Doc Walks

Meet Rena Effendi—National Geographic photographer, and first-time filmmaker whose SEARCHING FOR SATYRUS just won the top doc prize at the Austin Film Festival. This walk is pure magic—seemingly in honor of her butterfly-hunting film, monarch butterflies flit all around us like they know something the rest of us don't. Rena's film traces her hunt for one of the world's rarest butterflies, named after her father—a Soviet-era lepidopterist who collected 90,000 specimens before his untimely death. This unique species flies only once a year, on a mountaintop, above 10,000 feet, and along the militarized border between Azerbaijan and Armenia—two countries at war for decades. Just five people had ever seen the Satyrus Effendi—and that's when Rena enters the story. She's got a lot to say about complicated family stories, layers of secrets, and life in the collapsing Soviet Union. Rena unpacks her jump from medium-format still photos to motion picture storytelling, building teams vs. working solo, and why neutrality matters when you're documenting war—even when it's your own country.  Plus: a cowboy guitarist on a bicycle, honky-tonk dancing at the White Horse, and why documentary photographers make fearless filmmakers. A woman of the people, and of the butterflies, Rena Effendi is the real deal.   DISCUSSION LINKS: SEARCHING FOR SATYRUS (2025) | PAST LIVES (2023) | HONEYLAND (2019) TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction—Budapest or Istanbul? 01:00 Searching for Satyrus and the Austin Film Festival Win 02:00 Monarch Butterflies and the Rare Satyrus Effendi 04:00 First Time in Austin, First Film 05:00 From Office Job to Photographer—The Magnum Moment 08:00 Collapsing Soviet Union and Standing in Food Queues 10:00 Father's Death and Choosing Butterflies Over Geology 13:00 The Craft of Pinning Butterflies Like a Jeweler 14:00 Early Photography—Documenting Mahala's Transformation 16:00 City Symphonies and Capturing Disappearing Identity 18:00 Story Arcs in Still Photography 19:00 The Dying Mother—Last Picture in the Series 21:00 Austin's Transformation and Tech Bro Architecture 24:00 Birth of the Film—Googling Her Father's Name 26:00 The Butterfly Named After Her Father 27:00 Discovering a Half-Sister at Age 14 30:00 Healing Through Art—Looking at Father Through New Lens 32:00 2020 War and Gaining Access to Habitat 33:00 Building the Team—Producers and National Geographic Grant 36:00 Leadership Challenges of Filmmaking vs. Photography 37:00 Mom's Resistance and Opening Up 40:00 Kevin Andrew—Picking and Pedaling Through Austin 43:00 First Impressions of Austin and White Horse 45:00 Growing Up in War-Torn Culture 47:00 Neutrality and Non-Judgment 49:00 Artists vs. Journalists—The Blurry Line 51:00 Speed Round—Past Lives, Stay True to Story, Kill Your Darlings 54:00 Where to Find the Film

We've been trying to book this walk with director Chelsea Hernandez for weeks, but she's just too-busy city-hopping for the PBS music doc-series to hit the trail with us—until now. Chelsea is an Emmy-nominated director, a part of the Brown Girls Doc Mafia, and a great friend!   On a return from a recent shoot in Puerto Rico for CITY OF SONGS, Chelsea found that her living room ceiling had collapsed, turning her life upside down… rather than get down about it, she took it as a sign from the universe. Time to move! And time, finally, to get moving with us—thru the Boggy Creek Greenbelt in East Austin—on a winding walk & talk through her career. Starting with her early days (at age 9) hosting her own Martha Stewart-style kids show (99 episodes!)—then assistant editing for Ellen Siro and editing for Mario Troncoso—all the way to making her own feature doc. We get the scoop, with a focus on casting BUILDING THE AMERICAN DREAM, her feature debut about undocumented construction workers that's still painfully relevant today. And she breaks down the approach to co-directing (with Heather Courtney and Princess A. Hairston) for 2023's BREAKING THE NEWS—a doc that Keith EP'd and Episode 3 guest Diane Quon produced. She makes a compelling case for why three directors may be better than one. Like many, Chelsea is caught-up in today's anti-PBS culture war, outlining how the Trump administration just killed her ITVS-funded film ("the movie Trump doesn't want you to see"). But she's happy to make the case for why PBS matters. It's not just art—it's jobs, community, and the lifeblood of democracy. Plus: why spending time in people's kitchens beats journalism, that time she worked for the Beto campaign, and how many baseballs are in Ben's minivan.   Discussion Links: BUILDING THE AMERICAN DREAM (2019) | BREAKING THE NEWS (2023) | AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE (2017) | ARTS IN CONTEXT (2013-2016) | THAT ANIMAL RESCUE SHOW (2020) | THE EYES OF ME (2009) | ( CITY OF SONGS (2025) | TO BE AND TO HAVE (2002) | TOWER (2016) | BEFORE MIDNIGHT (2013) Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement 01:00 Chelsea's Roof Collapse Story 02:00 Walking the St. David's Community Garden 03:30 Child Star Origins - Kids Ideas TV Show 06:00 Transition from Broadcasting to Documentary 08:00 City of Songs and Traveling for PBS 10:00 CPB Funding Cuts and Trump's Impact 13:00 Building the American Dream Origins 16:00 Casting Real People - Finding Your Protagonists 20:00 Workers Defense Project and Building Trust 24:00 The Fat Mouse Encounter 26:00 Journalism vs. Documentary - Learning to Take Sides 30:00 Breaking the News - Three Directors, Three Perspectives 36:00 Co-Directing Challenges and Triumphs 40:00 Gateway Drug Film - To Be and To Have 42:00 Dream Collaborator Ethan Hawke 43:00 Immigration Raids and Current Work 45:00 Future Projects - Asylum Seekers School and Ruben Ramos 47:00 Baseball Count and Episode Title

Keith wanders LA's Atwater Village with acclaimed producer Megan Gilbride—a co-conspirator on TOWER, A SONG FOR YOU, and DEAR MR. BRODY. We stroll the neighborhood, two old friends and frequent collaborators, outlining just how Megan's the "producer kind of crazy" and not the "director kind of crazy." Megan's got theories and she has opinions—and she's got the experience to back them all up. This wide-ranging talk covers a whole lot, like… the ethics of authenticity, how the budget tells a story, community building in the doc-making space, and the difference between journalism and cinema.  Plus: creeping on a stranger's house to smell juniper trees, the Princess Bride theory of medium-specific storytelling, and why Megan won't shoot 70mm "if there's no wide shots in the fucking movie." The producer of WHERE SOLDIERS COME FROM, LOVERS OF HATE, and FATHOM makes a case for JAWS, THE LIFE AND TIMES OF HARVEY MILK, ALL THAT JAZZ and the NY EXPORT: OPUS JAZZ—or as she puts it: going to church… watching movies… making fucking cinema. Discussion Links: TOWER (2016) | DEAR MR. BRODY (2021) | FATHOM (2021) | LOVERS OF HATE (2010) | WHERE SOLDIERS COME FROM (2011) | THE REASON I JUMP (2020) | THE PLEA (2024) | JAWS (1975) | ALL THAT JAZZ (1979) | THE LIFE AND TIMES OF HARVEY MILK (1984) | THE PRINCESS BRIDE (1987) | NY EXPORT: OPUS JAZZ (2010) | 32 SOUNDS (2022)   Timestamps: 00:00 Intro and Atwater Village Setup | 01:00 Origin Story: The 2012 Picnic Table Pitch | 03:00 What Does a Producer Actually Do? | 06:00 Excellence, Financing, and Distribution as Creative Acts | 09:00 Cinema vs Journalism: The Grammar of Documentary | 13:00 The Psychology of Storytelling and Gut Instinct | 16:00 Ethics, Authenticity, and Not Being Provocative | 18:00 The State of Documentary in 2025 | 20:00 PBS as the Invisible Backstop | 23:00 Mid-Career Reality Check and Volume Problems | 26:00 Cauleen Smith's Life-Changing Question | 29:00 The Space Inside the Frame | 32:00 Do You Wanna Make Fucking Cinema? | 36:00 Princess Bride and Medium-Specific Storytelling | 39:00 Community as the Through-Line in All Her Work | 42:00 Battery Dies, We're on Zoom Now | 43:00 Gateway Drug: Jaws, Harvey Milk, All That Jazz | 46:00 What Makes Her Say Yes to a Project | 48:00 Go to Church: Watch Movies | 52:00 Where to Find Megan's Work

Welcome to Austin Studios, the airport-turned-soundstages located at the intersection of Austin Film Society and Richard Linklater's Detour Filmproductions… and who better to catch on the backlot than Mike Blizzard? A producer known for APOLLO 10½, HIT MAN, and this month's BLUE MOON, all made with longtime collaborator Richard Linklater, Mike takes us through the old airport hangars where MISS CONGENIALITY stumbled and where WALKER spurred onto screens. Breaking down how true stories become narrative films. We dig into the real Gary Johnson (fake hitman, real person), Lorenz Hart's final night at Sardi's (BLUE MOON), and why Linklater keeps returning to stories that actually happened.  Mike produced the Sundance doc NO NO: A DOCKUMENTARY, and as director of the non-fiction ode to local film, ALSO STARRING AUSTIN, he's the perfect tour guide through Austin film history. And, we're catching Mike just as CLEMENTE, his baseball-doc about Roberto Clemente, is rounding third on it's theatrical run and sliding into THE HISTORY CHANNEL — and BLUE MOON releases nationwide. It's a busy time for Blizzard, and we're glad he gave some of it to us….   Discussed Works: HIT MAN (2023) - Netflix | BLUE MOON (2025) - Sony Pictures Classics | APOLLO 10½: A SPACE AGE CHILDHOOD (2022) - Netflix | ALSO STARRING AUSTIN (2018) - Available online | NO NO: A DOCKUMENTARY (2014) - Netflix | MISS CONGENIALITY (2000) - Various platforms | BERNIE (2011) - Various platforms | BOYHOOD (2014) - Various platforms | CLEMENTE (2024) - History Channel

We're wandering through a mystery neighborhood (we don't know the name) with Alex Ross Perry, who has TWO movies screening in Austin on the same day. Here to promote his 10-year passion project VIDEO HEAVEN—an essay film about video stores screening at Austin Film Society, and his part of the omnibus VHS series at Fantastic Fest, Alex has built up a fair amount of cred since 2014's LISTEN UP, PHILIP. Of course, "you can't pay for Montessori preschool with cred." Ain't that the truth. We catch Alex on the heels of last year's PAVEMENTS, a fictional(?) documentary about the indie rock band Pavement that aims to be both fabricated—and factual. We've got questions and he's got answers, pulling at the seams of a complicated film for which he created a fake Hollywood biopic (Joe Keery as Stephen Malkmus), staged a full off-Broadway musical with audiences who had no idea they were in a movie, and curated a hagiographic four-day Pavement museum all while cutting an archival dive into the 1990s phenoms against a  2022 reunion tour. It's a lot.  We walk where the streets all have names… and end up with Alex's contrarian take on AI, which is both slanted and enchanting: the long and short of it, he's not worried.  This industry is built on execs' calendars filled with endless notes calls with the sole job of justifying everyone's existence. Just like politicians, "studio execs won't let themselves be put out to pasture….and nobody who's rich shows themselves the door."   Discussion links: IMPOLEX (2009) | LISTEN UP PHILIP (2014) | COLOR WHEEL (2011) | QUEEN OF EARTH (2015) | HER SMELL (2018) | RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW (2023) | VHS HALLOWEEN (2025) | VIDEO HEAVEN (2024) | SLOW CENTURY (2002) | PAVEMENTS (2024) | DUNKIRK (2017) | BARBIE (2023) | BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY (2018) | ROCKET MAN (2019) | SISTERHOOD OF THE TRAVELING PANTS 2 (2008)   Tags Alex Ross Perry, Pavement documentary, Video Heaven, indie filmmaking, music documentary, documentary filmmaking, Stephen Malkmus, experimental documentary, mockumentary, Robert Greene editor, Austin Film Society, Fantastic Fest, video store documentary, indie rock documentary, fair use filmmaking, VHS horror, Listen Up Philip, screenwriting, AI and filmmaking, narrative documentary

This week we're roaming from Go-Valley (the production compound) thru Govalle (the neighborhood) with Marfa, TX-based filmmaker Hillary Pierce, a producing force behind Ben Masters' THE RIVER AND THE WALL, and Maisie Crow's AT THE READY.. Hillary's path involves assisting the legendary Albert Maysles in New York (yes, he ate her leftovers), looping back to Austin, and then simultaneously working on two wildly different features with Keith, TOWER and A SONG FOR YOU. A meandering stroll through Govalle's sculpture garden and lizard-lurking trails, Hillary shares why "love your subjects" is ardent filmmaking advice, how producing a wedding preceded additional documentary productions, and why she eventually fled to Marfa during COVID. We dig into the Documentary Producers Alliance - why it matters, what those crediting guidelines actually do, and how unsexy spreadsheets save productions. Hillary breaks down fundraising across political aisles, the death of traditional distribution, and why your next project might not need to be a feature. The industry's burning down? Rumor has it. But Hillary's got ideas for what we build next.   Discussion links: TOWER (2016) | A SONG FOR YOU (2016) | THE RIVER AND THE WALL (2019) | AT THE READY (2021) | DOCUMENTARY PRODUCERS ALLIANCE   Timestamps: 00:00 Govalle Adventures Begin 02:00 From Maysles to Austin 07:00 The Costa Rica Doc That Never Was 09:00 Producing Two Features at Once 14:00 What the DPA Actually Does 21:00 Escaping to Marfa 24:00 Conservative Conservationists & Border Politics 28:00 Plans Are Made to Be Changed 33:00 Direct Distribution Isn't Plan B Anymore 40:00 Redefining Documentary Success 44:00 What Do We Build Next?   Tags: documentary filmmaking, film producer, documentary producer, Tower documentary, The River and the Wall, Albert Maysles, documentary distribution, direct distribution, indie filmmaking, Documentary Producers Alliance, DPA, Austin filmmakers, Marfa Texas, film production, documentary careers, filmmaking advice, Keith Maitland, Ben Steinbauer, documentary industry, independent film

Ben crashes the Matt and Bob show to talk WINNEBAGO MAN, viral videos before viral was a thing, and tracking down an angry RV salesman living as a hermit in Northern California. The conversation rips through documentary evolution—from Ken Burns photo zooms to Tiger King (quick: who directed it? exactly)—and lands on why docs are the offensive linemen of film: you don't know their names, but you need them. Ben breaks down Doc Walks, his new weekly walk-and-talk series with Austin filmmaker Keith Maitland, where tiny cameras, AI editing, and real conversation collide. They dig into HIGH HOPES (his Hulu dispensary doc with Jimmy Kimmel), the terrifying gamble of documentary filmmaking (what if nothing happens?), and why authenticity matters when everything else is fake. Plus: why Ben's wife is rooting for Chuy's love life. Discussion links: WINNEBAGO MAN (2009) | HIGH HOPES (2023) | TOWER (2016) | SHERMAN'S MARCH (1985) | DEAR ZACHARY (2008) | ICARUS (2017) Timestamps: 00:00 Intro | 01:00 HIGH HOPES | 02:00 WINNEBAGO MAN Origin Story | 06:00 Docs as Offensive Linemen | 07:00 Doc Walks Launch | 10:00 Authenticity vs AI | 11:00 Documentary Risks | 13:00 When Stories Swerve | 14:00 Where to Find Doc Walks YouTube Tags: documentary filmmaking, Ben Steinbauer, Winnebago Man, documentary filmmaker interview, Matt and Bob show, Doc Walks podcast, Keith Maitland, High Hopes Hulu, Jimmy Kimmel, documentary series, Austin filmmakers, Tower documentary, filmmaking podcast, indie filmmaking, documentary production, viral videos, Jack Rebney, reality vs documentary, authentic storytelling, film industry, documentary editing, Sherman's March, Ken Burns, Tiger King, documentary evolution, cinema verite, nonfiction filmmaking, Sundance documentaries, film school, documentary techniques, filmmaker interview, behind the scenes, documentary process, creative process, film production, independent film, documentary storytelling, Texas filmmakers, Austin film scene, entertainment industry, media production, film discussion, movie podcast, documentary history, filmmaking tips, creative collaboration, film theory, documentary craft  

This one is pure gold! Join Ben on a solo walk with the legendary Maureen Gosling—a prolific documentary editor and director, and a longtime collaborator of Les Blank. Dig into the makings-of iconic films like SPROUT WINGS AND FLY, GAP-TOOTHED WOMEN and BURDEN OF DREAMS, and explore Maureen's latest work, THE NINE LIVES OF BARBARA DANE. We dive deep into the fascinating twists and turns of Maureen's career and her seamless transition from editor to director. Maureen inspires as she lays out the unique nature of her collaborative process—and there are ideas in here that we can all learn from. Don't miss this golden stroll through documentary history with someone who's lived it.    Discussion links: THE BLUES ACCORDIN' TO LIGHTNIN' HOPKINS (1968)  SPEND IT ALL (1971)  DRY WOOD (1973)  HOT PEPPER (1973)  A POEM IS A NAKED PERSON (1974)  CHULAS FRONTERAS (1976)  DEL MERO CORAZÓN (1979)  BURDEN OF DREAMS (1982)  SPROUT WINGS AND FLY (1983)  IN HEAVEN THERE IS NO BEER? (1984)  GAP-TOOTHED WOMEN (1987)  BLOSSOMS OF FIRE (2000)  WAITING TO INHALE (2005)  THE NINE LIVES OF BARBARA DANE (2023) 00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement 01:05 Maureen Gosling's New Film 02:26 Les Blank: A Legendary Collaborator 05:25 Early Career and First Projects 11:15 Filmmaking Philosophy and Techniques 16:26 Transition to Directing 24:19 Challenges and Collaborations 26:31 The Nine Lives of Barbara Dane 27:08 Chris's Annual Parties and Barbara Dane's Musical Influence 27:50 Discovering Barbara Dane's Legacy 28:59 Filming Barbara Dane's Last Concert 30:24 Barbara Dane's Son and His Life in Cuba 32:25 Raising Funds and Continuing the Documentary 36:38 Barbara Dane's Impact and Final Years 39:31 Maureen's Reflections on Her Career 44:14 The Importance of Documentaries 47:40 Upcoming Screenings and Live Music Events 49:13 Maureen's Time in Austin and Final Thoughts  

A walk down docu-memory lane as we welcome Ben's early filmmaking collaborator, roommate, and mentor Bradley Beesley…. A prolific and adventure-prone docmaker, Bradley's created acclaimed docs OKIE NOODLING 1 & 2, FEARLESS FREAKS, and SWEETHEARTS OF THE PRISON RODEO—among others. This walk takes us through Brad & Ben's old neighborhood, with a stop in front of the house they shared in French Place, here in Austin. In a flowing conversation filled with stories and insights from Bradley's early days at OU art school where he made the infamous PIZZA MAN, through his collaborations with Wayne Coyne of The Flaming Lips, and his intense love of Oklahoma hand-fishing, it's no surprise that Ben calls Bradley, "The Pride of Oklahoma." And Austin takes plenty of pride in this former-pirate too!   Links: The Making of Biffy Clyro, My Recovery Injection directed by Ben Steinbauer  Okie Noodling (2000) Fearless Freaks (2005) Summercamp! (2006) The Creek Runs Red (2006) Okie Noodling 2 (2008) Sweethearts of the Prison Rodeo (2009) Calls To Okies: The Park Grubbs Story (2014)   00:00 The Pride of Barbados 00:22 The Pride of Oklahoma 02:10 Walking and Talking with Bradley Beesley 04:29 Journey to Austin 05:35 The Flaming Lips Connection 20:49 The Making of Okie Noodling 27:33 Sweethearts of the Prison Rodeo 28:38 The Best Summer of Bradley's Life 29:39 The Pirate Life of Filmmaking 33:16 The Okie Noodling Phenomenon 36:11 Creating the Noodling Tournament 38:56 Funding and Production Challenges 40:51 The Passion for Noodling 44:54 Advice for Young Filmmakers 47:49 Current Projects and Reflections 51:30 Conclusion and Future Guests  

Summer's done and Fall is Falling as we (Keith & Ben) check in with each other about the state of our respective projects and how we go from development to production (fingers crossed). We don't have the answers, but we each have our approaches to deck-creation, sizzle reel sizzling, pitching & fundraising, all to get into the 'making' part of filmmaking. Ben shares details about his doc project DR. DANTE, a collab with filmmaker/producer Bradley Beesley and Jimmy Kimmel's company Kimmelot (plus Julie Goldman's Motto Films), as an adaptation of a short into a podcast into a feature doc. And Keith shares where he is with two upcoming projects: a twist on  true crime that he's making in partnership with Frank Mosley and Concordia Studio and an all-archival film about an international auteur. Fall is here and so are important deadlines—we're looking at expanding our industry connections and providing insights into the seasonal dynamics of this confusing industry… walk with us and let's figure it out together!   00:00 Introduction Under the Tree 00:28 Reflecting on Seasons and Time 01:03 The Big Reset: End of Summer 02:59 Pitching New Projects 03:41 Dr. Dante: A Comedic True Crime Doc 09:32 Challenges and Changes in Filmmaking 17:05 Building a Team and New Projects 21:22 The Excitement of Filmmaking and Education 22:06 Creating a Documentary Package 22:43 The Grant Route and Its Importance 24:27 Sundance Catalyst Invitation 26:38 Editing the Sizzle Reel 29:47 Balancing Multiple Projects 30:05 The Importance of General Meetings 33:51 Pitching and Developing New Projects 37:14 Fall Festivals and Film Releases 40:15 Wrapping Up and Future Guests  

Two-time Sundance winner Reid Davenport is in town with his new film LIFE AFTER. We were excited to book time with Reid and his producer Colleen Cassingham for a  sit-down with Keith at the Austin Film Society Cinema. Reid shares the story behind what drew him to telling this complex story about the issues attached to state sanctioned assisted suicide and talks about his early filmmaking days where questions of identity and politics shaped him as a filmmaker with a unique perspective. Both Reid and Colleen appear on-camera in LIFE AFTER and we dig into that process, their respective roles, and how their story (& they) changed along the way. This is a film supported by ITVS and airing this Fall on Independent Lens and so of course, the recent cuts to CPB are in the air—but it's not all politics on this episode. We also dig into the filmmakers and films that inspired these two filmmakers and find plenty to laugh about together. Join us for a look at LIFE AFTER and life on the road with Reid Davenport and Colleen Cassingham. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 00:44 Setting the Scene: Austin Film Society Cinema 01:21 Introducing the Film 'Life After' 03:23 Challenges and Strategies in Film Distribution 06:27 Impact of Public Media Cuts 08:56 Exploring the Film's Themes and Personal Reflections 13:33 Production Process and Personal Insights 24:24 The Tension of Filmmaking 25:07 Exploring Disability in Film 25:45 Inspiration and Filmmaking Journey 31:15 The Role of Mentors 40:07 Practical Advice for Emerging Filmmakers 44:33 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude  

It's a sobering summer day in Austin as we invite the Austin Chronicle's  Richard Whittaker out for a walk. Fresh off the presses, Richard has researched and written a story that details the ramifications of the recent defunding of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and the impact that this move has on independent documentaries. We get into it, talking up the history and significance of PBS and ITVS, the Independent Television Service — the leading funder of indie docs in the public sphere. Richard provides context and detail far beyond the headlines for this hot-button issue affecting everyone who tells or takes-in non-fiction media. It's a frustrating, shared reality that we inhabit, and this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about documentary filmmaking and the future of public broadcasting. Subscribe and stay tuned for our conversation!   Richard's article in The Austin Chronicle: https://www.austinchronicle.com/news/2025-08-01/texas-public-media-grapples-with-funding-loss-from-gop-bill/   00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 00:28 Interview with Richard Whittaker 03:56 Impact of Funding Cuts on Public Broadcasting 09:20 The Role of ITVS in Independent Documentaries 10:48 Historical Context and Future Implications 16:48 Challenges and Responses from ITVS 22:00 Independent Production Budgets 22:29 Funding Strategies for Documentaries 23:20 The Role of Major Filmmakers 26:07 Challenges in Nonprofit Funding 28:17 Public Media and Political Perception 32:30 The Value of Public Media 36:29 Future of Documentary Filmmaking 38:37 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview  

We talk a lot about mentorship on this podcast—so it makes sense that we'd bring a pivotal mentor to both of us into the mix. Join us as we find a shady spot on the campus of the University of Texas as DocWalks becomes DocTalks with Dr. Paul Stekler. We'll get into Paul's POV from many angles—from his days as a Harvard PhD, to his filmmaking roots in New Orleans, through his role as the chair of the Radio-Television-Film department at UT, Paul has made teaching and community building a priority. But that hasn't held him back from building an impressive catalog of films… with SETTING THE WOODS ON FIRE, VOTE FOR ME, LAST MAN STANDING, and GETTING BACK TO ABNORMAL (& more) he's pushed political perspectives beyond wonky intellectualism into a place full of heart and humor. Paul has played a significant role in each of our careers—as he has with dozens of other filmmakers… and this episode celebrates lessons learned (or missed) in grad school, the many mea culpas of George Wallace, Henry Hampton and his EYES ON THE PRIZE, and the importance of community (not to mention: memories of drunken revelry with Richard Leacock). Take a seat as we replace DocWalks with DocTalks with Austin's doctor of documentaries.   00:00 Exploring the University of Texas Campus 00:56 Meeting Dr. Paul Stekler 01:26 Paul Stekler's Impact on Filmmakers 03:57 The Art of Taking and Giving Feedback 13:01 Paul Stekler's Journey into Filmmaking 14:43 Early Filmmaking Experiences and Challenges 18:41 The Role of a Director in Documentary Filmmaking 24:14 The Art of a Good Shot 24:28 Interview Techniques and Influences 25:27 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers 26:06 The Importance of Passion and Story 27:33 Building a Filmmaking Community 28:44 Transition to Austin and Early Projects 29:42 George Wallace and Political Documentaries 34:27 Collaborative Filmmaking 38:22 Supporting Emerging Filmmakers 42:46 The Power of Documentary Films 46:11 Final Thoughts and Reflections 49:14 Next Episode Preview  

This week we're breaking out of the non-fiction world to talk fictionalization with Oscar-nominated writer/director Greg Kwedar. Fresh off the awards trail with last year's SING SING, Greg shares insights and ideas about turning documentary style research into based-on-a-true-story truth. It's a light-hearted walk through Hyde Park, with another stop at a shady creek, as we dig into Greg's approach to creative partnership (he's 4-films deep with collaborator Clint Bentley) — and catering his directing approach for different acting styles. Step with us into a free-roaming conversation about creative resilience and the role of friendship and adventure that drives Greg's process.   00:00 A Stroll Through Hyde Park 00:49 Introducing Greg Quedar 03:00 Greg's Journey from Accounting to Filmmaking 10:37 The Inspiration Behind 'Sing Sing' 15:01 Exploring the Creative Process 27:36 The Importance of Colleagueship and Collaboration 28:31 Challenges in the Writing Process 29:35 The Lightning Bolt Moments 30:00 The Role of Friendship in Storytelling 31:31 The Joy and Struggles of Filmmaking 33:15 Preparing for New Projects 35:07 Working with Different Actor Processes 37:57 Documentary Filmmaking Insights 40:15 Reflections on the Creative Journey 47:26 Gateway Films and Inspirations 50:31 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans  

Take a stroll with Reed Harkness, Portland-based creator behind SAM NOW, a creative portrait that follows the journey of the Harkness brothers, Reed and Sam, as they search for Sam's mother who mysteriously disappeared in the year 2000. This walk mirrors Reed's film, becoming a moving and unexpectedly epic conversation about family, loss, and long-haul filmmaking. This one takes us off the trail, through a literal portal with a detour into a stone-skipping dip in Boggy Creek. This one's got heart, humor, and a few unexpected turns—just like any good walk (or film) should.   00:00 Introduction to Reed Harkness 00:06 The Artist's Way Group 01:04 Walking Through East Austin 01:26 Meet Reed Harkness 02:23 Reed's Filmmaking Journey 04:37 The Mystery of Joyce's Disappearance 06:43 The Emotional Impact on the Family 09:29 The Filmmaking Process 15:50 Reed's Early Filmmaking Influences 23:09 From Play to Documentary 24:04 Sam's Journey and Filmmaking Challenges 25:12 The Emotional Impact of the Film 27:49 Balancing Filmmaking and Family 34:12 Exploring Meaning and Audience Reactions 42:32 Future Projects and Reflections 47:10 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser  

After 15 DocWalks Keith & Ben take a look back. Where did we start, where are we going? Walk with us as we discuss the evolution of the podcast, highlighting some highs and glossing-over some lows along the way. In addition to all that, we talk (as always) about changes in the film industry, notably Texas' new film incentives, and share some enthusiasm for upcoming episodes, including deep dives into classic docs, and long walks with impactful filmmakers, like next week's conversation with Portland-based filmmaker Reed Harkness. This one's just us — a look back, a look ahead, a chance to stand lakeside, beneath a spreading live oak tree and express gratitude for the doc life and each other — and you, if you're out there (& even if you're not). Onward!   00:00 Reflecting on 15 Episodes of Doc Walks 00:56 The Origins of Doc Walks 03:11 Recapping Memorable Episodes and Guests 04:20 The Joy of Connecting with Fellow Filmmakers 08:50 Upcoming Episodes and Future Plans 12:03 Filming Locations and Personal Stories 16:10 Austin's Creative Spirit and Challenges 20:58 Texas Film Production Incentives 21:44 Texas Film Incentives Explained 22:39 Squirrel Distraction and Life Lessons 23:14 Go Valley's Post-Production Expansion 24:33 Texas' Role in Film Incentives History 26:42 Gateway Drug Films and Personal Influences 32:44 Bird Watching and Documentary Insights 35:19 Reflections on Aging and Podcasting 37:09 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans  

We're off to Kansas! Or… Ben is. He's flying back to to Lawrence, Kansas, to interview one of his professors from his days at the University of Kansas — Academy Award-winning filmmaker and KU professor Kevin Willmott. Known for co-writing BLACKKKLANSMAN with Spike Lee, Wilmott shares personal stories of his journey from a young creative in Kansas to an Oscar award-winning filmmaker. This one is jam-packed with a wide-ranging discussion covering the power of cinema, activism, the impact of Black history, and the challenges of making films outside Hollywood — and the role of the teacher. Ben is filled-up with admiration and respect for Kevin Willmott and before the end of this one, you will be too!   00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:01 Meeting Kevin Willmott 03:08 Kevin's Early Life and Influences 05:23 The Journey to Filmmaking 12:28 Activism and Filmmaking 20:27 CSA: Confederate States of America 29:46 Collaboration with Spike Lee 34:05 The Importance of Having a Follow-Up Project 35:11 Pitching 'Gotta Give It Up' to Hollywood 36:35 Collaborations and Career Milestones 40:22 The Impact of Black History on Filmmaking 44:08 Teaching and Building a Film Community 46:45 Challenges and Rewards of Independent Filmmaking 53:57 Facing Racism and Its Influence on Storytelling 59:43 Reflections on Activism and Filmmaking 01:05:39 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts  

This one's a little different… Keith gets off the trail for an old-fashioned sit-down conversation with Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss, the acclaimed husband-wife filmmaker duo behind the BOYS STATE and this year's MIDDLETOWN. Jesse and Amanda share insights and highlights from their films, their career, and the challenges and opportunities that come from working together as a married couple and film team. From THE OVERNIGHTERS through MIDDLETOWN, this sit-down episode offers an intimate look at the creative dynamics and career evolution of two impactful documentarians at the top of the form. Special thanks to the Austin Film Society for the collab on this one!   00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:10 Discussing 'Middletown' and Audience Reactions 02:40 The Impact of Streaming and Theatrical Releases 04:45 Early Inspirations and Career Beginnings 08:49 Meeting and Forming a Partnership 13:16 Challenges and Breakthroughs in Filmmaking 17:04 Navigating the Documentary Film Industry 23:59 The Uncertainty of Verité Filmmaking 24:57 Ethical Dilemmas in Documentary Filmmaking 26:11 The Role of Objectivity and Journalism in Documentaries 26:39 The Collaborative Process in Documentary Filmmaking 29:19 The Genesis of Boys State 34:21 The Impact of Boys State on Careers and Industry 38:37 Reflections on Middletown and Documentary Filmmaking 41:11 Final Thoughts and Future Projects  

Acclaimed filmmaker Sandi DuBowski has come to our hometown to present SABBATH QUEEN at Austin Film Society's Doc Days. Twenty-one years in the making, Sandi has grown up with this film… and they're taking the show on the road with dozens of fests, scores of community screenings, and an art house tour to rival any indie film this year. Sandi takes us on a heartfelt exploration of their work, from the groundbreaking TREMBLING BEFORE GOD to their work with the late 'Good Pitch' we delve into Sandi's passion for creating documentary films that foster community and dialogue. And they've got plenty to share about their unique fundraising strategies, and their philosophy of building deep, lasting audience and distributor relationships. This one starts off with ducks and ends up with a lightning round of advice that we can all benefit from, though nothing hits home more than Sandi's key takeaway: Go To The Love!   00:00 Introduction and High Fives 00:28 Meeting the Duck and Ducklings 03:00 Introduction to Sandi DuBowski 05:38 Trembling Before G-d: The Journey 11:56 Impact and Distribution of Trembling Before G-d 17:59 Personal Stories and Community Screenings 19:05 Spirituality and Filmmaking 25:56 Creating Spaces for Dialogue and Resistance 29:43 The Journey of Sabbath Queen 31:23 Balancing Filmmaking and Other Projects 35:17 Fundraising Strategies for Filmmakers 40:41 Advice for Emerging Filmmakers 43:29 Reflecting on Influences and Future Projects 48:10 The Importance of Community and Art Houses 49:10 Final Thoughts and Where to Watch  

Known for her versatility as a director, producer, showrunner, and distribution advocate, Avril Speaks joins us this week to walk and doc. From her theological start to her producing days on the SXSW award-winning feature JINN, Avril delves into the importance of storytelling, her transition into nonfiction during the pandemic, and her advocacy for better distribution practices. And, she's our first guest to act out a scene from the movie, ANNIE!    00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 00:28 Meet Avril Speaks 02:27 Avril's Seminary Journey and Its Impact 04:48 The Intersection of Film and Theology 10:21 From Seminary to Filmmaking: The Journey Back 11:51 Producing 'Jinn': A Relatable Faith Journey 18:08 Transitioning to Nonfiction During the Pandemic 19:12 Exploring Diverse Topics: From Family Histories to UFOs 20:04 Directing and Producing: Balancing Roles 21:03 Distribution Advocates: Origins and Mission 21:17 Challenges in Film Distribution 22:27 Creating a Filmmaker's Cheat Sheet 23:30 Funding and Support for Filmmakers 24:12 Collaborations and Outreach 25:48 Marketing Innovation Fund 28:08 Navigating the Film Industry 29:37 The Role of Producers 37:33 Advice for Young Filmmakers 40:00 Conclusion and Final Though