FIA 043 "No" Is the Worst Word with Dan Blaney | FIG

Описание: This week, Justin chats with Dan Blaney, an accomplished head of production, now working as Executive Director of Production at Fig.

Dan has an impressive resume that includes roles at Wieden+Kennedy, BBDO, Apple, and more. The discussion explores various subjects including what it really means to be a great producer in advertising, not just as a manager of budgets and schedules, but as a creative partner, mentor, and problem-solver.

Dan shares personal stories from his career working on major campaigns for brands like Bud Light, AT&T, Apple, and the Jordan Brand, including behind-the-scenes insights from large-scale productions, Super Bowl activations, and high-pressure shoots where there’s only one chance to get it right. He emphasizes the significance of viewing roles beyond transactions, encouraging creative voices, and maintaining passion and dedication in the advertising field.

Dan also discusses what makes creative collaboration succeed: from choosing the right directors and production partners, to creating space for ideas to come from anywhere, and knowing when to speak up to make the work better. Throughout the episode, Dan emphasizes a simple but powerful philosophy: there’s always a way to make it happen, regardless of budget or scale.

This episode offers practical insight, hard-earned perspective, and a refreshing reminder that great work comes from curiosity, empathy, and collaboration. You don’t want to miss Dan’s insights here.

00:00 Intro
00:51 The Role of Producers in Filmmaking
02:54 Behind the Scenes: Bud Light Super Bowl Commercial
07:24 Mentorship and Career Growth
11:23 Building Relationships in Advertising
16:03 The Importance of Creative Collaboration
27:04 The Jordan Brand
32:04 Role of Head of Production
34:41 Partnering with Production Companies and Directors
42:53 Supporting Emerging Talent
44:30 Trusting Producers and Building a Creative Team
45:43 Challenges with Difficult Directors
47:46 Maintaining Passion and Meaning in Work
56:32 Balancing Work and Personal Life
58:04 Hobbies and Personal Interests
01:09:09 Appreciation for the Profession
01:15:11 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Links:

Dan’s Site - https://www.danblaneyproducer.com/
Bud Light: Up For Whatever - https://www.danblaneyproducer.com/#/b...
The Talk: P&G - https://www.danblaneyproducer.com/#/n...

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4U5m...

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