Noir in Media
Noir in Media highlights the people shaping today's media and culture. Hosted by Natalie Nadeen, the show features conversations with creatives and industry professionals across film, television, music, and digital media. Together, they unpack their journeys, the motivations behind their work, and the realities of building a career in the industry.
From spotlighting rising talent to honouring legends and recognizing the unsung voices behind the scenes, Natalie goes beyond the headlines, pulling back the curtain on the people shaping the culture we consume.
Recent Episodes
6
Oct. 15, 2026
The Strategy Behind the Spotlight | Feat. Amira de Vera
In this episode of Noir in Media, Natalie Nadeen sits down with entertainment publicist and Project Four PR founder Amira de Vera, who shares her expertise on building visibility and lasting careers in Canada's entertainment industry. With over 15 years of experience, Amira offers insights into what makes a story newsworthy, the evolving media landscape, and publicity's role in building a Canadian star system. She also reflects on her career journey, entrepreneurship, and the importance of repre
5
July 16, 2026
From Passion to Profit: Building Sustainable Careers in Entertainment | Feat. Tracy Paulotte
In this episode of Noir in Media, Natalie Nadeen sits down with business operations consultant and event producer Tracy Paulotte to explore the often-overlooked business side of the entertainment industry. Together, they discuss breaking into media behind the scenes, turning creative passion into a sustainable career, navigating funding and entrepreneurship, building an authentic personal brand, and why collaboration, community, and understanding the business of your craft are essential to long-
4
July 2, 2026
Why Being "Weird" Is Your Greatest Creative Strength | Feat. Shanice Bowrin
In this episode of Noir in Media, Natalie Nadeen sits down with writer, actor, and filmmaker Shanice Bowrin to explore her unconventional journey into filmmaking, creating opportunities outside the traditional system, and telling stories rooted in horror, Caribbean folklore, family, and Black queerness. Together, they discuss authentic storytelling, independent filmmaking, representation beyond stereotypes, and why embracing what makes you different may be the key to building a lasting creative
3
June 18, 2026
From Creator to Community Builder | Feat. Matthew Kelly
In this episode of Noir in Media, Natalie is joined by Matthew Kelly to discuss his 13-year journey through Canada's media industry. From founding M Works and directing more than 300 music videos to mentoring emerging filmmakers and launching the M Works Film Festival, Matthew shares insights on independent filmmaking, entrepreneurship, and the power of consistency. Follow Matthew Kelly (M Works) Instagram (M Works) Instagram (M Works Film Festival) TikTok YouTube
2
June 4, 2026
How One Opera Singer Is Bridging the Gap Between Classical & Modern Culture | Feat. Christina Smith
In this episode of Noir in Media, Natalie welcomes opera singer, actress, and cultural innovator Christina Smith to discuss redefining the role of a classical artist in the digital age. They delve into topics such as arts representation, the fusion of classical and modern influences, the distinction between community and audience, the significance of sponsorship and mentorship, and how her commitment to authenticity has shaped a career that challenges norms and makes classical music more accessi
1
May 21, 2026
From Caribbean Roots to Toronto Screens | Feat. Julisa Marcel
In this episode of Noir in Media, Natalie is joined by Julisa Marcel, who shares her journey from a pre-med student in the US Virgin Islands to a successful writer and director in Toronto. She discusses the importance of self-awareness, the pursuit of passion over family expectations, and the power of resilience in building a creative career. Follow Julisa Marcel: IMDB Instagram Substack TikTok
Recent Blog Posts
Sept. 24, 2026
More Than a Film Festival: How M Works Expanded His Annual Celebration of Film Into a Three-Day Community Experience
On September 9, I had the pleasure of attending the fourth annual M Works Film Festival. As someone fortunate enough to work in Toronto's arts and entertainment scene, I find it both rewarding and exciting to attend events that celebrate and support…
July 21, 2026
The Business Behind the Arts: Why Creative Careers Need More Than Talent
We often celebrate the finished product—a sold-out concert, an award-winning film, a successful podcast, or a viral campaign. But behind every creative success story is something we rarely talk about: the systems, strategy, and people making it all …
July 8, 2026
How Shanice Bowrin Is Redefining Independent Filmmaking Through Authentic Storytelling
In creative industries, there's often pressure to fit into a formula—to tell stories that feel familiar, marketable, or expected. But what happens when your most authentic ideas don't fit neatly into those boxes? For writer, actor, and filmmaker Sh…