Step behind the camera with Ellen Kuras, the award-winning director and cinematographer whose visual storytelling has defined a generation of modern cinema. From her groundbreaking cinematography in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)to her powerful directorial work in Lee (2024), Ellen has redefined what it means to tell stories through light, emotion, and movement. In this in-depth conversation, Ellen shares her creative process, challenges as one of the first women in major cinematography, and her approach to capturing the soul of a story on screen. Whether you’re a filmmaker, cinephile, or curious creative, this episode delivers rare insights into the craft, collaboration, and courage that fuel visual storytelling.

🎬 Topics include:

• Ellen’s early journey into filmmaking and cinematography
• Crafting visual language and emotional depth
• Collaborations with visionary directors like Martin Scorsese, Michel Gondry and Spike Lee
• Breaking industry barriers and inspiring the next generation of filmmakers
• The future of storytelling through the lens

Perfect for fans of cinematography, directing, visual storytelling, filmmaking, women in film, and creative leadership, this episode celebrates one of cinema’s most influential voices.

Keywords:
Ellen Kuras, filmmaker, cinematographer, director, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, women in film, cinematography podcast, filmmaking, creative storytelling, visual storytelling, directing, behind the camera, film industry, indie film, movie production, creative careers.

BIO
American Director and Cinematographer Ellen Kuras who has won two Primetime Emmy Awards for Jane (2018, and The Betrayal - Nerakhoon (2010) for which she was also nominated for Best Documentary Feature in 2009 for her directorial debut. Ellen is an unprecedented three-time winner of the Cinematography Award for a Dramatic Film for Swoon (1992), Angela (1995) and Personal Velocity (2002). In 2022, She was the first woman to win the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) Lifetime Achievement Award winner. Ellen’s credits include Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (cinematographer) (2004), The Betrayal - Nerakhoon (director, producer, screenwriter) (2008) and most recently Lee (director) (2024). Ellen was born in New Jersey in 1959 where her father was an avionics engineer and her mother, a homemaker. Ellen graduated from Brown University with a double BA degree in Anthropology and Semiotics before attending Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). Whilst she was at Brown she studied for her master’s degree at night at New York University in Photography & 8mm Filmmaking. The Betrayal - Nerakhoon, which follows a family from Laos who were forced to emigrate and adapt to life in America, was conceived as her master’s thesis.  She then started her career in the film industry in 1987 in New York as a camera assistant and electrician. Ellen represents the Cinematographers Branch on the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Board of Governors and is the ASC/ICG representative on the National Film Preservation Board. Ellen has most recently completed a new heist TV series 12 12 12 for Apple TV, and the TV series, Scarpetta, with Nicole Kidman, Arianna deBose and Jamie Lee Curtis for Amazon Prime Video. Ellen lives in New York.
 
Ellen’s links:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ellen_Kuras
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0475578/
 
Favorite female artists:
Jane Savelyeva 

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
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Email: [email protected]

Step behind the camera with Ghitta Larsen, an accomplished cinematographer and Steadicam operator, as she shares her journey through the world of film, movement, and storytelling. In this exclusive interview, Ghitta opens up about her path into cinematography, the craft of Steadicam operation, and what it takes to create visually powerful, emotionally resonant images on screen.

🎥 From on-set challenges to creative breakthroughs, Ghitta discusses:

• Her evolution as a female cinematographer in a fast-paced industry
• How Steadicam techniques bring energy and emotion to every frame
• The collaboration between directors, DPs, and camera crews
• Her insights on visual storytelling, lighting, and camera movement
• Tips for aspiring filmmakers looking to break into the industry

Whether you’re a film student, a working creative, or simply love great cinema, this episode delivers an inspiring and insightful look at the art and craft behind the lens.

📍 Keywords:Cinematography, Steadicam Operator, Film Industry, Visual Storytelling, Filmmaking Podcast, Camera Movement, Behind the Scenes, Ghitta Larsen Interview, Women in Film, Cinematographer Tips


Cinematographer and steadicam operator Ghitta Larsen whose credits include The Shop, My Kind of People, 90 Day Fiance, Meek. Ghitta was born in Sonoma, CA in 1994. She has a younger brother Anthony who is a jazz musician. Her mother Sylvia, an architect, constantly encouraged Ghitta to pursue her talents in a variety of sports. A challenge that Ghitta took seriously which resulted in her becoming a competitive swimmer at age nine. From there she discovered water polo and, in her words, became obsessed with the sport, playing for the Central Coast ODP team at Sonoma Valley High School and then Division 1 in Southern California during college at Cal State Northridge, which led to joining the Olympic Development Program. When she moved to New York Ghitta explored weightlifting and became competitive. She says she still has unfinished business in this arena but for now she is into Cross Fit, which also helps her core strength for camera work. During her sports career Ghitta studied film, graduating from the New York University's Tisch School of the Arts with a Bachelor’s Degree in Film & TV. in 2016. Her first job combined her love of filming with the sport of cross fit and since then she has widened her aperture to include music videos, shorts and TV. She enjoys thought provoking genres, including horror movies and has ambitions to explore underwater photography too, which would combine her love for swimming.  Currently she is spending most of her time as a camera operator and as a DP. Ghitta lives in New York with her partner Rusmaldo Faccio.
 
Ghitta’s links:
https://www.ghittalarsen.com/
https://www.instagram.com/ghitta.larsen
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12820074/
 
Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
AART on Facebook
Email: [email protected]

Step behind the camera and into the creative heart of acclaimed cinematographer Annemarie Lean-Vercoe in this introspective and inspiring interview. Known for her evocative storytelling and striking visual style, Annemarie opens up about the emotional depth behind her work, her path into cinematography, and how she captures human stories through light, movement, and perspective. In this personal conversation, we explore the craft, the challenges, and the quiet power of visual storytelling. Annemarie shares insights from her journey across film and television, the moments that shaped her artistic vision, and how intuition and collaboration guide her on set. Whether you’re a filmmaker, a creative professional, or simply someone curious about how emotion becomes image, this episode offers rare perspective and honesty from one of today’s most thoughtful cinematographers.

🎬 Keywords: cinematography, Annemarie Lean-Vercoe, filmmaking, visual storytelling, creative process, behind the scenes, interview, women in film, creative inspiration, camera work, storytelling through visuals

Annemarie Lean-Vercoe is a British Award winning and BAFTA Nominated Cinematographer. She most recently lensed Outrageous, which follows the lives of the fascinating Mitford Sisters. The show premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in June 2025 and will be airing this summer on UKTV and BritBoxTV.  Annemarie is a graduate of the National Film and Television School (NFTS) with film and TV credits as Cinematographer or Director of Photography spanning more than 26 years. These include Call the Midwife, Breeders, The Chelsea Detective, All Creatures Great and Small, Marilyn Reframed, the BAFTA winner Suffragettes with Lucy Worsley and BAFTA nominated Is There Anybody Out There.  Annemarie was born in Devon, England in 1977 and has an older sister and step siblings. Her parents divorced when she was just four but remarried locally and remained close by, providing Annemarie with an extended family. In his second career her father was a sailing photographer who introduced her to cameras and she soon developed a curiosity as to what was possible behind the lens. She enjoyed an idyllic childhood with freedom to explore the surrounding countryside, learning to ride ponies and how to sail. After Yealmpton Primary School, Annemarie attended the Royal School in Bath but left early to be with her mother. An early interest in arts and crafts then led her to a year-long Foundation Arts Course before attending an under-graduate program at the London College of Printing (University of the Arts London). By now she had developed an interest in film cameras and started to gain some experience as a trainee on productions in the UK. A series of introductions and the benefit of a scholarship led her to the NFTS with an eye to becoming a cinematographer.  After graduating Annemarie has been consistently in demand balancing her career with raising her family, thanks to the help of her mother and mother-in-law. She is a proud member of Illuminatrix and Women Behind The Camera.  Her numerous awards include BAFTA, BIFA and STAR OF TOMORROW.  Annemarie is currently in production on the British TV drama series Bergerac.  She lives in Sussex, England with her husband Finn and two children.
 
Annemarie’s links:
https://cargocollective.com/cinematographer
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1233187/
https://www.instagram.com/annemarieleanvercoe1 https://www.illuminatrixdops.com/member/annemarie-lean-vercoe/
 
Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
The AART Podcast on YouTube
Email: [email protected]

Step behind the lights and into the heart of Hollywood with Farah Bunch, one of the industry’s most sought-after celebrity makeup artists. In this intimate and introspective interview, Farah opens up about her creative journey, the art of transformation, and what it really means to bring characters — and people — to life on and off camera. From red carpet secrets to the emotional side of beauty, this episode dives deep into Farah’s early inspirations, career-defining moments, and the lessons she’s learned working behind the scenes in film, television, and fashion. Whether you’re a beauty enthusiast, aspiring artist, or simply someone fascinated by the human stories that shape Hollywood, this episode offers a rare, authentic look into the world of artistry, identity, and resilience.

✨ Keywords: Farah Bunch, Hollywood makeup artist, celebrity makeup, beauty podcast, creative journey, behind the scenes, Hollywood stories, artist interview, women in film, personal growth, beauty industry, makeup transformation.

Hollywood makeup artist Farah Bunch whose work has earned her multiple nominations in Daytime and Primetime TV  Awards and Hollywood Makeup Artist and Hair Stylist Guild Awards. Her work over several seasons on the hugely successful TV Comedy Will & Grace proved a pivotal moment in her career. Other notable credits include Dancing with the Stars, The Oscars, Sunset Beach, Entourage, Fuller House, and Makeup Department Head on Frazier on Paramount +.  Farah was born in 1975 in Toluca Lake, California where she and her brother Justin were raised in the long shadow of the Hollywood sign.  Her parents; the producer and six-time Emmy nominated film and television composer Velton Ray Bunch, and three-time Emmy nominated makeup artist Patricia (Patty) Bunch who were once the Disco Band known as Strut, introduced Farah to a life on set from an early age. She was five years old when she made her set debut. She also has a couple of acting credits to her name. But it was always going to be makeup that would be the foundation of her career from the moment at 18 when she graduated from the Joe Blasco Makeup School. Her mother’s status in the industry and guidance on set steered her into multi-camera shoots, which is the world she loves most of all, despite having early ambitions to be a pop-singer with encouragement from her father. She remains inspired by her music and is currently writing a musical with her father. Farah recently obtained a license from the International College of Beauty in Esthetician and Cosmetology. She lives in Toluca Lake, California with her two cats.
 
Farah’s links: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1095568/
https://www.instagram.com/farahbunch/
@farahbunch 

Some of Farah’s female artists:
Jo Baker
Kathryn Bigelow 

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
The AART Podcast on YouTube
Email: [email protected]

In this inspiring and deeply personal episode, we sit down with Leanne Johnson — an award-winning actor, filmmaker, and creative visionary — to explore the heart and hustle behind a life in storytelling. From her early beginnings in acting to her bold transition behind the camera, Leanne opens up about the realities of the film industry, the creative process, and what it truly means to find your voice through art. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, filmmaker, or simply someone chasing your own creative dreams, this honest and introspective conversation will leave you feeling motivated, grounded, and creatively recharged.

🎧 Tune in to hear Leanne share:

• How vulnerability fuels authentic storytelling
• Lessons learned from both sides of the camera
• The balance between passion, purpose, and perseverance
• Insights on building a meaningful career in film and acting

Perfect for fans of creative journeys, independent cinema, and personal growth, this episode invites you to step behind the scenes — and into the mindset — of one of today’s most thoughtful emerging voices in film.

👉 Available on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | YouTube #Acting #Filmmaking #CreativeJourney #LeanneJohnson #PodcastInterview #BehindTheScenes #Storytelling

Canadian-American actor and filmmaker Leanne Johnson whose philosophy is founded on seeking understanding and sharing truth through bold characters and stories to redefine the narrative about women in film and our world. Since graduating from the University of Alberta in 2011 with a BSc. in Nutrition and Food Science, Leanne has consistently produced a repertoire of diverse and dynamic performances. In May 2025 she made her directorial debut with A Tree Falls in The Forest, which speaks to her raison d’etre as a storyteller. Her performance in the 2024 action-crime movie Extraction, USA resonates with her own story of humble beginnings growing up the daughter of immigrants in rural Alberta.  Her credits range from NBC's Chicago PD to Dracula: The Count’s Kin, Chasing Rabbits, Oregonda and Idle Girl. She has garnered multiple Best Actress awards including Chasing Rabbits (2022), Oregonda (2024) plus best Supporting Actress in Greek Fire-Demon Spirit (2023).  As well as her versatility on screen, Leanne is a Personal Trainer having graduated from the National Academy of Sports Training (NASM), in Lafayette, IN. Her lifelong love for sports is evident in a range of skills, including snowboarding, martial arts and roller derby where she is known as Chariot of Fire. Leanne embraces her queer identity and stereotype-bending on-screen performances while staying true to her faith which remains at her core. Leanne is currently based in Indiana and is a proud mother of two daughters.
 
Leanne’s links:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9786306/
https://www.leannejohnsonofficial.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@leannejohnsonactor
https://www.instagram.com/leannejohnsonofficial 

Some of Leanne's favorite actors: 
Helen Mirren
Kate Winslet
Margot Robbie
Jennifer Lawrence
Frances McDormand
Brie Larson
Chloe Zhao
Julia Roberts
Sandra Bullock

Leanne’s playlist:
Marlee Carpenter
Need To Breathe
Coldplay 
Lady Gaga 
Taya Hozier

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
The AART Podcast on YouTube
Email: [email protected]

Step behind the camera and into the creative mind of Theresa Vitale — Director of Photography, Cinematographer, and camera operator — as she opens up about the art, emotion, and technical mastery behind visual storytelling. In this in-depth interview, Theresa shares her journey from discovering her passion for cinematography to working on set, shaping light and shadow to bring stories to life. We explore what it means to lead a camera team, the challenges of breaking into the film industry, and the balance between creativity and precision in filmmaking. Whether you're a filmmaker, student, or cinephile, this episode offers rare insight into the world behind the lens — from cinematic composition to the personal mindset that drives an artist’s eye.

🎬 Keywords: Theresa Vitale, Cinematographer, Director of Photography, camera operator, filmmaking, film industry, cinematography podcast, creative process, behind the scenes, interview, visual storytelling, women in film.


American Director of Photography and Cinematographer, Theresa Vitale, whose resume spans all genres of film and TV productions. Theresa is passionate about elevating women both in her love of sport and her dedication to the industry; two paths that have merged as she crossed the bridge from the US U23 National Rugby Team to film and TV production. As we will hear, sport taught her so much that has helped her in her career not least of all the value of team work and collaboration. Theresa was born in 1982 in Wallingford, CT, the eldest of two daughters; she has a sister Rosanne. Shortly after her parents Mario Vitale and Karen Weeks moved to Lawrence, NJ where her father could commute to New York, while her mother was the home care provider. Sports and music dominated her childhood—she played trombone for nine years — and tried every sport she could, eventually, and accidentally, discovering rugby. Her natural talent was soon recognized and within six months she made the squad which was competing for the national championships. Despite coming up short that year she did win the national championship with the US women’s U23 national team in 2005.  Alas, her career called and she chose the University of Massachusetts for its BA in Communications degree with a focus on TV/Film, graduating in 2005. An internship with MTV in New York convinced her that she wanted to be a camera operator and from that point on doors opened and led the way to a highly successful career.  Her work has been featured on major broadcast, cable, and streaming networks, including ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, HBO Max, Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, Showtime, Bravo, to name a few, specializing in docu-series, competition reality, cooking shows, studio shows, live music, documentaries, BTS and women’s sports. Theresa also takes great pride in helping women find and properly fit personal protective equipment (PPE). As an ambassador for EasyRig, she continues the legacy of her mentor, Cat Cummings, by empowering women with the right gear and ensuring it fits them correctly. Theresa lives in Long Beach California with her wife Heidi and son Barron.
 
Theresa’s website: www.TheresaVitale.com I
MDB -  https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2922553/
Instagram: TheresaVitale21 & TheresaVitale_DP 

Theresa’s favorite female cinematographers:
Gretchen Warthen
Jen Morton
Meagan Stockemer 

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
The AART Podcast on YouTube
Email: [email protected]

Step behind the camera and into the heart of one of the most captivating visual storytellers of our time — Sarah Thomas Moffat, an award-winning cinematographer and visual artist whose lens captures both light and emotion in perfect harmony. In this deeply personal and introspective interview, Sarah opens up about her creative evolution, the art of translating human experience into moving imagery, and the emotional truth behind her cinematic vision. From the early inspirations that shaped her passion for storytelling to the challenges and triumphs of building a career in film, this episode explores the raw, reflective journey of a woman defining her craft and her purpose through the power of visual language. Whether you’re a filmmaker, creative soul, or lover of art and authenticity, this conversation reveals what it truly means to see the world through an artist’s eyes.

💡 Keywords/Tags:
Sarah Thomas Moffat, cinematographer interview, women in film, filmmaking podcast, cinematography, visual storytelling, creative process, film industry, behind the lens, female cinematographer, artist interview, creative journey, storytelling in film, cinematography career, lighting and emotion, filmmaking inspiration, creative women podcast, personal interview, art and emotion, life behind the camera


Sarah Thomas Moffat is a cinematographer whose work has spanned across all genres from docs, factual and commercial with a focus now on scripted. Her productions have aired worldwide, including on CBC, History Channel, CTV, Hulu and Netflix. Sarah was the first woman to run as a Racer-Cam Operator on the Canadian reality competition show Amazing Race Canada. She has won multiple awards across genres including film festival awards for Best Cinematography. along with three CSC nominations.  Sarah’s parents emigrated from Scotland to Canada shortly before Sarah was born in Toronto. As a child she developed an interest in still photography through artistic parents which led to Sarah studying Film, Radio, TV Broadcasting at Centennial College, Ontario. She describes herself, at that time, as focused and determined when she realized that this was her calling and she could make a career as a cinematographer. Sarah is a dual citizen of Canada and the UK. She is a member of IATSE, a CSC Associate Member, an ASC Vision Mentee Alumni, and Illuminatrix DOP based in London. 
 
Sarah’s links:
Website: https://sarahthomasmoffat.com/
IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3511986/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sthomasmoffat @sthomasmoffatt

 
Some of Sarah’s favorite female artists:
Mandy Walker
Eva DuVernay 

Sarah’s playlist:

• Akal by White Sun
• Na Laethe Bhí - Clannad 
• Flower of Scotland - All Drum and Pipe bands
• I Feel Good - James Brown
• Good Energy - Yung Wylin'
• Let Your Backbone Slide - Maestro Fresh-Wes
• River - Joni Mitchell
• In The Morning - Nina Simone
• Smokestack Lightnin' - Howlin' Wolf
• Where The Streets Have No Name - U2
• Hit Me With Your Best Shot - Pat Benatar
• Sara - Fleetwood Mac
• Vissi D'arte - Maria Callas
• Chan Chan - Buena Vista Social Club
• Nho Antone Escaderode - Cesária Evor
• Prelude Op.28 N0.4 in E Minor - Chopin

First aired: January 14, 2025
 
Host: Chris Stafford

• A Hollowell Studios Production
• Follow @thecalltimepodcast on Instagram
• Email: [email protected]
• Hollowell Studios Productions: 1000+ episodes; AART, WiSP Podcast Network, WiSP Sports

In this intimate and revealing episode of AART: Women in the Visual Arts, host Chris Stafford sits down with acclaimed Director of Photography, Christina Dobre, to explore the artistry, intuition, and emotion behind her lens. From capturing the poetry of light to translating human stories through visual language, Christina opens up about her creative journey, the challenges of being a woman in cinematography, and the power of perspective in filmmaking. This deeply personal conversation delves into how she balances technical mastery with soulful storytelling, what inspires her visual compositions, and the evolving role of women shaping the cinematic landscape. Whether you’re a filmmaker, artist, or creative dreamer, this episode will ignite your imagination and change the way you see light itself.
 
🎧 Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts
 
🔥 Keywords Christina Dobre, Director of Photography, Cinematographer Interview, Women in Film, Women in Cinematography, Visual Storytelling, Filmmaking Podcast, Art and Creativity, Behind the Camera, Lighting Design, Film Industry, Female Filmmakers, Creative Process, Artistic Vision, AART Podcast, Chris Stafford, Women in the Visual Arts, Film Production, Photography Inspiration, Camera Work, Storytelling Through Light
 
The American cinematographer Christina Dobre was drawn to cinematography through her combined interests in storytelling, photography and psychology.  She say: she strives to create emotionally-driven imagery that helps us to feel, to connect and to heal. Her first professional production as a crew member was the 2013 drama CREEDMORIA about a teenage girl growing up in a dysfunctional family. It was a story she says that resonated with her. Christina was born in New Jersey in 1995, the middle of three children; she has an older sister and younger brother. Her father Dumitru was an immigrant from the Communist state of Romania - he emigrated to the US as a teenager and eventually became a Public Service Electrician. Her mother Donna is a nurse and instilled in Christina diverse values which have shaped her personality. an early interest in photography that she picked up from her father began the foundation to her career and by the time she attended Pennsbury High School in Fairless Hill, PA, Christina knew that story telling through film was her calling. In 2019 she graduated Fordham University in New York with a BA in Communications with a focus on Film Studies. Her determination to break into the industry was soon rewarded with a variety of productions from commercials to music, including THE KING for Sarah Kingsley, and narrative shorts, like AT NIGHT that was screened at an Academy Qualifying Festival.  Christina also advocates for women in camera through online education and by sharing her experiences as a woman in camera with her filmmaking community on social media. Christina was accepted in the ASC Vision Mentorship Program for 2024-25. She lives with her partner Johann Beute in New York.  

Christina’s links:
https://christinadobre.com/
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5992321/
 Instagram: @christinadobre
https://www.instagram.com/christinadobre  

Some of Christina’s favorite women artists: Polly Morgan Rina Yang Kira Kelly Kate Arizmendi Alicia Slimmer Barbie Leung Kat Castro Charlie Gillette 
 
Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
AART on Facebook 
Email: [email protected]

Dive beneath the surface in this deeply personal and visually rich conversation with award-winning underwater filmmaker Nathalie Lasselin. In this intimate episode, we explore the profound connection between water, storytelling, and the human experience. Nathalie opens up about her life beneath the waves—from filming in the darkest depths of the ocean to documenting the fragile beauty of our planet’s underwater ecosystems. Through her lens, we uncover the emotional, spiritual, and environmental layers of what it means to truly see the world below. Join host Chris Stafford on AART Podcast, where women in visual arts share their creative journeys, inspirations, and inner worlds. Whether you’re passionate about filmmaking, ocean conservation, or the artistry of light and movement underwater, this episode will leave you inspired to look deeper—both within and beyond the surface.

Keywords / Tags:
Nathalie Lasselin, underwater filmmaker, underwater cinematography, women in film, ocean conservation, AART podcast, visual arts podcast, filmmaking interview, women filmmakers, creative storytelling, underwater photography, environmental filmmaking, artistic inspiration, introspective podcast, documentary film, deep sea exploration, behind the lens, creative process, women in the arts, underwater world, ocean life


Nathalie Lasselin is a Canadian based French underwater filmmaker who has produced and directed twelve critically acclaimed underwater documentaries that have received numerous awards at international festivals and been distributed globally. She has also contributed to more than 200 feature films, documentaries and productions as a director of photography, underwater cameraman and divemaster.  She is known for her 2013 Sustainability at Sea, the 2015 TV Mini Series Ascension and the 2021 Secret of the Whales. Nathalie is also in demand as a speaker and expedition leader.  She says: “The more I travel around the world, the more I realize the multitude of small actions we can take to change the health of our immediate environment.”  Nathalie was born in the north of France in 1970.  Her natural curiosity for the planet and the environment has guided her since childhood to become an explorer and to produce images that have an impact on educating and informing a wider public. Nathalie graduated from the University of Montreal in 1992 in Movie Studies, by which time she had already decided that she wanted to leave her native France and settle in Canada.  Nathalie’s mission is to push the limits, to go deep within yourself and share the riches and fragilities of our earth through 360° exploration. Nathalie has been inducted into the Women Diver Hall of Fame and The Explorers Club. She lives in Montreal with her partner.
 
Nathalie’s links:
Website: https://nathalielasselin.com/en/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aquapixnat/.  @aquapixnat IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0489811/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1
 
Nathalie’s favorite female artists:
Maroesjka Lavign
Gayle Kabloona
MissMe 

First aired: November 12, 2024
 
Host: Chris Stafford

• A Hollowell Studios Production
• Follow @thecalltimepodcast on Instagram
• Email: [email protected]
• Hollowell Studios Productions: 1000+ episodes; AART, WiSP Podcast Network, WiSP Sports

In this powerful and intimate episode of AART Podcast, host Chris Stafford sits down with acclaimed wildlife filmmaker, biologist, and conservationist Jocelyn Stokes for a raw and deeply personal conversation about the beauty and fragility of our natural world. Through her lens and her heart, Jocelyn shares the emotional realities of documenting endangered species, the ethical challenges of storytelling in the wild, and the spiritual connection that drives her mission to protect life on Earth. Listeners will be taken behind the camera into the heart of the jungle and the depths of the ocean, discovering how science, empathy, and art converge to inspire action for conservation. This is more than a story about wildlife—it’s about humanity’s bond with nature, purpose, and resilience. Whether you’re passionate about wildlife filmmaking, environmental activism, or the emotional truth of creative storytelling, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the wild spirit that lives within us all.

🎧 Tune in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you listen. 

🔑 Tags / Keywords:
Jocelyn Stokes interview, wildlife filmmaker podcast, conservation podcast, biologist interview, nature storytelling, wildlife conservation, female filmmaker, environmental podcast, wildlife photography, animal documentary, nature filmmaking, biodiversity, sustainability podcast, women in science, wildlife cinematography, climate action, wildlife protection, AART Podcast, Chris Stafford, nature inspiration, creative storytelling in conservation

Jocelyn Stokes is a American wildlife biologist, conservationist and filmmaker,. She has filmed programming for PBS NATURE, Mongabay, National Geographic, the BBC, Waterbear, ILCP, Health in Harmony, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, Future Alam Borneo and Borneo Futures, among others. She is most at home filming endangered species in some of the world's most remote wilderness locations. Her technical skills in long lens shooting, gimbal work and drone operation to capture unique natural history sequences have led to award-winning conservation films. Jocelyn was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, the eldest of three; she has two brothers. Her father Robert Stokes is in media marketing and her mother Debra a medical assistant and artist. Growing up in the desert, Jocelyn spent her childhood outdoors exploring nature and wildlife. And she was fascinated by still photography from an early age immersing herself in storytelling with her camera. By the time she had graduated high school Jocelyn knew the career she wanted and achieved her BA in Photography from Lewis & Clark followed by graduate studies at Oregon State University for Wildlife Sciences. Jocelyn traveled to South East Asia after college and began to lay the foundation for her career of combining her passions of wildlife conservation and filmmaking from producing a documentary to conserve sun bears in Borneo to environmental journalism pieces for the conservation news web portal Mongabay.  She is currently filming and producing a PBS NATURE series In Her Nature focused on female wildlife conservationists around the world, beginning with Nepal, Indonesia, Costa Rica, and Madagascar, which will air in March 2025. Jocelyn is married to wildlife photographer, Peter Mangolds, and the couple live in Jackson Hole, WY. 
 
Jocelyn’s links:
Website: https://www.jocelynstokes.com/
Her Wild Life: https://www.herwildlife.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildandstoked/.  @wiledandstoked

Jocelyn’s playlist:

• Tyler
• Teddy Swims
• Shaboozey
• Dolly Parton
• Jessie Murphy
• Wheeland Brothers
• Mark Ronson
• Bruno Mars

Host: Chris Stafford

• A Hollowell Studios Production
• Follow @thecalltimepodcast on Instagram
• Email: [email protected]
• Hollowell Studios Productions: 1000+ episodes; AART, WiSP Podcast Network, WiSP Sports