CREATIVE PRODUCING: Shaping Story from Idea to Screen

April 25, 2pm - In this behind-the-scenes online workshop, veteran producer and film sales executive Jeff Porter joins Creative Producer Silvia “Punkin” Mathis, founder of Punkin Studios, for a practical conversation about one of the most influential and often misunderstood roles in filmmaking: the Creative Producer.

Drawing from their combined experience across development, production, financing, and distribution, Jeff and Silvia will explore how Creative Producers help shape a project from its earliest spark of an idea through script development, creative collaboration, packaging, and ultimately bringing a film to audiences. Together they will share real-world insight into how Creative Producers balance storytelling, strategy, and leadership while guiding projects from concept to screen.

This session offers filmmakers a clearer understanding of how the Creative Producer helps build the team around a story, protect the heart of the material, and navigate the practical realities of the industry.

Speaker Bio – Jeff Porter

Jeff Porter is a veteran producer and film sales executive with decades of experience working across film production, financing, and international distribution. As a partner in Porter Craig Film & Media, Jeff has built a career helping filmmakers bring projects from development to the global marketplace. His work spans independent features, studio collaborations, and international co-productions, giving him a rare vantage point across both the creative and commercial sides of the industry.

Over the course of his career, Jeff has been involved in the financing, packaging, production, and distribution of more than one hundred film and television projects. His expertise includes international sales, distribution strategy, project packaging, and helping filmmakers navigate the complex realities of bringing a film to market. Jeff works closely with producers, directors, financiers, and distributors around the world to position projects for success with both audiences and buyers.

Known for his deep understanding of the global film business and his long-standing relationships across the industry, Jeff brings a strategic perspective that bridges creative storytelling with the realities of financing, sales, and distribution.

Speaker Bio – Silvia “Punkin” Mathis

Silvia “Punkin” Mathis is a Creative Producer, writer, actress, and Gold Record singer-songwriter whose work spans film, television, publishing, and music. She is the founder of Punkin Studios, where she develops and produces story-driven projects rooted in emotional truth and cultural authenticity.

Her producing credits include Hallmark Mahogany’s Spring Breakthrough and A Nashville Legacy, and she co-executive produced The Choir alongside gospel icon Fred Hammond. Silvia is currently producing Bewildered in collaboration with Angel Studios and The Wolper Organization.

Known for her ability to collaborate across disciplines and shepherd projects from concept through production, Silvia brings a unique blend of creative vision, storytelling instinct, and strategic leadership to every project she develops.