**Houston's Film Boom: A New Era for Independent Filmmakers**

The city of Houston is experiencing a historic film boom, with millions of dollars pouring in to support local initiatives. This episode of the Public Affairs podcast explores the opportunities and challenges facing the city's film industry, and how one local filmmaker is working to ensure that the stories of Houston's community are told.

Greg Carter, a veteran filmmaker and professor at the University of Houston, shares his insights on the state's new film program, which offers a 31% tax credit to filmmakers. This incentive is a game-changer for the industry, allowing filmmakers to save hundreds of thousands of dollars on production costs. Carter also talks about his own experiences as a filmmaker, including his work on the popular TV series "Fifth Ward" and his efforts to promote independent filmmaking in the city.

The conversation also touches on the importance of representation and ownership in the film industry. Carter emphasizes the need for filmmakers to be at the table when decisions are made about the stories that are told, and how these stories can shape our understanding of the world. He also introduces the concept of the VIRON network, a new streaming platform that aims to give independent filmmakers a voice and a platform to share their stories.

If you're interested in learning more about the film industry in Houston and how you can get involved, tune in to this episode of the Public Affairs podcast. Carter shares his expertise and insights on how to navigate the industry, from getting your foot in the door to producing high-quality projects that can compete with the big players.