How do you actually build IP as an independent creator?
In this episode, Alex Stolz is joined by Nuno Bernardo, IP creator, producer and founder of beActive, whose work has explored how stories can move across platforms, formats and audiences long before it became widely discussed.
Drawing on more than two decades of experience, Nuno shares how his approach to IP developed, from early experiments in multi-platform storytelling to building projects that have travelled globally, been adapted across multiple territories, and sustained audiences over time.
The conversation explores why IP isn’t defined by scale, but by audience connection, and why it’s ultimately the audience that determines whether something becomes IP.
They also dive into practical ways creators can approach their work differently, from designing stories with expansion in mind, to testing ideas through smaller formats, building early traction, and using those signals to guide what comes next.
Along the way, Nuno shares lessons from both successes and failures, including what happens when projects are over-planned without real audience engagement, and how independent creators can think more strategically about long-term value.
A clear and practical conversation for anyone looking to move beyond one-off projects and build work that can grow, connect and endure.
About Nuno Bernardo
We’ve just opened applications for a new programme from Future of Film.
Story Founders is an 8-week accelerator designed to help storytellers build projects – and creative practices – that can endure.
Applications are now open:
👉 https://futureoffilm.live/storyfounders/
If you’re working on a screen project – or know someone who is – we’d encourage you to take a look.