In 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 emotional documentaries, emphasizing the collaborative effort that brings these stories to life.

Steve reflects on:

• Meeting Billy Joel in 1974 and forging a lifelong creative partnership
• The soul of Billy Joel’s songwriting: honesty, heartbreak, and healing
• How Susan Lacy’s empathetic direction helped uncover hidden emotional truths
• What it means to tell someone else's story with care, depth, and dignity
• The healing power of revisiting past relationships through art

For listeners who’ve ever found themselves in a song—or wanted to understand the quiet brilliance behind a musical legend—this episode is a masterclass in the art of documentary storytelling and a heartfelt tribute to legacy, resilience, and human connection.

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Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Emotional Connection

04:04 The Journey Begins: Meeting Billy Joel

08:03 The Documentary: A Deep Dive into Billy Joel's Life

11:57 The Collaborative Process of Filmmaking

15:52 The Role of Relationships in Billy Joel's Music

20:03 Reflections on Billy Joel's Legacy and Impact

30:45 The Emotional Connection of Music

36:00 Creating Comfort in Documentary Filmmaking

39:41 The Art of Storytelling Through Music

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In 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 screen. The conversation explores the intricate relationship between music and film, the influence of video game music, and how directors' styles shape a composer’s approach to scoring. Panu discusses the creative process behind composing scores that evoke emotional responses, the importance of collaboration with directors, and the role of music as a character in a film. He also offers valuable insights on his experiences working on Netflix originals, the significance of documentaries in his career, and advice for aspiring composers looking to break into the industry.

Watch the hit show "Little Siberia" on Netflix!

Discover Panu Aaltio's work: https://www.panuaaltio.com/

Key Takeaways:

• Panu Aaltio’s musical journey began with the cello at age six and evolved into a passion for film scoring.
• Film scoring started as a hobby for Panu before it became his professional career.
• Panu’s education in music technology and film scoring helped shape his approach to composing.
• The emotional impact of music in film is crucial, and understanding the narrative is key to crafting effective scores.
• Collaboration with directors is essential in understanding their vision and creating a score that complements the film.
• Panu shares the importance of experimentation in music composition to create unique soundscapes.
• Documentaries have played a significant role in Panu’s career, offering insight into the unique scoring techniques needed for this genre.
• Music can act as a character in a film, adding depth and enhancing storytelling.
• Panu reflects on his experiences with Netflix and shares advice for aspiring composers looking to make their mark in the film industry.

Sound Bites:

• "I started playing the cello at six."
• "I got really, really into film music."
• "Music carries the emotion of the scene."
• "You cannot micromanage everything."
• "What do you want to achieve?"
• "You need to be very careful with the music."

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Film Scoring

05:35 Panu's Musical Journey

12:16 From Hobby to Profession

20:13 Navigating Directorial Styles

25:30 The Language of Music in Film

26:24 Understanding Emotional Impact through Score

28:48 Creating Unique Soundscapes for Film

30:41 The Role of Music as a Character

32:13 Experimentation in Composition

35:34 The Importance of Early Composition

41:12 Navigating the Netflix Experience

42:26 The Significance of Documentaries in Career

43:09 DocuView Déjà Vu

44:18 Advice for Aspiring Composers

45:17 Influential Scores and Future Projects

In 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 would be a lot of fun to bring Corey along, and she was right.

In Part 1, Corey shares his story of landing a part in Saving Private Ryan, working with Hollywood legends, and experiencing the chaotic D-Day scenes firsthand. Christian also opens up about her documentary filmmaking journey, especially with The Girl Who Wore Freedom, and how her conversations with veterans have shaped her understanding of gratitude, storytelling, and the healing power of sharing war stories. The episode takes some fun tangents as they explore the impact of WWII films on veterans and their families and dive deep into the culture of storytelling as a tool for healing.

Timestamps:

• 00:35 - Christian introduces the episode w/ special co-host, Rob of MovieRob Minute.
• 04:00 - Rob introduces the episode and welcomes Christian Taylor and Corey Johnson.
• 05:12 - Corey Johnson’s surprising role in Saving Private Ryan is revealed.
• 07:20 - A fun backstory on how Rob connected with Christian and Corey through Hollywood veterans and mutual friends.
• 13:02 - Discussion about how military veterans sometimes find it hard to share their stories, including insights from Christian’s work on The Girl Who Wore Freedom.
• 20:08 - Corey shares his views on WWII and the importance of telling veterans’ stories.
• 26:04 - How Saving Private Ryan impacted veterans and helped them open up about their war experiences.
• 29:02 - Corey talks about how he got his role in Saving Private Ryan and the luck involved in landing the part.
• 39:41 - Behind-the-scenes of Saving Private Ryan filming, including the gritty realism of the D-Day scenes.
• 44:56 - The filmmaking genius of Steven Spielberg and how his directorial decisions made the film stand out.
• 47:50 - A final reflection on the lasting impact of WWII films like Saving Private Ryan and The Girl Who Wore Freedom on veterans and audiences.

Key Takeaways:

• Corey Johnson shares the story of how a small part in Saving Private Ryan became a milestone in his career, thanks to sheer luck, perseverance, and talent.
• The importance of WWII films in shaping cultural perceptions of war and heroism, and how they help veterans open up about their experiences.
• Christian Taylor discusses how her documentary The Girl Who Wore Freedom offers a unique perspective on D-Day from the French civilian's point of view.
• How Steven Spielberg's filmmaking techniques captured the chaos and intensity of war, making Saving Private Ryan an unforgettable experience for both actors and audiences.

Additional Information:

• You can learn more about Christian Taylor's documentary The Girl Who Wore Freedom at thegirlwhoworefreedom.com.
• Part 2 of this conversation will dive deeper into Corey Johnson's filming experiences and his perspective on working with Hollywood legends.

Sponsor: http://ArtillerySports.com Use the code DocFirst for 10% off your...

In 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, Josh and Jim share their journey of creating The Heirloom, a unique project blending hospitality and digital storytelling to preserve legacies and foster community connections. The conversation delves into the evolution of media consumption, focusing on the impact of streaming platforms, social media, and the shift in how content creators engage with their audiences. They highlight the significance of building authentic relationships and digital communities, a concept that is central to both their business and storytelling philosophy. We learn how their work is reshaping the hospitality industry and how the Heirloom network is using storytelling to bridge the past and future.

Link: https://theheirloom.us/

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In 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 opens up about the unsung elements of filmmaking—trust, collaboration, and vulnerability—that make or break a performance. Aspiring actors and directors will walk away with actionable advice on how to thrive in the competitive world of film, with tips on navigating the business side of acting, adapting to new mediums, and mastering the art of collaboration.

Tune in as Corey and host Christian Taylor dive deep into the nuances of acting, the power of vulnerability, and the essential role directors play in shaping unforgettable performances. Whether you’re a theater lover or a film buff, this conversation is packed with valuable lessons for anyone passionate about storytelling, the craft of acting, and the film industry’s fast-paced world.

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Corey Johnson:

• Strangest Things Series, 2 Seasons 2021-2022, Watch on MAX and Prime IMDB Link: Strangest Things (TV Series 2021–2022) ⭐ 7.0 | Documentary
• Tiananmen Square, 2019 - This documentary was done by Corey’s father and is no longer available.

00:00 Introduction and Early Career

02:52 Lessons from Working with Anthony Hopkins

05:56 The Changing Landscape of Acting

09:00 The Nature of Trust in Acting

12:03 Advice for Aspiring Actors and Directors

14:56 The Differences Between Theater and Film

17:58 The Importance of Collaboration in Directing

20:58 Experiences with Renowned Actors

24:03 Reflections on Genius in the Arts

30:20 The Mystery of Film Production

31:52 The Business of Acting

33:44 The Craft of Acting

36:44 Learning Through Experience

40:36 The Role of Self-Critique

43:40 Acting as Reacting

48:11 Vulnerability in Performance

49:59 DocuView Déjà Vu Segment

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Ever 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 work, for a candid conversation about his creative journey.

In this lively interview, Corey reflects on his path from the stages of Catholic University to the sets of Hollywood. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from his supporting roles in major movies and discusses how he became the voice behind numerous documentaries, highlighting the power of storytelling in film and narration. Corey gives an inside look at his recent role in the docudrama September 5 – a gripping recount of the 1972 Munich Olympics hostage crisis – and explains what it was like to bring such a pivotal historical event to life through a storyteller’s lens.

Corey also opens up about his personal influences, including insights about his father’s legacy in journalism and how it instilled in him a deep appreciation for truth and narrative. He speaks about the unpredictable nature of creative careers, sharing hard-earned wisdom on resilience, adaptability, and passion for aspiring actors and artists. From navigating the highs and lows of show business to continually honing his craft, Corey’s stories offer both inspiration and practical advice for anyone pursuing a career in the arts.

But it’s not all about acting and film – we also get to hear about Corey’s hobbies and future projects. In a fun twist, he chats about his love of golf and how this off-screen passion is leading him to start a podcast of his own about the sport. It’s a reminder that a creative life can have many chapters, and that exploring personal interests can open up new avenues in storytelling.

Tune in for a conversational and engaging interview that delves into acting, documentary filmmaking, narration, and the creative process. Whether you’re an aspiring actor, a documentary fan, or just someone who loves a good behind-the-scenes Hollywood story, Corey Johnson’s journey – from college theater to Hollywood and beyond – will leave you inspired and eager to follow your own creative passions.

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Christian's Recommendation:

• Septemeber 5, 2024, 95 minutes, watch on MGM Channel, Paramount + or Prime, IMDB Link:
• September 5 (2024) - IMDb

Corey’s Recommendation:

• Strangest Things Series, 2021-2022, 2 Seasons, Watch on MAX or Prime, IMDB Link:
• Strangest Things (TV Series 2021–2022) - IMDb

Timecodes

00:00 Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking

02:00 Corey Johnson's Acting Journey

05:40 Behind the Scenes of September 5

08:35 Recollections of College Theater

11:30 The Evolution of Catholic University's Theater Program

16:01 The Influence of Family in Documentary Filmmaking

21:55 The Legacy of CJ's Father in Journalism

23:17 The Legacy of Local Journalism

24:52 The Journey to Acting

30:30 Discovering the Actor Within

35:26 Navigating the Early Career

43:00 DocuView Déjà Vu Segment

47:00 The Passion for Golf and Podcasting

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What 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 an alleged smear campaign in retaliation. Anne brings an insider perspective from the world of entertainment law, helping us make sense of this high-profile Hollywood showdown in a conversational, insightful way.

We tackle tough questions around celebrity privacy and image rights — how much control can an actor really have over their image and personal information once a story goes public? We also examine how the Me Too movement has changed the film industry, and what it takes to create a truly safe workplace environment in filmmaking today.

Anne breaks down the concept of retaliation in plain language, exploring whether smear campaigns like the one Lively alleges can be considered illegal retaliation under entertainment law. She highlights what legal protections exist for those who speak up against misconduct, and where gaps still need to be filled. From the role of intimacy coordinators on set to new laws designed to protect whistleblowers, we cover it all in a clear, down-to-earth way.

Beyond this case, Anne’s perspective — shaped by years of advising both major studios and independent filmmakers — adds nuance to every insight. She even shares a peek at her own upcoming creative nonfiction book project, revealing her passion for storytelling beyond the courtroom. It’s a candid, eye-opening discussion that’s equal parts Hollywood drama and practical advice on building safer, more respectful film sets. Tune in to learn how Hollywood is changing and what it means for anyone who wants a safer, more equitable filmmaking world.

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Timecodes

00:00 Introduction to the Blake Lively Case

03:12 Understanding the Legal Context

06:04 The Background of the Case

09:10 Claims of Sexual Harassment

12:04 Retaliation and Public Perception

14:52 Legal Implications for Filmmakers

17:59 Creating a Safe Set Environment

21:04 Navigating Power Dynamics on Set

23:55 Preventative Measures in Filmmaking

26:50 The Aftermath and Public Image Rights

32:39 Legal Standards for Public Figures

34:12 Image Rights and Public Figures

36:32 The Importance of Image Rights

40:42 Lessons from Blake Lively's Case

42:27 Current Status of Legal Proceedings

45:26 The Importance of Behavior in Legal Matters

46:13 Understanding Your Rights in Media

48:08 Anne's New Documentary Project

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Get 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-winning daredevil in Tinseltown is full of raw, behind-the-scenes stories that every aspiring actor, stunt performer, or director will want to hear.

In this candid, high-octane conversation, Greg dives into the gritty realities of stunt work—the epic risks, hilarious mishaps, and relentless hustle that shape a career in film. He reveals how networking, preparation, and a dash of bold risk-taking have propelled him from theater stages to the big screen. Whether you’re dreaming of your own Hollywood breakthrough or just curious about what really goes on behind the camera, this interview packs plenty of inspiration, practical advice, and jaw-dropping tales from the stunt world.

Tune in for a deep dive into the adrenaline-fueled world of stunts where every fall is a step toward success!

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Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa, 2023, 95 mins, Watch on Netflix, IMDB Link:

Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa (2023) ⭐ 7.6 | Documentary

Timecodes

00:00 Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking and Guest Introduction

02:59 The Life of a Stuntman: Behind the Scenes

06:05 The Journey to Acting: From Law School to Hollywood

09:02 Theater and Acting: Building a Foundation

12:02 The Struggles of an Actor: Finding a Footing in LA

15:06 Networking and Community in the Film Industry

17:59 The Breakthrough: Becoming a Stunt Performer

20:51 Transitioning from Stunts to Acting

23:55 The Hustle: Balancing Jobs and Passion

27:09 Preparing for the Role: Doubling for Ben Stiller

27:43 The Journey Begins: From Awareness to Opportunity

30:09 Seizing the Moment: The Importance of Preparation

32:52 The Humbling Experience of Stunt Work

35:44 The Duality of Stunt Work: Gift and Challenge

39:09 Behind the Scenes: The Reality of Stunt Work

42:34 Directing: Bringing Vision to Life

46:55 Documentary Insights: Learning from Experience

48:25 DocuView Déjà Vu

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