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

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

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

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