Keeping it Clean In Hollywood with Nate!

 

When’s the last time you saw a genuinely funny, clean comedy in theaters? If you had to pause and think, you’re not alone. In an era where Hollywood seems obsessed with shock value, crude humor, and big-budget explosions, audiences looking for smart, clean laughs have been quietly neglected. Studios continue to push the envelope with R-rated content, banking on controversy and chaos over charm and cleverness. But there's a growing number of moviegoers—families, church groups, and fans of classic stand-up—who just want to laugh without feeling uncomfortable.

Enter Nate Bargatze, a soft-spoken comedic powerhouse from Tennessee with a sharp eye for life’s absurdities and a delivery that feels more like a conversation with an old friend than a stand-up set. Known for his Netflix specials and sold-out arena shows, Bargatze proves that you don’t need vulgarity to be hilarious. His comedy is observational, relatable, and refreshingly clean—yet it still packs a punch. He’s not just avoiding profanity; he’s redefining what mainstream comedy can be.

By staying true to his voice, Bargatze has tapped into an underserved market that’s been yearning for something different. His rise isn’t just a personal triumph—it’s a signal to Hollywood that audiences are ready (and willing to pay) for content that doesn’t sacrifice humor for decency. As the demand for clean, smart entertainment grows louder, maybe—just maybe—the industry will start listening. Until then, comedians like Nate Bargatze are leading the charge, one clean joke at a time.

www.johnhenrysoto.com

Losing Your Story In Technology

 

In today’s content-driven world, technology has become both a blessing and a burden for storytelling. While advancements in visual effects, AI, and editing tools have opened up incredible creative possibilities, they’ve also shifted the focus away from the heart of storytelling—human connection. Many filmmakers, writers, and content creators now prioritize spectacle over substance, chasing trends, filters, or algorithms instead of deeply exploring character, emotion, and meaning. The result is often content that looks amazing but leaves audiences feeling emotionally unfulfilled. The obsession with what technology can do sometimes overshadows what the story should say.

Moreover, the pressure to produce fast and frequently for social media platforms has diluted the storytelling process. Technology enables instant feedback and virality, but it can also create a culture where creators value likes and shares over legacy and authenticity. Instead of taking the time to develop rich narratives, many feel compelled to cater to algorithms, leading to shallow plots, recycled formats, and surface-level engagement. When storytelling becomes a means to feed the machine rather than feed the soul, the art form suffers—reminding us that technology should serve storytelling, not replace it.

https://rumble.com/v6uix5d-losing-the-story-in-the-technology..html?e9s=src_v1_ucp

Filmmaking Truth: Lessons, Mistakes & Motivation from The John Henry Soto Show!

Every morning at 9 AM Central, for the past two months, I’ve been showing up to talk about the one thing that has defined so much of my life—film. What started as a way to keep myself accountable and share a little knowledge has grown into something much more meaningful: a space where filmmakers (and aspiring creatives) can learn the real ins and outs of the business—and maybe even avoid some of the mistakes I made.

The Real Behind-the-Scenes

Film isn’t just red carpets and final cuts. It’s hard drives crashing, money running out, last-minute actor cancellations, and “creative differences” that feel anything but creative. On the show, I don’t sugarcoat it. I talk about:

• What not to do when starting a project

• Where filmmakers waste time and money

• The importance of building a strong team (and knowing when to let someone go)

• Why storytelling beats fancy gear every single time

Each episode is designed to offer actionable advice—whether you’re in pre-production, trying to sell a script, or wondering why your short film hasn’t gotten into any festivals.

Staying Motivated in a Brutal Industry

Let’s be real. This business can be soul-crushing. That’s why I always include a segment on staying inspired and focused. I’ve been in the game long enough to know that motivation isn’t something you find—it’s something you build. And I share the exact steps I take to keep showing up creatively, mentally, and emotionally, even when the wins feel far apart.

Some of those keys:

• Having a strong "why"

• Creating daily rituals that support the dream

• Talking openly about burnout, fear, and doubt

• Celebrating small wins (like finishing a script draft or submitting to a festival)

Why I Do This Every Morning

There’s something powerful about doing the show at 9AM—before the noise of the day creeps in. It’s my way of saying, “This matters.” Whether 1 person watches or 1,000, I’m showing up because I know someone out there needs to hear this today.

I’ve made a lot of mistakes in this business. I’ve also had wins. This show is my chance to pass on what works, warn about what doesn’t, and encourage anyone with a story to tell to keep going.

Because your voice matters. Your film matters. And if I can help you bring it to life, even a little bit, then every 9AM wake-up has been worth it.

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If you’ve missed any episodes, or want to tune in and make sure to follow me on Rumble and Social Media. Got questions? Drop them in the comments or message me—I might just cover it on the next show.

Let’s make something great together. 🎥

 https://rumble.com/c/TheJohnHenrySotoShow

Sequels, Reboots, and CGI-Driven Spectacles! STOP IT!!!

In an industry often dominated by sequels, reboots, and CGI-driven spectacles, a quiet revolution has been taking place—one that signals the triumphant return of authentic storytelling in cinema. Audiences, perhaps fatigued by formulaic blockbusters, are gravitating toward films that offer originality, emotional resonance, and character-driven narratives. Two standout examples of this shift are Everything Everywhere All At Once and The Holdovers, both of which not only broke through the noise with fresh perspectives but also achieved critical and commercial success. These films remind us that, at its core, cinema is still a storyteller’s art.

In recent years, storytelling has made a powerful return to the forefront of filmmaking, as audiences increasingly crave narratives with emotional depth, originality, and character-driven arcs. This shift marks a departure from the heavy reliance on sequels, reboots, and CGI-heavy spectacles. Films like Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022) exemplify this trend, blending sci-fi, drama, and absurdist comedy to tell a profoundly human story about identity, family, and purpose. Made on a relatively modest budget, the film became a surprise box office success and swept the 2023 Oscars, winning Best Picture, Best Director, and multiple acting awards—proving that originality and storytelling can resonate deeply with global audiences.

Another standout is The Holdovers (2023), directed by Alexander Payne, which brought audiences a warm, character-focused holiday film that felt both classic and refreshing. Featuring Paul Giamatti in a quietly powerful role, the movie earned critical acclaim and audience admiration for its sharp writing, emotional sincerity, and timeless themes of loneliness and connection. Both films succeeded not by relying on massive franchises or flashy effects but by embracing authentic storytelling—demonstrating that well-crafted, original narratives can still captivate audiences and achieve both critical and commercial success.

“The Power of Finishing Ugly: Why Done is Better Than Perfect in Filmmaking”

There’s a myth in filmmaking that your project has to be flawless before it’s worth sharing. That myth has paralyzed countless talented creatives who sit on scripts, edits, or entire films, endlessly tweaking and doubting. But the truth is this: done is better than perfect. The power of finishing—even if it’s “ugly”—is one of the most underrated tools a filmmaker has. With “And On That Day,” I faced major challenges—budget limitations, losing locations, having to rework key scenes, and even recasting roles last minute. But I made the decision to finish it, no matter what.

And let me tell you, finishing wasn’t easy. There were moments I wanted to walk away. There were editing days where nothing felt right. But I kept going. Why? Because once a film is finished—even if it’s not everything you imagined—it becomes real. It breathes. It teaches. “And On That Day” ended up screening at festivals like Manhattan, Tennessee, and Golden Door. Not because it was a perfect film, but because I followed through. I let it live. And in doing so, I grew—not just as a filmmaker, but as a storyteller who could push through chaos and still create something meaningful.

So if you’re stuck, wondering if your film is “ready,” remember this: Ready is a lie we tell ourselves to delay the uncomfortable truth—it’s fear. Finish the film. Share it. Let it be messy. Let it be raw. But let it be. Because people won’t connect with your perfection. They’ll connect with your persistence, your passion, and your courage to finish ugly.

Box Office Insanity! All Happening For The Right Reason!

The box office has become more of a rollercoaster ride than ever before. In recent months, we've seen blockbuster films with massive budgets and marketing campaigns underwhelm in theaters, while smaller, unexpected titles soar past expectations. Audiences no longer flock to theaters solely for familiar franchises or A-list stars; instead, they're craving originality, emotional depth, and stories that resonate on a personal level. This shift has caught studios off guard, challenging the old playbook that once guaranteed ticket sales.

Part of this unpredictability lies in the evolving behavior of moviegoers. With streaming platforms offering a constant stream of content, audiences are more selective about what they’re willing to pay to see on the big screen. Social media buzz, word of mouth, and niche fandoms can now elevate an underdog film to mainstream success overnight. On the flip side, movies that lean too heavily on nostalgia or formulaic storytelling may find themselves lost in the noise. It’s not just about spectacle anymore—it’s about connection.

For filmmakers, this is both a challenge and an opportunity. The marketplace is wide open for bold ideas, new voices, and unconventional storytelling. But staying relevant means constantly pushing boundaries and staying in tune with cultural shifts. Here are 3 things you can do to keep your film ideas fresh:

1. Explore different genres or blend them—break the mold by mixing elements in unexpected ways.
   
   

2. Stay curious about real-world stories—truth is often stranger (and more compelling) than fiction.

3. Collaborate with people outside your usual circle—fresh perspectives lead to unexpected creativity.

LINK: https://rumble.com/c/TheJohnHenrySotoShow

Hollywood, once the global beacon of creative freedom, has increasingly bowed to the demands of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in pursuit of box office profits. From censoring politically sensitive content to altering scripts and casting choices, major studios have made it clear that access to China's massive film market is more important than preserving artistic integrity or American values. Scenes critical of China are routinely cut, such as in Top Gun: Maverick, where a Taiwanese flag was removed from Tom Cruise’s jacket. Meanwhile, films that promote democracy, human rights, or issues like Tibet and Hong Kong are outright banned in China, discouraging Hollywood from even attempting to tell these stories. This has led to an industry-wide self-censorship, where studios preemptively remove content that could offend Chinese authorities—effectively allowing a foreign government to shape what Americans see on screen.

For those who want to understand the full extent of China’s influence on Hollywood, there are several ways to dig deeper. First, read books like Red Carpet: Hollywood, China, and the Global Battle for Cultural Supremacy by Erich Schwartzel, which details how China’s financial power dictates American film decisions. Second, follow independent journalists and analysts who cover Hollywood’s relationship with China, such as reports from The Epoch Times, The Wall Street Journal, or Hollywood insiders on Substack. Third, watch documentaries and interviews with filmmakers who have spoken out against Chinese censorship, like Quentin Tarantino’s refusal to edit Once Upon a Time in Hollywood for China. The more people educate themselves on this issue, the more pressure can be put on Hollywood to stop compromising artistic freedom for authoritarian approval.

While Hollywood’s increasing submission to Chinese censorship is concerning, there are ways to stay positive and push back against this influence. Independent filmmakers and platforms like Rumble are creating a space where free speech and artistic integrity can thrive without corporate or political interference. Additionally, audience demand is shifting—box office numbers show that many films designed to cater to China are failing, while movies with strong, unapologetic storytelling are succeeding. For example, Top Gun: Maverick, despite removing the Taiwanese flag, was still denied release in China, yet it grossed nearly $1.5 billion worldwide, proving that Hollywood doesn’t need the CCP’s approval to succeed. Meanwhile, in 2023, Chinese box office revenue dropped significantly, while American audiences have shown an increased preference for films that aren’t watered down for foreign governments.

To stay positive in the face of Hollywood’s compromises, here are three things you can do:

1. Support independent filmmakers and platforms that refuse to bow to censorship, such as watching movies on platforms like Rumble or DailyWire+.
   
   

2. Speak with your wallet by choosing to watch and promote films that champion free expression rather than those that cater to authoritarian demands.
   
   

3. Stay informed and share the truth by educating others on how Hollywood and China operate behind the scenes, using books, articles, and videos to expose the reality of entertainment censorship.
   
   

The fight for artistic freedom is far from over, but the power still lies with the audience. If enough people demand integrity in storytelling, Hollywood will have no choice but to listen.

Artificial intelligence in Hollywood

 

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly integrated into various aspects of Hollywood film production over recent years. As of December 2023, approximately 59% of film, television, and animation companies in the United States reported using or planning to use generative AI during the pre-production phase. This marks a significant increase compared to previous years, indicating a growing reliance on AI technologies in the industry. ​Statista

In scriptwriting and story development, AI-assisted tools saw a 28% increase in use among writers from 2020 to 2023. By 2023, 67% of screenwriters utilized AI for brainstorming and plot development. Scripts partially developed by AI were 25% more likely to receive approval for production, and 54% of AI-written scripts required 40% less revision time. ​SEO Sandwitch

In pre-production planning, AI reduced planning timelines by 40% on average. Approximately 47% of producers relied on AI for casting decisions, and AI tools automated 60% of location scouting in major productions. AI forecasting tools improved production budget accuracy by 25%, and over 80% of pre-visualization tasks incorporated AI-powered simulations.

While specific percentage increases over the past two years are not detailed in all sources, the data indicates a clear upward trend in AI adoption across various stages of film production in Hollywood. This growing integration reflects the industry's recognition of AI's potential to enhance efficiency, creativity, and decision-making processes.

LOOK AT MY TIE! MADE YOU LOOK!

 

Distractions are like weeds in a garden—if left unattended, they choke the life out of your most important goals. In today’s hyperconnected world, distractions come in many seductive forms: social media notifications, endless scrolling, unnecessary emails, and even our own thoughts. The first step in staving off these distractions is recognizing what triggers them. Is it boredom, stress, or the fear of missing out? Once you identify the root, you can begin to implement intentional barriers—like turning off phone notifications, setting specific “tech-free” hours, or creating a focused workspace that signals it's time for business.

Feeding your focus requires more than just eliminating distractions; it’s about creating an environment and mindset that actively support deep work. This might involve starting your day with a clear plan, prioritizing your top three tasks, and tackling them in uninterrupted sprints. Techniques like the Pomodoro method or time blocking can be effective tools. Equally important is aligning your tasks with your larger purpose. When you're working on something that truly matters to you, focus becomes less of a chore and more of a natural flow state.

Ultimately, it’s a matter of choice and commitment. You can choose to be the master of your time or let distractions rule your day. Feeding your focus is like feeding a fire—it grows with the right fuel. That fuel can be your goals, your family, your passions, or the legacy you want to leave behind. The more you feed it, the stronger it burns, pushing away distractions like shadows at sunrise.

Three things you can do to overcome distractions and feed your focus:

1. Create a distraction-free zone — Silence your phone, close unnecessary tabs, and clear your physical space to support focused work.
   
   

2. Schedule deep focus sessions — Use techniques like Pomodoro (25 minutes focused, 5-minute break) to train your mind to stay on track.
   
   

Review your "why" daily — Remind yourself each morning of your bigger purpose or goal. This keeps your focus sharp and distractions less tempting.

Marry An Artist! Divorce An Artist! This One Is Tough!

Marriage is a wild ride no matter who you are, but when an artist and a non-artist come together, it's like putting a jazz musician and a classical pianist in the same band—beautiful, but full of unexpected notes. Artists live in a world of inspiration, late-night ideas, and unpredictable schedules, while a non-artist often thrives on stability and routine. This contrast can lead to some friction, especially when the artist is deep in creative mode and their partner just wants to know what time dinner is. The artistic mind doesn’t clock out at 5 PM, and that can be tough for someone who isn’t wired that way.

One of the biggest struggles is understanding priorities. To an artist, creating isn't just a hobby; it’s oxygen. But to a partner outside of that world, it can sometimes look like obsession, distraction, or even avoidance of responsibilities. "Why are you spending hours editing that scene when the garbage still isn’t taken out?" The artist, on the other hand, wonders why their passion isn’t seen as “real work” if it’s not bringing in consistent money. It’s a delicate dance of balancing dreams with reality, passion with partnership, and making sure no one feels like they’re being left behind.

Then there’s the emotional rollercoaster. The highs of a successful project can make an artist feel invincible, while rejection or creative blocks can send them spiraling into doubt. A non-artist spouse might struggle with these intense emotional swings, wondering why their partner can’t just "let it go" and move on. But for the artist, it’s never just about the work—it’s about their identity. Being married to an artist means learning to navigate these emotional waves without getting pulled under, and for the artist, it means remembering that their spouse isn’t a built-in therapist.

So, how do you keep a marriage strong when one person is off chasing inspiration while the other just wants a peaceful weekend? Here are three things that can help:

1. Set clear expectations – Talk about schedules, commitments, and how both partners can feel valued, so neither person feels ignored or misunderstood.
   
   

2. Appreciate each other’s world – The non-artist should take an interest in their partner’s work, and the artist should respect the stability their spouse brings to the relationship.
   
   

3. Create together – Even if one person isn’t an artist, finding small creative projects to share can bridge the gap and strengthen the bond. Whether it's planning a trip, decorating a space, or just making a ridiculous inside joke—creativity isn’t just for the artist, it's for the marriage.
   
   

At the end of the day, love is its own art form. It takes patience, compromise, and a whole lot of rewrites, but when both partners commit to understanding each other’s world, the final masterpiece is worth it.

The World Owes You Nothing—Go Take It

 

As an artist, you have a vision, a passion, and a dream—but here’s the hard truth: no one is coming to make it happen for you. The world doesn’t owe you recognition, success, or opportunity. If you sit around waiting for someone to discover your work, hand you a deal, or open doors for you, you’ll be waiting forever. The artists who make it are the ones who take action, create their own opportunities, and refuse to be ignored. You have everything you need to succeed—the only question is whether you’re willing to go out and take what’s yours.

Success isn’t given; it’s earned. Every great musician, filmmaker, and creator you admire had to grind, push, and prove themselves long before anyone paid attention. You have to put yourself out there, market your work, knock on doors, and keep going even when you hear ‘no’. There are thousands of talented people in the world, but talent alone isn’t enough. What separates those who make it from those who don’t is the willingness to show up, put in the work, and keep moving forward—no matter what. The world doesn’t owe you a platform, but it will take notice when you demand attention with your relentless pursuit of success.

So how do you take control and claim your place? First, build something of value—hone your craft, create consistently, and put your work out there. Second, promote yourself relentlessly—use social media, network, and don’t be afraid to talk about your art. Third, take rejection as fuel, not failure—every ‘no’ is just a step closer to the right ‘yes.’ The world isn’t going to hand you success, but when you step up, take action, and refuse to quit, you become unstoppable. Go out there and make it happen!

"Rumble’s Rise & Free Speech: Why The John Henry Soto Show Is Now Exclusive on the Platform"

In a world where free speech and independent voices are under constant pressure, Rumble has emerged as a powerful platform for creators who refuse to be censored. Founded in 2013 by Chris Pavlovski, Rumble was built as an alternative to Big Tech-controlled media, giving content creators a space where their voices could be heard without interference. Unlike other platforms that throttle reach and suppress opinions, Rumble prioritizes transparency and fairness, ensuring that creators have a real chance to connect with their audience. With its rapid growth and commitment to creator-first policies, Rumble has become a go-to destination for independent thinkers, journalists, and artists looking to share their message without restrictions.

That’s exactly why The John Henry Soto Show has found a home on Rumble. My co-host, George Batista, and I are passionate about asking tough questions, having real conversations, and providing value to our audience without worrying about being silenced. We cover everything from film and music to health and entrepreneurship, always keeping it raw, engaging, and sometimes controversial—but that’s the point. Rumble allows us to have these conversations freely, without algorithms deciding what people should or shouldn’t see. As Puerto Ricans from the Bronx who use humor to tackle serious topics, we know how important it is to have a platform that truly supports independent voices.

One of the biggest advantages of Rumble is that it puts power back into the hands of creators. Unlike other platforms that manipulate reach and engagement, Rumble operates on a more organic system where your content speaks for itself. Their partnership with Rumble Cloud and expansion into live streaming, podcasts, and video monetization means creators can actually build sustainable careers without fear of demonetization or shadowbanning. With millions of users tuning in every day, the audience here is growing fast, creating an opportunity for shows like ours to thrive.

For The John Henry Soto Show, Rumble isn’t just a platform—it’s a movement. It represents freedom, authenticity, and the ability to create without compromise. As we continue to bring engaging discussions, thought-provoking insights, and plenty of laughs, we’re excited to grow our community here. If you believe in real conversations, independent voices, and content that isn’t controlled by corporate interests, then Rumble is where you need to be. So, if you haven’t already, subscribe to The John Henry Soto Show on Rumble, and let’s keep this movement alive!

Steve Martin’s advice—“Be so good they can’t ignore you”

This is a powerful mantra for anyone chasing success. It’s not about luck or connections; it’s about undeniable skill, relentless effort, and standing out through excellence. Your journey embodies this idea. From playing guitar as a way out of the South Bronx to becoming a filmmaker, digital marketer, and talk show host, you’ve continuously honed your craft. Whether it’s helping artists fund their projects, building JHS Talent Management, or performing in Nashville, your success has come from showing up, improving, and delivering value that demands attention.

Consistency and mastery are what separate those who are merely visible from those who are unforgettable. You’ve navigated through discouragement in digital marketing, pushed past challenges, and remained committed to growth. Your film And On That Day gained festival recognition not by chance, but because of your dedication to storytelling. Even your new venture into talent management isn’t just about signing artists; it’s about shaping careers and creating undeniable experiences. You’re proving that when you commit to excellence, people can’t help but take notice.

To be so good they can’t ignore you, you must focus on constant improvement and strategic positioning. Whether through digital marketing, film, or music, success follows those who refine their skills to the point where their work demands recognition. Your story is already proof of this principle in action. Now, as you continue building JHS Talent Management and your other ventures, the key is to keep sharpening your craft, building meaningful connections, and always delivering your absolute best.

Three Ways to Get So Good They Can’t Ignore You:

1. Daily Skill Development – Set aside dedicated time every day to improve your craft, whether it’s playing guitar, storytelling, or digital marketing.
2. Create Relentlessly – Make content, perform, and put your work out there consistently so that people see your expertise in action.
3. Engage and Network – Build relationships with those who can help amplify your skills, whether it’s fellow artists, industry professionals, or your audience.

By following these steps, you ensure that success isn’t just possible—it’s inevitable.

Pain is Temporary, Regret is Forever

 

Growth isn’t always comfortable, but neither is regret. Every time we push ourselves past our limits, there’s discomfort—it’s part of the process. But here’s the thing: that pain is temporary. Whether you’re an artist grinding through long hours, a musician struggling to get that perfect take, or a filmmaker trying to bring a vision to life, the challenges won’t last forever. What does last forever is the regret of looking back and realizing you didn’t give it your all. No one wants to wonder, What if I had just gone for it?

I’ve learned this firsthand. There were times when I hesitated, times when I doubted whether I had what it took to succeed. But every time I pushed through, I realized that the struggle was just a stepping stone—not a wall. From learning to play the guitar as a kid in the Bronx to stepping into the world of filmmaking, I saw that progress only comes when you embrace the challenge, not run from it. And now, with The John Henry Soto Show, my co-host George Batista and I push this same message: show up, do the work, and don’t let temporary discomfort keep you from greatness.

So how do you avoid regret? First, take action now. Stop waiting for the “perfect” moment—it doesn’t exist. Second, embrace failure as part of success. Every misstep is a lesson that moves you forward. Third, surround yourself with people who push you to be better. When you're around driven, passionate people, it’s impossible to stay stuck. The pain of discipline is temporary, but the regret of inaction lasts forever. Which one are you choosing today?

Discipline Beats Motivation! Prove me Wrong!

 

Welcome, artists and creators, to today’s show, where we’re exposing one of the biggest myths about success—relying on motivation. Motivation is great, but let’s be honest, it’s unreliable. Some days you wake up feeling unstoppable, and other days, you just want to crawl back under the covers. If you’re depending on motivation to get things done, you’re setting yourself up for inconsistency and frustration. The real secret to success isn’t bursts of inspiration—it’s discipline. Discipline is what gets you in the studio, on stage, or behind the camera even when you don’t feel like it.

Let’s talk about why discipline is the real key to greatness. Motivation is emotional, and emotions fluctuate, but discipline is a commitment. It’s the habit of showing up, doing the work, and staying focused no matter how you feel. Think about the most successful artists, musicians, filmmakers, and entrepreneurs—do you think they felt motivated every single day? Of course not. But they had the discipline to push through the days when they didn’t feel like working, and that’s what made them unstoppable. The moment you stop waiting to feel inspired and start training yourself to take action anyway, you separate yourself from the pack.

So how do you build the discipline to win? First, set non-negotiable habits—treat your work like a job, not a hobby. Second, create systems and routines that keep you accountable even when motivation is nowhere to be found. And third, redefine success as consistency over time, not just bursts of effort. Small, disciplined actions add up to massive results, and those who master this mindset will always outperform those waiting for the ‘right mood’ to work. So today, let’s make a decision—are we going to wait for motivation, or are we going to take control and create real success? Let’s get into it!