Today, I'm thrilled to host legendary filmmaker Ken Burns. Join us as we explore his unparalleled storytelling and the history that shapes us all.

0:00 - Introduction to Ken Burns as a master storyteller and his influence on filmmaking

1:13 - The importance of humility and the flaws of heroes in storytelling.

3:05 - The subtractive nature of storytelling and finding the essence of a narrative.

4:12 - Ken Burns shares advice on storytelling: authenticity, perseverance, and the hard work behind the craft.

6:52 - Discussion of his signature style, adaptability, and the broader impact of his work.

11:22 - reflections on his collaboration with Steve Jobs and the creation of the Ken Burns Effect.

14:09 - The role of humility in leadership and history, with examples from American figures.

20:30 - Overview of Burns’ current and future projects, including films on the American Revolution, Reconstruction, and civil rights.

28:05 - Details on the iterative process of filmmaking, from research to editing and final production.

38:00 - Burns’ philosophy on storytelling as an ongoing learning process.

45:00 - Burns’ reflections on the broader impact of storytelling, the importance of space and setting, and his creative inspirations.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices