Introduction: A Powerhouse of Experience
In this riveting episode of The Conversation, hosted on the Immigrant Storyteller YouTube channel, Stephen Cyrus Sepher sits down with Kenan M. Spivac, a dynamic force across Hollywood, global business, and finance. From playing a pivotal role at MGM UA and John Paul Mitchell Systems to his financial acumen in investment banking and business strategy, Spivac’s career is a masterclass in adaptability and success.
Expect behind-the-scenes insights into Oscar-winning films, business strategies that shape industries, and high-level diplomacy that influences international relations.
Meet the Voices
Stephen Cyrus Sepher – The Interviewer & Host
As the host of The Conversation, he covers a wide range of topics, including humanity, entertainment, technology, fitness, and mental health, fostering deep and meaningful discussions with influential guests.
Stephen Cyrus Sepher is a filmmaker, screenwriter, producer, and podcast host. Through his YouTube channel, Immigrant Storyteller, and his podcast, The Conversation, Stephen explores compelling narratives of inspiration, adaptation, and resilience.
His career highlights include:
- Screenwriter – Best Screenplay winner for the feature film Wages of Sin.
- Writer/Actor/Producer of Bus 657 (Heist), starring Robert De Niro, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, and Dave Bautista.
- Co-star in Deadlock alongside Bruce Willis.
- Author of an upcoming book on his experiences working with Robert De Niro and navigating Hollywood as an immigrant storyteller.
Stephen is also a sought-after speaker at major conferences, including Bloomberg Media Conference, Opal Group’s Private Wealth Media Management Forum, and the Louisiana International Film Festival.
Guest Speaker
Kenan M. Spivac – A Multifaceted Leader
- Entertainment Executive – Worked at MGM UA, contributing to classics like Rain Man, Rocky, and The Sandlot.
- Finance and Business Strategist – Ran SMI Group, a global investment firm with SEC-registered banking credentials.
- Entrepreneur – Served as Vice Chairman at John Paul Mitchell Systems and led a successful wireless technology company.
- Author – Wrote The Karasic Conspiracy and Train Wreck, blending investigative insight with compelling narratives.
- Political and Diplomatic Consultant – Engaged in high-level discussions with global leaders, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Core Analysis Sections
1. Building Bridges – The Power of Authentic Connections
Spivac’s journey exemplifies how genuine relationships shape industries. He recalls his close work with Kirk Kerkorian, the legendary mogul who transformed Las Vegas and Hollywood. Despite Kerkorian’s reputation as a tough businessman, Spivac highlights his straight-shooting integrity and how personal bonds led to strategic deals, including the sale of MGM UA.
Moreover, his diplomatic engagements—like meetings with Middle Eastern leaders—demonstrate that business, politics, and storytelling all rely on the human element. Success is often less about titles and more about who truly understands and trusts you.
2. Unexpected Moments – Humor and Unscripted Insights
Spivac’s sharp wit and humor shine throughout the podcast. Whether joking about skincare routines or telling hilarious anecdotes about Charlton Heston, Tim Allen, and Anna Nicole Smith, he keeps the conversation lively.
A particularly entertaining moment? When Kerkorian’s girlfriend asked Spivac to convince the billionaire that she was more than just a gold-digger.
The humor extends beyond Hollywood, as Spivac shares how a chance business connection at MGM turned into a lifelong friendship—a testament to how the professional world is smaller than we think.
3. Navigating Complexity – Challenging Simplistic Narratives
Spivac doesn’t just tell stories—he deconstructs them. His approach to business, politics, and entertainment is deeply analytical, rejecting black-and-white thinking.
- The Business of Friendship – Spivac argues that doing business with friends isn’t nepotism; it’s smart. Trusted relationships often mean better work ethic, stronger commitment, and clearer communication.
- Politics Without Division – Though politically active, he advocates for understanding multiple perspectivesrather than falling into the trap of partisan echo chambers.
- The Art of Writing and Storytelling – Writing in different voices, including ghostwriting and adapting true events, requires both instinct and discipline—a skill Spivac has honed across business thrillers, autobiographies, and investigative works.
Key Insights and Takeaways
✔️ Relationships drive success – Whether in business, Hollywood, or diplomacy, human connection is the ultimate currency.
✔️ Humor and wit matter – The ability to laugh and connect makes even the highest-stakes discussions engaging and productive.
✔️ Complexity requires nuance – Understanding different viewpoints leads to richer conversations, smarter business, and better storytelling.
✔️ Adaptability is key – From law to entertainment to finance, Spivac proves that success isn’t about sticking to one lane—it’s about knowing how to pivot.
Conclusion
This episode of The Conversation offers a rare look into the intersection of Hollywood, finance, politics, and diplomacy. Kenan M. Spivac’s journey proves that success isn’t linear—it’s about leveraging relationships, staying adaptable, and never losing your sense of humor.
What’s your take? Have you experienced a moment where a personal connection changed your career trajectory? Share your thoughts below!nsformative? Let’s continue this conversation—share your thoughts below!
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