Matt Toner: Re-Inventing How Kids Play

After graduating from UBC with a Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy, Aaron Gilman spent years doing odd jobs while trying to figure out what to do with his life. Sitting down now with fellow animator Colin Giles, Aaron recounts how spotting a VFS ad on a bus got him started towards a long, successful career in animation on films including Avatar, the Avengers, The Hobbit, and Godzilla. A career learner and generous insight dispenser, Aaron’s episode is a must for aspiring animators.

http://www.aarongilman.ca/read-me

https://vimeo.com/112316727

Highly motivated, energetic and full of passion for his craft, professional photographer Erich Saide is happiest when he's creating powerful images for his clients. In this episode he reflects on how a series of accidents spurred him on his creative journey, how his artistic process has evolved over the years, and offers tips for creating unforgettable images. A must for photography enthusiasts.

https://www.erichsaide.com/

Throughout his career, #VFSwriting alumnus and serial starter Matt Toner has built businesses that specialize in the design of ground-breaking video games and new models for player engagement. 
His latest venture, Biba, creates free mobile games that work with any playground to turn screen time into healthy, imaginative outdoor play for the entire family. We sat down with Matt to discuss where he finds inspiration for his inventions, being recognized by Time Magazine and Fast Company as one of the most innovative companies of 2019, and the future of socially responsible game development.

https://www.playbiba.com/

As the Director of Product Management at EA, Ahsan Nanji and his team are exploring new ways to leverage the Cloud and AI to shift how game teams can build new game experiences and service capabilities. In this episode, he takes us deep into the forefront of technology, design, and development at one of the world’s biggest studios. A must watch for aspiring game designers and technologists everywhere. 

https://www.ea.com/en-ca/careers/news/ahsan

Riaz Meghji is a firm believer that a good conversation has the power to change everything. When he was 22, a pivotal exchange persuaded him to explore life as a presenter, rather than chase the stock markets as an investment broker. Seventeen years of broadcast experience later, Riaz has hosted for brands such as Citytv’s Breakfast Television Vancouver, CTV News, TEDxVancouver, MTV Canada’s 969 and marquee events like the Toronto International Film Festival.

https://riazmeghji.com/

Prem Gill is the CEO of Creative BC, where she is responsible for delivering programs and services that will expand BC’s creative economy to reach its economic and creative potential. In this episode, Prem discusses the state of the industry both globally and in BC (flourishing), and the worldwide rise in demand for content that makes right now such an exciting time to be a part of the creative economy. 

https://www.creativebc.com/about-us/staff#prem-gill

Graham Clark is an award winning stand-up comedian, TV writer, and co-host of Stop Podcasting Yourself. In this episode, he shares deep insight into the craft of being funny. A must for comedy fans and anyone who’s aspired to write or perform stand-up.  

https://maximumfun.org/podcasts/stop-podcasting-yourself/

Known by many leaders as the “CEO Whisperer”, Cameron Herold is a top business consultant, best-selling author, and speaker. In this episode, we unpack Cameron’s proven strategies for growing successful businesses in any industry. A must watch for creative entrepreneurs.

https://www.amazon.ca/Free-PR-Chased-Without-Hiring-ebook/dp/B07MK3H1RS

Steven Ogg is a Canadian actor best known for his roles in Westworld, The Walking Dead, and as the legendary Trevor Philips in Grand Theft Auto V. In this episode, he joins us in the Storyteller’s Studio to discuss where he finds inspiration (hint: it’s not other actors), the highs and lows of his job, and his celebrated performances as the bad guy in some of entertainment’s biggest franchises.

Susan Fox is the president and founder of Casting Workbook, the leading online platform for casting directors, agents, and performers. In this episode, Susan discusses the evolution of the casting process and how talent gets matched to projects. An invaluable resource for all working actors and aspiring performers.
https://home.castingworkbook.com/