Episode 228 | Deep Dive Into "Sea Change: The Gulf of Maine" w/ Brian Skerry
Release Date: 07/18/2024
Episode 247 | Eric Gardner, Director of ”Confessions of a CEO”
Documentary First
Are 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 unpack the making of Confessions of a CEO: My Life in an Out of Balance World—the riveting true story of Tom Gegax. In this heartfelt conversation, Eric shares his personal journey from his early days in reality TV and film school to...
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Episode 246 | Liz Carpenter, Mover and Shaker in US Politics - Part 2
Documentary First
In 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 secretary for First Lady Lady Bird Johnson. Carpenter was a trailblazer in political communications, known for her wit, tenacity, and dedication to advancing women's voices in government and media. The conversation delves into Liz Carpenter’s...
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Episode 245 | Liz Carpenter, Mover and Shaker in US Politics
Documentary First
In 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 collaborative process of producing the documentary. They discuss the importance of storytelling, the challenges of fundraising, and the impact of Liz's life on their own careers. In this conversation, Ginzberg and Carpenter discuss the...
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Episode 244 | Film Entrepreneurship w/ Teddy Cannon
Documentary First
In 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 the world of archival production. They explore the critical role of archival producers, the complexities of rights and clearances, and the evolving landscape of documentary filmmaking in response to current events. Teddy also discusses the...
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Episode 243 | Q&A With East Coast Filmmaker Robin Hamilton
Documentary First
In 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 filmmakers have in shaping conversations about history and justice. Together, they explore the significance of Fannie Lou Hamer’s legacy, the challenges of tackling difficult histories, and the bravery required to address controversial topics. Robin...
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Episode 242 | Interview with Mt. Everest Explorer: Alex Harz
Documentary First
In 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. Listeners will gain insights into the unparalleled challenges of filming on Everest, from navigating deadly icefalls to keeping gear functional in subzero conditions. Alex discusses the creative and technical feats behind producing a 2D film and an immersive...
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Episode 241 | "A Remarkable 2024" Retrospective Company Update
Documentary First
In 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 signing a new distribution deal to bring their film into schools. Through teamwork, persistence, and creative problem-solving, the team achieved new milestones while staying true to their storytelling mission. Takeaways 2024 was an...
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Episode 240 | Documentary First's Next Steps w/ Jake Taylor
Documentary First
In 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 long-term commitment required to see a documentary through is also discussed. Takeaways Event screenings are crucial for audience engagement and fundraising. Building relationships with viewers enhances the documentary experience. ...
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Episode 239 | A Fresh Take on Renaissance Man, Leonardo da Vinci - PBS
Documentary First
In 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 the innovative techniques they used to breathe life into his work. From the importance of curiosity and expert insights to the immersive experience of researching in Italy, Sarah and David share a fascinating look at what it takes to...
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Episode 238 | Documenting a Viral Country Music TikTok Trend, “Fancy Like Walter Hayes”
Documentary First
In 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 rise to fame. From the importance of storytelling and the challenges of balancing creativity with business, to the dynamics of trust, family, and fame, this conversation dives deep into the art and heart of filmmaking. Matt discusses...
info_outlineBrian Skerry, a renowned documentary filmmaker and photojournalist specializing in marine wildlife discusses his journey in the industry and his latest documentary series, Sea Change, July 24 on PBS.
Skerry shares how he started as a diver and developed a passion for underwater photography and filmmaking. He also talks about his transition from photography to becoming a producer for ocean documentaries.
We are happy to share this conversation with a producer who won an Emmy for creating Disney+ "Secret of the Whales".
Links:
Brianskerry.com
Twitter.com/Brian_Skerry
Instagram.com/brianskerry
https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/series/sea-change-the-gulf-of-maine/
DocuView Dèjà Vu
Brian:
Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story, 2024, 77 mins, Watch on Hulu, IMDB Link: 
Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story (2024) - IMDb
Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple, 2024, 147mins, Watch on HBO Max, IMDB Link: Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple (2024) - IMDb
Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction and Background of Brian Skerry
02:22 Brian Skerry's Journey in Filmmaking
08:53 Transitioning into Producing and Directing
19:09 The Importance of Planning and Portfolio Building
26:52 Combining Visual Storytelling and Logistics
35:06 Addressing Climate Change in Documentaries
37:49 The Meaning of the Ocean Being a Carbon Sink
41:21 The Decline of the Gulf of Maine
48:29 The Power of Storytelling in Environmental Conservation
59:43 Research and Exploration in Filmmaking
01:06:34 Where to Watch Sea Change
01:07:30 DocuView Dèjà Vu