Uncovering the Creative Spirit in Archetypal Stories: with Documentary Filmmaker Justin Wells

Join host Christian Baxter as he sits down with Justin Wells @justinsmorningcoffee , a documentary filmmaker, professor, and camera technician, to explore the deep, philosophical layers of creativity and storytelling. In this thought-provoking conversation, Justin shares insights into how art taps into the collective unconscious, the balance between technical skills and meaning-making, and the fragmented nature of modern culture. They also discuss the power of stories to reshape our inner worlds, the integration of psychology and spirituality, and how creative expression can serve as a mission. Whether you're an artist, filmmaker, or simply curious about the intersection of creativity and purpose, this episode will inspire and challenge your thinking.

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✨ Connect with the Speakers:

Christian Baxter – Host of The Yours Truly Podcast

↪️ Follow on X: @chrbaxter_yt

Justin Wells – Filmmaker, Professor, Camera Technician

↪️ Follow on X: @onejwells

⏳ Chapters:

0:00 – Introduction to the Episode

2:15 – Justin Wells’ Journey in Filmmaking

8:30 – The Power of Storytelling in Modern Culture

14:45 – The Balance of Creativity and Technique in Film

20:30 – Influence of Directors like Stanley Kubrick and Terrence Malick

29:10 – Psychological Perspectives on Storytelling (Carl Jung & Joseph Campbell)

36:00 – The Role of Technology in Film and Storytelling

44:20 – Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

51:30 – Closing Thoughts and Next Steps

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Topics Covered:

The unseen forces behind creativity

The relationship between technical expertise and storytelling

How our fragmented culture impacts creative expression

The transformative power of stories in personal and cultural growth

The role of psychology and spirituality in modern art

People Mentioned:

Carl Jung – mentioned in the context of psychology and the collective unconscious, especially as it relates to creativity and storytelling.

Joseph Campbell – Known for his work on myth and the hero’s journey, which often comes up in discussions about storytelling.

Stanley Kubrick – As an iconic filmmaker, he might have been referenced when discussing the artistry behind film and the deeper meaning in cinematic works.

Terrence Malick – A director known for his spiritual and philosophical approach to filmmaking, which could align with the themes of the conversation.

Werner Herzog – Another influential filmmaker whose work often touches on the human condition, philosophy, and creativity.

@JordanBPeterson – Possibly mentioned in relation to the intersection of psychology, culture, and storytelling.

Christopher Nolan – A director known for blending complex storytelling with technical mastery, which could resonate with the conversation on balancing creativity and technique.