for long periods. This business model, which also applies to other industries, has led to a sense of urgency among unions and workers to address these issues before it's too late.

    • Workers Demand Better: Railroad Union, Amazon, Teachers, and MoreWorkers across industries are uniting for better wages, working conditions, and fair treatment. The railroad union's fight for safety serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing worker well-being over corporate profits.

      The current labor landscape is experiencing a significant shift as workers from various industries, including railroad workers, Amazon employees, teachers, and more, are coming together to demand better working conditions and fair compensation. The railroad union situation served as a wake-up call, highlighting the dangerous consequences of prioritizing stock buybacks and executive pay over worker safety and well-being. The rising activism among workers, such as the UPS Teamsters and Starbucks workers, is a hopeful sign that the gap between the working class and those in power is becoming unsustainable. The trimming of trees at picket lines during a heatwave is a concerning example of tactics used against labor activism. Ultimately, the importance of solidarity and connecting various labor struggles cannot be overstated in the fight for livelihoods and fair working conditions.

    • Wide wage gap in entertainment industryExecutives earn vastly more than artists, leading to inhumane working conditions and lack of fair compensation, impacting local communities and production support.

      The wage gap between corporate executives and working artists in the entertainment industry is vast, leading to inhumane working conditions and a lack of fair compensation. This was highlighted in the discussion about the destruction of sets during production and the low pay received by many actors, despite the massive success and revenue generated by streaming platforms. The labor union is fighting for fairer revenue shares and better working conditions, but there seems to be a disconnect between those in power and the humanity of the situation. The ripple effects of film production, including supporting local communities, have also been halted due to the pandemic.

    • Impact of Film and TV Production on Local Economy and Labor UnionsFilm and TV production can boost local economies but labor unions often face disparities in wealth distribution. The WGA strike highlighted this issue and underscored the importance of union support.

      The impact of film and television production on local communities and labor unions can be far-reaching and significant. During a production, businesses like dry cleaners and sandwich shops in the area can benefit economically. However, the wealth generated often does not trickle down to the workers, as seen during the WGA strike when CEO bonuses totaled over $168 million while the union was asking for $60 million to make their entire union solvent. This disparity highlights the importance of labor unions and the need for Hollywood celebrities to use their influence to support them. The WGA strike served as an eye-opener for many in the industry, and it is hoped that after the strike, there will be continued advocacy for labor struggles across the country. Artists have the power to change the narrative and inspire change by sharing stories of individuals who demand what is rightfully theirs.

    • The growing divide between the rich and the working classDuring the pandemic, essential workers were exploited and mistreated, leading to a call for solidarity and better labor protections

      The ongoing labor disputes and economic struggles highlight the growing divide between the rich and the working class in America. During the COVID-19 pandemic, workers were considered essential but were often underpaid and overworked, leading to a wake-up call for unions and workers to band together and advocate for better wages, hours, and safety. The speaker expresses frustration with the notion that people don't want to work, but rather that they're tired of being exploited and mistreated. The speaker emphasizes the importance of solidarity and looking out for each other, as the foundation of America's progress towards better working conditions and labor protections. The speaker also encourages support for organizations like SAG AFTRA, which provides emergency assistance to members in need during these challenging times. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the need to address the class divide and prioritize the well-being of all workers.

    • Exploring forgotten women's stories and the secrets of California avocadosDiscover the captivating tales of forgotten women and the dedication of farmers in producing the best California avocados.

      There's a fascination with stories of the unknown and unexplained, whether it's the disappearance of historical figures or the origins of common items. In the case of the former, Jenny Kaplan's Womanica podcast explores the lives of women history has forgotten. Meanwhile, the story of California avocados highlights the importance of ideal growing conditions and dedicated farmers in producing the best fruits. Both tales offer intrigue and remind us that there's always more to discover. For podcast lovers, tune in to Womanica on the Iheartradio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts to uncover the stories of forgotten women. And for those interested in the best avocados, visit californiaavocado.com to learn about the care and commitment that goes into growing them in California. In essence, whether it's the captivating tales of history or the simple joys of a ripe avocado, there's always a story waiting to be discovered. So, open up, listen, and savor the journey.

    Recent Episodes from Breaking Points with Krystal and Saagar

    6/29/24: Dave Smith VS Vaush: Did NATO Expansion Push Ukraine Invasion?

    6/29/24: Dave Smith VS Vaush: Did NATO Expansion Push Ukraine Invasion?

    Libertarian comedian Dave Smith and politics streamer Vaush join Counterpoints Fridays for a debate on the Ukraine war.

    To become a Breaking Points Premium Member and watch/listen to the show uncut and 1 hour early visit: https://breakingpoints.com/ 

    Dave Smith: https://x.com/ComicDaveSmith

    Vaush: https://www.youtube.com/@Vaush  

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    6/26/24: Hillary Says 'Impossible' To Debate Trump, Bowman Trounced By AIPAC, Kenya On Fire As Troops Occupy Haiti, Ryan Exposes Pro-Israel Group Lies, MIT Nuke Expert Dire Warning On Ukraine

    6/26/24: Hillary Says 'Impossible' To Debate Trump, Bowman Trounced By AIPAC, Kenya On Fire As Troops Occupy Haiti, Ryan Exposes Pro-Israel Group Lies, MIT Nuke Expert Dire Warning On Ukraine

    Ryan and Emily discuss Hillary warning Biden that debating Trump is impossible, Bowman crushed by AIPAC in New York election, Kenya parliament on fire as troops occupy Haiti, Ryan exposes pro-Israel group lying about campaign funding, MIT nuclear expert dire warning on Russia Ukraine war. 

     

    To become a Breaking Points Premium Member and watch/listen to the show AD FREE, uncut and 1 hour early visit: https://breakingpoints.com/

     

    Merch Store: https://shop.breakingpoints.com/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    6/25/24: AIPAC Spends $15 Million To Oust Bowman, Media Lies About Synagogue Protests, War Scholar Says Hamas Has Won

    6/25/24: AIPAC Spends $15 Million To Oust Bowman, Media Lies About Synagogue Protests, War Scholar Says Hamas Has Won

    Krystal and Saagar discuss AIPAC spends $15 million to defeat Bowman, media lies about synagogue protest, war scholar says Hamas has won.

     

    To become a Breaking Points Premium Member and watch/listen to the show AD FREE, uncut and 1 hour early visit: https://breakingpoints.com/

     

    Merch Store: https://shop.breakingpoints.com/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    6/25/24: Assange Freed, CNN Cuts Trump Spox Live, Debate Predictions, Ukraine Bombs Civilians In Crimea, Macron Brutal Defeat, CNN Blocks BP From Streaming Debate

    6/25/24: Assange Freed, CNN Cuts Trump Spox Live, Debate Predictions, Ukraine Bombs Civilians In Crimea, Macron Brutal Defeat, CNN Blocks BP From Streaming Debate

    Krystal and Saagar discuss Assange strikes deal for freedom, CNN cuts Trump spox live, presidential debate predictions, Ukraine uses US bombs on civilians, Macron faces brutal defeat, and CNN blocks BP from streaming debate. 

     

    To become a Breaking Points Premium Member and watch/listen to the show AD FREE, uncut and 1 hour early visit: https://breakingpoints.com/

     

    Merch Store: https://shop.breakingpoints.com/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    6/24/24: Biden Panics As Dems Boycott Bibi Speech, Biden Greenlights Hezbollah War, New Tapes Expose 9/11 Saudi Conspiracy

    6/24/24: Biden Panics As Dems Boycott Bibi Speech, Biden Greenlights Hezbollah War, New Tapes Expose 9/11 Saudi Conspiracy

    Krystal and Saagar discuss Biden panics as Dems boycott Bibi speech, Biden greenlights Lebanon invasion, new tapes expose Saudi 9/11 involvement. 

     

    To become a Breaking Points Premium Member and watch/listen to the show AD FREE, uncut and 1 hour early visit: https://breakingpoints.com/

     

    Merch Store: https://shop.breakingpoints.com/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    6/24/24: Trump Flips On Immigration, Trump VP Reveal, GenZ Rages At Boomer Economy, Corporate Greed Screws Americans

    6/24/24: Trump Flips On Immigration, Trump VP Reveal, GenZ Rages At Boomer Economy, Corporate Greed Screws Americans

    Krystal and Saagar discuss Trump flips on immigration green cards, Trump to reveal VP at debate, GenZ rages at boomer economic nightmare, and corporate greed screws Americans. 

     

    To become a Breaking Points Premium Member and watch/listen to the show AD FREE, uncut and 1 hour early visit: https://breakingpoints.com/

     

    Merch Store: https://shop.breakingpoints.com/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    6/20/24: Nvidea Surge Exposes DotCom Bubble, Putin North Korea Screw You To Biden, Zyn Online Sales Shutdown

    6/20/24: Nvidea Surge Exposes DotCom Bubble, Putin North Korea Screw You To Biden,  Zyn Online Sales Shutdown

    Krystal and Saagar discuss Nvidea surge exposes possible dotcom bust, Putin North Korea screw you to Biden, Zyn online sales shutdown. 

     

    To become a Breaking Points Premium Member and watch/listen to the show AD FREE, uncut and 1 hour early visit: https://breakingpoints.com/

     

    Merch Store: https://shop.breakingpoints.com/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    6/20/24: CNN Biden Age Cope, Hezbollah Threatens Massive War, Boeing Victim Goes Off On CEO, Biden Gaza Pier Crumbles

    6/20/24: CNN Biden Age Cope, Hezbollah Threatens Massive War, Boeing Victim Goes Off On CEO, Biden Gaza Pier Crumbles

    Krystal and Saagar discuss CNN blames fake videos for Biden age concern, Hezbollah threatens massive war, Boeing victim mom goes off on CEO, Biden Gaza pier crumbles.

     

    To become a Breaking Points Premium Member and watch/listen to the show AD FREE, uncut and 1 hour early visit: https://breakingpoints.com/

     

    Merch Store: https://shop.breakingpoints.com/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Related Episodes

    WGA Reached A Tentative Deal With Studios. But The Strike Isn't Over Yet

    WGA Reached A Tentative Deal With Studios. But The Strike Isn't Over Yet
    146 days.

    That's how long it took for the WGA to reach a tentative agreement with major Hollywood studios.

    WGA leadership is scheduled to vote Tuesday on accepting the new three-year deal. They'll pass it on to the guild's entire membership for ratification. It will take longer for the WGA membership to learn the details and vote.

    While this is happening, actors are still on the picket line. SAG-AFTRA hasn't reached an agreement yet.

    Until then, writers say they will stand in solidarity with actors, which means many TV shows and movies won't be resuming production right away.

    NPR's Mary Louise Kelly speaks with Kim Masters, The Hollywood Reporter's editor, about the WGA's new deal and what it means for the industry at large as actors continue to strike.

    Email us at considerthis@npr.org.

    Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    NPR Privacy Policy

    ChatGPT vs Hollywood writers and the WGA strike with Lon Harris | E1750

    ChatGPT vs Hollywood writers and the WGA strike with Lon Harris | E1750

    This Week in Startups is presented by:

    Embroker. The Embroker Startup Insurance Program helps startups secure the most important types of insurance at a lower cost and with less hassle. Save up to 20% off of traditional insurance today at http://embroker.com/twist. While you’re there, get an extra 10% off using offer code TWIST.

    Hyperice. Warm up and recover faster with the Hypervolt 2 massage gun and Normatec compression therapy boots. Save $50 off your order of $150 or more with code TWIST50 at checkout on http://hyperice.com/.

    Release. Large enterprises pose unique challenges for SaaS startups. Unlock customers with unique needs for private and single-tenant hosting without the toil of DIY with Release Delivery. Get your first month free at https://release.com/twist .

    *

    Today’s show:

    Lon Harris is BACK to discuss the WGA strike and how ChatGPT can (and will) impact Hollywood writers (6:18). They also break down how streaming services can appeal to show writers, Spotify’s planned AI-for-ads, and more! (19:56)

    Follow Lon: https://twitter.com/Lons

    Check Out Binge Boys: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/binge-boys/id1535514923

    *

    Time stamps:

    (0:00) Lon joins Jason

    (1:44) Jason discusses his new reality TV show

    (6:18) The WGA Strike and the misconceptions of Hollywood

    (13:29) Embroker - Use code TWIST to get an extra 10% off insurance at https://Embroker.com/twist

    (14:33) Employing writers and the lack of transparency in the film industry

    (19:56) Breaking rank as a streaming service

    (24:21) Hyperice - Get $50 off your order of $150 or more with code TWIST50 at http://hyperice.com/

    (25:30) Hollywood writers’ thoughts on ChatGPT

    (37:14) Release - Get your first month free at https://release.com/twist

    (38:41) Creating Adam Sandler movies with ChatGPT

    (42:15) Jason and Lon breakdown if Succession will go down as a top HBO show

    (48:51) Jason’s advice to the writers union and streaming services

    (53:06) HBO debuts Max

    (1:00:13) Spotify’s new use for AI

    (1:06:09) Highly anticipated releases, plus Jason and Lon’s thoughts on how TikTok is affecting society

    *

    Read LAUNCH Fund 4 Deal Memo & Apply for Funding

    Buy ANGEL

    Great recent interviews: Brian Chesky, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland, PrayingForExits, Jenny Lefcourt

    Check out Jason’s suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis

    *

    Follow Jason:

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/jason

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis

    *

    Follow TWiST:

    Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin

    *

    Subscribe to the Founder University Podcast: https://www.founder.university/podcast

    Field Trip: A Hollywood Visit to the Writers Guild Strike Line

    Field Trip: A Hollywood Visit to the Writers Guild Strike Line

    Jump in, we’re going to the Valley to talk to cool, funny screenwriters about ... Artificial intelligence-drafted scripts! Trillion-dollar companies pretending they’re broke! Emmy-nominated writers with side hustles! Teamster bosses dropping mics! What an exciting time to gossip about Hollywood… labor unions! Listen, we all love watching our Programs and laughing, learning and loving. But things are getting WEIRD behind the scenes, and the Writers Guild of America is on strike, showing up in picket lines in front of movie and TV studios. Sometimes in costume. Sometimes with live mariachi bands. And always with the wittiest signs in showbiz, baby. I heard from the writers themselves about why this strike is so important in a rise in labor awareness all over the world. I meant for this episode to be 20 minutes long, but turns out – it’s pretty juicy. 

    WGA On Strike

    A donation went to the Entertainment Community Fund and the new Choreographers Guild (Twitter / Instagram)

    More about the strikers:

    WGA Board Member Dailyn Rodriguez - IMDB / Instagram / Twitter

    Teagan Wall - IMDB / website / Instagram / Twitter

    WGA Negotiating Committee Member Danielle Sanchez-Witzel -IMDB / Bio / Twitter

    La Lista

    Stephen Langford - IMDB / Twitter

    WGA Captain Judalina Neira - IMDB / website / Instagram / Twitter

    Omar Ponce - IMDB / website

    Erica Harrell - IMDB

    Flaco Navaja - IMDB / Instagram / Twitter

    WGA Captain Jimmy Clabots - IMDB / Instagram / Twitter

    Elle Lipson - IMDB / website / Twitter

    Annie Mebane - IMDB / Twitter

    Sam Laybourne - IMDB

    And choreographer Kathryn Burns - IMDB

    Sponsors of Ologies

    Transcripts and bleeped episodes

    Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes

    Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month

    OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes!

    Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram

    Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram

    Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media

    Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary

    Website by Kelly R. Dwyer

    Theme song by Nick Thorburn

    The Writers Strike

    The Writers Strike
    Natalie is joined today by Alrinthea Carter, Emmy-nominated writer for Max’s A Black Lady Sketch show. She is here to talk about her experiences as a television writer and why the WGA and SAG-AFTRA union strike is so important. Topics of discussion will range from making a livable wage, what happens when AI is charged with filtering out resumes and also writing tv shows, and the powers of workers uniting so everyone can live a lifestyle funded by the work they are producing. We urge you to take time to educate yourself on why WGA and SAG are on strike and support your favorite television writers by donating to the Entertainment Community Fund.

    Follow us at @menivetoleratedpod on Instagram and https://www.patreon.com/menivetoleratedpod on Patreon for bonus content! All ways to support the show, including our merchandise, can be found at https://linktr.ee/menivetoleratedpod.

    Support Alrinthea, WGA, and SAG:
    On Instragram: @alrinthea @wgastrikeunite @sagaftra
    On the Web: https://www.alrintheacarter.com/
    Donate: https://www.wga.org/members/finances/entertainment-community-fund-emergency-financial-assistance