The DMF With Justin Younts

Justin Younts
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The DMF with Justin Younts (Discovering Meaning in Film & Acting) is an acting and filmmaking podcast for actors and creatives. Host Justin Younts explores acting technique, audition tips, casting insights, career strategy, and the craft of film and theatre. Featuring actors, casting directors, and filmmakers, DMF delivers real-world advice to help you book roles, build your reel, and grow as a professional actor.

  1. 2D AGO

    DMF Episode 334 — Leif Bristow: Cultural Storytelling, Filmmaking & The Power of Empathy

    Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. I’m Justin Younts, and in this full interview I sit down with Emmy-winning filmmaker and producer Leif Bristow to explore storytelling, empathy, and the power of film to connect cultures. Leif shares his filmmaking journey from Toronto to Alaska and eventually into international film production, explaining how travel and diverse life experiences shaped his approach to storytelling. At the center of our conversation is his latest project, “Dancing Through the Shadow,” a film based on the book by his wife Agnes Bristow, which tells the story of a family struggling during the Chinese Cultural Revolution. In this episode we discuss: • The power of global storytelling in film• Adapting powerful books into movies• Directing actors and building authentic performances• The role of empathy in filmmaking• Cultural perspective in storytelling• The challenges filmmakers face today Leif also offers insights into working with actors, the importance of collaboration on set, and how filmmakers can create stories that resonate with audiences across cultures. This conversation highlights how film can bridge cultural divides, spark dialogue, and remind us of our shared humanity. Whether you’re an actor, filmmaker, or film lover, this episode explores how storytelling can deepen our understanding of the world. Join us as we dive into filmmaking, empathy, and the stories that bring us together. 00:00:08 - Introduction and Guest Background 00:00:39 - Leaf Bristow's Early Life and Travels 00:01:26 - The Importance of Cultural Understanding 00:02:45 - The Power of Film in Building Empathy 00:03:31 - Exploring Different Cultures at Home 00:06:27 - Leaf Bristow's Film Career 00:10:12 - Leaf Bristow's Early Interest in Arts 00:10:16 - Incorporating Financial Knowledge in Filmmaking 00:11:58 - Understanding the Capital Required for Filmmaking 00:15:39 - The Art of Collaboration in Filmmaking 00:16:20 - Leaf Bristow's Entrepreneurial Spirit 00:19:35 - The Balance Between Career and Family 00:21:27 - The Value of Practical Knowledge and Formal Education 00:24:26 - Influence of Mentors and Wisdom from Various Sources 00:26:54 - The Role of AI in the Film Industry 00:30:19 - Transition into Directing and Setting Standards 00:31:36 - Themes in Leaf Bristow's Films 00:32:58 - The Power of Family-Friendly Content 00:35:43 - Cultural Understanding in Filmmaking 00:42:25 - The Challenges of Adapting a Book into a Movie 00:46:10 - The Fear of Retaliation in Filmmaking 00:47:04 - The Process of Adapting 'Dancing Through the Shadow' 00:47:37 - Challenges and Decisions in Filmmaking 00:48:41 - The Importance of Authentic Representation 00:51:00 - Language and Cultural Barriers in Filmmaking 00:52:15 - Filming Locations and Visual Effects 00:53:52 - Directing Actors and Building Relationships 00:58:14 - Working with Hallmark 01:00:27 - Family Involvement in Filmmaking 01:01:40 - Future Projects and Plans 01:03:36 - Leaf Bristow's Daily Routines 01:04:10 - Leaf Bristow's Physical Fitness Routine 01:04:24 - Leaf Bristow's Current Reading Preferences 01:04:56 - Leaf Bristow's Music Preferences 01:05:14 - Leaf Bristow's Viewing Preferences 01:05:32 - Contacting Leaf Bristow 01:05:49 - Conclusion and Appreciation

    1h 6m

  2. MAR 1

    DMF Episode 333 — Leif Bristow (Part 2): The Dark Side of Hollywood & Why I Refuse to Glorify Violence

    Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. I’m Justin Younts, and in Part 2 of my conversation with Emmy-winning filmmaker and producer Leif Bristow, we dive into the ethical challenges of working in Hollywood and the values that guide his filmmaking career. Leif shares why he made an early decision to avoid projects that glorify violence or rely on exploitative themes. Instead, he focuses on the power of suggestion over graphic content, creating films that uplift audiences and emphasize resilience, strength, and meaningful storytelling. In this episode, we explore: The dark side of Hollywood filmmaking Ethical film production decisions Family-friendly content in a competitive market Creating strong female leads and role models Producing films with purpose and integrity Empowering women through storytelling As a producer of over 40 films, Leif discusses how his personal life — including being a father to daughters — has influenced his commitment to portraying women as strong, capable, and multidimensional characters. We also examine the broader question facing filmmakers today: Can you build a successful career without compromising your values? Whether you’re an actor, filmmaker, producer, or creative professional, this episode offers insight into maintaining integrity in an industry often driven by trends and commercial pressure. Join us as we explore how storytelling can inspire, empower, and create lasting impact. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:05 - Transition to Directing 00:00:18 - Personal Directing Philosophy 00:01:51 - Preference for Family Friendly Content 00:02:45 - Success of Family Friendly Movies 00:04:15 - Making Movies for Hallmark 00:05:06 - About the Aggies Book 00:08:33 - Cultural Differences and Similarities 00:10:35 - Relating to Other Cultures 00:11:54 - Repeating Atrocities 00:12:12 - Origin of Dancing Through the Shadow 00:12:27 - Writing Process 00:14:52 - Challenges of Making the Movie 00:15:24 - Filming Challenges Due to COVID-19 00:16:49 - Adapting the Book into a Movie 00:21:48 - Choosing the Filming Locations 00:23:39 - Directing Actors 00:23:39 - Working with Family 00:26:30 - Relationship with Jonathan Rhys-Davies 00:28:00 - Working with Hallmark 00:31:25 - Future Projects 00:32:22 - Closing Remarks 00:33:18 - Inside the Actor's Studio Questions 00:35:21 - Contact Information and Closing

    36 min

  3. FEB 26

    DMF Episode 332 — Leif Bristow (Part 1): Global Storytelling, Empathy & The Power of Film

    Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. I’m Justin Younts, and in this episode I sit down with Emmy-winning filmmaker and producer Leif Bristow for Part 1 of our conversation on global storytelling, film production, and the power of empathy in cinema. Leif shares his filmmaking journey — from Toronto to Alaska and eventually to Hollywood — producing over 40 films across networks including Hallmark and HBO. His work spans genres and international locations, giving him a unique perspective on how storytelling can connect audiences across cultures. In this discussion, we explore: Producing films for Hallmark and HBOInternational film productionTravel and cultural storytellingBuilding empathy through cinemaGlobal perspectives in filmmakingThe responsibility of filmmakers to audiencesLeif also discusses his latest project, “Dancing Through the Shadow,” based on the book by his wife, Agnes Bristow, and how the film aims to resonate emotionally while highlighting shared human experiences across cultures. This episode highlights how film can foster dialogue, bridge cultural divides, and remind us of our global interconnectedness — both as storytellers and as audiences. Whether you’re an actor, filmmaker, or film enthusiast, this conversation offers insight into how travel, empathy, and storytelling shape meaningful cinema. Let’s dive in. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:39 - Leaf Bristow's Early Life and Travels 00:01:26 - Understanding Cultural Similarities 00:02:45 - Importance of Empathy and Understanding 00:03:21 - Cultural Diversity in Toronto 00:06:24 - Leaf Bristow's Film Career 00:09:04 - Influence of Travel on Filmmaking 00:10:11 - Leaf Bristow's Early Interest in Arts 00:11:58 - Understanding Film Finance 00:13:11 - Leaf Bristow's Career Journey 00:16:04 - Leaf Bristow's Early Entrepreneurial Journey 00:19:34 - Leaf Bristow's Passion for Performing 00:21:27 - Value of Practical Experience and Formal Education 00:24:26 - Influence of Mentors and Importance of Openness 00:26:55 - Perspective on AI and Change in the Film Industry

    30 min

  4. FEB 22

    DMF Episode 331 — Jaze Bordeaux: Filmmaking Lessons That Changed My Life

    Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. Justin Younts sits down with award-winning filmmaker Jaze Bordeaux to discuss independent filmmaking, cultural perspective, and storytelling craft. From Brooklyn to Toronto, Jaze shares insights on directing, producing, and bringing original films like EFC to life in today’s film industry. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://jazebordeaux.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:42 - Guest Background 00:04:03 - Cultural Differences 00:06:35 - Impact of Diverse Cultures 00:09:37 - Entrepreneurial Journey 00:14:02 - Inspiration 00:15:28 - Understanding Film Financing 00:16:39 - The Artwork of Film Structure 00:18:25 - Learning from Startup Companies 00:19:32 - Preparing for Film Financing 00:19:47 - The Importance of Budgeting 00:20:37 - Learning from Mistakes and Ventures 00:22:19 - Advice for New Filmmakers 00:24:23 - The Importance of a Clear Pitch 00:28:46 - The Changing Film Industry 00:29:58 - Improving the Industry from a Budget Standpoint 00:31:12 - Comparing Film Production Costs Globally 00:31:40 - Challenges in the American Film Industry 00:35:26 - The Impact of Inflation and Human Capital on Film Budgets 00:39:37 - The Consequences of Rushed Film Production 00:41:06 - Going Outside the System: An Alternative Approach to Film Production 00:43:51 - The Vision for a Global Independent Film Platform 00:46:31 - The Evolution of Online Streaming 00:48:42 - The Challenges of Online Streaming 00:49:14 - The Experiment and Lessons Learned 00:50:58 - The Issue of Digital Rights Management 00:52:33 - The Future of Piracy 00:53:57 - The Demand for Physical Copies 00:54:35 - The Uncertainty of Digital Ownership 00:54:48 - The Return to Physical Media 00:59:08 - The Potential of Personalized Streaming 00:59:48 - The Future of Media Consumption 01:02:04 - On-Set Learning and Experience 01:05:08 - The Importance of Acting 01:10:57 - The Journey into Filmmaking 01:14:11 - Directing Actors: A Collaborative Approach 01:16:06 - The Significance of Casting and Performance 01:17:38 - The First Notable Film: Excelsis 01:17:56 - The Name Change to EFC 01:18:10 - The Importance of Film Title 01:18:56 - The Challenge of Translating Film Titles 01:19:28 - The Marketing Aspect of Film Titles 01:20:50 - The Impact of Unexpected Events on Film Production 01:25:15 - The Decision Between Story and Action 01:28:00 - The Rise of Women's Mixed Martial Arts 01:30:00 - The Initial Reception of Women's MMA Film 01:32:22 - The Evolution of Women's Roles in Combat Sports Films 01:35:00 - Recognition and Awards 01:37:00 - The Experience of Winning Best Director 01:42:36 - The Story Behind 'Starry-Eyed' 01:43:36 - Adapting the Story and Characters 01:46:00 - Incorporating Film School Graduates 01:47:03 - The Evolution of 'Starry-Eyed' 01:48:16 - Supporting Other Filmmakers 01:49:23 - Introduction to 'Let Go' 01:49:41 - The Making of 'Let Go' 01:50:48 - The Role of Carly Rose in 'Let Go' 01:53:14 - The Story of 'Let Go' 01:53:58 - Release of 'Let Go' 01:54:22 - Current Projects of Alex Cruz 01:55:00 - Distribution of EFC 01:55:34 - Introduction to 'Genesis' 01:55:41 - The Evolution of 'Genesis' 01:56:18 - The Concept of 'Genesis' 01:57:35 - The Writing Process of 'Genesis' 01:59:31 - The Genre and Influence of 'Genesis' 02:01:58 - Closing Thoughts 02:02:38 - Personal Background: Track and Field Experience 02:03:26 - Unexpected Journey into Track and Field 02:04:10 - Overcoming Initial Challenges and Winning 02:05:16 - Facing More Experienced Competitors 02:09:31 - Changing Perspective and Winning the Race 02:11:15 - Applying Lessons from the Track to Life 02:13:55 - Daily Routines and Meditation 02:16:53 - Physical Fitness and Taekwondo 02:17:42 - Current Reading and Listening Habits 02:18:33 - Favorite Film Scores and Tracks 02:20:35 - Current Viewing Habits 02:21:46 - Impressions on 'Peacemaker' Series 02:22:43 - Thoughts on 'The Foundation' 02:23:18 - Recent Theater Experience: 'Honey'

    2h 26m

  5. FEB 11

    DMF Episode 330 — Jaze Bordeaux (Part 5): You Won’t Believe How I Almost Gave Up on Track!

    Welcome to the DMF! I’m Justin Younts, and in this episode I continue my conversation with filmmaker Jaze Bordeaux as we explore the power of mindset, perspective, and personal growth — both in life and in the creative journey. During our discussion, I share a pivotal story from my own life that reshaped how I approach challenges. I talk about trying out for the basketball team and not making it — a moment that felt like failure at the time. That experience led me to join the track team, something completely outside my comfort zone. At first, I resisted it. I felt outmatched and overwhelmed. But over time, that discomfort became the very thing that pushed me forward. The turning point came during a crucial race when I realized my biggest obstacle wasn’t physical — it was mental. My perspective had been holding me back. Once I reframed how I saw myself and focused on my strengths, everything shifted — and I ended up winning. Jaze and I use this story as a springboard to discuss how mindset, resilience, and reframing failure are essential tools for filmmakers, actors, and creatives navigating the industry. This episode is packed with insights on perspective, growth, and how shifting your internal narrative can change your external results. Let’s dive in. Check out these links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://jazebordeaux.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/jazebordeaux/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jazebordeaux/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@jazebordeaux⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@jazebordeaux⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/jazebordeaux⁠ 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:06 - Discussion on Previous Topics 00:00:46 - Personal Story: Track and Field Experience 00:09:24 - Lessons Learned from Track and Field Experience 00:10:25 - Applying Lessons to Life and Work 00:12:04 - Inside the Actors Studio Questions: Morning Routine 00:12:50 - Inside the Actors Studio Questions: Nighttime Routine 00:13:27 - Inside the Actors Studio Questions: Meditation Practice 00:15:07 - Starting Taekwondo and Reading Screenplays 00:16:20 - Listening to Music: Hans Zimmer 00:16:41 - Discussion on Movie 'Shame' and Favorite Hans Zimmer Track 00:18:41 - What are you Watching: TV Series 00:21:27 - Last Film Watched in Theater: 'Honey' 00:24:07 - Contact Information and Closing

    25 min

  6. FEB 8

    DMF Episode 329 — Jaze Bordeaux (Part 4): The Future of Women in Film & Non-Traditional Roles

    Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. I’m Justin Younts, and in this episode we explore the evolving landscape of women in film — particularly in non-traditional and physically demanding roles — with filmmaker Jaze Bordeaux. In our conversation, Jaze shares his journey championing stories centered around women in combat sports and mixed martial arts — a concept that, when first pitched in 2016, was met with skepticism from distributors and industry decision-makers. At the time, many questioned whether audiences would support films featuring women in these kinds of physically intense, traditionally male-dominated roles. Despite the resistance, Jaze believed in the cultural and cinematic potential of these narratives and continued pushing forward. Today, the industry has shifted dramatically, with a growing wave of films highlighting women in combat sports and other unconventional spaces. We discuss: Women in non-traditional film rolesMixed martial arts films and combat sports cinemaIndustry skepticism vs audience demandProducing female-driven sports storiesIndependent film challenges during the pandemicFilm festival recognition and awards circuitsJaze also reflects on the success of his projects, which have earned over 30 awards — including honors at the prestigious Palladino D’Oro International Sports Film Festival. While accolades were never the goal, they stand as validation of the passion and perseverance behind these films. We also touch on the broader momentum building around stories like Queen of the Ring and Halle Berry’s MMA-focused work, signaling a larger industry shift toward inclusive, boundary-breaking storytelling. Whether you’re an actor, filmmaker, or film enthusiast, this episode highlights how persistence, vision, and advocacy can reshape what kinds of stories get told — and who gets to lead them. Join us as we explore the rise of women in combat sports cinema and the future of non-traditional roles in film. Check out these links: ⁠⁠⁠http://jazebordeaux.com/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/jazebordeaux/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jazebordeaux/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@jazebordeaux⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@jazebordeaux⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/jazebordeaux 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:05 - Advocacy for Women in Non-traditional Roles 00:00:44 - Initial Resistance to Women's Mixed Martial Arts 00:01:50 - Market Reception and Success of Women's Mixed Martial Arts 00:04:20 - Accolades and Awards for the Film 00:07:40 - Experience at the Palladino Doro International Sports Film Festival 00:13:09 - Discussion on Short Film 'Starry Eyed' 00:15:08 - Character Development and Casting Decisions 00:16:32 - Involvement of Film School Graduates 00:17:35 - The Evolution of Storytelling and Directing 00:18:42 - Supporting Other Filmmakers and Directors 00:19:55 - Introduction to 'Let Go' 00:24:52 - Success of 'EFC' and Future Projects 00:26:06 - Introduction to 'Genesis' 00:26:13 - The Concept and Evolution of 'Genesis' 00:30:25 - Clarification on 'The Arrival' Reference 00:31:09 - Vision for 'Genesis' 00:31:17 - The Timelessness of 'Genesis' 00:32:17 - Advice for Storytelling 00:32:31 - Closing Remarks

    33 min

  7. FEB 6

    DMF Episode 328 — Jaze Bordeaux (Part 3): Physical Media vs Streaming & The Future of Movie Ownership

    Welcome to The DMF — Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting. I’m Justin Younts, and in this episode I sit down with filmmaker Jaze Bordeaux to dive into an increasingly important conversation in modern cinema: film ownership in the digital age. If there’s a movie you truly love and know you’ll want to revisit, should you actually own it? With streaming platforms constantly shifting licensing agreements, the risk of losing access to your favorite films is more real than ever. Imagine waking up one day to find your entire digital library gone — removed due to rights expiring or distribution deals changing. Jaze and I explore why taking action now to secure your film collection matters — whether that means investing in Blu-rays, DVDs, or platforms that allow true digital ownership rather than temporary access. In this conversation, we discuss: Physical media vs streaming Digital licensing and film rights The fragility of digital libraries Film preservation and collector culture The future of movie ownership Hybrid models of physical + digital access As actors, filmmakers, and cinephiles, the way films are stored, distributed, and preserved directly impacts how we study performances and access cinema history. Understanding ownership isn’t just about collecting — it’s about protecting the films that shape us. Join us as we break down the importance of owning the movies you love and what the future may hold for film libraries in an ever-changing industry. Don’t wait until it’s too late — let’s take control of our movie collections together. Check out these links: ⁠⁠http://jazebordeaux.com/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/jazebordeaux/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jazebordeaux/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@jazebordeaux⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@jazebordeaux⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://x.com/jazebordeaux 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:06 - Discussion on Media Ownership 00:01:45 - Transition to Physical Media 00:02:16 - Creating Your Own On-Demand Service 00:02:59 - The Role of Plex 00:03:36 - Cross-Platform Media Consumption 00:04:02 - Transition to Filmmaking 00:04:07 - On-Set Experience 00:05:04 - Advice for Film Students 00:07:05 - The Importance of Acting 00:09:47 - The Work of an Actor 00:11:48 - Getting On-Set Experience 00:12:52 - Inspiration to Get into Film 00:15:13 - Communication Between Directors and Actors 00:16:21 - Collaboration with Actors 00:16:40 - The Role of Actors in Character Development 00:19:42 - Transition to Film Naming 00:20:06 - The Story Behind Film Naming 00:20:14 - The Inception of EFC 00:21:03 - Importance of Film Title 00:21:21 - Challenges in Film Naming 00:27:12 - Marketing and Audience Expectations 00:30:09 - The Origin of EFC

    32 min

  8. FEB 1

    DMF Episode 327 — Jaze Bordeaux (Part 2): Why Film Budgets Are So High & How Movies Get Overpriced

    Welcome to The DMF with Justin Younts (Discovering Meaning in Film and Acting). In this episode, host and actor Justin Younts sits down with filmmaker Jaze Bordeaux for an in-depth conversation about film budgets, production costs, and the realities of independent filmmaking. Have you ever wondered why some films — like Godzilla Minus One — can be made for a fraction of the cost of Hollywood blockbusters and still look incredible? In this episode, we break down why film budgets in Hollywood have become so bloated and how filmmakers in other countries are producing high-quality films with far fewer resources. Jaze Bordeaux shares insight into: Why film production costs continue to rise in North America How tax incentives and film subsidies impact where movies are made The differences between the U.S., Canada, and international film industries How actors, crew rates, and human capital affect budgets The challenges of digital rights, distribution, and streaming platforms What independent filmmakers can do to make smarter, more sustainable films This episode is essential listening for actors, filmmakers, producers, and creatives who want to better understand the business side of filmmaking. Whether you’re an actor trying to understand how budgets affect casting, or a filmmaker navigating production realities, this conversation offers practical, real-world insight into today’s film industry. If you’re interested in acting careers, filmmaking strategy, independent film production, or the future of cinema, this episode of The DMF delivers thoughtful, research-driven conversation that goes beyond the surface. Check out these links: ⁠http://jazebordeaux.com/⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/jazebordeaux/⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jazebordeaux/⁠ ⁠https://www.threads.net/@jazebordeaux⁠ ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@jazebordeaux⁠ ⁠https://x.com/jazebordeaux 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:06 - Discussing Spec Scripts 00:00:27 - Improving the Film Industry: Budget Perspective 00:02:10 - Comparing Film Production Costs: US vs Asia 00:03:24 - The Lack of Unifying Body in the US Film Industry 00:05:35 - Causes of Bloated Film Budgets 00:10:06 - The Impact of Rushing Film Production 00:11:35 - Going Outside the System 00:14:20 - The Decision Against a Netflix-like Service 00:15:32 - The Emergence of Online Video Streaming 00:16:43 - The Challenges of Early Online Streaming 00:18:13 - The Future of Streaming: Predictions and Reality 00:19:45 - The Attempt at Independent Streaming 00:23:03 - The Problem of Digital Rights Management 00:23:39 - The Persistence of Piracy 00:25:15 - The Uncertainty of Digital Ownership 00:25:46 - The Resurgence of Physical Media 00:26:30 - The Issue of Licensing and Rights 00:28:40 - Closing Remarks

    29 min
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About

The DMF with Justin Younts (Discovering Meaning in Film & Acting) is an acting and filmmaking podcast for actors and creatives. Host Justin Younts explores acting technique, audition tips, casting insights, career strategy, and the craft of film and theatre. Featuring actors, casting directors, and filmmakers, DMF delivers real-world advice to help you book roles, build your reel, and grow as a professional actor.

Information

  • Creator
    Justin Younts
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    337
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Justin Younts
  • Show Website
    The DMF With Justin Younts