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

Welcome to an insightful episode of Talent Freaks featuring D.C. Douglas the iconic voice actor behind Albert Wesker in Resident Evil and many other games, anime, commercials, and TV shows. Host Andy Coon reconnects with D.C .for a remarkable reunion podcast revisiting their first conversation from 2007.

In this episode, D.C. shares candid stories from his decades-long career navigating the shifting landscape of voice acting, including how technology and AI have transformed the industry. He discusses the challenges of staying relevant in an evolving market, the impact of home studios, remote auditions, and AI voice tools that are reshaping opportunities for voice actors nationwide. DC also opens up about his journey in on-camera roles, the unique pressures of convention celebrity culture, and how he embraces authenticity, both professionally and personally.

Get ready for an honest conversation full of humor, wisdom, and inspiration from one of the entertainment world's most distinctive voices. Whether you're a fan of video games, voice acting, or creative careers, this episode delivers valuable perspectives on adapting, hustling, and staying true to oneself.

Conenct with D.C. Douglas:

🌐 Website: https://dcdouglas.com/

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

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

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrdcdouglas

🎬 IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0235006/

🎥 Cameo: https://www.cameo.com/mrdcdouglas

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

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to D.C. Douglas

01:06 DC's Career Evolution and Industry Changes

01:25 Subscribe and Support

01:43 Starting the Conversation with DC

02:40 DC's Voiceover Journey

04:44 Impact of AI on the Voiceover Industry

05:32 The Evolution of the Voiceover Industry

08:37 Personal Reflections and Career Insights

12:06 The Role of Technology in Voiceover Work

16:21 Memorable Projects and Collaborations

18:41 Navigating the Voiceover Industry

26:36 DC's Acting and Mocap Experiences

28:21 Landing the Role of Albert Wesker

30:20 Voice Matching and Early Career Challenges

31:31 Breakthrough Roles in Major Franchises

31:47 Discovering and Embracing Anime

32:56 Convention Circuit and Fan Interactions

35:56 Political Activism and Online Presence

43:41 Navigating Personal and Professional Setbacks

52:33 Future Plans and Personal Reflections

57:57 Closing Thoughts and Farewell

Welcome to Episode 2 of Talent Freaks featuring documentary filmmaker Jonathan Berman. In this episode, Jonathan shares the inside story of creating the acclaimed documentary Commune, exploring the legendary Black Bear Ranch, its archival footage, and the enduring impact of 1960s counterculture on communal living and activism.

Jonathan discusses his journey from discovering the stories of Black Bear Ranch to restoring and re-releasing his film for a new generation. Get insights into documentary filmmaking: researching and licensing footage, building trust with interview subjects, and navigating non-linear editing. The episode also covers topics like fair use for filmmakers, the challenges and ethics of independent documentary production, and the social experiments that shaped American history.

Learn about the ongoing relevance of utopian communities in today's world, plus Jonathan's thoughts on everything from group dynamics to his new project, Gondola, which investigates urban development and community rights in Los Angeles.

🎬 Highlights in this episode:

• Why Black Bear Ranch became the heart of Commune

• The journey to discover, collect, and license historic footage

• The power and pitfalls of documentary editing and nonlinear storytelling

• 1960s ideals vs. reality: feminism, child-rearing, survival, and group conflict

• The enduring value of fair use for storytellers

• Opposition, dissent, and creativity—yesterday and today

• Jonathan’s approach to independent, vérité documentary filmmaking

• Screening info for Commune’s 20th anniversary restoration and more

2025 Special Screenings – Commune: 20th Anniversary Restoration

• May 21 – Upstate Films, Rhinebeck NY

• July 11 – DCTV’s Firehouse Cinema, NYC

• July 17 – SALA Los Alamos, NM

• July 18 – Darkside Cinema, Corvallis OR

• July 19 – Violet Crown, Santa Fe NM

• July 24–27 – Cinema Worcester, MA

• July 29 – Beacon Theater, NY

• Aug 11–13 – Art Theater, Long Beach CA

• Sept 12 – Smith Rafael Film Center, San Rafael CA https://rafaelfilm.cafilm.org/commune/

• Sept 17 – Philosophical Research Society, Los Angeles CA https://www.prs.org/

• Sept 20 – Ojai Playhouse, Ojai CA https://www.ojaiplayhouse.com/

🔗 Find ticket links and more at https://www.firstrunfeatures.com/commune

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

Leave your thoughts in the comments—what interests you most about communal living or documentary filmmaking? Don’t forget to subscribe and share to help support more insightful episodes!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:38 Meet Jonathan Berman

01:16 The Journey to Black Bear Ranch

02:21 Archival Footage and Production Challenges

06:12 Restoration and Technological Advances

07:07 Early Documentary Experiences

08:50 Fair Use in Documentary Filmmaking

10:21 Interview Techniques and Storytelling

19:02 Screenings and Audience Reactions

21:24 Unexpected Outcomes and Reflections

24:15 Reflecting on Familiarity and Comfort

24:35 Relevance of the Documentary Today

25:23 Exploring Alternative Lifestyles

26:42 Gender Roles and Child Rearing in Communes

28:32 Protests and Media Control

32:02 Documentary Filmmaking and Counterculture

35:13 Current Projects and Future Plans

39:12 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action

Welcome to the official launch of Talent Freaks with Andy Coon, the reimagined podcast dedicated to celebrating exceptionally talented individuals who are masters of their craft.

In our premiere episode, award-winning filmmaker and host Andy B. Coon sits down with renowned photographer and YouTuber Dave Herring. We dive deep into Dave's creative journey, exploring the hard work, unique perspective, and dedication that have defined his career. Dave shares his photography philosophy, recounting the time he was mic'd up in Keeler, CA, allowing us to hear his thought process as he photographed ghost towns. He also shares some of his favorite images, including a beautiful family portrait from the Dolomites and a unique "fishing" photograph he captured in Greece. The interview is a must-watch conversation for anyone in the creative industry!

If you're inspired by people who are masters of their craft, please subscribe to my channel and join me on this journey. Also, if you know any talented individuals in your social circles who I should be paying attention to, drop their names in the comments below!

As a special offer for Talent Freaks viewers, you can get 15% off your next purchase at https://verygoodpresets.com/ with discount code TF15 at checkout.

Connect with Dave Herring:

Website: https://dave.online/

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/⁨@davidherring⁩

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daveherring/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@imdaveherring

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.freaksApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talent-freaks-podcast/id1796292842Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5ELhgo3t9d4J2jT1V3dV70?si=ea32c392390f42bb

In this captivating episode from 2012, host Andy Coon reconnects with Gabriel Bissett Smith, a BAFTA-nominated writer, director, and actor celebrated for his genre-blending storytelling and innovative projects. Gabriel’s work spans film, theater, television, and digital media, often exploring themes of identity, relationships, and societal change with a fresh and unexpected perspective.

Gabriel first gained widespread recognition with his short film Thrush, which won the Vimeo Best Narrative Award in 2010 and the Grand Jury Prize at the Disposable Film Festival. The film, crafted entirely from still photographs, showcases his ability to transform personal experiences into compelling narratives. Since then, Gabriel has continued to make waves in the industry, directing music videos, writing for BBC Radio and Channel 4’s Skins, and co-founding the comedy act Guilt and Shame.

In this candid conversation, Gabriel reflects on the creative process behind Thrush, the surreal experience of winning the Vimeo Award, and how the accolade opened doors for his career. He also shares insights into the challenges of balancing multiple creative roles, the importance of collaboration, and his thoughts on the evolving landscape of web series and digital storytelling. With humor and honesty, Gabriel discusses the highs and lows of artistic pursuit, the influence of his bohemian upbringing, and his vision for future projects.

Join us for this inspiring and entertaining discussion with Gabriel Bissett Smith, where creativity, resilience, and a touch of serendipity collide.

Follow Gabriel Bissett Smith:

• Website: gabrielbissetsmith.com/

• Vimeo: Gabriel’s Channel

Connect with Talent Freaks:

• Website: talentfreaks.com

• Instagram: @talent.freaks

• Twitter: @talent_freaks