S1 E8: Unscripted Grit, Scripted Vision - Kaitlan Stewart on Making TV That Matters

17/07/2025 37 min
S1 E8: Unscripted Grit, Scripted Vision - Kaitlan Stewart on Making TV That Matters

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Episode Synopsis

In this episode of the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast, we sit down with Kaitlan Stewart, founder of Fenix Film & Television and executive producer of the hit docuseries Push (CBC Gem) and Only Up (Super Channel). Kaitlan pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to bring a series from concept to screen. She shares how to build pitch-ready ideas, partner with showrunners, cast compelling talent, and navigate the changing demands of unscripted and scripted television. Whether you’re emerging or experienced, this is a behind-the-scenes look at producing with purpose, tenacity, and vision.In this episode:Kaitlan shares how she launched Fenix Film & Television in 2019 and built an award-nominated, multi-genre slateThe origin stories of Push (CBC) and Only Up (Super Channel)—and what it took to get them greenlitWhy casting strong on-screen talent is non-negotiable in unscripted TVHow partnerships with established showrunners and production companies help new producers level upPitching tips: what makes a project stand out to Canadian and U.S. buyersWhy “leaving your ego at the door” is essential for cold outreach and growthHow Kaitlan and Fenix prioritized accessibility and inclusion in all aspects of PushThe “chicken and egg” challenge of creating sizzle reels vs. leading with a clear, paper-based visionWhat she learned from trade missions, mentorships, and making the leap into international marketsAdvice for emerging producers and students trying to build real connections in the industryContacts:Guest: Kaitlan StewartTitle: Executive Producer, Founder of Fenix Film & TelevisionWebsite: https://www.fenixfilmtv.ca/Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitlan-stewart-0129085b/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fenixfilmtv/This podcast is brought to you by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA), championing Alberta’s screen sector for over 40 years through advocacy, industry events, and professional development. Learn more or become a member at ampia.org.Help amplify Alberta’s screen industry: rate, review, subscribe, and download the Alberta Screen Impact Podcast on your favourite platform.Share this episode with your network and keep the conversation going.CREDITSHosted by: Justine Gamez Huckabay & Brent KawchukThank You to Our SupportersThis podcast is proudly presented by the Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA)Produced in collaboration with Metamorphosis Media GroupStudio space and internship support provided by Mount Royal University, Broadcast Media StudiesPromotional support courtesy of the Alberta Film CommissionSeries trailer edited by Joe Media GroupWe’re grateful to these organizations for helping bring Alberta’s screen stories to life and into the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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