What does SAG-AFTRA actually do for actors—and how canindependent filmmakers work with union talent?

In this episode of Set Talks, host Nick Fiorellasits down with Sonny G, President of SAG-AFTRA Colorado, to break down the realities of working as a performer in today’s film and television industry.

Sonny has spent nearly two decades performing on stage andscreen and now leads the SAG-AFTRA Colorado local, advocating for actors across Colorado and Wyoming while helping strengthen the region’s growing film community.

Together, Nick and Sonny dive into:

• What SAG-AFTRA is and how the union protectsperformers
• How independent filmmakers can work with union actors (even onlow-budget projects)
• Common misconceptions about SAG contracts and minimums
• The role of unions in on-set safety, fair wages, and protecting actorlikeness
• How SAG-AFTRA is addressing AI and performer protections in theentertainment industry
• Why Colorado has incredible acting talent and why the state’s filmindustry is gaining momentum
• What the future looks like for film production in Colorado

They also discuss the growing collaboration across Colorado’s creative organizations, the momentum building in the local industry, and how actors and filmmakers can better connect to create more opportunities in the region.

If you’re an actor, filmmaker, producer, or creativeworking in Colorado, this episode is packed with insights about the industry, unions, and where the Colorado film community is heading next.

Learn more:
https://www.sagaftra.org/colorado

https://www.sagaftra.org/download-new-member-app

https://www.facebook.com/sagaftracolorado

Follow on Instagram @sagaftra

Follow Sonny on Instagram @sonnygactor

Sonny’s Work:

https://resumes.actorsaccess.com/sonnyG

Our Church Think’s we’re Dating: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9408462/

Set Talks is a podcast exploring the Colorado filmindustry and the creatives shaping it.

Hosted by filmmaker Nick Fiorella, each episodefeatures conversations with filmmakers, actors, producers, crew, and industry leaders about storytelling, career strategy, and the future of film and television in Colorado.

Follow Set Talks for more conversations with the creativesshaping the industry.

Connect with the LocalColorado Film community!

Become a member of WIFMCO - https://www.wifmco.org/members

Become a Member at CFVA - https://www.cfva.com/memberships

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00:00 Introduction

02:39 Sonny G

04:02 President of SAG-AFTRA Colorado

06:49 The local Colorado scene

11:53 What is SAG-AFTRA?

13:56 Will AI replace actors?

15:06 Sonny’s message to the community

18:46 Is working with SAG-AFTRA difficult?

25:37 Elevate your production with SAG-AFTRA

27:03 Misconceptions about SAG-AFTRA

28:31 Tips for working with SAG-AFTRA

32:53 Colorado Film Industry

39:13 Working as an Actor in Colorado

42:12 Is Colorado ready for the film industry?

48:11 A successful Colorado Film Industry

50:22 Follow SAG-AFTRA and get involved