Web Series – The Brian Hogan
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A Community-Built Indie Series About Keeping It Together When Your World Is Falling Apart

Short rides. Hard Truths. Real People.

In Collaboration
ABOUT

A ride-share driver becomes an accidental witness to the private lives of strangers navigating love, identity, and belonging.

SYNOPSIS:

#FareLife gives us a peek inside the lives of Connecticut strangers from all walks of life as they ride from place to place with everyone’s favorite FareRide driver, affectionately called “buddy”. From drag queens to estranged parents to drunk strangers, follow “buddy’s” adventures as he navigates the streets and the pitfalls of living, in this zany, touching and often times irreverent ride of a lifetime.

What Is #FareLife
DIRECTOR’S STATEMENT

I grew up in Connecticut in a time when being openly LGBTQ+ still meant living in secrecy. Storytelling became my escape and eventually my calling.
#FareLife was born from the idea that the most powerful stories often happen in ordinary places between strangers. Through Story Labs, we’re also using the show to train the next generation of filmmakers right here in Connecticut.
Our goal is simple: create meaningful stories while strengthening the creative community that makes them possible.

I grew up in Connecticut in a time when being openly LGBTQ+ still meant living in secrecy. Storytelling became my escape and eventually my calling. #FareLife was born from the idea that the most powerful stories often happen in ordinary places between strangers. Through Story Labs, we’re also using the show to train the next generation of filmmakers right here in Connecticut. Our goal is simple: create meaningful stories while strengthening the creative community that makes them possible.

Lastly I hope to represent the infinite diversity to which I’ve born witness in both the mundane and sacred moments of life. If our series can also help to normalize the idea of LGBTQIAP+ lifestyles in the hearts and minds of my fellow human travelers on this journey we call being alive, then I’m even more blessed.

Why This Matters Now

In times of social and political unrest, creativity is a radical act. Filmmaking is collaboration at a time when division dominates. Supporting artists and training young storytellers strengthens the social fabric.

This show exists to strengthen Connecticut’s creative ecosystem and elevate marginalized voices while telling meaningful stories.
We plan to become CT’s first viral narrative IP. You gettin’ in?

Ride along with us

Early access to episodes, premieres, Q&As, behind-the-scenes, and Story Labs workshops.

Why This Matters Now
Story Labs
The #FareLife Production Model
Story Labs is the production model behind #FareLife. Each season doubles as a training ground for emerging filmmakers, creating real career pathways while producing meaningful stories.
1. Local Paid Crew
We prioritize hiring Connecticut-based artists and technicians.
2. Youth Workforce Pipeline
Through CT Story Labs, high school students observe live production and learn from working professionals.
3. Higher Education Mentorship
Undergrads and Graduate students step into paid crew roles alongside industry professionals.
4. Community Partnership
We collaborate with local businesses, universities, and arts organizations to keep creative capital in Connecticut.
Ride along with us

Early access to episodes, premieres, Q&As, behind-the-scenes, and Story Labs workshops.

Awards & Press

August 2024

UFVA Official Screening

#FareLife Season 1 was accepted as a rough cut to screen at the University Film & Video Association 2024 Annual Conference in Cleveland OH.

September 2024

SHU Community Theatre Sneak Preview

A sneak peak at Season 1 of #FareLife screened at the Sacred Heart University Community Theater Orientation Event for incoming graduate student filmmakers.

May 2025

Season1 Official Trailer Debut Online

Check out the first official trailer for Season 1 of #FareLife, the web series that reminds you that you always have a “buddy.”
Leadership Team
Meet Brian

Hogan is the co-creator, writer, director, producer, and lead actor of #FareLife. He is a screenwriter, filmmaker, and clinical therapist with an MFA in storytelling from Sacred Heart University, where he also teaches. Brian has produced over 100 short films since 2017 and is a multiple award-winning screenwriter and director.

Meet Tyler

Tyler Stirling is the co-creator, director, producer, and editor of #FareLife. He holds an MFA in Film Production from Sacred Heart University, where he is also a guest lecturer. Tyler is a multiple award-winning short film director and freelance video editor whose work includes documentaries, commercials, social media, and narrative shorts.

Meet Tyler

Tyler Stirling is the co-creator, director, producer, and editor of #FareLife. He holds an MFA in Film Production from Sacred Heart University, where he is also a guest lecturer. Tyler is a multiple award-winning short film director and freelance video editor whose work includes documentaries, commercials, social media, and narrative shorts.

Learn More
MEET ALLIE

Allie O’Brien is the Executive Producer of #FareLife. She earned her MFA in Film Production from Sacred Heart University, where she also teaches graduate and undergraduate production courses. Allie has produced over 75 short films and brings a strong focus on bold storytelling and underrepresented voices.

Our Advisory Board

A small and growing group of leaders helping guide the long-term growth of #FareLife and the Story Labs Production Model that powers it.

Todd Barnes

Degrees: JD

Professor | Filmmaker | Entertainment Lawyer

Reaney Critchell

Degrees: M.Ed., LPCA

Child Therapist | Educator

Todd Barnes

Degrees: JD

Professor | Filmmaker | Entertainment Lawyer

Todd Barnes ,JD

Professor | Filmmaker | Entertainment Lawyer

Todd Bio:

Todd Barnes is a filmmaker and entertainment lawyer whose work spans independent film, commercial production, and international distribution. He and his brother won the Best of Next Award at the Sundance Film Festival for their film The Locksmith (aka Homewrecker), with additional work appearing at Cannes, on Showtime, and through Canal+. His commercial clients have included IBM, Adobe, and Victorinox. Todd brings deep industry experience in storytelling, production, and distribution to help guide the long-term growth of #FareLife.
Reaney Bio: Reaney Critchell is a psychotherapist specializing in work with children, adolescents, and adults, using evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, and solution-focused therapy. She holds a Master’s degree in Education from Fordham University and a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health from Sacred Heart University, where she also served as a student advisory board member and mentor. With a background in both counseling and education, Reaney brings a strong understanding of emotional development, family systems, and youth support to the #FareLife Story Labs initiative.

Reaney Critchell M.Ed., LPCA

Child Therapist | Educator

Todd Bio:

Todd Barnes is a filmmaker and entertainment lawyer whose work spans independent film, commercial production, and international distribution. He and his brother won the Best of Next Award at the Sundance Film Festival for their film The Locksmith (aka Homewrecker), with additional work appearing at Cannes, on Showtime, and through Canal+. His commercial clients have included IBM, Adobe, and Victorinox. Todd brings deep industry experience in storytelling, production, and distribution to help guide the long-term growth of #FareLife.
Reaney Bio: Reaney Critchell is a psychotherapist specializing in work with children, adolescents, and adults, using evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, and solution-focused therapy. She holds a Master’s degree in Education from Fordham University and a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health from Sacred Heart University, where she also served as a student advisory board member and mentor. With a background in both counseling and education, Reaney brings a strong understanding of emotional development, family systems, and youth support to the #FareLife Story Labs initiative.

Todd Barnes ,JD

Professor | Filmmaker | Entertainment Lawyer

Lorem Ipsum:

Todd Barnes is a filmmaker and entertainment lawyer whose work spans independent film, commercial production, and international distribution. He and his brother won the Best of Next Award at the Sundance Film Festival for their film The Locksmith (aka Homewrecker), with additional work appearing at Cannes, on Showtime, and through Canal+. His commercial clients have included IBM, Adobe, and Victorinox. Todd brings deep industry experience in storytelling, production, and distribution to help guide the long-term growth of #FareLife.
Reaney Bio: Reaney Critchell is a psychotherapist specializing in work with children, adolescents, and adults, using evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, and solution-focused therapy. She holds a Master’s degree in Education from Fordham University and a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health from Sacred Heart University, where she also served as a student advisory board member and mentor. With a background in both counseling and education, Reaney brings a strong understanding of emotional development, family systems, and youth support to the #FareLife Story Labs initiative.
Our Growing Family
Creative projects thrive through collaboration. We are grateful to the institutions and local businesses helping bring #FareLife to life.
We are so grateful to welcome Sacred Heart University and their Film & TV Master’s Program onboard as our Official Academic Partner and major ongoing in-kind donor. Thanks for being our Pioneer!
Our Corporate & Institutional Partners
Our Local Sponsors
  • Paradise Pizza
  • Gaetano’s Deli
  • Stratford Skillet
  • Dao Fusion
  • Main Hing Chinese
  • Emerald City LLC
  • Kicker Pictures
  • Town of Stratford
  • Town of Fairfield
  • City of New Haven
Join Our Growing Network
Support Youth Training, Workforce Development & Under-represented Voice

#FareLife is more than an indie web series. It’s a storytelling initiative designed to elevate under-represented voices while building a sustainable creative ecosystem in Connecticut.

Through our Story Labs production model, each season of the show trains emerging filmmakers, creates paid opportunities for local artists, and partners with educational institutions to develop the next generation of storytellers.
By becoming a partner, you help make meaningful stories possible while investing directly in youth training, workforce development, and the future of Connecticut’s creative community.

Viewed through the lens of a middle-aged gay filmmaker moonlighting as a ride share driver learning to navigate his own life while he navigates the streets of Connecticut, #FareLife boldly explores not only what it means to be out, but it what it means to truly learn how to be out, and proud.

Become A Partner
STILL UNSURE?

If you have questions we’ve got answers. Check out our complete Partnership Overview to see our “Proof of 501c3 Status Letter,” meet the crew, watch a trailer and all five episodes of season 1 as a proof of concept, and learn more about our mission to elevate marginalized voices and support local artists.

Partnership Overview
Episodes

#FareLife will release publicly on YouTube in Summer 2027. Enjoy and exclusive first look.

Season 1 - Buddy’s First Day
1. #NoFare

Buddy signs up for the FareRide app while his sister signs him up for dating app.

2. #DragQueens

Buddy meets a sassy, homophobic drag queen revealing his own internalized homophobia.

3. #SafetyFirst

Buddy suffers two drunk strangers who do drugs and make out in the back seat.

4. #JerseyGirl

Buddy drives a girl estranged from her parents all the way back home to New Jersey.

5. #WhereTo?

Buddy picks up a familiar face and embarks on a brand new, wildly unexpected journey.

5. #WhereTo?

Buddy picks up a familiar face and embarks on a brand new, wildly unexpected journey.

4. #JerseyGirl

Buddy drives a girl estranged from her parents all the way back home to New Jersey.

3. #SafetyFirst

Buddy suffers two drunk strangers who do drugs and make out in the back seat.

2. #DragQueens

Buddy meets a sassy, homophobic drag queen revealing his own internalized homophobia.

1. #NoFare

Buddy signs up for the FareRide app while his sister signs him up for dating app.

Ride along with us

Early access to episodes, premieres, Q&As, behind-the-scenes, and Story Labs workshops.

CREDITS
Created by
  • Brian Hogan
  • & Tyler Stirling
written By
  • Brian Hogan
DIRECTED BY
  • Brian Hogan
  • & Tyler Stirling
STARRING
  • Brian Hogan
  • & Hannah Rechtschaffen
PRODUCED BY
  • Brian Hogan
  • Tyler Stirling
  • Allie O'Brien
Theme Music By
  • YouthXL
  • Song: "Yoga"
Season 1
GUEST STARS
  • Drag Queen: Johnny Gottsegen
  • Drunk Couple: Frank Provenzano & Janet Aldrich
  • Jersey Girl: Brittnay Hottman
  • Voice of Mom: Catherine Hogan
CREW
  • Director of Photography: Mike Galeotti
  • 1st Assistant Director: Allie O’Brien & Jules Tizian
  • Edited by: Tyler Stirling
  • Lighting Designers: Matt Valade & Nyle Higgs
  • Special Effects Supervisor: Connor Rog
  • Hair & Make Up: Kim Ferrera & Wyz Valcourt
  • Wardrobe: Wyz Valcourt
  • 1st Assistant Camera: Tyler Stirling
  • 2nd Assistant Camera: Tyler Stirling
  • Gaffer: Kiera Cecchini
  • Sound Recordist: Jeff Lamson
  • Process Trailer Team: Lauren Lowther, Caleb Berger, JJ DeGraffenreid
  • Production Assistants: TBD
get Fare warning

Cruise along on this journey with everyone’s favorite “buddy” and stay in-the-know on screenings, episode drops, premieres and other exciting updates.

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