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Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods

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Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods... the podcast that honors the art of making movie trailers, teasers, key art, and all the strategic content that launched the movies, TV shows, and games you love.
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How a music-obsessed Midwesterner built a sonic legacy from the mix stages of Hollywood to the classrooms of tomorrow — and why the future of sound is still human. In this sound-rich episode, Corey sits down with Lenny Jones, a virtuoso in the trailer audio world and founder of 24/96 Sound & Music Design. With over 190 feature film campaigns under his belt and a teaching post at the New York Film Academy, Lenny shares his journey from humble beginnings in Indiana to becoming a go-to source for immersive sound design in trailers, TV spots, and features. This episode is a masterclass in navigating creative evolution, embracing new tech like AI, and maintaining human connection in an increasingly digital industry. ❤️ Featured Cause: A Place Called Home In this episode, we highlight A Place Called Home (APCH), a transformative nonprofit in South Central LA that provides a safe, nurturing environment for young people to learn, grow, and thrive. Through arts, education, counseling, and mentorship, APCH helps build brighter futures — and stronger communities. 🎉 Shoutout to Brett Winn, this year's honoree at the APCH Gala! 🎟️ Upcoming Event: 2025 Gala – October 23rd, 2025 👉 Learn more or donate: https://apch.org ⏱️ Timestamps & Topics [00:00:00] 🎬 Welcome & Introduction: Corey introduces Lenny Jones, founder of 24/96 Sound [00:02:00] 🎓 Ball State to LA: Lenny's journey west & the Indiana trailer-maker pipeline [00:04:00] 🥁 From Drumming to Mixing: Music engineering roots & career pivots [00:05:00] 🧵 Soundproofing & Creativity: Inside Lenny's home studio (blankets, neon sculptures & Burning Man) [00:07:00] 🔊 Demystifying Mixing: What does a trailer mixer actually do? [00:10:00] 💽 Tech Transitions: From analog to Pro Tools to AI—how Lenny adapted [00:13:00] ⚙️ Staying Ahead: Tools, forums, and keeping sharp in a fast-moving field [00:16:00] 🚀 SSI to Entrepreneur: Why Lenny left a top post house to start 24/96 [00:19:00] 👨‍🏫 Teaching the Next Gen: Sound design at New York Film Academy [00:21:00] 🌍 Global Sound: Representing composers from Finland to Japan [00:24:00] 🎧 Case Study – Dave for FX: Breaking down a sound-rich launch trailer [00:29:00] 🥁 Travis Barker Spot: Behind-the-scenes with AV Squad & movieTickets.com [00:30:00] 🏢 Working with Studios vs. Agencies: Key differences & workflows [00:33:00] 🌪️ Navigating Industry Shifts: Covid, streaming slumps, AI & more [00:38:00] 🤖 AI in Audio: Helpful assistant or creative threat? Lenny weighs in [00:44:00] 🎨 Favorite Campaigns: Judas and the Black Messiah, TRON, & more [00:47:00] 🛠️ Career Advice: Build something you own + the people-first philosophy 🔑 Key Takeaways Balance Tech & People: Mastering tools like Pro Tools is essential, but relationships build lasting careers. Diversify Your Creative Income: Lenny juggles commercial work, a sound library, and teaching to stay adaptable. Leverage AI Carefully: Use tools like ChatGPT for metadata and titles, but don't let them replace human creativity. Keep Learning & Networking: Conferences, forums, and award shows remain vital for staying connected and inspired. 🎤 Notable Quotes "When you mix a trailer, you're sculpting the experience—balancing music, dialogue, and effects frame by frame." — Lenny Jones "The future of sound isn't AI replacing humans, it's AI empowering humans to do better, faster work." — Lenny Jones "Start your own company—even if you're working full-time. It's your safety net and your legacy." — Lenny Jones 🌐 Connect with Lenny & 24/96 Website: 2496soundandmusic.com Instagram: @2496soundandmusic LinkedIn: Lenny Jones 🙌 Our Sponsors:  24/96 Sound & Music Design: 2496soundandmusic.com The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Calls to Action: Please leave us a rating and review: https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
🎬 From Posters to Powerhouses: The Legacy of Andy Kuehn Through BLT's Origins 📌 Episode Summary In this edition of our tribute series to Andy Kuehn—widely regarded as the father of the modern trailer industry—we're joined by special co-host Benedict Coulter and iconic guests Dawn Baillie and Clive Baillie, two of the co-founders of BLT Communications. Together, they retrace the creative and entrepreneurial journey that shaped BLT, and honor the enormous influence Andy had in nurturing creative independence and cultivating Hollywood glamor. This conversation is a deep dive into the culture and mentorship Andy built at Kaleidoscope Films, and how that environment catalyzed the formation of one of the most successful creative shops in entertainment advertising. 🕰️ Timestamps & Highlights [00:00:00] Welcome & intro 🎙️ [00:01:00] Meet Dawn & Clive Baillie of BLT Communications [00:02:00] Why BLT was formed: reclaiming artistry with the advent of Macs 💻🎨 [00:04:00] Clive's journey: set carpenter on Masters of the Universe to key art designer [00:06:00] Working at Cannon Films, Seiniger and Dazu [00:08:00] Dawn's unconventional entry from movie extra to design star  [00:10:00] Building BLT with Rick Lynch, and a pivotal meeting with Andy Kuehn 🤝 [00:14:00] The bold idea: artists using their own computers—pre-Photoshop! [00:16:00] First impressions of Andy: bronzed, elegant, and unforgettable  [00:19:00] Portfolio meets passion: BLT's pitch wins over Andy & Kaleidoscope [00:21:00] Benedict's POV: how BLT raised the creative bar at Kaleidoscope [00:24:00] Cross-medium collaborations: from Natural Born Killers to AV-Print synergy [00:28:00] Culture as a cornerstone: open creativity at Kaleidoscope  [00:30:00] Andy's Hollywood home and unforgettable holiday parties 🎄🏡 [00:32:00] The essence of Andy: glamor, grace, and supportiveness  [00:36:00] BLT reflects on the culture Andy helped build and their growth since [00:40:00] Warm memories from Kaleidoscope's Seward Street days [00:43:00] Benny shares how Andy shaped his leadership style at Trailer Park [00:47:00] Departures, transitions, and keeping Andy's legacy alive [00:49:00] Final reflections, laughs, and why we need to bring back Ascots  📝 Notable Quotes "Andy embodied that old Hollywood mystique—you wanted to be around him. You felt elevated just being in the room." — Dawn Baillie "We learned that the most important thing in a company is culture—and Andy created that." — Clive Baillie "If you support me creatively, I'll fly. Andy gave me wings." — Benedict Coulter 📚 Related Links 🌐 AJK Foundation: ajkfoundation.org – Support film preservation & LGBTQ+ cinema history. Our Sponsors:  24/96 Sound & Music Design: 2496soundandmusic.com The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Calls to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
From Madison Ave to Hollywood: The Birth of a Trailer Empire 📌 Episode Summary This week, we continue our heartfelt tribute to Andy Kuehn, a visionary often considered the father of the modern trailer industry. This week, Corey and special co-host Benedict Coulter of REBEL welcome longtime industry luminary Jim Gibbons (EVP of Paramount, founder of Flamingo Films) who takes us on a journey through the formative years of trailer creation—from New York's Madison Avenue to Hollywood's 7️⃣0️⃣2️⃣6️⃣ Santa Monica Blvd. In this edition, we explore the early days of Kaleidoscope, Andy's legendary influence, and how the art of trailers evolved into what it is today. From pioneering trailer edits to running parallel campaigns against studio execs, Andy's legacy looms large. 🕰️ Timestamps & Highlights [00:00:00] Welcome & intro by Corey Nathan [00:01:00] Greg McClatchy on Andy Kuehn's AJK Foundation and film preservation 🌈🎞️ [00:03:00] Enter Jim Gibbons: From liquor stores to Kaleidoscope in 1969 [00:06:00] The story of Andy defying studio orders with A/B testing campaigns 📊🔥 [00:08:00] Jim's memories of Andy's legendary NYC loft salons 🥂🎭 [00:10:00] Launching Kaleidoscope in LA, reunions at 7026 Santa Monica Blvd [00:14:00] From Kaleidoscope to Utopia, and starting Flamingo Films [00:20:00] The evolution of trailer shops—from National Screen Service to creative boutiques [00:25:00] Behind-the-scenes on Star Wars, lasers, and early VFX 💥🛸 [00:30:00] From competitor to client: Jim working with Andy at Paramount [00:34:00] Collaboration with Benedict at Trailer Park [00:40:00] Reflections on transitioning from indie shops to studio system [00:44:00] Modern-day trailer creation: Streamers, social, digital 🎥📱 [00:45:00] What Jim misses most about Andy Kuehn [00:47:00] History of Kanew-Manger-Deutsch, Geronimo, and the rise of trailer giants [00:48:00] Signature sounds, trailer style debates, and fun industry lore 🎧😂 [00:50:00] Final reflections & gratitude 🌟 Notable Quotes "Andy created a standard... the tone was: be innovative. Don't settle for the norm." — Jim Gibbons "He was always Andy. That smile, that mustache. You couldn't miss him. You felt him in the room." — Jim Gibbons "We all owe a lot to Jim... he was part of the original group that really started it all with Andy." — Benedict Coulter 📚 Related Links 🌐 AJK Foundation: ajkfoundation.org – Support film preservation & LGBTQ+ cinema history. Our Sponsors:  24/96 Sound & Music Design: 2496soundandmusic.com The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
🎬 Spielberg, Scott, Streisand & the Trailers Behind the Legends This week, we continue our heartfelt tribute to Andy Kuehn, the visionary known as the father of the modern trailer industry. In this episode, we're joined by Greg McClatchy, President of Motor Entertainment and longtime Kaleidoscope editor, along with returning guest Benedict Coulter, co-founder of REBEL and the original rock-star trailer editor. Together, they revisit their years at Kaleidoscope, the groundbreaking agency Andy Kuehn co-founded. From crafting trailers for The Omen and Top Gun to working with Spielberg, Barbra Streisand, and Tony Scott, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the formative years of modern trailer-making. 🎧 In this episode: The AJK Foundation and Andy's legacy work in film preservation How Kaleidoscope dominated the trailer industry in the 70s–90s Andy's unique style: part Clark Gable, part Don Draper What it was like working directly with legends like Spielberg and De Palma How Andy gave countless creatives their big break Reflections on Andy's mentorship, leadership, and generosity 💬 "Andy Kuehn wasn't just a boss. He was a mentor, a friend, and a creative force unlike any other." 🔗 Speecial Mention: AJK Foundation: ajkfoundation.org Our Sponsors:  24/96 Sound & Music Design: 2496soundandmusic.com The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
The Words Behind the Magic – with special guest Margery Doppelt 🎙️ In this sixth installment of our special tribute to the legendary Andy Kuehn—founder of Kaleidoscope Films and godfather of the modern trailer—we're joined by a true industry icon: Margery Doppelt, one of the most influential and celebrated writers in motion picture advertising. 🎞️ Margery's iconic taglines and copy helped define decades of cinematic promotion—from Jurassic Park to Fatal Attraction and beyond. Her creative fingerprint is embedded in the DNA of trailer history. Joining us for this conversation is none other than Benedict Coulter, a legendary editor and co-founder of REBEL, who brings firsthand insight into Kaleidoscope's heyday and Andy's enduring legacy. Together, we share behind-the-scenes stories, reflect on a golden era of creativity, and celebrate the unique bond that made Kaleidoscope more than just a company—it was a creative home. 💫 🕰️ Timestamps & Highlights: [00:00:00] Welcome & remembering Andy Kuehn's impact through the AJK Foundation 🌈 [00:05:00] Introducing Margery Doppelt: writer behind the most iconic taglines [00:08:00] Her hilarious first taco at Lucy's El Adobe and surviving on $81/week 💵🌮 [00:10:00] How a missing script led to her first interaction with Andy [00:14:00] Margery's first big hits and her transition to writing 🎬 [00:18:00] Ryan O'Neal, outtakes, and the power of improvisation 😂 [00:25:00] Jurassic Park: the story behind "An adventure 65 million years in the making" 🦖 [00:29:00] Collaboration with editors and the lost art of copy in trailers [00:33:00] Why Andy's leadership created a golden age for creatives ✨ [00:37:00] The ripple effect: How Kaleidoscope alumni shaped the industry [00:45:00] Favorite campaigns, unforgettable lines, and why copy still matters [00:47:00] Parting reflections on Andy's legacy and what made him so special 💡 Key Takeaways: Margery's approach to copy was fearless, playful, and deeply intuitive. Andy's genius lay not just in his creative vision but in his ability to champion others. Kaleidoscope was more than a trailer house—it was a training ground for some of the industry's best. The collaboration between writer and editor was once a sacred space in trailer-making. The power of copy can still define a campaign—sometimes in just one unforgettable line. 📝 Notable Quotes: "Andy had this amazing gift—he was so talented and confident that he enjoyed other people's success." — Margery Doppelt "I know you f** her—anything else?"* — Margery, in a legendary moment with Ryan O'Neal 🤯 "A comedy and a drama—just like life." — Tagline from Nothing in Common "If adventure has a name, it must be Indiana Jones." — One of Margery's enduring classics 🏆 Our Sponsors:  24/96 Sound & Music Design: 2496soundandmusic.com The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
K-scope's Blueprint: Andy K. & The Architects of Modern Movie Advertising 🎙 Introduction: Joined by special guest Vincent Arcaro, President of Dark Light Pictures and a Kaleidoscope alum, and co-host Benedict Coulter. Together, they honor the legacy of Andy Kuehn, a creative force behind some of the most iconic trailers and a beloved mentor in the industry. Vince shares stories of his early days at Kaleidoscope, how Andy shaped the modern trailer business, and how deep personal bonds were formed through a shared love of movie magic. 📚 What We Discuss: How Andy Kuehn cultivated a culture of creative freedom and excellence at Kaleidoscope Vince Arcaro's journey from messenger to head of production and beyond The evolution of featurettes and their impact before EPKs Behind-the-scenes stories of major productions like Taxi Driver, Annie, and Smokey and the Bandit Why relationship-building and a producer's "black book" are still essential tools in the business 🎬 Episode Highlights: [00:01:00] Vince Arcaro's start at Kaleidoscope in 1976 [00:03:00] Becoming a production manager "by fire" [00:06:00] Andy's management of creative "renegades" [00:12:00] Andy immerses himself as an extra on Eyes of Laura Mars [00:20:00] Vince's serendipitous hiring story [00:26:00] Kaleidoscope expands into titles and second unit work [00:35:00] Vince on hiring: "It's not about the degree—it's about the drive" [00:45:00] Favorite campaigns: Taxi Driver, Jaws, Annie PBS special [00:50:00] Final reflections on Andy's legacy 💬 Featured Quotes: "Andy had the perfect storm for creating movie advertising. He knew how to manage his creative staff... they were renegades." – Vincent Arcaro "Andy wasn't afraid to make a good mistake. He encouraged his editors to go for it." – Vincent Arcaro "Your most important asset as a producer is your black book." – Andy Kuehn (as shared by Vince) "He was like a big brother / father figure. I miss the stories, the dinners, the genuine interest in what we were doing." – Vincent Arcaro Our Sponsors:  24/96 Sound & Music Design: 2496soundandmusic.com The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
Andy's Nurturing Legacy and the Aura of Old Hollywood So cool to sit down with veteran entertainment advertising executive Mark Trugman to continue our tribute and honor the legacy of Andy Kuehn — a pioneer of the modern movie trailer industry and beloved founder of Kaleidoscope Films. And we're joined once again by our special co-host, Benedict Coulter. Mark shares his journey from graphic design and television promotion into the world of trailers, his first encounters with Andy, and the profound influence Andy's leadership style had on generations of creative talent. Together, they reflect on the culture Andy fostered, the careers he helped launch, and the personal memories that made him unforgettable. What We Discuss How Mark Trugman transitioned from television graphics to running one of the industry's most respected trailer companies. The leadership philosophy Andy Kuehn embodied — nurturing, non-proprietary, and deeply passionate. Inside stories about the unique culture at Kaleidoscope Films during its heyday. The ripple effect of Andy's mentorship on multiple generations of creative leaders in entertainment marketing. Anecdotes that reveal Andy's charisma, generosity, and larger-than-life presence both in and out of the office. Episode Highlights [00:02:00] Mark recalls his first job with Kaleidoscope Films — and a rookie mistake involving a "two-pop" that still makes him laugh. [00:09:00] The first meeting with Andy Kuehn, complete with a calf tan, a parrot, and quick-witted banter. [00:13:00] Life inside a small but mighty Kaleidoscope team — and the rite of passage that was Andy's 5 p.m. wine gatherings. [00:16:00] How Andy's and Steve's management styles gave editors room to create and clients reason to trust. [00:22:00] A vivid description of Andy's Moroccan villa and legendary holiday parties. [00:27:00] The last-minute speech Mark delivered at the Key Art Awards, honoring Andy after his passing. [00:36:00] Reflections on what Mark misses most about Andy and why his presence might have made the industry a kinder place. [00:42:00] The hilarious Academy Awards "seat switch" story that put Andy in Oliver Stone's spot on live television. Featured Quotes "Andy was the most passionate, supportive, enthusiastic person I've ever dealt with — there wasn't an ounce of cynicism in him." – Mark Trugman "It wasn't about heavy-handed management; it was about giving you the space to create and the encouragement to solve problems your way." – Mark Trugman "If you love doing something, why stop? It feeds your soul." – Benedict Coulter "The Beatles are always going to be the Beatles for a reason… Benedict, you're one of those rock stars." – Mark Trugman Our Sponsors:  24/96 Sound & Music Design: 2496soundandmusic.com The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
🎙Crafting Legends & Honoring the GOAT  For the 3rd installment of our tribute to Andy Kuehn, we're joined by legendary trailer editor Deborah Luster as well as our special co-host Benedict Coulter. We reflect on Deborah's incredible career in the film industry—and offer her memories and all the ways she was inspired by the late, great Andy Kuehn, the pioneering force behind Kaleidoscope Films. From working on iconic trailers like Jaws, Star Wars, and Raiders of the Lost Ark, Deb shares her journey from history major to senior trailer editor, offering behind-the-scenes stories that shaped a generation of movie marketing. 📚 What We Discuss: How Deborah Luster transitioned from history major to trailblazing trailer editor Why Jaws revolutionized the trailer industry—and Deb's role in its creation Andy Kuehn's lasting influence on Hollywood and the editors he mentored The culture and camaraderie of Kaleidoscope Films in the '70s and '80s How the trailer industry evolved from analog to digital—and what was lost ⏱ Episode Highlights: [00:02:00] Deborah Luster shares how she transitioned from aspiring history teacher to trailer editing at Kaleidoscope [00:03:30] Working on the groundbreaking Jaws campaign and what made it such a shift in the industry [00:06:30] How hard it was to explain what a trailer editor did in the 1970s [00:08:00] First impressions of Andy Kuehn—his movie-star looks, big cigar, and magnetic presence [00:10:00] Andy's unique mentorship style: encouraging assistants to cut and giving them credit [00:11:00] Deb's work on iconic campaigns like Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Karate Kid, and War Games [00:15:00] The collaborative, non-competitive environment at Kaleidoscope and how it fostered growth [00:17:30] What production life was like before digital—three-martini lunches and slow film processes [00:19:00] Substance use in the 1970s–80s industry culture and how creativity evolved through it [00:21:30] Kaleidoscope's lasting influence through its alumni and standards of excellence [00:24:00] Remembering Andy's graciousness and leadership—even years after Deb left Kaleidoscope [00:29:00] Bill Cox's mentorship and the value of old-school editing rigor [00:37:00] Favorite trailers ever: Life of Brian, Alien, Taxi Driver, and more [00:41:00] How working with Andy opened doors to working with legends like Clint Eastwood 💬 Featured Quotes: "He was like the GOAT of trailers. Let's face it." – Deborah Luster "Andy wanted you to shine and be acknowledged for your work." – Benedict Coulter "It's basically like you're paying a studio to cut a movie for them because you want that prestige on your website." – Deborah Luster "Everybody participated in the Kaleidoscope of it all." – Benedict Coulter 🔗 Resources Mentioned: Jaws Trailer (1975) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1fu_sA7XhE Star Wars Original Teaser (1977) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZ734NWnAHA Raiders of the Lost Ark Trailer (1981) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XkkzKHCx154 The Life of Brian Trailer (1979) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKPmGjVFbrY Our Sponsors:  24/96 Sound & Music Design: 2496soundandmusic.com The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
"Kaleidoscope University" - The Trailer Industry's Wild Beginnings Continuing our Tribute to Andy Kuehn, we're joined by Mike Camp, who got his start at Kaleidoscope Films under Andy, went on to serve as EVP at Paramount, EVP at Fox on the International side, and ulitmately was co-founder of the boutique agency ACME. And we're once again fortunate to have special co-host Benedict Coulter—often thought of as "the original rock star editor of the trailer industry" and now co-founder and owner of REBEL.  What We Discuss: How Andy Kuehn inspired a generation of trailer editors and producers What it was like working at Kaleidoscope Films during its golden era Mike Camp's role in shaping campaigns for classics like Top Gun, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, and Titanic What it takes to launch a successful creative agency in Hollywood The art and philosophy of trailer-making, from the analog days to now Episode Highlights: [00:02:45] – Mike Camp reflects on how a favor for a college friend landed him at Kaleidoscope Films, launching a decades-long career in trailers. [00:07:10] – The unique, rowdy, and creatively explosive culture at Kaleidoscope: office wine tastings, horse racing bets, and midnight brainstorms. [00:14:30] – A pivotal phone call from Dawn Steel brings Mike to Paramount, where he joins a dream team at just 27 years old. [00:17:55] – The legendary 1986 Paramount slate: Top Gun, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Crocodile Dundee, and Star Trek IV. [00:23:20] – Andy Kuehn's distinctive trailer sensibility and how he elevated the artform by focusing on mood, music, and emotion. [00:28:40] – The creation of ACME: how Mike and his partners went all-in to build a new agency, and what set them apart. [00:36:50] – Mentoring and collaborating with a new generation, including the rising talent of Skip and his revolutionary graphics work. [00:49:15] – Reflections on Andy's enduring impact on trailer culture and how he empowered creatives with freedom and trust. [01:02:00] – The legacy continues: why Mike and Benny remain passionate about storytelling and honoring the roots of the craft. Featured Quotes: "A trailer is a song—it's meant to give you emotion. You're not selling the movie; you're selling a feeling." – Mike Camp "Andy championed us. He never said no to a wild idea. He always said: try it." – Benedict Coulter "The trailer's job is to get asses in seats. If the film does its job, they'll stay there." – Mike Camp "Andy was the heart of Kaleidoscope. He made you feel like you were truly in the movie business." – Mike Camp Our Sponsors:  24/96 Sound & Music Design: 2496soundandmusic.com The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
Unearthing the Craft of Trailer Making In this special episode, we kick off a heartfelt tribute honoring Andy Kuehn—the father of the modern trailer industry and founder of Kaleidoscope Films. Corey is joined by two legendary figures: Skip Chaisson and Benedict Coulter. Together, they reflect on Andy's creative legacy, leadership style, and lasting influence on the art of trailer-making. 🔑 What We Discuss: The origin story of Kaleidoscope Films and Andy Kuehn's role in building the trailer industry Skip and Benny's personal experiences working under Andy's leadership How Andy's creative instincts elevated the craft of trailer editing Insights on leading through uncertainty and uplifting your creative community The evolution of trailer companies into full-service creative content studios ⏱️ Episode Highlights: [00:01:00] Tribute Series kickoff – Why Andy Kuehn still matters [00:03:00] Skip Chaisson's incredible legacy in trailers [00:06:00] Corey shares a moving message on inclusion and supporting each other [00:13:00] Skip's journey from Columbia intern to Kaleidoscope to Skip Film to Wild Card [00:23:00] First impressions of Andy – "like a 1940s movie star" [00:30:00] Andy's 1000-foot view – how his feedback sharpened creative vision [00:37:00] A story about Andy recommending the perfect piece of trailer music [00:46:00] How Andy built a culture that empowered talent and community [00:52:00] Skip's dance scholarship and how it inspired his music choices 💬 Quotes to Remember: "Andy had this ability to look at a cut once and hone in on exactly what it needed." – Skip Chaisson "Some men need to succeed in order to belong. Some women need to belong in order to succeed." – Andy Kuehn (as remembered by Benedict Coulter) "He unearthed the talent in us... and championed it." – Benedict Coulter "We're going to need each other." – Corey Nathan Our Sponsors:  24/96 Sound & Music Design: 2496soundandmusic.com The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Brent Allen Hagel: www.brentallenhagel.com Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
Thought folks would enjoy hearing this one from all-time great, Chad Misner. So many of the pieces Chad's been involved with still get mentioned among the best trailers ever made. Enjoy... Chad Misner, is well known and well loved as one of the most respected editors and creative directors of the entire trailer industry. Most recently Chad was the SVP of Creative Advertising at Focus Features and, prior to that was responsible for 2 of the greatest trailers of all time Little Children and The Social Network, among dozens, if not hundreds of other brilliant contributions. Some other favs: The Wrestler - https://vimeo.com/82565290 Biutiful - https://vimeo.com/57498175 Burn After Reading - https://vimeo.com/57433705 Our Sponsors:  The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Brent Allen Hagel: www.brentallenhagel.com Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
In this episode, host Corey Nathan sits down with Andrea Weeks, Executive Creative Director at AV Squad. A lifelong creative, Andrea brings a unique perspective shaped by her upbringing in Maine, a background in theater and film, and an impressive trajectory in the world of trailers and creative marketing. From her early days at Sony Pictures Classics to pioneering campaigns at AV Squad, Andrea shares her journey through the indie and mainstream worlds of film marketing. What We Discuss: How AV Squad became 100% employee-owned and what that means culturally Andrea's transition from theater to film and trailers The importance of mentorship and collaborative creativity Behind-the-scenes insights into trailers for major campaigns like Longlegs How Andrea's artistic upbringing informs her creative leadership Episode Highlights: [00:02:00] AV Squad becomes employee-owned: the announcement and cultural impact [00:04:00] Growing up in a Maine artist colony with a creative family [00:12:00] Andrea's first exposure to film and passion for political theater [00:18:00] Interning at Sony Pictures Classics and finding a way into film [00:27:00] Spotting the rise of Netflix and seizing new opportunities [00:34:00] Transitioning from New York to LA and joining AV Squad [00:49:00] Crafting the Longlegs campaign and fostering company-wide collaboration [00:54:00] Mentorship and developing young talent in the creative industry Featured Quotes: "The arts are a way to help shift the world." – Andrea Weeks "Being invited into the creative space of a film is a privilege—and building trust is everything." – Andrea Weeks "Everyone knows I'm a huge admirer of AV Squad… it's the spirit of the company that really stands out." – Corey Nathan Resources Mentioned: AV Squad – https://www.avsquad.com/ Ghetto Film School – https://www.ghettofilm.org/ Our Sponsors:  The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Brent Allen Hagel: www.brentallenhagel.com Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
This episode is definitely for "trailer geeks" because host Corey Nathan and this week's guest Jonny Elwyn totally geek out over some great trailers. So on this edition, we sit down with Jonny Elwyn—a freelance editor and writer based in London—to explore the creative freelance lifestyle, the trailer industry, and Jonny's popular newsletter This Week in Movie Trailers (TWIMT). Jonny shares his journey through film editing and writing, his strategies for staying productive, and how he built a data-driven trailer newsletter that's catching the attention of the industry. What We Discuss: How Jonny Elwyn built a successful freelance career Insights into balancing parenting, editing, and side hustles Why collaboration beats competition in creative industries The origin and purpose of This Week in Movie Trailers Trends Jonny has uncovered from trailer viewership data Episode Highlights: [00:01:00] Meet Jonny Elwyn – editor, writer, and creator of TWIMT [00:04:00] Choosing editing over directing in film school [00:06:00] Why fellow freelancers can be your best asset [00:10:00] Monetizing blogs and building a writing income [00:30:00] How Jonny built the TWIMT trailer tracking system [00:38:00] Surprising data insights about trailer performance [00:44:00] Why trailer editors deserve more credit [00:50:00] What's next for TWIMT—and how the industry can help shape it Featured Quotes: "Your competition is actually your best community." – Jonny Elwyn "It doesn't matter how slow you go, as long as you don't give up." – Jonny Elwyn "People just want to see the trailers. No filler—just the good stuff." – Jonny Elwyn Resources Mentioned: This Week in Movie Trailers (TWIMT): movietrailers.pro/ Jonny's Newletter on Post: www.cut-daily.com Jonny's Blog: jonnyelwyn.co.uk Our Sponsors:  The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Brent Allen Hagel: www.brentallenhagel.com Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
In this nostalgic episode of Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods, host Corey Nathan sits down with the legendary Robert Hyams, a pivotal figure in the evolution of movie marketing. From his start in the mailroom at Kaleidoscope to his influential role in both trailers and studio post-production, Rob shares fascinating stories of the people, technologies, and transitions that shaped the industry. With over four decades in the business and a reputation for never missing a deadline or going over budget, Rob offers unmatched insight into the trailer world's past and future. What We Discuss: How the trailer industry evolved from physical film to digital workflows What it was like working at Kaleidoscope, Picture Mill, and on the studio side The creative and technical challenges behind finishing trailers Why certain people in post became icons in the field Advice for the next generation entering the film and entertainment industry Episode Highlights: [00:01:00] Rob and Corey reflect on how they met — a chance call that launched a career [00:07:00] Rob's early days at Kaleidoscope and the family legacy that brought him to Hollywood [00:15:00] The revolutionary shift from film to video editing and Rob's role in the transition [00:24:00] Working with Hollywood legends like Ralph E. Winters and lessons learned in the cutting room [00:31:00] The introduction of Avid and how trailer editors embraced new tech faster than studios [00:39:00] Founding Picture Mill and the birth of a new kind of graphics/post company [00:44:00] Insights into the decline of film labs and the rise of digital intermediate [00:50:00] Rob's thoughts on the future of post-production and storytelling in the age of AI and streaming [00:56:00] The stories behind iconic trailer copy lines and Rob's gratitude for the community Featured Quotes: "You could take a 10-pound bag of crap and cut it down to a five-pound bag of crap. Still a bag of crap." — Robert Hyams, quoting Ralph E. Winters "We weren't just adapting to change—we were the change." — Robert Hyams "Working union? Live better. You get health benefits and a pension. It's huge." — Robert Hyams Resources Mentioned: Coming Attractions - A History of the Movie Trailer: www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FA3lgVcwFc Night on the Town (Rick Goldstein's film): www.youtube.com/watch?v=fzOsRBjtrLQ Our Sponsors:  The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Brent Allen Hagel: www.brentallenhagel.com Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
In this episode, host Corey Nathan sits down with Pete Campbell, Creative Director at Wild Card Creative Group and one of the most respected editors and mentors in the trailer industry. From his humble beginnings as a student and babysitter to cutting award-winning trailers and mentoring the next generation of creatives, Pete shares his journey and the craft behind some of the most iconic trailers in Hollywood. What We Discuss: How Pete transitioned from screenwriter to editor to creative director Why WDA was a launching pad for so many successful creatives What it takes to make a trailer that resonates emotionally and commercially Behind-the-scenes insights into campaigns like The Martian, The Post, and Severance How Pete balances creative intuition with collaboration and leadership Episode Highlights: 1:00 – Pete talks about his Mad Men namesake and early days in advertising 4:00 – From Loyola Marymount to babysitting Kevin Williamson's twins 11:00 – Cutting a spec trailer for Kung Fu Hustle and launching a career 16:00 – Why Pete joined AV Squad and how it shaped his creative evolution 26:00 – Creative directing as mentorship, not micromanagement 34:00 – The story behind The Martian trailer and how quiet moments amplify impact 45:00 – Editing The Post and Nick Temple's critical advice 51:00 – The joy of working on The Studio and blending highbrow and madcap comedy 60:00 – Pete's favorite trailers by other editors and what he learned from them Featured Quotes: "Your job as a creative director is to see that 85% and not put your thumbprints all over it." – Pete Campbell "I've had so many moments where I think I'm terrible, and then I pray, and somehow an idea comes that saves the day." – Pete Campbell "Think different. It sounds so easy, but it's one of the hardest things to do in this industry." – Pete Campbell Resources Mentioned: Dead Island Game Trailer: https://youtu.be/2mi5bH0fIxE?si=RMH12502ZTzhMEZV Pete Campbell on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pete-campbell-19629a21  Wild Card Creative Group: www.wildcardcreativegroup.com Our Sponsors:  The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Brent Allen Hagel: www.brentallenhagel.com Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
On this episode, we sit down with the brilliant and dynamic Dana Precious. From her humble start as a receptionist to holding top marketing positions at Sony, Marvel, and Relativity, Dana shares a story filled with humor, grit, and wisdom. Alongside her accomplishments in entertainment marketing, Dana is also a successful author of several novels, and in this episode, she reflects on creativity, leadership, industry changes, and personal evolution. What We Discuss: How Dana Precious transitioned from receptionist to CMO Lessons in navigating creative careers and studio politics Dana's insights on writing, brand strategy, and staying creatively inspired Her take on recent brilliant campaigns that others have done like Barbie and Oppenheimer Episode Highlights: [00:03:00] Dana's quirky entry into the industry and discovering copywriting [00:08:00] The power move (accidentally) that got her hired at Sony [00:28:00] Adjusting from agency life to studio marketing [00:46:00] Dana's writing career and genre-hopping storytelling [00:56:00] Why Barbie and Oppenheimer were marketing masterclasses [01:00:00] Her honest advice to young creatives trying to break in Featured Quotes: "Some of the best careers in this industry were started by people who were just terrible as receptionists." – Corey Nathan "I discovered I was good at copywriting, and when people are good at something, they often discount it." – Dana Precious "I always thought working hard and doing a good job was enough. But I didn't spend enough time making friends." – Dana Precious Resources Mentioned: www.danapreciouswrites.com Our Sponsors:  The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Brent Allen Hagel: www.brentallenhagel.com Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
In this episode of Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods, host Corey Nathan welcomes Yuhei Ogawa, an accomplished editor, creative director, and host of the new podcast Creative. Kind. Yuhei shares his creative journey, reflecting on his career in film marketing, the inspiration behind his podcast, and the importance of kindness and emotional reflection in the creative industry. Together, Corey and Yuhei dive into the nuances of maintaining mental health, building community, and sustaining creativity in an ever-evolving and demanding entertainment landscape. What You Will Learn: How Yuhei Ogawa transitioned from hip-hop dancing and unscripted TV editing into creative advertising. The personal and emotional inspiration behind the Creative. Kind. podcast. The challenges and importance of sustaining creative endeavors over time. The role of kindness and vulnerability in the creative industries. How Yuhei's experiences during the pandemic reshaped his outlook on community and mental health. Insights into Yuhei's creative process and reflections on the future of the industry, including AI's role. Episode Highlights: [00:01:00] Corey introduces Yuhei and dives straight into discussing Creative. Kind. and Yuhei's creative motivations. [00:04:00] Corey and Yuhei reflect on the struggles of sustaining creative work and staying patient with oneself. [00:09:00] Yuhei shares how the pandemic spurred him to reassess his career and the importance of in-person connections. [00:14:00] Yuhei discusses discovering his daughter's emotional world through family therapy and how it changed his understanding of empathy. [00:27:00] Corey shares his journey with meditation and mental health, emphasizing the life-changing power of mindfulness. [00:35:00] Yuhei recounts his path from hip-hop dancer to becoming a respected trailer editor. [00:49:00] Working with international talent on Tokyo Vice and how creative collaboration across borders enriched his work. [01:01:00] Yuhei reflects on the impact of AI on the creative industry and philosophical questions about the nature of art. Featured Quotes: "The important thing is to just do it for yourself and keep pushing, no matter how little by little." – Yuhei Ogawa "Kindness is a practice about thinking about other people and how that permeates what we do day in and day out." – Yuhei Ogawa "It's okay that this is happening. Just be present with it." – Yuhei Ogawa (on the power of meditation and noting emotions) "If there's no process, no human interaction, no struggle—then I don't think it's art." – Yuhei Ogawa Resources Mentioned: Creative. Kind. Podcast - instagram.com/creativekindpod Headspace Meditation App Yuhei's Website Greg Harrison's Substack on AI Our Sponsors:   The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Brent Allen Hagel: www.brentallenhagel.com Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com Make It Universal and Rotten Tomatoes presents SEEN on the SCREEN: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuq_rgCzEP_Ne0W0nk6R66sYFGr1Jrzqe Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
In this episode of Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods, host Corey Nathan welcomes two industry powerhouses: Brett Winn, owner and CEO of RAVE Collective, and partner, Ben Andron, Head of Creative Advertising. Brett returns to the show, while Ben is taking his maiden voyage on the TG&TG cruise ship. From humble beginnings to big screen brilliance, this episode traces their unique career paths, shared philosophies, and the launch of their exciting new venture. What We Discuss: The unexpected origin stories of two trailer industry leaders How early career decisions shape creative leadership The importance of culture and kindness in a creative agency Why now was the right time to launch RAVE The role of humility, mentorship, and tenacity in business growth Episode Highlights: [00:02:00] Brett recalls the early days of starting Refinery AV and feeling unsure about the leap [00:05:00] Ben shares his unconventional journey from Florida to LA, and how a teaching connection got him his first gig [00:08:00] Serendipitous paths: Ben and Brett worked at the same place (Trailer Park) without knowing it [00:11:00] Ben's evolution from copywriting to producing, and eventually, writing a successful Off-Broadway play [00:21:00] Brett's leap into trailer editing and reflections on early leadership roles at Trailer Park [00:33:00] The pivotal moment of recognizing that leadership is about cultivating culture [00:40:00] The inside story of how Brett and Ben decided to partner [00:45:00] How their aligned values made the transition smooth and created a new, exciting chapter for their team Featured Quotes: "I remember we had margaritas every Friday… because I was like, we made it another week." – Brett Winn "Having other creative outlets—writing, running, martial arts—makes me better at my job." – Ben Andron "What are people going to say to my kids about me? That's always been my moral compass." – Brett Winn "Happy people are creative people. You can't do this job if you're not having fun." – Ben Andron Our Sponsors:  Make It Universal and Rotten Tomatoes presents SEEN on the SCREEN: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuq_rgCzEP_Ne0W0nk6R66sYFGr1Jrzqe  The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Brent Allen Hagel: www.brentallenhagel.com Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com   Call to Action: Check out RAVE Collective: www.ravecollective.com Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤
On this episode, we sit down with Kevin Childress, award-winning editor, producer, and creative director, and Craig Hagedorn, editor and creative director at Wild Card Creative Group. Together, they explore the craft of movie trailer editing, from storytelling and music selection to navigating industry changes. What We Discuss: How Kevin and Craig broke into the trailer industry through unconventional paths. The impact of early influences and collaborations on their creative development. The importance of storytelling, rhythm, and music in crafting compelling trailers. The challenges and opportunities in working remotely vs. in-office collaboration. Behind-the-scenes stories on iconic trailers, including Memento, Detroit, Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol, King Richard, and Bike Riders. Episode Highlights: [00:01:00] – Kevin Childress' journey from MTV commercials and music videos to cutting some of the most iconic trailers of all time. [00:05:00] – How Memento's innovative trailer structure was developed, including the idea behind its unique graphic treatment. [00:09:00] – Craig Hagedorn's transition from long-form marketing content to trailer editing, including his early work at New Wave Entertainment. [00:14:00] – The impact of working at Trailer Park and later Wild Card, learning from some of the best in the industry. [00:25:00] – Advice for young editors: the importance of collaboration, learning from experienced creatives, and staying open to feedback. [00:42:00] – The making of Detroit: how a minimalistic approach created maximum tension. [00:55:00] – How King Richard's trailer evolved with the addition of Beyoncé's song, transforming the emotional impact. [01:03:00] – The use of unexpected music in Amsterdam and how it shaped the final piece. [01:04:00] – The process of discovering the perfect "button" for Bike Riders and why it worked so well. Featured Quotes: "We're all in this together. Success for one of us is success for all of us." – Kevin Childress "Music is the rocket fuel of a great trailer." – Craig Hagedorn "Being in a creative space with others pushes you to think differently and get better at your craft." – Kevin Childress "The right music can unlock a trailer and change everything." – Craig Hagedorn References Mentioned: Kevin Childress: www.kevinchildresscreative.com Craig Hagedorn: www.instagram.com/craigh55 Wild Card Creative Group: www.wildcardcreativegroup.com   Our Sponsors:  Make It Universal and Rotten Tomatoes presents SEEN on the SCREEN: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuq_rgCzEP_Ne0W0nk6R66sYFGr1Jrzqe  The Golden Trailer Awards: goldentrailer.com/   Brent Allen Hagel: www.brentallenhagel.com Soundstripe: app.soundstripe.com   Call to Action: Please leave us a rating and review:  https://apple.co/3QYy80e You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.linkedin.com/in/coreysnathan. Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤 Now go do some inspired work! 🎬🎧
This was one of our first episodes. So if you haven't had a chance to hear the magnificent Barbara Glazer, now's your chance! Barbara is not only an inspiration, she's been a mentor to so many others in this industry. On this episode, Barbara Glazer, co-founder of the Ant Farm, widely known for their campaigns for Lord of the Rings, The 6th Sense, Pirates of the Caribbean and many more.    In 2000, Barbara co-founded Picture Head, a leading post-production company that works in all areas and formats of post-production.   Barbara's a member of the Academy, continues to consult as a creative exec at various studios and is Board Chair for the non-profit organization A Place Called Home.
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