Film Producer

On this episode of the Unboxing Careers Podcast, Greg Zakowicz unboxes the career of a Film Producer with Jenni Powell.

What does a Film Producer do? Emmy Award-winning producer Jenni Powell shares her transition from studying psychology to making waves in film and new media. As Chair of Producing at the New York Film Academy, she sheds light on the day-to-day responsibilities of a producer, the importance of resourcefulness on indie sets, and how strong leadership can nurture a positive team dynamic.

Jenni also offers practical advice for up-and-coming filmmakers, discussing why networking, mentorship, and self-trust are vital to success in the entertainment industry.

A producer is the driving force behind a film or television project, overseeing everything from pre-production to post-production. According to Jenni, a producer’s responsibilities include:

Finding and developing projects

Hiring key personnel, including directors, writers, and cast

Managing budgets, schedules, and logistics

Ensuring the project stays on track from start to finish

Handling contracts and negotiations, including working with union

Jenni highlighted two primary types of producers:

Line Producers: Focus on logistics, scheduling, budgeting, and ensuring the production runs smoothly on set.

Creative Producers: Work on the storytelling, project development, and overall vision while still ensuring financial and logistical feasibility.

Larger productions often have both types of producers working together, whereas indie projects may require one person to wear multiple hats.

While there is no single path to becoming a producer, Jenni’s journey offers key insights into breaking into the industry. Here are the most effective steps:

Volunteer for student films or independent projects.

Take on production assistant roles to gain exposure to different departments.

Accept any available job to build experience and credibility.

Producers need a broad understanding of every role on set.

Try editing, casting, scriptwriting, or even acting to gain different perspectives.

The goal isn’t to master every role but to understand the workflow and know how to hire the right talent.

Jenni did not attend film school but learned by working on student projects.

Film school can provide a structured learning environment and networking opportunities.

If attending film school isn’t an option, self-education through hands-on experience and mentorship is equally valuable.

Indie films, web series, and digital content platforms offer opportunities for new producers.

Jenni transitioned from reality TV to You Tube web series, proving that unconventional routes can lead to success.

Smaller projects allow for more creative freedom and hands-on experience.

Though Jenni started out acting in student films and extra roles, she quickly realized she preferred managing projects over waiting for her time in front of the camera. This realization pushed her to learn as many behind-the-scenes roles as possible, from casting and script supervision to production coordination. Her background in psychology turned out to be invaluable, enabling her to navigate group dynamics and keep teams motivated through long shooting days.

This holistic blend of creativity and logistical planning eventually led her to full-fledged producing jobs—sometimes juggling multiple indie projects at once.

A producer’s schedule can vary wildly depending on the stage of a project. Before shooting starts, Jenni works on budgets, timelines, and contracts—often collaborating with line producers on logistics and with creative teams on casting and concept development. On shooting days, she coordinates call times, handles unforeseen emergencies, and ensures everyone has what they need to meet deadlines. After wrap, she might dive into post-production oversight, marketing strategies, or distribution plans.

Even with extensive preparation, she notes that flexibility is key—something will almost always go…