Let's talk about Verticals

Michaela Bergmann

A Podcast with people who are part in the vertical industry, whether actors, producers, directors, fans, streaming platforms, etc.

Everyone is welcome to talk with me about the big, wide world of verticals. About life with and in this world, its bright and dark sides.

Be excited for wonderful real talk paired with humor, charm but the necessary seriousness 🎙️

Subscribe Listen in podnod RSS feed Show website

119 episodes
Updated Monday

Episodes119

Newest first

Monday · 1 hr 50 min
118 - July Recap - Highlights, Heartbeats & Disappointments 🎙️✨
The second half of the year is already in full swing — and we’re delighted that July brought us several fantastic live-acted Verticals! Naturally, that means it’s time to get together for another Monthly Recap and discuss everything that happened over the past month. Want to know which performances made our hearts beat faster — and which Verticals frustrated or disappointed us? Then you definitely won’t want to miss this conversation! Joining the discussion: Michaela (Host) — @lets_talk_about_verticals Aline — @i.love.verticals Dalia — @verticalfilmslover Shikha Dia — @verticalviewweekly Caitlyn — @verticait Our Monthly Recap gives you direct insight into the audience’s perspective: what truly stood out — and what definitely didn’t. This month’s categories:🎭 Actor/Actress of the Month 🎬 Supporting Role of the Month 💫 Chemistry of the Month 🏆 Vertical of the Month 💩 Crap/Disappointment of the Month As always, we keep the discussion open, honest, and unfiltered — celebrating everything we love about the Vertical industry while also highlighting where there is clear room for improvement. A refreshingly entertaining yet critically reflective conversation you won’t want to miss. 🎙️✨Enjoy listening! #podcast #community #new #verticals
Saturday · 1 hr 21 min
117 - John Palmer - Music, Food & Vertical Dreams...
🎙️ In this episode, I’m joined by the absolutely wonderful John Palmer—also known as John Palmer Edwards! 🎬✨ With experience in theatre, traditional film projects, and a growing list of Vertical dramas, John has already brought many different characters to life. We had a wonderfully fun, honest, and thoughtful conversation about acting, John’s journey into the world of Verticals, and why he loves bringing characters and stories to life so much. We also dive headfirst into the world of music 🎶, reveal some of our personal favorites, exchange random fun facts 🤓, and brainstorm the Vertical stories that absolutely still need to be brought to our screens! 💡🎥 A little warning: if you don’t want to be starving by the end of this episode, you should definitely have something to eat nearby! 🌮🍕🍝 We talk—a lot—about food, John’s potential European food trip ✈️🌍, and why music and food might just be the two things capable of saving the world. 🎶🍽️❤️ But how did John end up turning the tables and surprising me with his very own “5 Question Quickie”? 🔥5️⃣ And what else did this wonderful human and I find ourselves discussing, questioning, laughing about, and philosophizing over? Grab a snack, get comfortable, and join us for a funny, warm, wonderfully honest, and delightfully unpredictable conversation! 🎧✨ Some Verticals with John Palmer: Offside (Dramawave)How to Break My Best Friend Dad (Vigloo)Ex’s Mafia Daddy wants me bad (Dramabox)The Photo That Changed Everything (Reelshort)For Richer, for Poorer (Dramabox) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new
July 29 · 1 hr 23 min
116 - Irvin Gelb - Brands, Budgets & AI: The Next Era of Vertical Drama...
In this episode, I’m joined by visionary and talent manager Irvin Gelb @irvingelbmedia for an insightful and forward-thinking conversation about the current state - and future potential - of the vertical drama industry. 🎬📱 We discuss why it is so important for producers, platforms, and creatives to truly listen to their audience and understand what viewers actually want to see. What developments and changes are needed to improve storytelling, create more diverse and compelling narratives, and help the industry continue to evolve? Irvin also shares his perspective on the opportunities within the vertical market and the future of product placement. How can brands be integrated into stories in a natural and authentic way - and could brand partnerships help bring larger budgets, higher production values, and greater creative possibilities to vertical productions? 💡📈 Of course, we also dive into one of the industry’s biggest current topics: artificial intelligence. We explore how AI can be used responsibly and meaningfully to support productions and creative processes, while also addressing the areas in which it may currently pose a growing threat to creatives, talent, and the industry itself. 🤖 A fascinating conversation about audiences, storytelling, innovation, financing, AI, and what the next chapter of vertical entertainment could look like. 🚀 #podcast #new #community #vertical #bts
July 25 · 1 hr 12 min
115 - Trinity Johnston - The Person Behind the mostly bullied roles...
🎙️✨ In this episode, I’m joined by the wonderful vertical actress Trinity Johnston! We talk about her journey into acting, her experiences within the fast-paced world of vertical dramas, and what audiences don’t always see behind the finished production. Trinity shares her perspective on the opportunities and challenges that come with this unique format, the lessons she has learned along the way, and the kinds of roles she would love to explore in the future. 🎬 One topic that particularly stands out is the fact that Trinity has been bullied in almost every role she has played so far. But is it really that easy to simply shake off those intense scenes once the cameras stop rolling? We speak openly about the emotional impact of repeatedly portraying characters who are humiliated, mistreated, or bullied—and about what Trinity needs on set to feel safe and supported, allowing her to leave those experiences behind instead of taking them home with her. ❤️‍🩹 Of course, our conversation also goes beyond acting. We speak about the person behind the characters, her goals and dreams, and the moments that continue to inspire and motivate her. Honest, warm, and full of wonderful insights, this episode is the perfect opportunity to get to know Trinity Johnston beyond the screen. 💫 So, make yourself comfortable and join us for another open and personal conversation about acting, vertical dramas, life, and everything in between. 🎧🩷 Some Verticals with Trinity Johnston Heartbreak High: Revenge on My First Love (Dramabox)Keeping Secrets with the Rowing Captain (Dramabox)The Imperfect Marriage (Reelshort)Falling for My Nemesis Stepbrother (Reelshort)Sex Education by My Best Friend (Dramabox) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new
July 22 · 1 hr 28 min
114 - Aaron Oberst - The Nicest "Bad Guy" in Verticals...
🎬 What if one of the most intimidating men in Verticals is actually one of the kindest people you'll ever meet?This episode with Aaron Oberst is living proof that the dominant, arrogant, and often toxic characters he plays couldn't be further from who he really is. We have an honest and unfiltered conversation about what it's like to be repeatedly cast in these types of roles - and the mental and physical challenges that can come with portraying them. Aaron also shares the kinds of characters he'd love to play in the future, his thoughts on where the Vertical industry is heading, and why some overused tropes - especially those built around unnecessary violence and unrealistic storylines - have long overstayed their welcome. 🎭 Despite those frustrations, we also talk about why Verticals remain an incredible opportunity for actors to sharpen their craft, grow creatively, and continue developing their skills. 🌟 If you've watched Verticals, chances are you've seen Aaron playing a professor more than once. 👨‍🏫 Ironically, he almost became a real-life professor himself - just like I did. But which subjects would he have taught? Trust me... you'll never guess! 🤯 And if you're still not convinced that Aaron is absolutely nothing like the characters he plays—and is genuinely one of the warmest, funniest, and most down-to-earth people you'll meet—then you may just have to listen to this episode all over again. ❤️🎧 Some Verticals with Aaron Oberst: Died on His Wedding Day (Kalos TV)Dark Notes (Reelshort)Pregnant by My Professor, Chased by His Son (Dramabox)Mafias Caged Swan (Dramapops)The Maid Did It (Shortical) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new
July 18 · 1 hr 17 min
113 - Liv Kirby - Chasing Dreams Across the World...
In the new Episode of Let’s talk about Verticals I’m joined by the wonderful Australian actress Liv Kirby! 🇦🇺✨ As a young adult, Liv made the bold decision to leave Australia and move to New York to pursue her dreams. Since then, her journey through the world of vertical dramas has taken her to filming locations all over the world and has helped her grow not only as an actress, but also as a person. 🎬🌍 In this episode, we talk about her career, the lessons she's learned along the way, and how stepping outside of her comfort zone has shaped both her professional and personal life. 🌱✨ And of course, we couldn't resist talking about dogs! 🐶❤️ As proud dog moms (Liv has two adorable dogs herself), we also chat about our love for our four-legged companions, life beyond the camera, and the dreams and goals that continue to inspire us. This is an honest, warm, and inspiring conversation about following your dreams, embracing change, and enjoying the journey. 💫🎧 Grab your favorite drink, sit back, and join us for a wonderful conversation with Liv Kirby! Some Verticals with Liv Kirby: Mr. & Mrs. Adams Behind the Masks (Dramabox)I Can Do It with a Broken Heart (Kalos TV)His Perfect Little Lie (Kalos TV)How to Break My Best Friend Dad (Vigloo)Forbidden Desire: The CEO's Secret Temptation (Kalos TV) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new
July 15 · 1 hr 19 min
112 - Alyssa Heyer - Verticals, AI & What's Changed...
This week on Let's Talk About Verticals, I'm incredibly happy to welcome the wonderful Alyssa Heyer! Join us for an open, honest, and entertaining conversation as we dive into Alyssa's journey in the ever-growing world of Vertical dramas. 🎭📱 After taking a six-month break from filming Verticals ⏸️, Alyssa recently returned to the industry—and it didn't take long for her to notice that things had changed. 🚀 Together, we talk about the evolution of the Vertical space, the fast pace at which the industry is developing, and the changes she experienced after stepping back onto set. 🎥✨ Of course, we couldn't ignore one of the biggest topics currently affecting the entertainment industry: Artificial Intelligence. 🤖⚡ Many actors and creatives are beginning to wonder what AI could mean for their future careers, and Alyssa shares her thoughts on why this has become such an important conversation. We discuss the opportunities, the concerns, and why so many performers are watching these developments very closely. 🎬🎭💭 Beyond the industry talk, we also get to know the person behind the performances. ❤️ Alyssa shares stories from her career, memorable moments on set, what she loves most about acting, and what keeps drawing her back to Vertical storytelling. 🌟🎥 As always, this isn't a formal interview—it's simply two people enjoying a relaxed conversation. ☕😊 We laugh, reflect, tell stories, and occasionally wander off into unexpected topics... just the way great conversations usually do. 🌿💬 Whether you're a longtime fan of Alyssa, curious about the future of Vertical dramas, or interested in hearing how actors are experiencing the industry's rapid changes firsthand, this episode is definitely one you won't want to miss! 🎧✨ A huge thank you to Alyssa for joining me and for being so open, genuine, and thoughtful throughout our conversation. ❤️🙏🎧 So grab your favorite drink ☕🥤, sit back, relax, and enjoy Episode 112 of Let's Talk About Verticals! 🎙️✨ Some Verticals with Alyssa Heyer: Torn Between My Stepbrothers (Dramabox)After Divorce, I Became My Ex's Urologist (DreameShort)Father of My Ex, Owner of My Heart (Kalos TV)The Heiress Rises from Ashes (Netshort)From the Hidden Land to the CEOs Heart (Dramawave) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new
July 11 · 50 min
111 - Logan Hannigan - School, Scripts & Set Life...
🎙️ Today on Let's Talk About Verticals, I'm joined by one of the youngest guests to ever appear on the podcast —8-year-old actor Logan Hannigan! @logan_adventures 🌟🎬 Despite his young age, Logan is already building an impressive acting career in the world of vertical dramas, and I had so much fun getting to know the person behind the performances. We talk about what a typical day on set looks like for him, how he balances school 📚 with filming, and what life is like when he's not standing in front of the camera. From his favorite hobbies and interests to the actors he'd love to meet one day, Logan gives us a wonderful glimpse into his world. Of course, we also dive into acting itself. Logan shares what he enjoys most about performing, why he's not afraid of a little extra drama on screen 🎭, and how stepping into different characters has become something he genuinely loves. And here's something that might surprise you—Logan isn't just thinking about acting in great stories... he's already dreaming up new ones! ✍️ With plenty of ideas for future vertical storylines and even his own scripts already in the works, it's clear that his creativity goes far beyond acting. This episode is full of laughter, imagination, and genuine enthusiasm. It's a reminder that passion for storytelling doesn't depend on age—it simply begins with a great imagination. 🎧 Join us for a fun, heartwarming conversation with one of the brightest young talents in the vertical world. Some Verticals with Logan Hannigan: Lies Can't Stop My Love (@goodshortdrama) Think Again! I'm the Hidden Boss Mom (@dramabox_official) My New Daddy Is a Five-Star General (@goodshortdrama) Seducing Mr. Larsen (@reelshortapp) A Billionaire Stay-at-Home Dad's Two Treasures (@goodshortdrama) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new
July 8 · 1 hr 18 min
110 - Anton Krasavin - Passion, Psychology & Performance...
🎙️ This week on Let's Talk About Verticals, I'm joined by actor Anton Krasavin for one of the most thought-provoking conversations we've had on the podcast. 🎬🧠 What starts as a conversation about acting quickly evolves into something much deeper.Together, we explore the fascinating question of how acting can shape the human mind and personality. Can stepping into different characters change the way we see ourselves? How do emotions experienced on set influence us long after the cameras stop rolling? And where is the line between the person and the character? 🎭 Anton shares why acting is far more than just a profession for him—it's a true passion. ❤️ We discuss the emotional and psychological challenges that come with the craft, the personal growth it can inspire, and how every role leaves behind something that becomes part of who you are. Of course, no episode of Let's Talk About Verticals would be complete without a few unexpected detours. Somehow, our deep philosophical discussion takes us from psychology and self-discovery to Kommissar Rex 🐕... and eventually ends with an impromptu karaoke performance of the Backstreet Boys classic "I Want It That Way." 🎤😂 How we got there? You'll just have to listen.This episode is thoughtful, honest, surprisingly funny, and full of the kind of authentic conversation that reminds us why storytelling—and the people who bring those stories to life—matter so much. 🎧 If you've ever wondered what acting does to a person beyond the screen, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Some Verticals with Anton Krasavin:: Winners Payback, Rise from the Dirt (Dramabox)Tempting the Mafia Twins (Reelshort)Her Secret His Regret (Dreameshort)Single Mom by Mistake: CEO Wife by Fate (Dreameshort)The Virgin Stripper and the Hockey Star (Reelshort) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new
July 4 · 1 hr 14 min
109 - Jake Hobbs - Acting, AI & the Future of Verticals...
🎙️ This week on Let's Talk About Verticals, I'm excited to welcome actor Jake Hobbs! 🎬 In this episode, we dive into Jake's journey into the world of vertical dramas—how he landed his first roles, what drew him to this unique format, and what he's learned along the way. We also talk about his experiences on set, the people he's worked with, and what he enjoys most about bringing these fast-paced stories to life. ✨ But this conversation goes far beyond Jake's career. We also have a very open and honest discussion about the current state of the vertical industry and the challenges many actors and creatives are facing today. From the increasing role of AI 🤖 and its impact on creative jobs, to changes in script development ✍️, fewer productions being greenlit, and the growing uncertainty surrounding acting opportunities, we don't shy away from the difficult topics. Instead, we explore what these changes mean for the future of the industry and the people working in it every day. Of course, it's not all about the challenges. ❤️ Jake also shares what gives him hope, the changes he'd love to see, and why he still believes the vertical industry has enormous potential. We talk about the importance of strong storytelling, investing in talented writers and actors, and building a sustainable future for this rapidly evolving genre. This is one of those conversations that feels both honest and hopeful—a candid look behind the scenes of an industry that's changing faster than ever.🎧 Whether you're a fan of vertical dramas, an aspiring actor, or simply curious about where this industry is headed, this episode is one you won't want to miss! Some Verticals with Jake Hobbs: Mommy Hold on I Brought Daddy to Save You (Goodshort)My Big Sister Strikes with Her Mafia Dynasty (Goodshort)Twins Hide and Seek After One Night (Goodshort)When I Was Gone, He Went Mad (Playlet)My Teenage Great-Grandma (Netshort) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new
July 1 · 1 hr 42 min
108 - June Recap: Wrapping Up the First Half of the Year...
🎉 After celebrating the 100th episode of the podcast with the Ladies, it's officially time to release our 10th Monthly Recap! 🥂Ten Monthly Recaps mean ten honest, unfiltered conversations about everything that happened in the world of Verticals over the past month—and all the stories surrounding the industry. As the first half of 2026 comes to an end, we're wrapping it up with our June Monthly Recap! 📱✨ Join us as we look back at the biggest releases, industry news, surprising announcements, our personal highlights (and disappointments 😅), and, of course, we crown our favorites of the month. As always, expect plenty of laughs, different opinions, and the kind of authentic conversation you've come to expect from the Ladies. 💜 Curious about what didn’t quite impress us in June — and what completely stole our hearts? Then you’re in exactly the right place for my monthly roundtable with the ladies! Joining the discussion:* Michaela (Host) @lets_talk_about_verticals* Aline @i.love.verticals* Dalia @verticalfilmslover* Caitlyn @verticait* Sarah @escapismviaverticals Our Monthly Recap gives you direct insight from the audience perspective on what truly stood out… and what definitely didn’t. This month’s categories: 🎭 Actor/Actress of the Month🎬 Supporting Role of the Month💫 Chemistry of the Month🏆 Vertical of the Month💩 Crap/Disappointment of the Month📱 App of the Month A refreshingly entertaining yet critically reflective conversation you don’t want to miss 🎙️✨ Enjoy listening! #podcast #new #verticals #bts #community
June 27 · 1 hr 7 min
107 - Makenna Ginn - Strong Women, Vertical Dramas & Werewolves...
🎙️ From the theater stage in Seattle to the world of Vertical Dramas – this week, actress Makenna Ginn joins the podcast!We dive into her journey from studying theatre at Loyola Marymount University to working in film, television, and the fast-growing world of Vertical Dramas that captivate millions of viewers worldwide. 📱🎬 Makenna shares what makes acting for vertical content so unique, why emotional authenticity and perfect timing are everything, and why she's passionate about playing strong, powerful female characters. One thing is certain: she's notthe actress who enjoys getting slapped in every Vertical! 💥💪 She also talks about her love for comedy, film production, and the Vertical series she co-wrote with Haley Lohrli—a project they're now determined to bring to life. ✍️🎥 One of the funniest stories? During her very first werewolf Vertical, she had absolutely no idea it was a werewolf story until shortly before filming wrapped! 🐺😂And yes... crying on command for 150 minutes straight? Makenna has mastered that skill. 😭🎭 Of course, we couldn't end the conversation without discussing two very important topics: her pasta-making skills 🍝 and her singing 🎤—and let's just say... that's a story you'll have to hear for yourself! This is an inspiring conversation about creativity, determination (or, as Makenna might call it, a little bit of healthy stubbornness 😉), and building a career in an ever-changing entertainment industry.✨ Enjoy the episode! Some Verticals with Makenna Ginn: Wait! Our Great Grandma Is 18 Years Old? (Dramabox)The Day the Champion Racer Lost His Bride (Reelshort)Love and Bloodlust at Vampire Academy (Dramabox)The Man Who Stands Beside You (Loveshots)The Real Heiress Strikes Back (Flareflow) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new
June 24 · 1 hr 14 min
106 - Erik Fellows - Let's Talk About Hollywood, Love & Verticals...
In this episode of Let's Talk About Verticals, I sit down with actor and producer Erik Fellows to discuss his remarkable journey through the entertainment industry. From his early days as a model to building a successful career in Hollywood, Erik shares valuable insights on perseverance, passion, and staying committed to your dreams. 🎬🌟 Known for his work on Days of Our Lives, The Bay, and numerous film and television projects, Erik opens up about the realities of life as an actor, the lessons he's learned along the way, and what continues to inspire him after more than two decades in the industry. 🎥🎭 ❤️ One of the most memorable moments of our conversation is Erik's incredible love story with his wife. In fact, he believes their story deserves its own Vertical, as it perfectly captures the emotional depth, twists, and authentic storytelling that make the format so compelling. 📱💕🎞️ Join us for an inspiring conversation about Hollywood, resilience, relationships, and the future of storytelling in the vertical era. 🚀✨🎧 Listen now and discover why some stories are meant to be told vertically! Some Verticals with Erik Fellows: Mafia King's Sweet Captive with Triplets (Goodshort)The Mafia King Kept Me in the Dark (Dramabox)Contract Marriage with the Arms Tycoon (Dramawave)Merry Christmas, Don Moretti (Dramawave)When Broken Hearts Beat Again (DreameShort) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new
June 20 · 1 hr 11 min
105 - Brian O'Shea - The multilingual vertical Batman...
🎙️🌍 Ever wondered what my podcast intro sounds like in Mandarin? Thanks to Brian O'Shea, now I know! 😄Brian is truly multilingual and has lived and worked in so many different countries that this episode is filled with fascinating cultural influences from around the world. 🌏✨ Compared to some others, Brian found his way into the vertical drama space relatively late. As he explains, that was mainly because he didn't take it too seriously at first. Coming from a traditional acting background 🎭, his passion has always been rooted in classic film production and storytelling. What Brian loves most are authentic, character-driven stories with real depth. 🎬❤️ And if those stories could somehow include martial arts 🥋, that would be the ultimate jackpot for him! Brian also has plenty of film ideas and story concepts waiting inside his creative mind. Packed with superheroes, ambitions, and special abilities 🦸‍♂️⚡, they could easily become exciting vertical dramas—especially ones that don't rely on the endless banquet scenes 🍽️😂 that he recently had the pleasure (or challenge!) of filming in abundance. Along the way, we strike an exclusive deal 🤝, I put his German language skills to the test 🇩🇪, and we investigate a very important question: why does he currently speak so many languages from countries that also happen to have famous mafia organizations? 😅🕵️‍♀️The result is a wonderfully diverse, funny, and delightfully chaotic conversation full of unexpected stories and plenty of laughs. 🎉🎧 Sit back, relax, and enjoy this entertaining episode! 🚀✨ Some Verticals with Brian O’Shea: When No wasn’t enough (DramaNow)A Lawyer's Forbidden Love for a Killer (Dramashorts)My Big Sister Strikes with Her Mafia Dynasty (Goodshort)Falling for the Wrong Bride (MyDrama)Back Off! I'm the CEO's Sister (Dramabox) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new
June 17 · 1 hr 10 min
104 - Nick Garabedian - Chef Energy & Vertical Tropes...
Food brings people together 🍝✨ — and when someone also genuinely loves cooking (and is really good at it 👀), that alone is enough material for an entertaining podcast episode. But since Nick Garabedian @nick_garabedian has so many more talents beyond the kitchen, you already know this episode is packed with fun, laughter, and great conversations 🎙️🔥 Since the role of the (hot) chef has officially made its way into the Vertical world 🍳🎬, we obviously had to talk about why Nick still hasn’t been cast in what feels like his perfect role. Instead, we dive into the opportunities he still sees within the Vertical space, the first scripts he’s already started writing himself ✍️, and of course all the classic tropes we know and love. And yes… the iconic towel drop has definitely become part of the Vertical universe by now 🫣😂 — but thanks to Nick, I still learned something completely new: apparently “abs doubles” are a real thing. HOW crazy is that please?! 😭💪 Is Nick ready to travel? Oh, absolutely 🌍✈️ Especially if it’s for a Vertical shoot. Europe is still missing from his Vertical Bingo Card, and who knows… maybe that would even convince him to come back to Germany for another legendary battle with a „Schweinshaxe“ 🇩🇪🍖😅 All that and so much more in today’s episode — enjoy listening! 🎧💫 Some Verticals with Nick Garabedian Warning! The Greatest Demon Hunter is Out! (@dramabox_official) Being Fired? Now I'm Out of Their League! (@dramabox_official) Falling for the Pretender (@flareflowapp) Christmas Awakening I See Your Countdown (@dramawave_official) Moving on from My Bodyguard (@dramawave_official) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new
June 13 · 1 hr 19 min
103 - Arno Horn - Think Big & sail the Vertical Seas...
After the “Kiss of the Pirate King” week at the end of April — where I already had the chance to talk to several cast members — another member of the pirate crew joined me: actor Arno Horn ⚓🏴‍☠️ Together we returned to the pirate ship once more and sailed straight back into the rough Vertical seas 🌊 For Arno, playing Jericho was a small comeback after 2024, especially since sadly we didn’t get to see him in any Vertical productions throughout 2025. We talked about what it felt like to return — and to jump right back in with such an unusual and wild Vertical project 🎬Just like Nick, Arno had dreamed of being a pirate ever since he was a child 🏴‍☠️ So naturally, getting to live out that dream was something truly special. And getting paid while sailing the open sea? Even better 😄⚓ Of course I also had to ask him whether he’d be ready for a second part — and what wishes I should pass along to Scotty Mullen 👀 After Nick asked for “more rum” 🥃 and Emma wanted “a sword and fight scenes” ⚔️, Arno immediately decided to think a little bigger 😉 Think big seems to be the motto here — and Scotty’s notebook of ideas keeps getting longer and longer 📝😂 We also talked about Arno’s beginnings in the Vertical world — experiences that almost made him lose interest in Verticals altogether. Thankfully, that didn’t happen 🙏 We also discussed future roles, story ideas, and possible projects. And honestly… if I ever manage to raise the money, Scotty and Dylan are going to have A LOT of work ahead of them 😅🎥 Good news for me though: I even managed to get Arno to promise he’d appear in one of my Verticals for free 😎🔥A fantastic conversation full of pirates, cowboys 🤠, lawyers ⚖️, and so much more. And if you want to find out which secret Arno revealed to me exclusively… then you definitely don’t want to miss this episode 👀✨Enjoy listening! 🎧 Some Verticals with Arno Horn: Kiss of the Pirate King (MyDrama)My Call Boy Billionaire Daddy (Dramabox)Say You Remember, Say You Love (Sereal+)After Divorce: I Become Heiress (Dramabox)Mason I + II (CandyJar) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new
June 10 · 1 hr 23 min
102 - Brittany Pirozzoli - Roller Skates, Rigatoni & Strong Female Leads 🛼🍝...
You can become friends over the most random things — and in Brittany Pirozzoli @britzoli I definitely found my “Rigatoni BFF” 🍝💛 Want to know the story behind it? Well… it’s a long one, and you can hear all about it in this podcast episode 🎙️✨ Of course, we’re not just talking about food (even though Rigatoni plays a very important role 😄). We also dive into what else connects us: the world of Verticals 🎬📱 Female roles in vertical productions can still be… complicated. Women are often portrayed as weak or helpless characters, which isn’t always easy for powerhouse Brittany to play 💥 She loves giving her characters a little more intelligence, strength, and personality — even if clients don’t always appreciate those creative choices 👀 And what about real-life equality on vertical sets? Unfortunately, there are still major issues, especially when it comes to the huge pay gaps between men and women. Brittany shares her personal experiences and talks openly about what she hopes will change in future productions 🎭⚖️ Strong roles for a strong woman? Absolutely. Give this woman a sword ⚔️, put her in a pirate outfit 🏴‍☠️, or let her play a 1200-year-old vampire queen with superpowers 🧛‍♀️✨ — she is READY. ⚠️🚨Tiny trigger warning before you listen: There’s a very real chance you’ll end up craving Rigatoni 🍝 and have ABBA’s “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” stuck in your head for the rest of the day 🎶😂 And according to Brittany: don’t forget your roller skates 🛼 A podcast episode full of fun, creativity, laughter, and great conversations — definitely not one to miss 💫🎧 Some Verticals with Brittany Pirozzoli Enough, No More Mrs. Nice Wife (@dramabox_us) Billionaire Daddy, You Have Sextuplets! (@flareflowapp) Confessions of a Vegas Showgirl (@reelshortapp) Sexy Principal's Bloody Game (@momeshortdramas) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new
June 7 · 1 hr 25 min
101 - LA Vertical Drama Market - An event you shouldn't miss in the Vertical Space...
🎬 The Vertical industry has long been carving its own path — evolving in ways that are very different from the traditional film business. The market is growing rapidly, constantly changing, and unless you’re actively on set and in the middle of it all, it’s easy to lose track of what’s really happening. Dana Protsyshak @dana__productions_vertigo , founder of Vert-I-Go Media, recognized exactly that — and created an industry event designed to bring people from all areas of the business together to explore, understand, and connect through the world of Vertical storytelling: the LA Vertical Drama Market. 🚀 @la_vertical_dramamarket In today’s episode, I sit down with Dana, the founder and organizer of the LA Vertical Drama Market, to talk about the vision behind the event, the concept itself, and the experiences, lessons, and highlights from the first two editions of LAVDM. Joining the conversation are three amazing LAVDM participants, who have also been involved as speakers in panels and labs during the event. 🎤✨ Dalia (@verticalfilmslover) Caitlyn (@verticait) Sarah (@escapismviaverticals) Together, we explore what makes the LA Vertical Drama Market so unique, what attendees can expect, and why it’s absolutely worth traveling to Los Angeles if you want to better understand and dive deeper into the fast-growing world of Verticals. The third edition of the LA Vertical Drama Market is already in the works and will take place November 5–7 📍 Based on the experiences and feedback from the first two events, Dana also gives us an exciting first look at some of the new ideas and developments currently being planned. Get ready for exclusive insights into the LA Vertical Drama Market and immerse yourself in the dynamic and ever-evolving world of Vertical storytelling. 🎥📱 Enjoy listening! 🎧 For more information, check out Instagram @la_vertical_dramamarket and the official website: laverticaldramamarket.com #podcast #new #vertical #community #bts
June 6 · 1 hr 48 min
100 - May Recap and a big Milestone...
The 100th podcast episode is finally here, and who better to celebrate it with than my five Review Ladies? On top of that, it's also time for our ninth Monthly Recap, which means we have lots to discuss! Since numbers are known to be quite relevant in the Vertical Space, we start off with a few facts about the podcast, which has now been around for nine months. Among them are the 96,443 downloads recorded as of May 31. We're also pleased to see that this month brought several storylines and verticals that we've never seen before. Whether we're all equally enthusiastic about them from a content perspective, however, remains to be seen. Curious about what didn’t quite impress us in May — and what completely stole our hearts? Then you’re in exactly the right place for my monthly roundtable with the ladies! Joining the discussion: * Michaela (Host) @lets_talk_about_verticals * Aline @i.love.verticals * Dalia @verticalfilmslover * Shikha Dia @verticalviewweekly * Caitlyn @verticait * Meagan @realreeldrama Our Monthly Recap gives you direct insight from the audience perspective on what truly stood out… and what definitely didn’t. This month’s categories: 🎭 Actor/Actress of the Month 🎬 Supporting Role of the Month 💫 Chemistry of the Month 🏆 Vertical of the Month 💩 Crap/Disappointment of the Month 📱 App of the Monh As always, we keep it open, honest, and unfiltered — celebrating what we love about the Vertical industry while also calling out where there’s clear room for improvement. A refreshingly entertaining yet critically reflective conversation you don’t want to miss 🎙️✨ Enjoy listening! #podcast #new #verticals #bts #community
June 3 · 1 hr 30 min
99 - Ben Whalen - The Face You Love to Hate. Verticals, Villains & Cinema...
🎙️ It took Ben Whalen and me quite a while to finally find the time to sit down for a relaxed and unhurried conversation—but good things are worth waiting for. One of the reasons was that Ben was unexpectedly called away to China for his very first Vertical project right around the time we had originally planned to record. Even better, he was able to return shortly afterward to shoot even more amazing Vertical content for us. ✈️🎬 When he’s not traveling the world for Vertical productions, Ben is a true film enthusiast who tries to make it to the cinema at least once a week to fully immerse himself in the atmosphere of a good (horizontal) movie. 🍿🎥Ben is also one of the few people I can openly discuss topics that audiences don’t necessarily want to see in Verticals—especially those infamous banquet scenes. We both still wonder why nobody ever just Googles the answer or shows their ID. 😂 According to Ben himself, he has a “hateable face,” which makes him a natural choice for antagonist roles. 😈 Over the years, he has embraced those characters and developed a style that is uniquely his own. No matter what role he’s playing, chances are you’ll find him looking sharp in a stylish suit. 🤵✨ And if you’re ever looking for him after a shoot, check the shower first. If his final scene involved a shower, there’s a good chance he decided to stay there a little longer. 🚿😂 One item that’s definitely on Ben’s 2026 bucket list is filming in Europe. Whether he’ll be able to correctly pronounce my name by the time he arrives in Germany remains to be seen. 😜🇩🇪 This episode is packed with fun stories, behind-the-scenes insights, honest conversations, and plenty of laughs. You definitely won’t want to miss it.🎧 Enjoy the episode! Some Verticals with Ben Whalen: Sleeping with a Billionaire Enemy (Tikok)The Voice That Lied (Kalos TV)Found A Homeless Genius to Save My Company (Goodshort)Karma at Your Wedding Day (ShortMax)Swapped Heiress by My Bestie (Dramawave) #podcast #verticals #community #bts #new