Best Flyover Indies Podcasts (2025)

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Discovering Rosario Dawson, Winning Over Burt Reynolds, and Embarrassing Yourself in Front of Spike Lee with Van Hayden 46:36

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2M ago46:36

46:36

What actually goes into running a movie set? In this episode, we sit down with a legendary first assistant director whose resume reads like a film studies syllabus. From humble beginnings in Minnesota to working with huge directors on big sets, this conversation spans unforgettable set stories, navigating chaos with diplomacy, and the real unsung r…

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Navigating the Creator Economy: Authenticity, Burnout & Building Community with OnlyAubss 36:46

2M ago36:46

36:46

What does it take to build a social media following while staying true to yourself? In this episode, we sit down with Aubrey Regner (@OnlyAubss), a Minnesota-based content creator who shares her journey from making Disney videos to capturing the heart of the Upper Midwest with her fresh perspective. We dive into the realities of influencer life, in…

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Championing Indie Film & Creative Growth in MN with Andrew Peterson 52:11

3M ago52:11

52:11

In this episode, Matt sits down with Andrew Peterson, a filmmaker, producer, and advocate for independent artists. Andrew shares his journey from location manager to executive director at FilmNorth, highlighting his experiences working with iconic filmmakers like David Lynch and his time at Sundance. They discuss the evolving film industry, the pow…

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Filmmaking, Finance, and Existentialism with Dave Ash 44:00

3M ago44:00

44:00

How do you balance a career in corporate finance with a passion for filmmaking? David Ash—writer, director, and creator of Incompleteness—shares his journey from writing screenplays in Excel to producing an award-winning TV series. We dive into the creative process, the challenges of indie filmmaking, and the philosophical ideas behind his work, in…

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Designing Games, Scoring Films, & Rewriting the Rules with Charlie McCarron 51:37

4M ago51:37

51:37

In this episode, host Matt Osterman sits down with Minnesota film composer and board game designer Charlie McCarron to discuss the intersection of music, storytelling, and game design. Charlie shares his journey from aspiring filmmaker to composer and how his love for problem-solving led him to board game creation. They explore the challenges of co…

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#36 - Lt Col (ret) John "Rico" Ballenger (Marine One Pilot) 50:58

5M ago50:58

50:58

Joined by Lt Col (ret) John "Rico" Ballenger, a former Marine One pilot, we discussed flying the president around the world, watching Top Gun with President Trump, and the uniqueness of the Marine Corps. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next episode! *Views expressed are not endorsed by the U.S. Department of Defense or its components.*…

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#35 - Maj Scott "Ogre" Portue (F-35A Lightning II Pilot) 1:02:24

5M ago1:02:24

1:02:24

Joined by Maj Scott "Ogre" Portue, a F-35 pilot, we discussed the next generation of flying in the Air Force, how technology will be leveraged in the future fight, and the Next Generation Air Dominance Program! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next episode! *Views expressed are not endorsed by the U.S. Department of Defense or its compone…

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#34 - Captain Drea "Mystique" Moffett (UH-1N Huey Helicopter Pilot) 45:44

6M ago45:44

45:44

Joined by Captain Drea "Mystique" Moffett, an outstanding Huey pilot and experienced aviator, we discussed the challenges of flying an older model aircraft in a modern Air Force, the benefits of being a language enabled Air Force Officer, and the changes coming to the helicopter pilot pipeline! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next episod…

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#33 - Maj Alex “Auggie” Arcidiacono (C-17 Globemaster III Pilot) 41:36

6M ago41:36

41:36

Joined by Major Alex “Auggie” Arcidiacono, a C-17 Globemaster III pilot with a plethora of experience, we talked about the long-range missions of the C-17, effective action during operation ALLIES REFUGE, training and retention of pilots in the Air Force, the changes we can expect for the C-17 in the future, including a possible offensive setting, …

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#32 - Capt Jimmy Owenby (UH-60 Black Hawk & UC-35 Pilot) 46:21

7M ago46:21

46:21

Joined by Capt Jimmy Owenby, a UH-60 Black Hawk and UC-35 pilot, we discussed what the differences between flying in the Army and the Air Force, Active Duty vs. Reserves, and the mission of the Black Hawk. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next episode! *Views expressed are not endorsed by the U.S. Department of Defense or its components.*…

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#31 - Lt Col Matt "Indy" Ziemann (Intelligence Officer) 56:30

7M ago56:30

56:30

Joined by Lt Col Matt “Indy” Ziemann, an Air Force Officer specialized in Intelligence, we discussed what it's like to support special operations through the intelligence realm, the difficulty and intricacies of flying combat missions in that role, and what deployed environments are like with someone who's an expert at them. Be sure to subscribe so…

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#30 - Lt Col O'Bryant (EC-130H Compass Call Pilot) 55:39

8M ago55:39

55:39

Joined by Lt Col Collin O'Bryant, an EC-130H Pilot and seasoned veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom, we discussed the unique mission set of jamming airborne communications, the differences between conventional airpower and specialized mission sets, and how our relationship with NATO shapes and defines our warfighting capabilities. Be sure to subs…

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#29 - Maj Micheal Shaw (F-16 Wild Weasel Pilot) 45:14

8M ago45:14

45:14

Joined by Major Michael Shaw, a F-16 Wild Weasel Pilot and former instructor at Air Force Weapons School, we talked about the air dominance and power that the F-16 commands in the joint fight, the heritage, meaning, and complexities of the Wild Weasel mission set, and what the future of the F-16 looks like in a conflict with a near-peer adversary. …

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#28 - Lt Col (Ret) Joshua Cadice (U-2 Dragon Lady and KC-135 Pilot) 41:05

9M ago41:05

41:05

Joined by Lt Col (Ret) Joshua Cadice, a former KC-135 and U-2 Dragon Lady Pilot, we talked about the intricacies of aerial refueling, the difficulties of flying an aircraft on the edge of the atmosphere, and what the future of the Air Force looks like in terms of AI and ISR with a near peer adversary. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next…

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From YouTube's Early Days to Working with Netflix, Justinsuperstar has Stories to Tell 55:49

9M ago55:49

55:49

Join us for a jam-packed conversation with Justinsuperstar, a creative force who has had a front row seat to the online video explosion. In this episode, Justin reflects on his early days of online content creation, getting fired from College Humor, being around for the creation of Vimeo, having the #1 app in the country, winning an Emmy, and how h…

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#27 - Col Peter Lee (F-35A Lightning II & F-15C Eagle Pilot) 52:56

9M ago52:56

52:56

Joined by Col Peter Lee, a F-35A Lightning II & former F-15C Eagle Pilot, we talked about the integration of the F-35 with our allies, the vast differences in mission sets, an officer's role as a political strategist in D.C., and more. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next episode! *Views expressed are not endorsed by the U.S. Department …

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#26 - Capt Samuel "RaZZ" Larson (F-22 Raptor Demo Pilot) 40:11

10M ago40:11

40:11

Joined by Captain Samuel "RaZZ" Larson, the commander of the F-22 Raptor Demo Team, we talked about the future of the aircraft, what it brings to the joint fight, what it means to be a pilot of the F-22 Demo Team, and how it feels to burn in the open blue sky. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next episode! *Views expressed are not endorse…

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Exploring Cryptids and the Horror Genre with Anthony Cousins 58:16

11M ago58:16

58:16

This week, we chat with Anthony Cousins, the director of the acclaimed short When Susurrus Stirs and the found footage horror film Frogman. Anthony has made waves in the indie horror genre with his film Frogman, a genuinely frightening tale shot in glorious low-res high-8 film. The film follows three friends in search of the Loveland Frogman who fi…

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The Magic of Themed Entertainment & Immersive Storytelling with Chris Grap 1:10:13

11M ago1:10:13

1:10:13

This week, we chat with Chris Grap, the Vice President of Experiential Entertainment at the Mall of America. Chris shares his journey from working on film sets in LA to creating immersive experiences at the largest mall in the United States. Discover how he collaborates with Nickelodeon Universe to expand the on-site theme park and his plans for an…

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In the Director’s Chair: Matt Osterman on Movies, Marketing, and More 1:02:21

11M ago1:02:21

1:02:21

After one and half seasons, it's time we learn a little more about our host, Matt Osterman. Join Propellant team members, Lexi and Taylor, as they turn the tables and interview Matt for an exclusive look at his diverse career. From his early work on the Blue Zones project to directing notable films like Ghost From The Machine, 400 Days, and Hover, …

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#25 - Maj Tyler "Slasher" Clark (AF Thunderbird 3) 26:12

11M ago26:12

26:12

Joined by Maj Tyler "Slasher" Clark, Thunderbird 3, we discussed what it is like being a member of the Thunderbirds, the hardest maneuver in the demonstration, the value the Thunderbirds bring to the Air Force, the differences between the Thunderbirds and Blue Angels, and more. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next episode!*Views expresse…

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Working with Hollywood Legends and the Future of Cinema with Steve Speers 1:15:24

11M ago1:15:24

1:15:24

Join us for an engaging discussion with Steve Speers, legendary Camera Assistant and owner of Cinemechanics, as he takes us through his remarkable career in the film industry. In this episode, Steve opens up about his work with some of Hollywood’s most renowned directors, cinematographers, and actors, as well as his passion for technological innova…

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Spielberg, Tarantino, Guy Pearce, and the coming AI revolution with Andy Hunt 1:16:16

12M ago1:16:16

1:16:16

Join us for an information packed and hilarious conversation with Andy Hunt, a filmmaker whose career spans reality TV, independent films, digital projects, and teaching film production. In this episode, Andy shares his journey, experiences, and forward-thinking views on the future of filmmaking. Andy Hunt, most known for his work on “The Infernal …

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#24 - Lt Col Matthew "Goon" Spitler (F-22 Raptor & F-15C Eagle Pilot) 51:52

12M ago51:52

51:52

Joined by Lt Col Matthew "Goon" Spitler, an F-15C turned F-22 pilot, we discussed why an F-22 shot down the Chinese "spy" balloon, AI in BFM, the differences between the Eagle and the Raptor, and more. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next episode!*Views expressed are not endorsed by the U.S. Department of Defense or its components.*…

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Should we RETHINK THEATER? A conversation with Ansa Akyea 1:07:07

12M ago1:07:07

1:07:07

In this episode of the Propellant podcast, Ansa Akyea takes us into his journey in the theater world, sharing insights on the power and tools available to actors and creatives today. He reflects on his diverse background, having moved frequently due to his father’s work with UNICEF, and how this experience shaped his ability to connect with differe…

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Marisa Coughlan: No excuses, puking it out on the page, and stories from the Hollywood trenches 1:05:45

1y ago1:05:45

1:05:45

Join us for a fun and inspirational conversation with the talented Marisa Coughlan, an accomplished actress and writer known for her roles in “Teaching Mrs. Tingle,” “Super Troopers,” and “Boston Legal.” In this episode, Marisa shares her journey from Minneapolis to Hollywood, her experiences in the film industry, and the valuable lessons she’s lea…

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#23 - Lt Col Adam Otten (RQ-4 Global Hawk RPA Pilot) 49:35

1y ago49:35

49:35

Joined by Lt Col Adam Otten, a RQ-4 Global Hawk pilot, we discussed how the RQ-4 is flown, the differences in mission sets between different RPAs, the future of RPAs, and more. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next episode!*Views expressed are not endorsed by the U.S. Department of Defense or its components.*…

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#22- Maj Mark "Mack" Griffin (CV-22 Osprey Pilot) 57:26

1y ago57:26

57:26

Joined by Maj Mark "Mack" Griffin, a CV-22 Osprey pilot, we discussed the Osprey's evolving role in combat, how it mixes being a helicopter with being a plane, how the CV-22 would be used in a near-peer conflict, and more. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next episode!*Views expressed are not endorsed by the U.S. Department of Defense or …

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#21 - Lt Col Przemek "Fridge" Strekowski (HH-60G Pavehawk & MH-60S Seahawk Pilot) 57:16

1y ago57:16

57:16

Joined by Lt Col Przemek "Fridge" Strekowski, an HH-60 and MH-60 pilot, we discussed his role in the Kabul, Afghanistan evacuation, lessons learned about officership during an exchange with the Navy, the adaptability of the rescue community, and more. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next episode!*Views expressed are not endorsed by the U…

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#20 - Col Joshua "Hustler" Egan (F-15E Strike Eagle Test Pilot) 1:43:07

1y ago1:43:07

1:43:07

Today on the show, we are joined by Col Joshua "Hustler" Egan, a test pilot who has flown over 40 different aircraft. We discussed his experiences flying in the Air Force, how radar and stealth technology impact warfare, the impacts of the test community, and more. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next episode! Auto GCAS Video: https://ww…

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#19 - Maj Mark "Rage" Favinger (B-52H Stratofortress Pilot) 52:53

1y ago52:53

52:53

Today on the show, we are joined by Maj Mark "Rage" Favinger, a B-52H Stratofortress pilot. We discussed his experiences flying in the Air Force, what is was like flying the one of the oldest aircraft in the Air Force, how the military executes nuclear deterrence, what the future holds for the B-52, and more. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss …

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#18 - MSgt William "Wild Bill" Shaffell (Airborne Korean Linguist & Signals Intelligence) 41:14

1y ago41:14

41:14

Today on the show, we are joined by MSgt William Shaffell, our first enlisted guest, who has served in the Air Force as an Airborne Korean Linguist and in the Signals Intelligence community. We discussed his experiences in the Air Force, how the enlisted and officer corps interact and work together, what the future holds for the Signals Intelligenc…

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Surviving Death and Shaping Cinema's Future 1:04:23

1y ago1:04:23

1:04:23

Jeff Hayne of Mill Creek Entertainment takes us through his journey from a life-altering accident to becoming one of the nation’s largest behind-the-scenes players in film and tv distribution. Discover his insights on selecting films, advice for filmmakers, the crucial role of physical media in preserving original content, and how his brush with mo…

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#17 - Capt Jacob Riley (C-5M Super Galaxy & TG-16A Pilot) 46:44

1y ago46:44

46:44

Today on the show, we are joined by Capt Jacob Riley, a C-5M pilot who is also involved in the Soaring program at USAFA in the TG-16A glider. We discussed his experiences flying in the Air Force, what is was like flying the largest aircraft in the Air Force, what the future holds for the C-5, and more. Be sure to follow so you don't miss the next e…

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How to blow up on TikTok, get cancelled, blow up again, and start all over with John O'Sullivan. 1:01:04

1+ y ago1:01:04

1:01:04

Join us on this week's Propellant podcast as we take a tour into the mind of John O’Sullivan. John is best known for his entertaining one-minute virtual tours he presents on TikTok and other platforms. His presence really blew up over covid when he was doing virtual tours from Australia, but when he returned to his home state of Minnesota, he kept …

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VR, AR, and Spatial Computing with Amir Berenjian of REM5 Studios 55:43

1+ y ago55:43

55:43

This week, we're diving headfirst into the word of virtual reality, augmented reality, and spatial computing with Amir Berenjian. He is the co-founder, CEO, and visionary behind REM5, a group of immersive technology companies focused on the AR and VR space. From his early fascination, to leading a pioneering immersive technology company, Amir discu…

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#16 - Lt Col Eric "Mako" Scott (F-15E & A-29B Pilot) 55:14

1+ y ago55:14

55:14

Today on the show, we are joined by Lt Col Eric "Mako" Scott, a F-15E pilot who also flew the A-29B. We discussed his experiences flying in the Air Force, what is was like to eject from an aircraft, how the F-15EX will be used in the future fight, and more. Be sure to follow so you don't miss the next episode!*Views expressed are not endorsed by th…

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Writing for True Detective, Beating Hollywood, and Crushing it as a Screenwriter with Wenonah Wilms 52:33

1+ y ago52:33

52:33

On this episode, we chat with screenwriter, Wenonah Wilms. We talk about what it was like to work as a writer on season 4 of True Detective, her feelings on working within the Hollywood system, winning the prestigious Nicholl Fellowship, and what it’s like to work from home in Minnesota. We also get into how she found her voice as a writer, the tri…

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#15 - Lt Col Kristen “KJ” Heiserman (U-28A Draco & MQ-1B Predator Pilot) 39:38

1+ y ago39:38

39:38

Today on the show, we are joined by Lt Col Kristen Heiserman, an U-28A Draco pilot and former MQ-1B Predator pilot. We discussed her experiences flying in the Air Force, how the Air Force utilizes ISR platforms, and more. Be sure to follow so you don't miss the next episode!*Views expressed are not endorsed by the U.S. Department of Defense or its …

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A New Era of Brewing and Leadership with Bauhaus Brew Labs' Matt Schwandt | Propellant Minnesota 53:23

1+ y ago53:23

53:23

In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Matt Schwandt, the visionary co-founder and president of Bauhaus Brew Labs. Located in the heart of Northeast Minneapolis, Bauhaus Brew Labs stands out not just as a personal favorite but as an internationally acclaimed brewery, boasting numerous accolades, including numerous World Beer Cup awards. Join us…

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#14 - Lt Gen Richard Clark (B-1 Lancer & EC-135 Pilot) 56:54

1+ y ago56:54

56:54

Today on the show, we are joined by Lt Gen Richard Clark, the Superintendent of the Air Force Academy and also a former EC-135 and B-1 bomber pilot. We discussed his experiences flying in the Air Force, how the Air Force is preparing for the future fight, and more. Be sure to follow so you don't miss the next episode!*Views expressed are not endors…

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Life at Netflix & Starting Over in Minnesota with Carly Lassegard 1:25:33

1+ y ago1:25:33

1:25:33

In this episode of Propellant Minnesota, Carly Lassegard shares her amazing journey from a quick Craigslist job search to eventually becoming an important creative executive at Netflix responsible for some of the most popular content on the platform. She talks about the trials and tribulations of working at such a dynamic world-changing company, he…

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Selling Rocks to Millionaires: Artist Zoran Mojsilov on Creating, Selling, and Living 46:27

1+ y ago46:27

46:27

In this episode of Propellant Minnesota, we sit down with Zoran Mojsilov, a truth-telling sculptor whose journey took him from Serbia to Paris, and finally to Minnesota. Transitioning from his early days as a wrestler to becoming a renowned sculptor, Zoran shares how the disciplines of sport influenced his artistry in working with stone, wood, and …

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Philosophy & Storytelling via Color Grading with Oscar Oboza 1:21:01

1+ y ago1:21:01

1:21:01

Join us in this episode of "Propellant Minnesota," where host Matt Osterman engages in a conversation with Oscar Oboza, a renowned colorist in the film and commercial industry. The conversation starts with the big picture look at what a colorist does and then Oscar delves deep into the nuances of color grading, sharing insights from his career incl…

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#13 - Maj Parker Huge (MC-12W Liberty & RC-135 Rivet Joint Pilot) 1:11:39

1+ y ago1:11:39

1:11:39

Today on the show, we are joined by Maj Parker Huge, a MC-12W Liberty and RC-135 Rivet Joint Pilot. We discussed his background, how ISR platforms have been used in the Middle East and will be used in the future fight, his experiences helping troops on the ground in the MC-12W, where the Air Force is going in regards to ISR platforms, and more. Be …

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TV Acting, Industry Realities, and Union Advocacy with Lily Rains 1:01:09

1+ y ago1:01:09

1:01:09

In this episode of Propellant Minnesota, we explore the multifaceted world of Lily Rains, an accomplished actor, director, and advocate. Lily shares her journey from the bustling film and tv scene of Los Angeles to the creative landscape of the Twin Cities, diving into the challenges and rewards of her career. She discusses her passionate advocacy …

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#12 - Maj Dominic "VooDoo" Collins (F-16 Fighting Falcon Pilot) 43:01

1+ y ago43:01

43:01

Today on the show, we are joined by Maj Dominic "VooDoo" Collins, a F-16 Pilot. We discussed his background, the differences between the F-16 compared to fifth gen fighters, his experiences employing the F-16 on deployment, where the Air Force is going in regards to fighters, and more. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the next episode!*Views …

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Prince, Paisley Park & Movie Magic: Behind the Scenes with Craig Rice 1:10:38

1+ y ago1:10:38

1:10:38

Join us in this episode of Propellant Minnesota as we sit down with Craig Rice, a visionary in Minnesota's film and music industries. Craig shares his unique journey, from working closely with Prince and helping launch the iconic Paisley Park, to directing legends like Mavis Staples and producing the acclaimed Gordon Parks documentary. He delves in…

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From Indiana Jones Newbie to Leading Makeup Departments: April Garland's Inspiring Film & TV Journey 51:18

1+ y ago51:18

51:18

In Episode 8 of Propellant Minnesota, we're joined by the exceptionally talented April Garland, a locally renowned makeup and FX artist in the world of TV and film. April shares her fascinating journey, starting with her first major on-set job on the a legendary Indiana Jones film set, and dives into the intricate - and often complicated - world of…

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When Art and Activism Collide: Toussaint Morrison on Acting, Performing, and Speaking Truth to Power 1:13:14

1+ y ago1:13:14

1:13:14

Toussaint Morrison is not just a successful actor, creator, and musician, but a fervent voice for education, social justice, and equality. Toussaint's story is a testament to the power of unwavering conviction. In a raw and revealing conversation, he discusses turning down roles, his musical ventures that echo the voices of the unheard, and his cou…