Join us on Talent Freaks for an exclusive conversation with Director Iryna Pravylo and Producer Yulia Zi about their powerful documentary Flowers Beyond the Dark. This deeply moving film portrays Ukraine's resilience amid war, revealing intimate stories of survival, hope, and strength from frontline soldiers, families, and spiritual leaders.

Watch the documentary journey unfold through stunning visuals, heartfelt testimonies, and a unique artistic perspective on the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Stay connected and support the journey:

• 📷 Instagram: Flowers Beyond the Dark
• Facebook: Flowers Beyond the Dark
• 🌐 Website: https://www.righttimestudios.com/

Connect with Host Andy and Talent Freaks:

• 🌐 Website: https://www.talentfreaks.com/
• 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talent.freaks/
• ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talentfreaks
• 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talent.freaks
• 🎙️ Apple Podcasts: Talent Freaks on Apple
• 🎧 Spotify: Talent Freaks on Spotify

Support filmmakers telling powerful stories of courage and resilience. This documentary not only captures the human cost of war but also the enduring hope for peace and freedom in Ukraine.

If you're a filmmaker or organization interested in donating gear or supporting this cause, reach out to me to coordinate.

Please Like, Subscribe, and Share to help these vital stories reach the world!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene

01:06 Diving into 'Flowers Beyond the Dark'

02:42 Meet the Director and Producer

04:13 Experiences at Carmel by the Sea

07:43 The Impact of the Documentary

09:21 The Making of the Documentary

16:20 Finding the Characters

26:46 The Role of Nova Ukraine

31:30 Personal Reflections and Challenges

38:12 Challenges of Filmmaking During War

38:27 Funding Struggles and Community Support

40:23 Cinematic Approach and Artistic Vision

46:25 Symbolism and Themes in the Documentary

50:45 Audience Reception and Character Insights

56:57 Future Plans and Distribution Challenges

01:01:41 Support for Ukrainian Filmmakers

01:13:35 The Spirit and Resilience of Ukraine

01:15:50 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Welcome to another fun episode of Talent Freaks, where host Andy Coon sits down with storm chaser, professional photographer, and time-lapse master Mike Olbinski. Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Mike is renowned for his stunning storm photography, viral time-lapse films, and breathtaking footage of supercells, lightning, monsoons, and epic dust storms. His work has been licensed by National Geographic, Marvel , and the BBC, and has inspired storm lovers and filmmakers worldwide.

In this episode, Andy and Mike dive into:

• Mike’s passion for chasing nature’s wildest phenomena
• How he plans epic chases and reads the science of storms
• The inside story behind getting his booker supercell time-lapse featured in a Marvel film
• The technology and Canon gear he trusts in the field
• The unique challenges of photographing lightning and surviving close calls
• Monetizing storm photography with prints, workshops, and film licensing
• The mental side of chasing, facing FOMO, and balancing a creative business
• Tips for aspiring photographers, turning viral moments into a career, and staying inspired

Mike candidly shares his creative process, favorite camera lenses, secrets for catching the perfect bolt, and why he loves to combine science with art. Whether you’re a fan of extreme weather, photography tips, or just passionate stories, you’re in for an electrifying conversation!

Connect with Mike Olbinski:

🌐 Website: https://www.mikeolbinski.com/

📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeolbinski

▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MikeOlbinski

🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mikeolbinskiphotography

🅧 Twitter: https://x.com/mikeolbinski

🎥 Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/mikeolbinski

Connect with Talent Freaks:

🌐 Website: http://talentfreaks.com

📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talent.freaks/

▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talentfreaks

🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talent.freaks

🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talent-freaks-podcast/id1796292842

🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5ELhgo3t9d4J2jT1V3dV70?si=40f60e8e32d64524

Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring creative interviews, and hit the bell to stay updated!

If you enjoy the show, please like, share, and leave a comment with your favorite storm moment.

For guest suggestions or to connect, visit talentfreaks.com or drop a comment below.

00:00 A Shocking Encounter

00:20 Introducing Michael Binky: The Storm Chaser

01:03 Mike's Journey into Storm Chasing

06:17 The Viral Dust Storm

08:00 Capturing the Perfect Shot

11:44 Navigating the Challenges of Storm Chasing

24:12 The Art and Equipment of Time-Lapse Photography

40:44 Admiring the Canon 5D Mark IV

41:24 Discussing Popular Photos and Reactions

43:59 Documentary Crew and Iconic Storms

44:44 Marvel Licensing Deal and Media Attention

49:35 Capturing Lightning and Safety Concerns

59:14 Time-Lapse Techniques and Challenges

01:08:27 The Importance of Music in Storm Videos

01:16:26 Familiar Names and Music Playlists

01:17:22 Quickfire Questions: Storm Chasing Gear and Comfort Foods

01:20:27 Storm Chasing Superstitions and Rituals

01:24:15 Breakfast for Dinner and Diner Culture

01:27:09 Marvel Fandom and Movie Magic

01:33:42 Challenges and Joys of Photography

01:39:42 Alternative Careers and Final Thoughts

01:48:35 Closing Remarks and Social Media Links