The Two-Promises Podcast

BD
  • 4.8 (21)
  • PHILOSOPHY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

When you're out for a night with the BD, it's bound to be an adventure. Along the way you'll likely encounter myths, moonshiners, and mad mojo. With experiences like these, where deep roots are formed and you never know where the adventure may lead next, it's bound to lead to deep connections and lots of laughter. Having been overseas and out of touch with the USA for the last 14 years, a lot has changed. With your help, BD can better understand a world that was once familiar but is now somewhat foreign, his home… America. So what do you have to lose? Join us on the journey by simply entering your email below for access to the weirdness, wild times, bourbon and all sorts of other curious shenanigans. This is our story. If you want to know more about what it is going to be like, well we can only make you Two Promises.

  1. 4D AGO

    Joshua Salgado (Part 2): The Sniper Mindset – IP World-Building, Military Waivers, and Facing the Inner Villain

    How do you go from a kid born with bilateral club feet to an Air Force Loadmaster and independent comic book creator? In Part 2 of this series, Joshua Salgado, host of the Absolutely Cosmic Podcast, shares his journey of relentless persistence against administrative roadblocks and his strategic pivot from "machine gunner" to "sniper" in business. Josh discusses the origin story of his 256-page graphic novel, Tales of the Galactic Wanderer, and how he uses science fiction as an allegory to process high-level military intelligence briefs and personal trauma. We dive deep into the "radioactive spider bite" moments of his life—from the disappointment of corporate storytelling in modern cinema to the grueling multi-year battle to secure medical waivers for military service. Finally, Josh pulls back the curtain on his deep world-building process, explaining how he integrates his Hispanic heritage and real-world geopolitics into a sprawling new intellectual property (IP) designed to rival the industry giants. 🔍 Key Topics & SEO Insights Target Discrimination in Business: Why Josh paused his podcast to focus on building a core intellectual property (IP), shifting from a "pray and spray" approach to a "sniper" focus. The Medical Waiver Battle: A masterclass in persistence—how Josh overcame permanent disqualifications and congressional inquiries to become the first person with his condition to fly in the Air Force. Allegory as Therapy: How the Galactic Wanderer character served as a vessel for processing deployment-related mental health challenges and refinding purpose. Indie Toy Production: The "pre-order philosophy" of launching collectible action figures and networking within the influencer and 3D design space. Geopolitical World-Building: Using sci-fi factions like the "Synthetic Federation" and "Cosmic Marauders" as proxies to explore near-peer warfare and international proxy conflicts. The Puerto Rican "Coqui" Connection: Integrating cultural heritage into alien races to create a "melting pot" universe that reflects the American experience. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps [01:19] The Sniper Mindset: Shifting from a broad business approach to laser-focused IP development. Business Focus and Strategy [02:30] Graphic Novel Processing: Using character creation to process personal life struggles. Storytelling as Therapy [04:00] Indie Toy Prototyping: Bringing a villain to life through collectible action figures. Independent Toy Manufacturing [07:13] The Creative Turning Point: How corporate "woke" cinema drove Josh to build his own universe. Independent IP Development [09:00] Bilateral Club Feet: Fighting the Marine Corps and Navy for medical waivers to serve. Military Medical Waivers [11:00] The Recruiter Angle: Finding the right mentor to navigate the MEPs disqualification process. Military Recruiting Challenges [13:50] Heart & Contract Issues: Host shares his own story of "National Call to Service" roadblocks. Special Operations Contracts [18:54] The Galactic Wanderer: Defining a hero who refinds his purpose after wandering the cosmos. Character Archetypes in Sci-Fi [21:15] Dystopian Allegories: The "Synthetic Federation" and the backfiring of automated policing. Science Fiction World Building [23:35] Villains as Brutes: Why the "Supreme Raider" represents near-peer proxy warfare. Geopolitics in Storytelling [27:32] Deep Lore vs. Modern Media: Why classic franchises endure through layered world-building. Franchise Development Strategy [30:28] The Inner Supervillain: Joshua's surprising answer to who is currently attacking his progress. Inner Conflict & Self-Sabotage About the Guest Joshua Salgado is an active-duty Air Force Loadmaster and the creator of Cosmic Absolute. He is a visionary entrepreneur and author who has successfully blended military logistics with creative world-building. His work spans graphic novels, trading card games, and independent toy lines, all centered around the mission of "Do Good for Good." Diversity & Resilience Statistics (U.S. Military) Josh's story highlights the rigorous standards and the rare success of medical waivers: Medical Waivers: Roughly 20-30% of military applicants require a medical waiver to join. The Odds: For complex conditions like bilateral club feet, the approval rate is historically less than 1%, making Josh's journey a statistical anomaly. Diversity in Service: The U.S. Military is a true "melting pot," mirroring Josh's lore: As of 2023, the active-duty force is approximately 17.5% Hispanic/Latino and 17% Black, representing the diverse lineage Josh explores in his characters like King Jack and Shonjak. "Don't let a roadblock be the deciding factor. You should be the deciding factor." Joshua Salgado's journey through medical denials to the cockpit of a C-130 proves that persistence is a superpower. Take the next step: Explore the Cosmos: Check out the graphic novel and indie toy line at [Insert Josh's Website/Social]. Dial in Your Target: What is the one "primary target" in your life that you've been diluting with too many distractions? Focus on it this week. Share the Resilience: Send this episode to someone fighting an administrative battle or a "permanent" no.   #JoshuaSalgado #IndependentIP #GraphicNovel #MilitaryWaivers #AirForceLoadmaster #SciFiWorldBuilding #Geopolitics #IndieToys #Persistence #VeteranArtist #AbsolutelyCosmic #TargetDiscrimination #TwoPromisesPodcast #OvercomingRoadblocks #CreativeEntrepreneur

    32 min

  2. 4D AGO ·  BONUS

    You Might Also Like: Crime Scene

    Introducing The Boys on the Tracks from Crime Scene. Follow the show: Crime Scene Two teens are found dead on railroad tracks. The official ruling? An accident.  But the scene tells a different story.  In 1987, two Arkansas teenagers were found dead on a set of railroad tracks under circumstances that defied easy explanation. Despite unusual evidence at the scene--including a destroyed firearm and reports of missing materials--their deaths were officially ruled an accident.  In this episode, we examine the “Boys on the Tracks” case, unpacking the inconsistencies, investigative missteps, and lingering questions that have fueled decades of speculation. As the timeline unfolds, key details begin to challenge the official narrative and raise the possibility that the full story was never uncovered.  Note from Jonathan and Cooper: Journalist Mara Leveritt played a central role in documenting this case over many years. Her reporting is an essential starting point for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the story.  --------  For ad-free listening to Crime Scene and access to over 60 true crime series, subscribe to The Binge+ on Apple Podcasts, Patreon, or at GetTheBinge.com.  Watch Crime Scene on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBingeTrueCrime  Follow Crime Scene:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebingecrimescene/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebingecrimescene  Get our free true crime newsletter for behind-the-scenes details at Patreon.com/TheBinge.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.

  3. MAR 23

    Joshua Salgado (Part 1): The Absolutely Cosmic Hierarchy – Sharpening the Axe and the Nerd-to-Operator Pipeline

    "Taking time to sharpen the axe leads to more trees cut in the long run." In Part 1 of this 3-part series, Joshua Salgado, a C-130H Loadmaster and host of the Absolutely Cosmic Podcast, joins the show fresh off a high-op-tempo deployment to the Horn of Africa. Josh pulls back the curtain on the life of a Loadmaster—from flying medevacs in Somalia to supporting "snake eaters" (Special Forces) on the ground. We explore the fascinating intersection of "Nerd Culture" and elite military units, discussing why comic books and gaming are essential decompression tools for high-intensity operators. Josh also reveals his personal struggle with mental health post-deployment and the step-by-step "Absolutely Cosmic Hierarchy of Needs" he developed to rebuild his life, rewire his neural pathways, and transition from a victim mindset to mission-ready resilience. 🔍 Key Topics & SEO Insights The Horn of Africa Missions: What it's like supporting Tier 2 operators, kicking out cargo in contested airfields, and the adrenaline of medevac missions. Aviation as a Lifeblood: Why tactical units are "dead in the water" without the logistical backbone of air resupply and transport. The Special Ops Nerd Pipeline: Why Dungeons & Dragons, anime, and comic books are prevalent in elite units as a subconscious processing tool for trauma. The Lumberjack Metaphor: A lesson in sustainment—why "taking a knee" to decompress is a sign of human strength, not weakness. Rewiring Neural Pathways: The science of self-talk and how to physically change your brain's response to heartbreak, stress, and failure. Victim vs. Victor: Moving past the "rubble" of life by aligning with truth, purpose, and the example of the biblical Job. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 02:29 Horn of Africa Ops: Flying in Somalia and Kenya with Tier 2 operators and Green Berets. C-130 Loadmaster Missions 04:46 The Adrenaline Comedown: Why the "slower" pace of home life requires intentional relaxation. Deployment Transition Tips 06:51 Strategic Resupply: The critical importance of air drops for isolated outposts in Afghanistan. Military Aviation Logistics 08:59 Nerd Culture in Special Ops: Why "superheroes" embody the morals of sacrifice for country. Psychology of Elite Soldiers 13:31 The Body Keeps the Score: Understanding how high-performance stress manifests in the body. Trauma and Performance 14:50 Sharpening the Axe: The lumberjack story that proves rest is a productivity multiplier. Burnout Prevention Strategy 16:25 The Fitness Foundation: Moving "angry energy" in the gym to cure anxiety and depression. Exercise for Mental Health 18:48 Winning the Small Stuff: How making your bed creates a snowball effect of confidence. Building Discipline Habits 21:12 The Spiritual Tip of the Spear: Finding rest in a relationship with a higher power. Faith and Military Service 23:30 The Job of Rebuilding: Using the story of Job to find perspective in the midst of "rubble." Overcoming Victim Mindset 26:42 Neural Pathways: How intentional self-talk acts like muscle memory for the mind. Neuroplasticity for Success The Absolutely Cosmic Hierarchy of Needs Josh breaks down his "pyramid" system for rebuilding the self after a period of intense output or mental fatigue: Foundation (Fitness & Nutrition): Use the gym to move "stagnant" energy. Men are built to be machines—move the body to clear the mind. Sensory Input (Information): Audit what you consume. Are you listening to podcasts that build you up or "dark" music that keeps you in a lower state? Small Victories (The To-Do List): Win the morning by making the bed or doing the dishes. These small dopamine hits build a foundation of confidence for the "mountain" goals. The Peak (Spirituality & Meditation): Reaching a state of rest through a relationship with the Creator or disciplined meditation to bridge the gap between human effort and divine peace. About the Guest Joshua Salgado is an active-duty Air Force Loadmaster and the creator of the Absolutely Cosmic Podcast. He is a polymath entrepreneur involved in fitness coaching, triathlon training, and the development of independent comic books and trading card games. He focuses on helping others "spiral up" through discipline and holistic self-development. ▶️ What's Next? This is Part 1 of 3. In Part 2, Josh discusses the transition from active duty to entrepreneurship and how he balances launching a comic book line with training for triathlons. Subscribe and hit the bell so you don't miss the next evolution of this conversation! #JoshuaSalgado #Loadmaster #AbsolutelyCosmic #SpecialOperations #VeteranEntrepreneur #ResilienceTraining #MilitaryAviation #NerdCulture #MentalHealth #HighPerformance #HierarchyOfNeeds #TwoPromisesPodcast #SharpenTheAxe #Neuroplasticity #OvercomingFailure

    30 min

  4. MAR 20

    Full Send Friday: Beyond the Lens: Christopher Martini on the Courage of Independent Art and the Future of Cinema

    What happens when an artist chooses conviction over the "system"? In this episode of FULLSEND, we sit down with award-winning director Christopher Martini. With over 30 years in the industry and 70+ awards, Chris has navigated the grueling climb from NYU film student to directing some of the most talked-about documentaries of the decade, including The Relentless Patriot and the Donald Trump documentary The Man You Didn't Know. Chris pulls back the curtain on the "gatekeeping" of major film festivals, the spiritual crisis facing modern art, and the specific grit required to film a feature in 14 days. We discuss his deep commitment to the veteran community, the "Trump effect" on his career, and his upcoming mission to teach veterans how to reclaim their narratives through his new film course. This is a masterclass in Grit, Reinvention, and the Courage to Stand Alone. In this episode, you'll learn: The Director's Discipline: The difference between the "operational" execution of a music video and the "edit-room discovery" of a documentary. The Turning Point: How the rejection of his film Trooper by major festivals served as a catalyst for his political and cultural awakening. Art as a Mission: Why veterans are uniquely suited for the adrenaline and high-pressure environment of a film set. The Corporate Monopoly: The threat tech giants pose to the traditional movie theater experience and why the "community experience" of cinema is worth saving. The Human Side of Icons: Christopher's reflections on working with high-profile figures and why character matters more than celebrity. The Choice for Creators: Whether to be a "craftsperson" (playing the safe game) or a "filmmaker" (creating your own destiny despite the risks). ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 02:08 The "Dear Mom" music video and the unique bond formed on veteran-led film sets. Teamwork & Connection 04:33 The technical transition: How music video discipline translates to documentary realism. Craft & Technique 07:33 The thrill of the "suck": Why high-stress environments and on-set improvisation are where the magic happens. Adaptability 09:41 Trooper: The story of a father and son veteran duo and the inspiration behind Christopher's first feature. Storytelling 14:18 Cultural Gatekeeping: Realizing why a pro-military, patriotic film faced friction in the festival circuit. Industry Insight 23:38 The "Dirty Log" Metaphor: How political events from 9/11 to 2020 exposed cultural resentments. Perspective 26:02 Rapid-fire Production: Shooting and releasing a feature-length documentary in under two months. Execution 32:01 Talent vs. Celebrity: Why real acting "chops" make the editor's job easier. Professionalism 41:41 The Last Stand of Cinema: Why Warner Brothers and theatrical exhibition are vital to human connection. Future of Media 43:49 AI in the Arts: Using AI as a research tool vs. the irreplaceable nature of human nuance. Technology 46:29 Inside the Inner Circle: Surprising observations about the Trump family's work ethic and humility. Character 53:53 The Spiritual Crisis: Why God and family must return to the center of American life and art. Values 01:03:00 Looking Ahead: Upcoming projects, including The Stowaway in First Class and How to Woo a Widow. Vision 01:10:27 Advice for Young Artists: Choosing between being "safe and employed" or "dangerous and free." Mentorship 01:21:56 The Staircase of Success: Why the journey of 30 years matters more than any single award. Growth About the Guest Christopher Martini is an NYU-trained filmmaker with over 30 years of experience in the industry. He has won over 70 awards for his work as a director, writer, and editor. Known for his feature film Trooper and his recent political documentaries, Christopher is also the founder of an upcoming film course at christophermartini.com where he teaches veterans and aspiring creators how to master the craft of storytelling, protect their vision, and navigate the complexities of modern production. 🎧 Connect with the Mission If this conversation about art, courage, and standing your ground resonated with you, please subscribe and leave a review. Are you ready to stop waiting for a "green light" and start rolling your own camera? What is the one story only you can tell?   #Filmmaking #DirectorLife #IndependentFilm #VeteranVoices #Cinema #Storytelling #ArtAndPolitics #FilmProduction #Documentary #TheatricalRelease #CreativeFreedom

    1h 43m

  5. MAR 16

    Christopher Martini (Part 4): The Director's Staircase – Protecting the Child, Learning to Fail, and the Civilian Sacrifice

    "When you make a movie, it's like having a child... and the moment their livelihood is affected, you see another side of the parent." In the powerful conclusion of our 4-part series, director Christopher Martini reveals the fierce protectiveness required to lead a film set and the "30-year staircase" he climbed to reach the big screen. Christopher discusses the reality of the "disciplinarian leader"—why a director must occasionally be the "prick" to keep the ship on course and protect the story from those who lack the cojones to create their own. We dive into the necessity of failure, the importance of directors learning to write and act, and Christopher's future "legacy projects," including a universal story about the American family and his ongoing mission to bridge the gap between veterans and civilians. He leaves us with a haunting challenge for the modern era: in a country that has become "too safe," what are you willing to risk to ensure its future? 🔍 Key Topics & SEO Insights The Protective Director: Why a filmmaker must violently defend the "child" (the story) from external interference and bad actors. The 30-Year Staircase: A raw look at the incremental steps of a creative career—from being rejected by film school to seeing your name on a marquee on 42nd Street. Directing as Fine Wine: Why the best directors often don't hit their stride until their 50s and the value of aging into the craft. The "Generalist" Advantage: Why great directors must know how to lug a sandbag, set a C-stand, and speak the language of an actor. Failure as Tuition: How looking at "garbage" in the editing room is the only way to recognize a masterpiece in the making. The Civilian Challenge: Christopher's final word on the "dangerous times" we live in and why civilians must find their own way to sacrifice for the country. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 00:47 Protecting the Child: Why messing with a director's story brings out a violent protectiveness. Directing Leadership Styles 02:39 The Staircase: Rejection, small festivals, and the 30-year journey to a movie theater. Long-term Creative Career 05:17 Victory in Impact: Why seeing your name next to blockbusters is worth the wait. Indie Film vs. Blockbusters 06:43 Do It Tired: Advice for parents and creators—write a page a day, even when you're exhausted. Productivity for Creators 08:59 Directing is Like Wine: Why life experience is the most important tool for a filmmaker. Aging in the Film Industry 10:15 Wearing Every Hat: The importance of knowing the crew's job to earn their respect. Film Set Hierarchy 13:18 The Value of Failure: Why looking at "garbage" in the editing room is a necessary rite of passage. Learning from Film School 14:49 The Legacy Project: Christopher's vision for a universal film about the American family and divorce. Family Drama Screenwriting 17:05 The Veteran Calling: Why Christopher can't stay away from veteran-focused storytelling. Veteran Community Support 19:43 The Civilian Sacrifice: A final challenge to take risks for the country in dangerous times. About the Guest Christopher Martini is an NYU-trained director, screenwriter, and producer. After 30 years in the industry and over 70 awards, he continues to push the boundaries of independent cinema, focusing on veteran advocacy, family dynamics, and high-impact political documentaries 🔗 Resources Mentioned Book: Government Cheese by Steven Pressfield Director's Website: https://christophermartini.com/   🎬 Closing Thought "Directing is like wine; it gets better with age because you need life experience to tell a human story." — Christopher Martini "If you have a dream, do it tired." Christopher Martini's journey proves that consistency is the only way up the staircase. As we wrap this series, ask yourself: What risk are you taking today to make your country—and your family's future—better? Final steps from this series: Watch Part 1-3: If you missed Christopher's insights on viral hits and Hollywood gatekeepers, go back and listen. Support Independent Art: Follow Christopher's upcoming projects at christophermartini.com . Take the Risk: Whether it's writing that first page or speaking up in your community, get uncomfortable. Thank you for joining us for this special 4-part series. Subscribe for our next episode featuring Joshua Salgado!

    23 min

  6. MAR 9

    Christopher Martini (Part 3): The Spiritual Crisis, Heroic Journeys, and Hollywood's Great Lie

    "God is missing from the fabric of modern storytelling, and that's why so many movies leave you with an empty, rotten feeling." In Part 3 of our deep-dive series, director Christopher Martini shifts the focus from the technical to the transcendental. He explores the spiritual crisis in America and how the absence of faith has left a void in the arts. Christopher shares a powerful moment of witnessing a Lieutenant Colonel praying before a meal—a simple act that sparked a return to his own roots. We discuss the physiological and chemistry changes that occur during prayer and meditation, and why the "Heroic Journey" in cinema is a reflection of our own struggle toward the light. Christopher also breaks down his massive slate of upcoming projects, including a 1920s immigrant epic, Westerns written by Green Berets, and his transition into teaching the next generation of veteran filmmakers. 🔍 Key Topics & SEO Insights The Spiritual Crisis in Art: Why modern Hollywood scenes often feel "empty" and how a filmmaker's spiritual life (or lack thereof) dictates the emotional residue of a movie. The Heroic Journey: Framing life's conflicts as a narrative arc—moving through "dark shit" to bring a reward back to the world. The Immigrant Story: An inside look at Martini's new project, The Stowaway in First Class, written by Air Force veteran Tony DeSantis. Westerns and Green Berets: Adapting the works of the late Ray Morris and the legendary Chilton Williamson for the big screen. Filmmaker vs. Craftsperson: The brutal advice for young artists—decide if you want to create your own destiny or be a "cog in the wheel" of the studio system. The "Straight White Male" Exit: Why Martini saw the writing on the wall in 2019 and chose the path of dangerous freedom over safe employment. Raising Capable Kids: The importance of instilling traditional values and the simple joy of introducing a child to Gilligan's Island.   ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 01:03 The Spiritual Crisis: How the lack of God in the center of American life affects the culture. Spirituality in America 03:23 Empty Storytelling: Why modern movies leave audiences feeling scared and hopeless. Hollywood Nihilism 04:22 The Physiology of Prayer: From Zen retreats in Utah to the pews of a church. Benefits of Meditation and Prayer 05:43 Vibrational Frequency: Moving from the "animal state" of PTSD into human expression. Physiological Effects of Gratitude 06:56 The Heroic Journey: Why conflict is the challenge that makes life worth living. Joseph Campbell Hero's Journey 10:15 The Stowaway in First Class: Adapting an Italian immigrant story written by a veteran. 1920s Period Film Projects 11:56 Western Epics: Discussing The Last Westerner and the works of Green Beret Ray Morris. Ray Morris Gone to Texas 14:15 Straight Narrative Films: Moving back into "adult-driven dramas" and "chick flicks." Barb Allen How to Woo a Widow 15:57 The Family Cornerstone: Fighting against children's content made by "people you wouldn't have dinner with." Raising Kids with Values 17:35 Dangerous and Free: Advice for young filmmakers terrified of being canceled by Netflix. Independent Film Career Advice 19:35 The Godfather of Indie Cinema: Why every aspiring director should watch John Cassavetes' "television rant." John Cassavetes Independent Film 21:10 The Cojones to Stand Up: Why the director must be the ultimate protector of the story. Creative Conflict in Directing 23:39 The Biggest Lie: Addressing the blatant hypocrisy regarding freedom of speech in Hollywood. Hollywood Freedom of Speech 26:02 Following Your Gut: The golden rule for a successful career and a good movie. Trusting Your Intuition About the Guest Christopher Martini is an award-winning director and screenwriter. His upcoming projects span multiple genres, from historical epics to Westerns. He is currently developing an online film course to help veterans master the craft of storytelling. Learn more at christophermartini.com . "Filmmaking is conflict." Whether you are in the arena or behind the camera, the goal is to come out the other side with a gift for the world. Don't wait for a green light—start rolling the camera. Take the Next Step: Follow the Mission: Visit christophermartini.com to stay updated on The Stowaway in First Class. Educate Yourself: Watch the John Cassavetes rant on YouTube to understand the spirit of independent film. Support the Pod: If this conversation helped you "spiral up," please share this episode and leave us a review! ▶️ Coming Up Next In the final installment (Part 4), Christopher and Brent discuss the "American Renaissance," the power of veteran brotherhood, and the final word on the future of the arts. Subscribe so you don't miss the conclusion!   #ChristopherMartini #HeroicJourney #IndependentFilmmaking #FaithInArt #JohnCassavetes #GreenBeret #WesternMovies #TheStowawayInFirstClass #HollywoodHypocrisy #Spirituality #VeteranAuthors #TwoPromisesPodcast #FilmmakingAdvice #TraditionalValues #CinemaPurist

    28 min

  7. MAR 2

    Christopher Martini (Part 2): Soup for the Soul – 75 Million Views, the Trump Family, and Hollywood's Last Stand

    "Everything is an ingredient in the soup to make it the most amazing soup that changes people's lives when they eat it." In Part 2 of our series, NYU-trained director Christopher Martini shares the "behind-the-lens" reality of filming global icons and the structural shifts dismantling the traditional film industry. Christopher discusses the incredible viral success of his documentary, The Man You Didn't Know, which amassed over 75 million views on X after being shared by figures like Elon Musk and Benny Johnson. We go behind the scenes of his unique choice to focus on the inner circle—Hulk Hogan, Frank Stallone, and the Trump family—rather than a direct interview with Donald Trump. Christopher reveals the surprising humility and work ethic he witnessed off-camera that contradicts the mainstream media narrative. We also dive deep into the "Seal of Death" for cinema: the tech monopoly of Netflix and Amazon, and how the potential takeover of Warner Brothers could end the communal movie theater experience forever. Finally, Christopher gives a raw assessment of the AI revolution, predicting which creative jobs are "done" and why the human element of directing remains an irreplaceable orchestrator of real life. 🔍 Key Topics & SEO Insights The 75 Million View Milestone: Analyzing the power of X (formerly Twitter) as a distribution platform and how the documentary The Man You Didn't Know bypassed Hollywood gatekeepers to reach 75 million people. The A-List Bottleneck: Why the industry's reliance on "clout" is an annoying reality for independent filmmakers and how high-level talent like Chris Meloni earns their status. The Tech Monopoly on Cinema: Understanding how Apple, Amazon, and Netflix have gained a monopoly over storytelling and why Warner Brothers is the "last stand" for theatrical exhibition. Filming the Trump Family: Surprising insights into the intelligence and punctuality of the Trump children and why "you can always tell a person by their family." The AI Creative Threat: A director's perspective on why voiceover actors are "done" and why photographers and musicians should be nervous about evolving technology. The "Fragile Bubble" of Freedom: A heavy discussion on the delicate state of safety in the U.S. and the ground lost during 15 years of foreign deployments. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 01:34 Storytelling Ingredients: Why the shrimper is as vital as the President in a great "soup." Storytelling Philosophy 03:55 Editing the Greats: Working in a Brooklyn closet with Chris Meloni and seeing "solid chops." Film Editing Techniques 05:48 The COVID Shift: How Screen Actors Guild (SAG) costs during the pandemic shut down projects. COVID Film Industry Impact 06:43 Losing Friends to Politics: Facing the "vile" side of political vocalization in the film industry. Hollywood Political Divide 09:00 Hulk Hogan's Raw Side: Capturing an emotional interview with the icon following the assassination attempt. Hulk Hogan Documentary Interview 12:37 The Last Stand: Why the Warner Brothers/Netflix battle is the "Seal of Death" for theaters. Warner Bros Netflix Takeover 14:20 AI as a Screenplay Tool: Using AI to summarize research and speed up the "blank page" process. AI in Screenwriting 15:37 Job Elimination: Why voiceover actors and photographers are at risk from AI technology. AI Impact on Creative Jobs 17:03 75 Million Views on X: The massive viral reach of The Man You Didn't Know shared by Elon Musk. Trump Documentary Viral Success 17:59 Inside the Inner Circle: Contradicting the media narrative through the humility of the Trump family. Trump Family Interview Insights 20:27 Lost Communication: Why our "sprint toward the future" is destroying human connection. Technology and Mental Health 23:00 The Fragile Bubble: SEAL deployments and the realization of how much "ground" was lost at home. Fragility of Freedom About the Guest Christopher Martini is an NYU-trained filmmaker and director known for Trooper, The Relentless Patriot, and the viral hit The Man You Didn't Know. With a career spanning traditional Hollywood and independent documentary filmmaking, he is a leading voice for preserving the craft of cinema and educating the next generation of storytellers. Connect with Christopher: Website: https://christophermartini.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christopher.3martini Instagram: @triplemartiniprod 🔗 Resources Mentioned Documentary: The Relentless Patriot (Scott LoBaido Story) Documentary: The Man You Didn't Know (Trump Family Documentary) We are living through a "sprint toward the future," but Christopher Martini reminds us to stop and look at what we've lost. When a story can reach 75 million viewers without the help of a studio, the landscape has changed—but we must fight to keep the "theatrical community" alive. Keep the craft alive: Watch the Viral Hit: Search for The Man You Didn't Know on X to see the film that reached 75 million people. Go to the Theater: Support local theatrical exhibitions to prevent the tech monopoly from winning. Share Your Story: If you're a veteran or creator, don't let AI write your legacy. Tell it yourself. ▶️ What's Next? This is Part 2 of 4. In Part 3, Christopher shares more on his "American Renaissance" vision and the specific technical hurdles of shooting high-stakes documentaries in record time. Subscribe and turn on notification.   #ChristopherMartini #IndependentCinema #TrumpDocumentary #75MillionViews #ElonMusk #BennyJohnson #HollywoodMonopoly #WarnerBros #AIInArt #FilmIndustry #TheManYouDidntKnow #VeteranStorytelling #TwoPromisesPodcast #CulturalGatekeepers #FragileFreedom

    27 min

  8. FEB 23

    Christopher Martini (Part 1): The Director's Cut – Adrenaline, Art, and Advocacy for Veterans

    What happens when the precision of a military operation meets the high-stakes world of independent cinema? In the Season 3 opener, host BD catches up with award-winning director Christopher Martini. From their first meeting on the set of the powerful veteran music video Dear Mom, to fast-forwarding into Martini's recent dive into national political documentaries, this episode explores the courage required to stand alone in an industry that often moves against the grain. Christopher pulls back the curtain on the "Improv of Filmmaking," explaining why veterans are uniquely suited for the adrenaline-fueled chaos of a film set. He details the creation of his debut feature film, Trooper, a father-son story starring Max Martini that bridged the political aisle—earning praise from both liberal New York audiences and conservative military communities. We dive deep into the "Sundance Rejection," the cultural gatekeeping in the arts, and the pivotal moment Christopher decided to risk his "Hollywood resume" to tell the stories 99% of his peers are afraid to touch. 🔍 Key Topics & SEO Insights The Veteran Film Mission: Why Christopher focuses on "post-deployment stories" and how filmmaking acts as a surrogate for the military mission and brotherhood. Narrative vs. Documentary: The discipline of shooting visually perfect music videos versus the "fly on the wall" voyeurism of documentary storytelling. The "Trooper" Opus: How a script about an Iraq War vet and his Vietnam vet father secured free music rights from legends Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen. Cultural Gatekeepers: Analyzing why patriotic or pro-military films often face "soft censorship" at major festivals like Sundance and Tribeca. The Political Awakening: How 9/11 and the events of 2019 led Christopher to "open Pandora's box" and vocalize his conservative values in the film industry. New Frontiers: A first look at Martini's upcoming Veterans Film Course designed to teach warriors how to write and direct their own stories.   ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 01:10:00 Meeting in Texas: Reflecting on the production of the award-winning Dear Mom video. 04:42:00 Visual Discipline: How the meticulous planning of music videos translates to documentary grit. 07:00:00 Improv on Set: Why directors can't freeze when a scene "sucks"—finding the thrill in the stress. 08:42:00 Parallels to the Mission: Why veterans are the perfect candidates for the film industry. 10:22:00 Creating "Trooper": Writing a feature in three weeks and casting brother Max Martini. 12:37:00 Screening Results: Moving the crowd at the prestigious Actors Studio in NYC. 13:40:00 Dylan & Springsteen: The unheard-of story of two icons giving their music for free. 14:59:00 The Turning Point: Realizing Hollywood's political landscape through festival rejections. 17:11:00 Shared Frustrations: BD discusses the friction of sharing "diverse" war stories in academia. 18:30:00 Easy Riders & Raging Bulls: The history of cultural gatekeeping in the arts since 1974. 21:27:00 Risking the Resume: The 9/11 journey from Vancouver to New York that changed everything. 25:47:00 "I'm a Conservative": The Facebook post that changed Christopher's career trajectory forever. 28:11:00 Global Ascension Studios: Working with Joshua Maciello to bring The Relentless Patriot to 1,000 theaters. 30:05:00 The Trump Documentary: Producing a feature-length project from start to finish in two months. About the Guest Christopher Martini is an NYU-trained filmmaker, director, and editor. Known for his work on the feature film Trooper and documentaries like The Relentless Patriot, he has become a leading voice in independent conservative cinema. Christopher is currently launching a specialized film course for veterans through christophermartini.com . Art is the front line of the culture war. Christopher Martini's journey proves that telling the truth is worth the risk, even if it means building your own theaters and your own schools. Ready to support the vision? Watch "Trooper": Find it on your favorite streaming platform and share it with a veteran. Tell Your Story: Check out Christopher's film course at christophermartini.com . Review the Show: If Christopher's courage inspired you, leave us a 5-star review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. ▶️ What's Next? This is Part 1 of 4. In Part 2, Christopher goes deeper into the logistics of filming the Trump documentary and the specific technical skills required to capture powerful subjects. Subscribe and hit the bell so you don't miss the next evolution of this conversation! #ChristopherMartini #VeteranFilmmakers #TrooperMovie #MaxMartini #TheRelentlessPatriot #Sundance #IndependentFilm #ConservativeCinema #MilitaryStories #CultureWar #BobDylan #BruceSpringsteen #FilmIndustry #TwoPromisesPodcast #VeteransInFilm #SOPs #Reinvention #Grit

    32 min
See All (100)

4.8
out of 5
21 Ratings

About

When you're out for a night with the BD, it's bound to be an adventure. Along the way you'll likely encounter myths, moonshiners, and mad mojo. With experiences like these, where deep roots are formed and you never know where the adventure may lead next, it's bound to lead to deep connections and lots of laughter. Having been overseas and out of touch with the USA for the last 14 years, a lot has changed. With your help, BD can better understand a world that was once familiar but is now somewhat foreign, his home… America. So what do you have to lose? Join us on the journey by simply entering your email below for access to the weirdness, wild times, bourbon and all sorts of other curious shenanigans. This is our story. If you want to know more about what it is going to be like, well we can only make you Two Promises.

Information

  • Creator
    BD
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Two-Promises 2020
  • Show Website
    The Two-Promises Podcast

You Might Also Like