In Episode 3 of BFC Presents: The Sideshow, we finally flip the camera on ourselves. Get to know the voices behind the mic as we break down our journeys from Oakland and the greater Bay Area into the world of film. Jesse talks about dropping his first film and securing distribution, and we both share how we found our way onto sets, into stories, and now into your headphones. If you’ve been rocking with the show and wondering who’s really behind The Sideshow, this is your intro.

Writer. Storyteller. Now, director. In this episode, we sit down with Shia Shabazz Smith as she shares her evolution from crafting narratives on the page to bringing them to life on screen. Dive into the making of her striking directorial debut, the short film Dawn—a haunting, visually poetic exploration of how one unexpected encounter, can change your — forever.

Shia opens up about the leap from solo writer to collaborative leader, the challenges of independent filmmaking, and how her literary roots shape her cinematic voice. Plus, she reveals what’s next in the post production of Dawn, the short film. We look forward to having Shia back when the film is released!!

Check out https://dawnshortfilm.com for updates!

Credits

Producer/Director: Trent Hanible

Producer: Aneesah Dryver

Producer/Co-Host: Jesse Kuba

Producer/Co-Host: Taylor-Anne Harris

DP: Evan Lee

Cam Op1: Yinka Adeboyejo

Cam Op2: Marcus Dupree

Gaffer: Siraj Fowler

Set Designer: Tehan Davis

1st AD: Ileana Contreras

Associate Producer: Addae Hill

BTS: Aneesah Dryver

Sound Engineer: Kenneth Eugene Brian

Music Composition: Jay Anthony

Special Thanks to Ciel Creative Space https://cielcreativespace.com

This podcast is presented by Black Film Connect, a collective empowering Black filmmakers and storytellers. For more info check us out at www.blackfilmconnect.com Follow us at:Instagram: @blackfilmconnectTik Tok: @sideshowpod

Welcome to The Sideshow Podcast, hosted by Jesse Kuba and Taylor-Anne Harris!In our first episode, we’re diving into the origins of Diff Works, a creative studio. Tune in to hear about their fresh approach, the founders’ journey, and their innovative vision—taking it from Oakland to the world.And shout out to Diff Works for designing our logo! 🔥This podcast is presented by Black Film Connect, a collective empowering Black filmmakers and storytellers. For more info check us out at www.blackfilmconnect.com