David Carren is a veteran screenwriter and producer best known for his work writing for the Star Trek franchise, along with numerous television and independent film projects. With decades of experience in storytelling for both screen and television, he continues to mentor and support emerging filmmakers and writers.

Joe Grisaffi is an award-winning Houston filmmaker, actor, and producer best known for Conjoined, Lars the Emo Kid, and his decades of work supporting Texas independent film. Founder of Southwest Casting, he has earned multiple indie film festival awards for directing, producing, and acting.

Molly Vernon is an award-winning Texas filmmaker, director, producer, and educator with more than 70 film credits. Best known for acclaimed independent films including Lillian, Red Pearl, and Men in Cars, she has earned over 100 film festival awards and nominations, including IndieX Film Fest’s Best Female Director of the Year. A longtime leader in Houston independent film, she also serves as a mentor and film educator throughout Texas.