Latest Episode
Our Hosts
Other Great Episodes
Episode 3: Grit
Documentary filmmaking takes way more than setting up a camera in a breathlessly scenic, historic destination. It starts with determination. Christian, Josh, and Jason cover the grit of getting started in filmmaking and how to craft a pitch packet.
Subscribe ...
Episode 2: Favorites
Christian, Josh, and Jason explore their all-time favorite documentaries and the inspirations for “The Girl Who Wore Freedom” film.
Subscribe to the Documentary First podcast at your favorite podcast distribution network: iTunes, Stitcher, Google Music, RadioPublic, or Spotify!
...
Episode 1: Origins
Today we talk origin stories. We’re looking at how Director Christian Taylor got her start in filmmaking, the necessity of building a good team and how being a Mom helped her as a producer! Christian, Josh, and Jason discuss voiceover, ...
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.
DocuView Déjà Vu
Christian’s Recommendation:
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