398 - Rich Hull - Producer, Filmmaker - Navigating the Chaos of Documentary Filmmaking, Keys to Unlocking Opportunities in Filmmaking, Agile Filmmaking and Adapting the Tech Mindset to Documentary Production and Spotlighting Combat Chaplains

Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with director, producer, and filmmaker Rich Hull. Rich discusses his 30-year career in media and entertainment, including his work as a film producer and the creation of the largest Spanish-language streaming service, VIX. The conversation delves into Rich's latest project, a documentary film titled Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain's Journey, which he co-produced with Chris Pratt.

We explore the unique role of combat chaplains, the challenges and journey of making the documentary, and the unexpected turn the film took when the story of a famous combat chaplain, Father Emil Kapaon, was uncovered.

Rich shares insights into the filmmaking approach, the parallels between agile development and documentary filmmaking, and the importance of networking and asking for help in the industry.

The episode also features audience polls on the state of teen movies, favorite John Hughes films, and a fact check on the history of the US Army Chaplain School. Rich provides advice on finding financial support and promoting documentaries on a limited budget, as well as discussing the inspiration behind his varied film projects. The conversation culminates in Rich's perspective on defining success and making it in the industry.

We also talk about:

- The impact and reception of the "Fighting Spirit" documentary, including emotional reactions from veterans

- The role of celebrities and influencers in promoting documentary films

- Rich's approach to finding inspiration for his diverse film projects

- The importance of overcoming the fear of asking for help in the industry

- Rich's definition of "making it" and his journey in the entertainment industry

Products, software, websites, people, and places mentioned in the podcast:

- VIX (streaming service)

- "Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain's Journey" (documentary film)

- Columbia State Community College

- Film Crew Technology (FCT) program

- David Smith (FCT program director)

- Nate Boyer (filmmaker)

- "My Octopus Teacher" (documentary film)

- "St. Elmo's Fire" (film)

- "The Breakfast Club" (film)

- "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" (film)

- "Home Alone" (film)

- "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" (film)

- "Sixteen Candles" (film)

- Ronald Reagan (actor)

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