Ep 265: Finding the Funny in Life’s Hardest Stories with Nicole Magerko
🎙️ Episode IntroWhat happens when comedy collides with life’s most challenging topics? In this episode, host Damien Swaby sits down with Nicole Magerko — a Chicago-based comedy screenwriter, producer, and founder of Pine Grove Productions. Nicole’s work thrives at the intersection of humor and humanity, shining a light on aging, caregiving, and the often-overlooked everyday struggles that bind us together.From the personal turning point that inspired her company, to her evolving voice as a creator in the film and TV world, Nicole shares the realities of building a career that is both creatively fulfilling and socially resonant.📒 Show NotesIn this episode, you’ll hear about:🎬 The beginnings of Pine Grove ProductionsNicole opens up about how a quarter-life crisis led her to start a company dedicated to telling heartfelt, comedic stories about the human condition.💡 Why humor matters in heavy conversationsHow laughter can be a tool for connection when exploring subjects like aging, family caregiving, and identity.🛠️ The process behind the craftNicole shares her writing and producing approach — blending lived experience with creative storytelling to make work that feels both authentic and entertaining.🚀 Challenges and opportunities for emerging filmmakersWhat it takes to stand out in the crowded film and TV landscape, and how she’s navigating an evolving industry as a fresh voice.❤️ Life lessons from comedyWhy Nicole believes comedy is more than entertainment — it’s a way to confront fear, embrace imperfection, and build empathy.W: https://www.nicolemagerko.comUse Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY10% Off Molly Bz