Emmy Winner Bridget Stokes on Sketch Comedy, Episodic Directing & Indie Grit

What does it take to go from indie filmmaker to Emmy-winning director? In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with Bridget Stokes—trailblazing director of A Black Lady Sketch Show, Hello, Jack!, and Boy Genius—to unpack her inspiring rise through the film and television world. From waiting tables in New York to winning an Emmy as the first woman in her category, Bridget shares the real hustle behind her success.

She dives deep into the contrasts between episodic TV and feature films, her collaborative producing roots, and her passion for building immersive story worlds. Plus, hear the behind-the-scenes story of The Rachel Divide, her pivot into children's television during the pandemic, and why she believes now is the perfect time to chase what sets your soul on fire.

🎯 Key Takeaways:

• How to transition from indie film to episodic directing
• Lessons from working on hit shows like The Goldbergs, Gabby Duran, and A Black Lady Sketch Show
• Tips on collaboration, creative longevity, and shadowing the right way
• Why staying true to your storytelling voice is the only way forward

📲 Follow Bridget on Instagram @murphystokes and on LinkedIn.