Ask the Experts: Keeping stunt performers safe when making movie magic

Ever wondered how your favorite actors survive explosive stunts or make it through intense scenes? Often, stunt performers handle these dangerous actions, adding realism and thrill to our entertainment.

On this episode of Ask the Experts, we talk with Ohio University associate professor Jeff Russell on how his research and advocacy is helping improve the health and wellness of stunt performers. Russell highlights a recent study he conducted that looks at stunt performers willingness to self-report head trauma and the importance of providing the appropriate care and support to these performers.

We also talk with Chicago-based stuntman Greg Poljacik on his experience in stunts, as well as the precision and trust it takes to create them.

OHIO film student James Kelly also shares insights about his recently completed horror movie and everything he learned about filmmaking from the experience.

Produced by Ohio University’s Communications and Marketing Department, specifically by Scripps College of Communication senior media production student Logan Jeffries, the Ask the Experts podcast allows for even more interdisciplinary collaboration and for students to develop a podcast from start to finish using OHIO’s podcast studio in the Scripps College of Communication.

The podcast is now streaming on Spotify.

Continue to follow our Spotify channel and check back in on the OHIO today site for upcoming podcasts covering a variety of topics.