Can Indie Animation Studios Survive?
The Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast
What happens when two independent animation studio heads discuss the future of their studios? Hopefully some wisdom, definitely some laughs, and a side of frustration. In this episode, Tom Bancroft (CEO/Founder of Pencilish Animation Studios) and Dominic Carola (Founder/Director of Premise Entertainment) discuss the current needs and future direction of the industry.
info_outline
Writing for Disney TV! (with James Eason- Garcia)
The Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast
In this episode, Tom and Tony interview one of the creative forces on many modern Disney TV shows: James Eason- Garcia. James is currently the co-executive producer and story editor for the Pre-K series Marvel's Iron Man and His Awesome Friends. We talk to James about his career as a writer on many Disney/ Marvel/ Star WarsTV series like, Pupstruction, Gabby's Dollhouse, and Star Wars Young Jedi Adventures. Find out how he became a writer and now producer on some of Disney's biggest IPs!
info_outline
With the voice of Winnie the Pooh, Tigger and Darkwing Duck, Jim Cummings
The Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast
This is the one! Voice-over actor extraordinaire, the legendary Jim Cummings, sits with the Bancroft Brothers and talks about some of his favorite characters. Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Darkwing Duck, and Ray from The Princess and the Frog are just the start of his A-list character roles. Have you ever wondered what it takes to make a career as a voice-over actor? Like honey from a bear, hear it straight from Winnie the Pooh himself! Available on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcast.
info_outline
The Artists Mind: The Secret to Success by Stephen Silver
The Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast
In this episode, we welcome back the great character designer, Stephen Silver! This was a pre-recorded lecture he gave at our own Animation Y'all Expo in 2025, which we wanted to share for the first time on our animation podcast! Stephen, who has also been an artist recruiter at Disney Animation, gives his guidance to artists on how to approach their career and their passion all in this lecture! He's been on both sides of the portfolio review, so sit back and hear a very unique viewpoint from an inspirational speaker!
info_outline
Not Just A Goof with “A Goofy Movie” director, Kevin Lima and 2d animation director, Juan Urbina
The Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast
Join Tom and Tony as they talk with Kevin Lima, the original director of the Disney classic "A Goofy Movie," and Juan Urbina, Animation Director and owner of Venturia Animation. They discuss their adventures making the popular documentary "Not Just A Goof," which is currently screening on Disney+ and has been nominated for an Annie Award. We share behind-the-scenes stories of this unlikely documentary about an unlikely film that has gone on to change lives!
info_outline
Editing an Animated Feature with Tom Scott
The Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast
Editing an Animated Feature with Tom Scott
info_outline
Getting Your Short Into the World With Director/Creator Aaron Blaise & Producer Nick Burch
The Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast
With their short film “Snow Bear” short listed for an Academy Award nomination Tom and Tony speak to Director/ Animator Aaron Blaise and producer Nick Burch about what to do after you’ve made your short. We get into submitting to film festivals, award shows, distribution and opportunities that come from making a short animated masterpiece.
info_outline
The Bros (finally!) review “K-Pop Demon Hunters"
The Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast
In the first half of the episode, Tom and Tony sit down to discuss some of the unexpected theatrical animation hits of the year and slide into the unexpected: a film review! In the second half, the brothers review (and critique) the biggest film of the year: “K-Pop Demon Hunters”!
info_outline
Shannon Hallstein at Animation Y'all Expo 2025
The Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast
In this podcast, straight from Animation Y'all Expo 2025, is the amazing visual development artist Shannon Hallstein! In this art lecture, she discusses her approach to working in Procreate, her creative influences, and telling stories using color, composition, and layout. But, because she had many physical examples on the screens in person, we recommend viewing her art on Instagram while listening (@the_blue_leviathan). Enjoy this mini-Masterclass with Shannon Hallstein!
info_outline
Prep & Landing: The Snowball Protocol Executive Producers, Kevin Deters and Stevie Wermers-Skelton
The Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast
Tis the season to talk about Christmas animated films and there is none that brings more cheer than Disney's long running "Prep and Landing" animated specials! Tom and Tony rangle some reindeer fun with their interview with Prep & Landing: The Snowball Protocol Executive Producers, Kevin Deters and Stevie Wermers-Skelton! These directing/producing/writing partners have helmed all of the Prep and Landing Christmas spirit through the years! Join our lively discussion wherever you listen to your podcasts!
info_outlineTony (without Tom this time) sits down with the founders of Steamroller Animation- a new independent animation studio that is creating "steam" throughout the industry! Innovative training programs and interesting projects abound at Steamroller. Have a listen to hear how they are trying to make a difference in the US animation market!