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.

---

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

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.

Why I Did What I Did and Continue To Do What I Do?

 

I want to share a deeply personal story about discovering the power of my own voice. For a long time, I thought my purpose was tied to the things I created—the films I made, the podcast episodes I hosted, the connections I formed along the way. And while those things are a part of me, I’ve come to realize they aren’t the whole story. To truly make a difference, I had to go deeper. I had to reconnect with who I am at my core: a Puerto Rican kid from the Bronx, someone shaped by the vibrant culture, struggles, and resilience of my community. For years, I didn’t fully embrace that part of myself. Maybe I didn’t realize how much power it held. Maybe I thought I had to fit into a mold that wasn’t really me. But life has a way of calling us back to ourselves. You see, I grew up in a place where survival wasn’t just a skill—it was a mindset. The Bronx taught me grit, creativity, and how to dream big even when the odds were stacked against me. But it also taught me something deeper: that we all carry a spiritual force within us. And when we listen to that voice, it guides us to where we’re meant to be. 

 My journey wasn’t just about filmmaking or podcasting; it was about stepping into my truth. It was about realizing that to make a difference, I had to embrace everything I am—my roots, my voice, my spiritual connection to something greater than myself. There came a moment when I understood this fully. I was standing in a hurricane-stricken community, surrounded by people who had lost everything. They didn’t care about titles or achievements—they just needed someone to see them, to care, to show up. And as I worked alongside them, I felt a deep awakening: the realization that my purpose was never about impressing anyone. It was about showing up authentically, with my full heart and spirit, and letting that be enough. And here’s what I’ve learned: We can’t truly answer life’s call if we’re hiding parts of ourselves. The world doesn’t need a version of you that fits into a box. It needs you—the real you, with your unique story, your culture, your struggles, and your triumphs. For me, that meant honoring my heritage, speaking from my soul, and using my journey as a bridge to connect with others.

The spiritual path I’ve walked has taught me that we are all interconnected. Our stories, our struggles, our victories—they’re meant to inspire and uplift others. And when we embrace who we are, unapologetically, we give others permission to do the same. So to anyone out there holding back parts of yourself, I want to say this: You are enough. Your voice matters. Your story matters. Whether you’re from the Bronx, a small town, or anywhere in between, you carry something unique and powerful. Don’t silence it. Let it guide you. When you step into your truth, you align with a deeper purpose. You start to see that the challenges you’ve faced weren’t roadblocks—they were stepping stones, preparing you for this moment. You begin to understand that your voice, your authenticity, is exactly what the world needs right now. 

I’m here today as a filmmaker, a storyteller, and a proud Puerto Rican from the Bronx. But more importantly, I’m here as someone who’s learned that the most powerful thing we can do is honor who we are and use that to serve others. So myfriends, I invite you to listen to that inner voice, to trust it, and to let it guide you. Step into your truth, embrace your journey, and know that by doing so, you’re not just changing your own life—you’re making a difference in the lives of others. 

 Thank you for letting me share my story. 

May your journey be filled with authenticity, purpose, and light.

www.johnhenrysoto.com

 www.artistblueprint.live

John Henry Soto and George Batista, hosts of the show Artist Blueprint LIVE, have garnered attention for their dynamic chemistry, sharp wit, and insightful interviews with artists from various fields. With their engaging personalities and knack for entertaining storytelling, they stand as strong contenders for the role of late-night hosts. Soto's background in film and television production coupled with Batista's experience in health and wellness plus music make them a formidable duo poised to inject fresh energy into the late-night landscape. Their inclusive approach to storytelling and commitment to showcasing diverse voices could resonate well with modern audiences, potentially paving the way for them to become the next generation of late-night hosts, ushering in a new era of humor, creativity, and cultural relevance.

The Late Night Wars refer to the intense competition among late-night television talk shows for viewership and ratings, particularly during the late-night time slots. This phenomenon became prominent in the United States in the 1990s with the rise of shows like "The Tonight Show," "Late Show with David Letterman," and "Late Night with Conan O'Brien." These programs, often hosted by charismatic comedians or personalities, engage in witty banter, celebrity interviews, and satirical commentary on current events. The rivalry between hosts and networks led to fierce battles for guests, time slots, and advertising revenue, fueling a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape in late-night television.

The Late Night Wars have continued into the 21st century with the emergence of new contenders such as "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart," "Jimmy Kimmel Live!," and "The Late Late Show with James Corden." Additionally, the advent of streaming platforms and digital media has expanded the battleground beyond traditional television, with hosts leveraging social media and online platforms to engage with audiences and promote their shows. Despite shifts in viewing habits and technological advancements, the competitive spirit of the Late Night Wars endures, driving innovation and creativity in late-night programming as hosts strive to captivate audiences and remain relevant in an increasingly crowded media landscape.

I think it's think for two Puerto Ricans to make history on Late Night.  :) 

The World of Supplements!

Vitamin supplements: the ultimate cure-all for all that ails you! Or so we're told, anyway. But let's be real, the world of vitamin supplements can be a confusing and, at times, downright comical place.

First of all, there are so many different types of vitamins and supplements out there, it's hard to keep track of them all. There's Vitamin A for your eyes, Vitamin B for your energy, Vitamin C for your immune system, and Vitamin D for your bones. But wait, there's more! There's also Vitamin E for your skin, Vitamin K for your blood, and even Vitamin Z for, well, we're not entirely sure what that one does, but it sounds important!

And then there are the various forms these vitamins come in: pills, gummies, chewable tablets, liquids, powders, and even sprays! It's like a never-ending game of Whac-A-Mole, trying to figure out which one is right for you.

But it's not just the vitamins themselves that are confusing, it's also the dosage. Some bottles recommend one pill a day, while others say to take three. And then there are the ones that tell you to take "as needed," which begs the question: how do you know when you need it? Are there warning signs? Will you suddenly start feeling weak and dizzy if you don't take your Vitamin D?

And let's not forget about the "extra" ingredients that are often added to these supplements. Sure, they may contain the vitamin you're looking for, but they also come with a whole host of other things like herbs, minerals, and even caffeine. It's like buying a bag of potato chips and finding a toy surprise inside...except the toy is a bunch of other unnecessary ingredients.

But perhaps the funniest thing about the world of vitamin supplements is the way they're marketed. Have you ever noticed how every single supplement out there claims to be the "best" or the "most effective"? It's like a never-ending competition to see who can make the boldest claim. "Our Vitamin C will boost your immune system by 300%!" "Our Vitamin B will give you the energy of a marathon runner!" "Our Vitamin A will make your eyes so strong, you'll be able to see through walls!"

In short, the world of vitamin supplements can be a minefield of confusion and absurdity. But at the end of the day, we all just want to feel our best and live a healthy life. So, whether you choose to take a daily dose of Vitamin C or a handful of Vitamin Gummies, just remember to always do your research and talk to your doctor before adding any supplement to your routine.

Watch our latest episode on supplements!  

The Responsibility of an Artist

Artists have a unique responsibility in society as they have the ability to inspire, challenge, and shape cultural norms through their work.

One responsibility of an artist is to create work that is true to their own vision and perspective. This means being true to oneself and not succumbing to external pressures to conform or create work that is popular or profitable, but not authentic.

Another responsibility of an artist is to push boundaries and challenge societal norms through their work. This can include tackling difficult and controversial subject matter and pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms and mediums.

Artists also have a responsibility to use their platform and influence to raise awareness about important social and political issues. They can use their art as a form of activism and raise awareness about issues such as poverty, inequality, and social justice.

Additionally, artists have a responsibility to give back to their communities and to support other artists. This can include mentoring young artists, participating in community art projects, and supporting small independent galleries and art spaces.

In summary, artists have a unique responsibility to be true to their own vision, to challenge societal norms, and to use their platform to raise awareness about important issues to give back to their communities and support other artists.  

Listen to Charles Andrew Payne talk about the responsibility of an artist and more!

LINK:  https://youtu.be/78G63QhJ_mA

Instagram marketing can be a powerful tool for businesses, as it allows you to reach a large and engaged audience. Here are some tips for mastering Instagram marketing:

Develop a clear marketing strategy: Before you start posting on Instagram, it's important to have a clear understanding of your goals and target audience. This will help you create content that resonates with your audience and helps you achieve your marketing objectives.


Create high-quality, visually appealing content: Instagram is all about visuals, so it's important to put effort into creating eye-catching content. This can include photos, videos, and graphics that showcase your products or services in an attractive way.


Use hashtags and geotags to increase visibility: Hashtags and geotags help your content get discovered by people who are interested in your industry or location. Use relevant hashtags and geotags to increase the chances that your content will be seen by the right people.

Engage with your audience: Instagram is a social platform, so it's important to interact with your followers. Respond to comments, answer questions, and share user-generated content to build a community around your brand.

Analyze and track your performance: Use Instagram's built-in analytics or third-party tools to track the performance of your posts and stories. This will help you understand what's working and what's not, and make adjustments to your strategy accordingly.

By following these tips and staying up to date with the latest trends and best practices, you can effectively use Instagram to reach and engage your target audience.

History of Filmmaking

Filmmaking is the process of creating motion pictures, which involves capturing moving images on film or digitally. The art of filmmaking has evolved significantly since its inception, and today it is a multi-billion dollar industry that encompasses a wide range of genres and formats.

The history of filmmaking can be traced back to the late 19th century when the first motion pictures were created using a series of still photographs. The earliest motion pictures were created using a device called the "zoetrope," which used a series of still images placed around a spinning cylinder to create the illusion of movement.

In 1895, the first true motion picture was created by the Lumiere brothers in France. Their film, called "Arrival of a Train at La Ciotat Station," was a simple 50-second long film that depicted a train arriving at a railway station. This film was shown in public for the first time at the Grand Cafe in Paris, and it was an instant sensation.

The early years of filmmaking were marked by a number of technological innovations that helped to shape the industry. In the early 1900s, motion pictures were shot on film using hand-cranked cameras, and they were shown in nickelodeons, which were small, storefront movie theaters.

As the motion picture industry grew in the 1920s, Hollywood emerged as the center of the film world. Hollywood studios, such as Paramount Pictures and Warner Bros., began producing a wide range of films, including comedies, dramas, and action films.

In the 1930s and 1940s, the introduction of sound to motion pictures revolutionized the industry. With the advent of "talkies," filmmakers were able to tell more complex and nuanced stories, and the use of sound in films became an integral part of the filmmaking process.

Over the years, the art of filmmaking has continued to evolve. The introduction of color film in the 1950s and the development of special effects in the 1960s and 1970s opened up new possibilities for filmmakers. In the 1980s and 1990s, the emergence of digital technology transformed the way films were made and distributed.

Today, the film industry is a global enterprise, with films being made in countries all around the world. Filmmaking has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the late 19th century, and it continues to be a constantly evolving art form. 

Business Drowning? This episode is the life preserver to save it!

 We've become so accustomed to seeing business gurus shouting how you can be as great as they are if you just behave how they do.  Nothing wrong with it. It's a style but it's so refreshing to listen to a road-tested professional with tremendous statistics discuss workable strategies to improve your business without yelling, YOU GOTTA GRIND BITCH!!!, once.  Well, we got that and then some when Rafferty Pendery visited the Counterparts Show Tuesday, September 6th 2022.  www.counterpartsshow.com  

The following is borrowed from his websites.  https://www.raffertypendery.com/  https://www.studio98.com/

"He started his first company at the age of 11 and has not lost his love of business since.

Rafferty has worked on projects with NASA and the Canadian Space Agency and co-authored research papers on using online technology to create public awareness and participation in analog research projects. This has earned him a spot as one of the youngest members of the prestigious Explorers Club.

He founded an online marketing firm 10 years ago which has serviced a wide range of businesses ranging from small and mid-sized companies to Fortune 500’s. Through acquisitions and the creation of new ventures, he now owns a group of 6 companies with staff and clients all over the world.

His companies have done work for brands such as Time Warner, Ashley Furniture, Super Shuttle, Red Bull, Hilton, Humana, Double Tree, Mizuno, HP, and many more.

He is an international speaker who has helped thousands of businesses around the world with organization, expansion strategies, social media, and online PR and marketing."

As you can see, he's a powerhouse in building strategies to help any business worldwide.  In the next few days, we'll be sharing some golden nuggets he gave us that I know will help anyone who wants to improve their reach in their current business or just maybe start that business you've been dreaming about for years.  There is really no better time to start a business than today!

Thank you to everyone that watched the episode!  Watch the show LIVE every Tuesday at 7pm Central 8PM EST where we Spotlight Conversation with Creative Minds.  Visit www.counterpartsshow.com  

Born and Raised in The Bronx! Counterparts Show

 Yo!!!  You from Da Bronx!!??  Nice!  Welcome!  Our first episode on The Bronx from our show Counterparts was a ton of fun but we felt we barely scratched the surface.  What did you expect, we had a lifetime of memories and experiences to cover.  We will be doing a part 2 for sure.  

In the episode, we covered the building I grew up in called Chester Hall.  The address was 1058 Southern Blvd.  A beautiful pre-war building that was considered luxury living back in the 30s.  During my time living there, it was a well-kept and clean build.  Unfortunately, the years and the landlords were not kind to it and it fell under deep dispare. I am happy to report, that Chester Hall is getting a facelift and hopefully full renovation.  One of my bucket list items is to visit the building and enter the apartments I lived in.  410, 304, and 503.  

Maybe take some pictures and pay honor to the space where my creative energy was developed.  In part 2 of our Bronx series, we will cover more of the history of the boro and talk about how my grandparents kept me out of trouble.  Maybe I'll tell the story a few breakdancing stories.  Stay tuned!  

The company that built 1058 Southern Blvd or Chester Hall as I remember calling it, was called A-Re-Co (American Real Estate Company) and the neighborhood had quite a few of these buildings that were all built between 1908 - 1912. Apparently, A-Re-Co bought the last farmland. The neighborhood was known as Areco for decades. These were all built about the exact time the subway lines reached Hunts Point.

I like sharing this picture cause it was taken during the time when I was living in that building behind the train. 1058 Southern Blvd in The South Bronx!! If you lived around here during the 80s let me know! (right)


To contact us or see some of our shows, Visit our page: www.counterpartsshow.com

Hang Tight Earthlings! It will be Glorious!

 When you're afraid that someone will ruin your plans of deceiving a civilization, you must shut them down at all costs. And if they don't go away, then you must scream, threaten, cheat, and lie to make sure they can never again participate in preventing their destructive plans and their criminal activities. Especially their money flows.

But these poor souls don't realize that the criminal wants to get caught and will continue to make mistakes and say stupid things in that direction. They can't help to get tongue-tied or let a little truth slip out when they're speaking. We laugh at it but it's really a sad thing to witness. Someone who can't confront those they are lying to will stumble as so much video footage has proven. Of course, these criminals control how this info gets distributed to millions, so it gets manipulated. Many are still under a veil of lies, but many more, and I mean MANY MORE, have removed this veil to take a closer look and now know that something is wrong. It doesn't take long to see something isn't right. For me, the viewpoint shift happened in 2018 and it took about 2 days of reading and listening to someone and then seeing things for myself. Seeing it was huge and in just 2 days, I realized I had been duped for most of my life. I can only pray and hope that more people will take the time to lift that veil slightly and see what's there. Just give it chance to see the information.

The next 18 months will be glorious but very scary to many who haven't lifted the veil and those that don't even believe there is a veil will become very dangerous and destructive people. Stay away from them and protect your family and friends. God bless you all. JHS

www.counterpartsshow.com 

   

 April 29th 2020 and December 8th 2021. What a difference studying and spending all those hours on webinars and workshops trying to figure this out. Sometimes having to clear almost every word in an article just to know what the hell they're talking about. Trying to explain to friends and family why I was doing this and sometimes I was trying to explain it to myself. But here we are and I'm truly grateful.

Thank you to anyone that watched the early shows where I had a weak signal, choppy audio and all you saw was a blurry Puerto Rican with a goatee that changed colors!
The guests were always great and I know the value was there and it's the main reason I kept going. Now I've done hundreds of hours on interviews, Live streams, plus being a guest other hosts podcasts, and more. The future looks great and I thank you all for the support on this journey. we're just getting started. Love, JHS