our story

The Cast Collective began with one simple goal: to help share people’s stories. In a time where there is so much division in our culture, we need to be able to listen to each other to understand rather than just to respond. Erin wanted to create a space where free thought and speech would be encouraged and celebrated. After moving to Nashville in 2008, she watched this city grow and flourish into a hub for young talent, fresh perspectives, and creative genius. She graduated from Vanderbilt in 2012 and video production became her new home for creative expression. Flash forward, she now has 11 years of experience in production and broadcasting, much of which came from her role as the Director of Video Production and Broadcasting at Vanderbilt Athletics (the first female to ever hold that position). Erin also has years of knowledge and experience in short-form content creation and live television, occupying every role from live camera operation and audio engineering to color commentary and sideline reporting. She has directed, produced, and edited high-quality, long-form content that aired on major networks like SEC Network and ESPN. Her deepest passion lies in long-form documentary-style filmmaking.

Her newest venture, The Cast Collective, started as a video production company and quickly expanded to be much more than that. The space is a creative hub where individuals can get guidance and tools to bring their own ideas to life. The plans for this company extend far beyond 16th Avenue, but we wouldn’t want to spoil the surprise :)

— ERIN DUGAN

MEET THE FOUNDER & DIRECTOR

  • Sean Dugan

    Head of Editing & Production

    Sean graduated from The University of Tennessee with a degree in Marketing and a collateral in Entrepreneurship. He did music-related video production after college before taking on the lead production role for a major comedy podcast. Now full time with The Cast Collective, Sean specializes in podcast production and video editing (and is a master in all things YouTube). Favorite things: Stand up comedy. NBA basketball. Dogs.

  • Leah Dietrich

    Director of Operations

    Leah recently joined The Cast Collective as the Director of Operations after over 2 years of working at United Talent Agency as a Growth Strategy Analyst/Consultant. Originally from New Jersey, Leah moved to Nashville after attending Pennsylvania State University with a desire to work in the talent industry. Her passion for marketing research, organizing, and developing new business ideas make her a great asset at The Cast Collective, where she does a variety of tasks. She loves to spend her free time reading, running, traveling and long weekends to spend with her friends and family.

  • Corey Williams

    Videography & Post-Production

    Corey is a videographer, photographer, and editor with a true passion for the arts. He is always looking to expand his knowledge and expertise. Corey grew up in a small town in Alabama and moved to Nashville in 2015 with a love for art, adventure, and all things outdoors. When he’s not behind the camera getting the shot or behind a computer adding some flare to a project, Corey can be found with his dog Caesar cuddled up on the couch, exploring the outdoors, listening to music, or working on an art project.

  • Michaela Dolph

    Video Editor

    Michaela is a videographer, photographer, and editor originally from Gainesville, Virginia. She is also a recent graduate from Belmont University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Emerging Media and Video Production. During her time at Belmont she worked hands-on with podcast producing, concert photography, and all things video production. In her free time you’ll find Michaela watching Gilmore Girls, cuddling with her roommate’s cat, or attending one of her friends' various live music gigs here in Nashville.

interns

  • Toby

    Toby is a senior Audio Engineering Technology Major and Accounting Minor. He is from Asheville, North Carolina, but moved to Nashville to attend Belmont University. Outside of school, Toby enjoys attending concerts and making music with friends. He is looking forward to working with The Cast Collective on the Stained Glass Series this fall.

  • Ainsley

    Ainsley is a Motion Pictures Production Major with a Photography Minor from Birmingham, Alabama! She loves all things film and photography related. When she’s not behind a camera, you can find her in a hot yoga class or in the corner of a coffee shop with a good book! She is excited to gain more experience in the world of production!

  • Sam

    Sam is a Creative & Entertainment Industries Major with a Social Media Management Minor. He is from Fair Lawn, New Jersey! He is super passionate about all things pop culture and social media, but when he's not online you can catch Sam playing weekly trivia with friends and finding the best chicken tenders in Nashville. He is so excited to be working with The Cast Collective and cannot wait to collaborate with the team!