civic media mid mornings

The Oscars Game (Hour 2)

The Oscars Game (Hour 2)

Wed Feb 11, 2026

41:52

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Greg Bach sits down with Pete Schwaba, host of NiteLite, to talk about where entertainment and real life collide. Schwaba shares how he went from doing stand-up comedy to writing screenplays, and what it’s actually like trying to make original films in an industry that seems obsessed with sequels and franchises.

With the Oscars coming up, they swap predictions, debate possible surprises, and give some love to standout non-franchise films like One Battle After Another and Sinners. The conversation also turns local, as they talk about why tax incentives matter for growing Wisconsin’s film scene and what it takes to build something sustainable outside of Hollywood.

Schwaba lights up when the Door County Film Festival comes up, calling it proof that grassroots art still matters — and that creative communities don’t have to live in L.A. or New York to thrive.

Bottom line? If you care about original storytelling, show up for it. Support indie art.

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