The DMF With Justin Younts

Justin Younts
  • 5.0 (7)
  • FILM INTERVIEWS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to the DMF. Where I try to find out what motivates people behind the scenes in the world of acting and entertainment. I'm an actor who talks to people in filmmaking and theater as well as people on the business side of show business. Thank you for listening. My Facebook is Justin Younts, my Twitter is @JustinYounts and my Instagram is @JustinYounts.

  1. 15H AGO

    DMF Episode 303 — Assistant Director and Author Tommy Burke (Part 3): "You Need to Read This Book to Transform Your Acting Career Today!"

    Welcome to the DMF!I'm Justin Younts, and in this episode, I sit down with Tommy Burke, who dives deep into the world of acting, storytelling, and the unexpected connections that shaped his career. Tommy shares a fascinating story about how Sean Astin — beloved from The Goonies and The Lord of the Rings — intersects with his journey on the film Kimberley. Tommy reflects on the realities of Hollywood beyond the glamour, opening up about the challenges, triumphs, and lessons that come with a lifetime in the industry. He talks about the importance of reading, studying the craft, and truly understanding what makes a performance resonate — essential insight for anyone pursuing acting. He also discusses the behind-the-scenes realities of his daily life: the demands of podcasting, the struggle with sleep, maintaining mental and physical health, and the role that meditation plays in helping him stay centered. Tommy speaks candidly about working while managing Parkinson’s, offering an honest look at resilience in the face of difficulty. Filled with stories, humor, and wisdom, this episode offers something valuable for actors, storytellers, and anyone curious about life behind the camera. Tommy’s perspective is heartfelt, experienced, and deeply inspiring. Join us as we explore what it truly takes to succeed in the world of acting. And don’t forget to check out his book for even more insight into the industry. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:06 - Discussion on Sean Astin and Kibberley 00:00:24 - Importance of Reading the Book 00:01:39 - Podcast Experiences 00:03:24 - Daily Routines and Sleep Issues 00:04:31 - Discussion on Meditation 00:05:58 - Physical Fitness and Massage Benefits 00:06:51 - Current Reads and Podcasts 00:07:26 - Current Movies and TV Shows 00:08:15 - Music Preferences 00:10:34 - Experience with Ron Silver 00:14:04 - Closing Remarks and Contact Information http://www.tommyburke.com/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://store.bookbaby.com/book/not-just-sunglasses-and-autographs⁠

    15 min

  2. OCT 26

    DMF Episode 302 — Assistant Director and Author Tommy Burke (Part 2): "You Won't Believe What I Faced in the Film Industry!"

    Welcome to the DMF with Justin Younts!In this episode, Justin sits down with Tommy Burke, a veteran of the film industry whose career has been defined by grit, adventure, and resilience. Tommy shares his unforgettable experiences working on demanding productions — including the chaos of filming in the jungle, where crocodiles, scorpions, and unpredictable conditions were part of the job. From navigating union strikes to managing grueling schedules, Tommy offers a raw and honest look at the realities of life behind the camera. He opens up about the highs and lows of his career, the lessons learned through perseverance, and the strength it takes to keep moving forward when things get tough. Tommy also speaks candidly about his personal journey with Parkinson’s disease — how it changed his perspective on life, work, and what truly matters. His story is one of courage and determination, a reminder that passion and purpose can carry you through even the hardest challenges. Join Justin and Tommy as they dive deep into the world of filmmaking, resilience, and the power of never giving up. It’s a conversation filled with insight, honesty, and inspiration for anyone chasing their dreams — no matter the obstacles. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:05 - Discussion on Crocodile 00:00:06 - Car Theft Incident 00:00:06 - Directing Background 00:00:20 - The Jungle and Scorpions 00:01:18 - On Being on Strike 00:02:08 - Joining the Union 00:06:43 - Experience on CSI Miami 00:10:39 - Emergency Vitamin Drink 00:11:42 - Toast Masters 00:13:00 - Life with Parkinson's 00:15:45 - Experience on Phantoms 00:18:22 - David Bowie and Barry White 00:18:48 - Future of Film Business http://www.tommyburke.com/⁠ ⁠https://store.bookbaby.com/book/not-just-sunglasses-and-autographs

    20 min

  3. OCT 19

    DMF Episode 301 — Assistant Director and Author Tommy Burke (Part 1): "You Won't Believe What I Faced in My Film Career - A True Story of Survival"

    Welcome to the DMF! I'm Justin Younts, and today I have the pleasure of introducing Tommy Burke, an assistant director with 30 years of experience in the film industry. In this episode, we dive deep into Tommy's incredible journey, which he chronicles in his book, 'Not Just Sunglasses and Autographs.' From his humble beginnings in Boston to his rise in Hollywood, Tommy shares the ups and downs of his career, including the challenges he faced while working on major productions like 'Chicago PD' and 'Mermaids.'  Tommy's story is not just about the glitz and glamour of the film industry; it's also about resilience and determination. He candidly discusses the obstacles he encountered, including his battle with cancer and the recent diagnosis of early-onset Parkinson's disease. What stands out is his unwavering spirit—when faced with adversity, Tommy's response was to keep moving forward, proving that passion and perseverance can lead to success.  Throughout our conversation, we explore the importance of adaptability in the film industry, the value of experience in hospitality, and how humor can lighten the load on set. Tommy's insights are not only inspiring but also serve as a reminder that every setback can be a setup for a comeback. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes world of movies, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and entertaining anecdotes. Join us as we uncover the secrets of Tommy's journey and learn how you can achieve your dreams in film. Don't miss this engaging discussion filled with laughter, wisdom, and a touch of Hollywood magic! 00:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:00:29 - Guest Background and Early Life 00:01:30 - Career Beginnings and Interest in Movies 00:01:50 - Experience with St. Elsewhere and Becoming a PA 00:02:14 - Working with Directors and Adapting to Challenges 00:06:18 - Career Progression and Dealing with Robberies 00:09:57 - Experience on the Show 'Skin' 00:10:19 - Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment 00:11:50 - Working During Cancer Treatment 00:13:24 - Emotional Breakdown on Set 00:14:12 - Revealing Cancer Diagnosis to Colleagues 00:15:00 - Experience on Chicago PD 00:16:05 - Parkinson's Diagnosis 00:16:36 - Parkinson's Diagnosis and Learning Experience 00:16:53 - Experience with the Partridge Family and Red Sox 00:18:05 - Working on the Pilot for Desperate Housewives 00:18:47 - Reflecting on Chicago PD and Parkinson's Impact http://www.tommyburke.com/ https://store.bookbaby.com/book/not-just-sunglasses-and-autographs

    19 min

  4. OCT 16

    DMF Episode 300 — Writer and Producer Alan Katz (Complete Interview): "Discover How I Transformed Tales from the Crypt into a Horror Icon!"

    Welcome to the DMF with Justin Younts!This is the 300th episode of the DMF, and to mark this milestone, we’re bringing you something truly special — the complete Alan Katz experience. This episode features all of Alan Katz’s appearances on the show, merged into one in-depth conversation celebrating creativity, storytelling, and the darkly humorous legacy of Tales from the Crypt. Alan Katz — writer and producer behind some of the show’s most iconic episodes — joins Justin to discuss the creative process, production challenges, and the unforgettable moments that made Tales from the Crypt a cult classic. From his early days as an aspiring actor to shaping the Crypt Keeper into one of television’s most beloved horror hosts, Alan shares incredible insights into what made the series tick. Along the way, he opens up about filming in England, working with legendary actors like Christopher Reeve and Tim Curry, and navigating the highs and lows of Hollywood. Together, we explore the lasting impact of Tales from the Crypt, the lessons learned from collaboration, and the resilience required to keep creating. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering the show for the first time, this special 300th episode is packed with laughter, storytelling, and a bit of horror nostalgia you won’t want to miss. 00:00:01 - Introduction and Guest Background00:00:34 - Early Career and Shift to Writing00:02:48 - Moving to Los Angeles and Screenwriting00:06:15 - Meeting Gil Adler and Partnership00:08:11 - Working on Tales from the Crypt00:12:02 - Impact of Tales from the Crypt on HBO00:12:47 - TV Economics and HBO's Business Model00:15:33 - Financial Struggles and Changes in Tales from the Crypt00:16:41 - Introduction of Gil Adler and Alan as Producers00:18:43 - Creating the Character of the Crypt Keeper00:21:02 - The Crypt Keeper Becomes the Franchise00:21:34 - Attempts to Revive Tales from the Crypt00:22:16 - Joel Silver's Influence on Tales from the Crypt00:24:04 - Developing the Crypt Keeper's Character00:25:05 - The Crypt Keeper's Impact on the Horror Genre00:27:25 - The Challenges of Writing for the Crypt Keeper00:29:01 - Behind the Scenes of the Crypt Keeper Segments00:30:50 - The Crypt Keeper’s Commentary and Popularity00:32:05 - Writing for the Crypt Keeper00:33:52 - The Crypt Keeper as a Franchise Character00:38:15 - Universal Pictures’ Interest00:41:07 - From Dead Easy to Bordello of Blood00:44:59 - The Challenges of Rewriting and Filming00:50:08 - Casting Conflicts: Dennis Miller and Others00:56:19 - The Angie Everhart and Stallone Story01:03:57 - The Struggles of Filming Bordello of Blood01:07:27 - The Aftermath and Career Struggles01:10:30 - Battling Depression and Self-Discovery01:15:32 - Joining Dads from the Crypt Podcast01:17:17 - Reconnecting with Gil Adler01:18:36 - The Success of How Not to Make a Movie Podcast01:19:29 - The Donor: A DNA Horror Story01:26:46 - The Hall Closet: Donna Hall’s Story01:29:24 - Founding Kostard & Touchstone Productions01:32:46 - The Power of Podcasting and Storytelling01:34:48 - The Story of Yellow01:37:50 - The Making of You, Murderer01:44:14 - Working with Renowned Actors01:49:29 - Writing Whirlpool and Production Challenges01:56:22 - Collaboration and Creative Growth01:58:00 - Writing and Producing Deadweight02:06:23 - Working with Christopher Reeve and Typecasting02:11:49 - Moving the Series to England02:21:38 - Shooting Tales from the Crypt Overseas02:25:39 - Reflections on the Final Season02:32:49 - Current Projects and Future Work02:36:24 - Finding Purpose and Daily Routine02:38:15 - Nighttime Ritual and Meditation02:45:55 - Fitness, Reading, and Watchlist02:52:04 - Closing Remarks https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-how-not-to-make-a-movie-podcast/id1616014436 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0441623/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-how-not-to-make-a-movie-podcast/id1616014436⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thedonorpodcast.com/

    2h 52m

  5. OCT 12

    DMF Episode 299 — Writer and Producer Alan Katz (Part 12): "Are You Ignoring Your Mental Health? My Near-Death Experience Will Shock You!"

    Welcome to the DMF! I’m Justin Younts, and today we’re exploring how Alan Katz starts his day — and how his routines have transformed his life. Alan begins each morning with intention, sketching out his schedule on paper — everything from podcast interviews to sound editing and writing his deeply personal book, How to Live B*****t Free.* The book was born from his struggles with mental health and the realization that he once came dangerously close to taking his own life. Through that journey, Alan discovered a powerful truth: the only person he can truly change is himself. By confronting his own “b******t,” as he calls it, Alan found a peace he never thought possible. He describes walking through life in a perpetual state of bliss, grounded by structure, mindfulness, and creative purpose. His nighttime ritual — cleaning his genius pipe — is part of his cannabis routine, which he views as both reflective and restorative. Tennis has also become a meditative outlet for him, a way to stay fully present without the burden of competition. In recent years, Alan has turned his curiosity toward meditation, particularly Transcendental Meditation, as he continues to explore consciousness and inner calm. (Alan does use a curse word because its the title of his book so that word is uncensored for that word.) 00:00:01 - Introduction 00:00:12 - Daily Routine 00:00:51 - Current Projects 00:01:22 - Personal Journey 00:02:33 - Life Philosophy 00:02:52 - Purpose and Podcasting 00:04:18 - Nighttime Routine 00:05:51 - Meditation and Tennis 00:08:19 - Transcendental Meditation 00:08:54 - Consciousness and Information 00:12:01 - Physical Fitness and Reading 00:12:35 - Current Reading for Work 00:15:51 - Opinions on Character Development 00:16:10 - Music Preferences 00:16:29 - Influences on Children's Music Taste 00:17:35 - Current TV Shows 00:17:52 - Contact Information 00:18:26 - Closing Remarks Check out his other podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-how-not-to-make-a-movie-podcast/id1616014436 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0441623/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-how-not-to-make-a-movie-podcast/id1616014436⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thedonorpodcast.com/

    18 min

  6. OCT 9

    DMF Episode 298 — Writer and Producer Alan Katz (Part 11): "Discover the Luxurious Life I Lived While Shooting in England"

    Welcome to the DMF! I’m Justin Younts, and in this episode, we explore Alan Katz’s unforgettable experiences filming in England. Alan described the entire journey as a dream come true—from shooting in breathtaking castles to immersing himself in the country’s vibrant culture. But it wasn’t all glamour and ease. Behind the stunning backdrops were challenges that tested his patience and professionalism. Working under tight schedules and managing the high costs of filming in London gave him a new appreciation for the privilege and pressure of international production. Alan recalled memorable moments—like grocery shopping at Harrods with cash or staying at a luxurious hotel in Paris after a shoot—that captured the surreal side of the filmmaking lifestyle. Yet, he admitted that leaving that world behind was heartbreaking. He also reflected on the joy of collaborating with exceptional British talent, including Ewan McGregor and Steve Coogan, whose work ethic and artistry elevated every scene. Through his stories, Alan revealed that beyond the allure of filmmaking lies a deep commitment to storytelling, discipline, and heart. Join me as we uncover the highs and lows of Alan Katz’s remarkable journey—and what it truly means to be a storyteller on the world stage. 00:00:05 - Shooting in England 00:00:51 - Dorney Court Experience 00:02:22 - Catering Mishap 00:03:28 - Dover Castle Shooting 00:04:29 - Living in England 00:05:22 - End of the Shoot and Paris Trip 00:06:23 - Reflections on the Show 00:07:04 - Challenges in London 00:08:17 - Working with British Actors 00:10:28 - Missed Opportunities 00:13:30 - Future Projects Check out his other podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-how-not-to-make-a-movie-podcast/id1616014436 ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0441623/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-how-not-to-make-a-movie-podcast/id1616014436⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thedonorpodcast.com/

    15 min

  7. OCT 5

    DMF Episode 297 — Writer and Producer Alan Katz (Part 10): "You Won't Believe How Superman's Legacy Haunts Actors!"

    Welcome to the DMF! I’m Justin Younts, and today we’re exploring the fascinating world of casting through the perspective of Alan Katz. Alan delved into the complexities of casting Superman, particularly focusing on Christopher Reeve. He explained that casting Superman is unlike any other role—it’s not just about acting, but about embodying a character that becomes a part of who you are. Alan reflected on how Christopher Reeve faced immense challenges throughout his career, often feeling confined by the role that made him a household name. Though Reeve was masterful in portraying Superman, the weight of that identity brought its own struggles. As Alan discussed, the industry’s perception of actors can both define and restrict them, shaping the kinds of opportunities they receive. He also shed light on the intricate relationships between actors and directors, and how those dynamics can profoundly influence performance. Through Alan’s insights, we gain a deeper understanding of the art and burden of becoming an icon—and what it truly means to live in the shadow of a cape. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:05 - Discussing Christopher Reeve's Acting Style 00:01:33 - Superman vs Batman: Casting and Acting 00:02:50 - The Challenge of Breaking Free from Superman 00:04:45 - Discussion on Film Noir and Dylan McDermott 00:05:31 - Moving the Series to England 00:09:04 - Challenges of Building Sets in England 00:10:28 - Craft Services Differences between US and UK 00:13:03 - Conclusion Check out his other podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-how-not-to-make-a-movie-podcast/id1616014436 ⁠⁠⁠https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0441623/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-how-not-to-make-a-movie-podcast/id1616014436⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://thedonorpodcast.com/

    13 min

  8. OCT 2

    DMF Episode 296 — Writer and Producer Alan Katz (Part 9): "You Won't Believe What Scared Tim Curry During Filming!"

    Welcome to the DMF! I’m Justin Younts, and today we’re exploring the fascinating world of filmmaking through the experiences of Alan Katz. Alan recalled the immense challenges of working with Tim Curry on a project that pushed everyone involved to their limits. The creative process was daunting, especially when Tim was tasked with playing three different roles in a single story. It terrified him—and, as Alan admitted, it scared the entire team as well. But that fear transformed into a powerful opportunity for collaboration and creativity. Alan remembered how carefully the team worked to ensure that the music, acting, and overall tone of the scenes reflected the gravity of the story rather than slipping into unintended comedy. One surreal highlight was guiding the legendary Michael Kamen on how to score a pivotal moment—an experience Alan described as both intimidating and unforgettable. For him, the key takeaway from the process was simple: always stay open to feedback and collaboration, because the best ideas often come from unexpected places. Alan’s behind-the-scenes stories remind us that filmmaking is as much about resilience and adaptability as it is about creativity and vision. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:05 - The Death of Some Salesmen: Concept and Casting 00:00:26 - The Challenge of Playing Multiple Parts 00:00:55 - Casting Tim Curry 00:02:27 - Scoring the Sex Scene 00:04:05 - The Importance of Being Open to Criticism 00:05:43 - Working with Tim Curry 00:07:20 - Casting Against Type 00:07:33 - Dead Weight: The First Episode 00:08:22 - The Importance of the Script as a Technical Document 00:10:45 - What's Cooking: Writing and Casting 00:11:38 - Challenges with Special Effects 00:14:04 - Conclusion Check out his other podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-how-not-to-make-a-movie-podcast/id1616014436 ⁠⁠https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0441623/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-how-not-to-make-a-movie-podcast/id1616014436⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://thedonorpodcast.com/

    14 min
See All (306)

Trailer

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Welcome to the DMF. Where I try to find out what motivates people behind the scenes in the world of acting and entertainment. I'm an actor who talks to people in filmmaking and theater as well as people on the business side of show business. Thank you for listening. My Facebook is Justin Younts, my Twitter is @JustinYounts and my Instagram is @JustinYounts.

Information

  • Creator
    Justin Younts
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    306
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Justin Younts
  • Show Website
    The DMF With Justin Younts