What's the most exciting reel you've come across lately?
I am really impressed by the work coming out of the design and technology collectives like Tronic and Firstborn.

The best cost-cutting tip you've picked up over the years?
Brilliant creative and treating people with respect - it's hard to get a favor if you are a jackass.

Your best excuse for going over budget?
We had to add a week of re-touching to make a high-priced celebrity not look like Skeletor in her close-up.

The best way to woo a client?
"... So Bob, how are the kids?"

The craziest pitch you've ever encountered?
"We have to shoot this new business video in Las Vegas." (And we did).

The buzz word or term you are sick to death of hearing?
"It is what it is."

Do you TiVo?
Yes, keeps the roommate relationship copasetic.

The most memorable act of God?
On the roof of Trump Tower shooting a spot with The Donald and the wind picks up: cue cards go flying and - no joke - he had the PA holding them (who was working for free) fired! Well, maybe just replaced. But it was classic to see The Donald going off on this poor guy trying to hold up cue cards in 30mph winds.

What are you going to do when you grow up?
Invent something to sell on late night TV and retire.

What triggers your inspiration?
Planet Earth is the most inspiring series I have seen in years. It's pushing the limits of film technology to see the planet as never seen before - just incredible to watch. I would love to be a part of a project of that scale.

Matthew Mattingly is the producer for newly-founded agency Johannes Leonardo, New York. Prior to that, he worked for BBDO and JWT in New York.