Documentary First is your bi-weekly podcast exploring the craft of documentary filmmaking. Each episode features in-depth interviews with filmmakers, industry experts, and professionals, providing valuable tips and behind-the-scenes insights on how powerful documentaries are made. Whether you're a seasoned documentarian, an aspiring filmmaker, or just curious about documentary storytelling, you'll find expert advice, creative inspiration, and practical knowledge. Tune in and discover what it ...
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Howtomakeadocumentary Podcasts

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Episode 262 | Why Josh Roush Made “Long Lonesome Highway: The Michael Parks Story”
45:20
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45:20In this episode of Documentary First, filmmaker Josh Roush opens up about his deeply personal journey creating the documentary Long Lonesome Highway, a heartfelt tribute to legendary actor Michael Parks. Josh reflects on his friendship with Parks, the creative decisions behind the film, and the challenges of navigating distribution, budgeting, and …
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Episode 261 | Doc First Members Have Entered the Chat
1:02:50
1:02:50
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1:02:50In this episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor opens up with heartfelt personal updates and reflections on the journey of documentary filmmaking. Fresh off a moving trip to Normandy, Christian is joined by team members Peyton Rabb and Todd Anderson to share stories, challenges, and unforgettable moments from the experience. Together, t…
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Episode 260: "Saving Private Ryan": How to Really Listen to a Veteran - Part 2
56:34
56:34
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56:34In Part 2 of our crossover with MovieRob Minute WWII veteran Ceo Bauer (95th Infantry Division, “Iron Men of Metz”) continues his powerful story. At 102 years old, Ceo reflects on forgiveness, receiving his Purple Heart, and returning decades later to the battlefields of Metz and Luxembourg. He explains the mystery of WWII “invasion money,” shares …
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Episode 259 | “Saving Private Ryan”: How to Really Listen to a Veteran - Part 1
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55:55In this powerful crossover episode, Christian Taylor joins Rob of MovieRob Minute to introduce a very special guest: Ceo Bauer, a 102-year-old WWII veteran of the 95th Infantry Division, 377th Infantry Regiment, I Company—better known as the “Iron Men of Metz.” Rob begins by asking Ceo about Saving Private Ryan: what he thought of its accuracy, whe…
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Episode 258 | "Saving Private Ryan": Corey Johnson (D-Day, Camaraderie, John Williams) - Movie Rob Minute #131, Part 2
51:46
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51:46In Part 2 of this special Movie Rob Minute episode, Christian and Corey Johnson continue their conversation with Rob about Saving Private Ryan, diving into the intricacies of Corey's role on set, military bonds, and reflections on the powerful themes of Spielberg’s war epic. From detailed behind-the-scenes tales to touching insights on military bro…
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Episode 257 | HBO Max "Billy Joel And So It Goes" Interview with Executive Producer, Steve Cohen - Part 2
48:22
48:22
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48:22In Part 2 of this powerful interview, Emmy-winning producer Steve Cohen reflects on his 50-year journey with Billy Joel and the collaborative heart behind the HBO documentary And So It Goes. A masterclass in storytelling, legacy, and the quiet strength of those behind the scenes. DocuView Déjà Vu: The Kid Stays In The Picture, 2002, 93 mins, Watch …
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Episode 256 | HBO Max "Billy Joel And So It Goes" Interview with Executive Producer, Steve Cohen - Part 1
44:12
44:12
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44:12In this profoundly moving first installment of a two-part episode, Documentary First host Christian Taylor interviews Steve Cohen, Billy Joel’s longtime creative director and the executive producer of the new HBO docuseries Billy Joel: And So It Goes. Steve Cohen, the executive producer, shares his journey from lighting stages to producing emotiona…
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Episode 255 | Creating Unique Soundscapes -- Scoring for Documentary Films w/ Panu Aaltio
47:09
47:09
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47:09In this episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor sits down with Finnish film composer Panu Aaltio to dive into the fascinating world of film scoring. From his early days as a cello player to becoming a successful composer for films and documentaries, Panu shares his unique journey and the challenges and joys of crafting music for the scr…
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Episode 254 | "Saving Private Ryan": Corey Johnson's Cameo & Our WWII Documentary Journey - Part 1
51:04
51:04
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51:04In this special Documentary First episode, Christian steps off the beaten path to share an exciting guest appearance on the Movie Rob Minute podcast. Christian is joined by her college friend and actor Corey Johnson to dive into a Saving Private Ryan minute, making it even more special since Corey played a role in the film! Christian thought it wou…
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Episode 253 | Revitalizing Communities: The Heirloom Project with Josh Nowell & Jim Rasberry
54:45
54:45
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54:45In this episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor and co-host Hunter Taylor are joined by Josh Nowell and Jim Rasberry, the dynamic duo behind The Heirloom Hotel & Cooking School in Laurel, Mississippi. They discuss the transformative power of storytelling, being on HGTV's Hometown, and community revitalization. As serial entrepreneurs, J…
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Episode 252 | Inside Acting with Corey Johnson: From the Stage to the Screen and Beyond
52:35
52:35
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52:35In this episode, Hollywood actor Corey Johnson takes us behind the scenes of his dynamic career, sharing powerful insights from working alongside acting legends like Anthony Hopkins. From his early days in theater to conquering the big screen, Corey reveals the evolution of his craft and the unique challenges of transitioning from stage to film. He…
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Episode 251 | Corey Johnson on Hollywood Acting, Documentary Narration & Storytelling, Part I
48:59
48:59
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48:59Ever wonder how a college theater kid makes it big as a Hollywood character actor and renowned documentary narrator? This episode is a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the art of acting and the magic of storytelling. We sit down with Corey Johnson, whose extensive career spans blockbuster films, acclaimed TV series, and compelling voiceover wor…
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Episode 250 | Blake Lively’s Hollywood Harassment Showdown – with Entertainment Lawyer Anne Easton
59:07
59:07
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59:07What happens when a Hollywood star stands up to sexual harassment on set? In this episode, entertainment lawyer Anne Easton joins us to unravel the legal and ethical firestorm sparked by Blake Lively’s recent case. Blake Lively made headlines by accusing her It Ends With Us co-star and director, Justin Baldoni, of sexual harassment — and then faced…
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Episode 249 | How Greg Fitzpatrick Became a Stuntman, Part 1
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50:52Get ready to ride shotgun through Hollywood’s wild side! In this electrifying episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor sits down with Greg Fitzpatrick—a stuntman who’s doubled for Ben Stiller and even put his skills to the test for Robert Downey Jr. in Iron Man. Greg's no-nonsense journey from ditching law school to becoming an award-win…
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Episode 248: Deep Talks with an Entertainment Lawyer - Part 1
55:17
55:17
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55:17In this exciting episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor welcomes Anne Easton, a brilliant entertainment lawyer and creative, to the team! Anne brings a wealth of knowledge and a powerhouse combination of legal expertise, creative insight, and deep industry experience to the table. In this lively conversation, they dive into the often-o…
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Episode 247 | Eric Gardner, Director of ”Confessions of a CEO”
59:43
59:43
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59:43Are you fascinated by the power of storytelling and the secrets behind captivating documentaries? If you’re into deep dives into reality TV, the creative process, and the art of balancing hard-hitting truths with compelling narratives, this episode is for you. Join host Christian Taylor and visionary documentary filmmaker Eric Gardner as they unpac…
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Episode 246 | Liz Carpenter, Mover and Shaker in US Politics - Part 2
32:43
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32:43In this episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor sits down with filmmakers Abby Ginzberg and Christy Carpenter to discuss their latest documentary, Shaking It Up: The Life and Times of Liz Carpenter. The film explores the remarkable legacy of Liz Carpenter—a journalist, author, and women's rights advocate who broke barriers as the press …
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Episode 245 | Liz Carpenter, Mover and Shaker in US Politics
48:59
48:59
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48:59In this episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor engages with filmmakers Abby Ginzberg and Christy Carpenter about their documentary "Shaking It Up: The Life and Times of Liz Carpenter." The conversation explores Liz Carpenter's legacy as a trailblazer in journalism and politics, the personal journeys of getting into directing, and the c…
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Episode 244 | Film Entrepreneurship w/ Teddy Cannon
57:17
57:17
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57:17In this episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor sits down with seasoned media professional Teddy Cannon, whose 25+ years in the industry span politics, entertainment, and documentary filmmaking. Teddy shares his journey growing up in a foreign service family, transitioning from in front of the camera to behind it, and his deep dive into…
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Episode 243 | Q&A With East Coast Filmmaker Robin Hamilton
40:52
40:52
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40:52In this powerful episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor sits down with Emmy-winning filmmaker Robin Hamilton for a deep dive into the art of storytelling, social justice, and the impact of documentary filmmaking. Robin shares her journey from journalism to filmmaking, her passion for uncovering untold stories, and the responsibility fi…
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Episode 242 | Interview with Mt. Everest Explorer: Alex Harz
44:29
44:29
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44:29In this episode, filmmaker and Mount Everest summiteer Alex Harz takes us on a breathtaking journey, sharing how he turned a childhood dream into a groundbreaking dual-format documentary series. Alex recounts his early years in Spain and Germany, his passion for storytelling, and his evolution as a filmmaker with a strong business mindset. Listener…
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Episode 241 | "A Remarkable 2024" Retrospective Company Update
42:26
42:26
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42:26In this episode, the team reflects on a groundbreaking year in documentary filmmaking. From innovative theatrical release strategies to building community through outreach and merchandise, they share the key moments that defined their success. Highlights include the D-Day commemoration, expanding audience engagement through social media, and signin…
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Episode 240 | Documentary First's Next Steps w/ Jake Taylor
1:01:12
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1:01:12In this episode of Documentary First, hosts Christian and Jake Taylor focus on the journey of "The Girl Who Wore Freedom" so far. They explore the challenges of independent filmmaking, the importance of event screenings, and the value of building relationships with audiences. Logistics of pricing for screenings, the role of merchandising, and the l…
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Episode 239 | A Fresh Take on Renaissance Man, Leonardo da Vinci - PBS
59:23
59:23
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59:23In this captivating episode of Documentary First, host Christian Taylor sits down with filmmakers Sarah Burns and David McMahon to discuss their forthcoming documentary on the legendary Leonardo da Vinci. Together, they explore the creative process behind bringing Leonardo’s life and genius to the screen, the challenges of capturing his story, and …
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Episode 238 | Documenting a Viral Country Music TikTok Trend, “Fancy Like Walter Hayes”
59:19
59:19
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59:19In this insightful episode, host Christian Taylor sits down with French filmmaker Matt Beurois, director of Fancy Like Walker Hayes, to explore the heartwarming story of country music sensation Walker Hayes and his family. Beurois shares his journey into documentary filmmaking and provides a behind-the-scenes look at capturing the Hayes family’s ri…
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