Mack Wilds and Greg Cally pull up to Mornings with Mero to talk about it all — his return to Hot 97, the Surrounded by Stories film festival (Sept 5th at SVA Theater), the Michael K. Williams Creative Fellowship, and what it really takes to build space for Black filmmakers in Hollywood.
Mack and his creative partner Greg Calloway break down:
Why they started Surrounded by Stories and how it’s different from traditional film festivals (no submission fees!)
The films screening this year — including world premieres from Andre Royo (The Wire), Naturi Naughton (Power), and more
The Michael K. Williams Creative Fellowship and how the late legend fought for Black creators behind the scenes
Mack’s thoughts on returning to music and what timing means to him now as a father
The hilarious Waffle House story that proves kids will always humble you
Why Black editors, sound engineers, and entertainment lawyers matter just as much as Black actors and directors
Plus: Mero and the morning crew talk Knicks, Staten Island, Wu-Tang analogies, and why Jay-Z knowing your name is the ultimate flex.
🎟️ Get tickets: surroundedxwater.com
📸 Follow: @surroundedxwater on Instagram
📅 September 5th | SVA Theater, NYC
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