Story First Podcast
The Story First Podcast From award-winning podcaster and filmmaker Brian McDonald (Invisible Ink, Land of the Dead), whose work has been embraced by Pixar, HBO, and Disney. Building on his acclaimed show You Are a Storyteller, this series features high-level conversations with writers, filmmakers, and creators—real exchanges between craftspeople on how and why stories work.
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Episodes

Sep 18, 2025
Sep 18, 2025
1 hr 40 min
Welcome to STORY FIRST!Today’s guest is Dawud Anyabwile — award-winning artist, illustrator, and co-creator of the groundbreaking comic Brotherman: Dictator of Discipline.From comics at Black Expos in the ’90s to illustrating Muhammad Ali’s story, Dawud has always forged his own path. In this episode, he and Brian McDonald talk about growing up in Philly, burning his comic collection after realizing who was (and wasn’t) represented, and the way hip hop, graffiti, and family traditions shaped his creative vision.It’s a story about independence, representation, and the power of art to tell the truth.Let’s get started.

Sep 11, 2025
Sep 11, 2025
1 hr 28 min
Welcome to STORY FIRST!Today’s guest is none other than Frank Oz — legendary puppeteer, director, and creative mind behind some of the most iconic characters ever brought to life.We talk about the mentors who shaped him, the frustrations that fueled his comedy, and the bravery it takes to bring honesty to performance. From Yoda to the Muppets, Frank shares how personal struggles, trust in vision, and a deep respect for character shape his work.This one’s about creativity at its most raw and human — the highs, the frustrations, and the moments that make stories unforgettable.Let’s get started.

Sep 4, 2025
Sep 4, 2025
2 hr 2 min
Welcome to the second episode of The Story First podcast! I’m SO excited about today’s guest - Angela Sanders, my friend since the 80s.Angela went from congressional investigator to mystery writer with multiple series including the Joanna Hayworth Vintage Clothing mysteries and The Booster Club capers about a retirement home for petty criminals. We’re talking about her writing process and how she gets the work done!https://www.angelamsanders.com/

Aug 28, 2025
Aug 28, 2025
2 hr 8 min
Welcome to STORY FIRST!First episode: Disney animation legend Glen Keane from the archives. The man who brought Ariel, Beast, Aladdin, and Pocahontas to life opens up about how he “taps into childhood discovery” to create characters that feel alive.Story First is about getting inside the minds of people who’ve mastered their craft. New conversations and rediscovered archive gems.Let’s get started.Website: https://glenkeaneproductions.com/

Aug 21, 2025
Aug 21, 2025
5 min
Introduction to Brian McDonald's new podcast on story and craft.If you're familiar with his previous podcast "You Are a Storyteller", this is the new iteration.The show will feature brand-new episodes, as well as archived episodes from the original series.

