How Nat Geo's "Sugarcane" documentary became an Oscar-nominated phenomenon with co-directors Emily Kassie and Julian Brave NoiseCat

In this episode, I talk to filmmakers EMILY KASSIE and JULIAN BRAVE NOISECAT, who are nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Documentary Feature category for their incredible documentary film, "SUGARCANE," which hails from National Geographic Documentaries.

"Sugarcane" chronicles a groundbreaking investigation into decades of systemic abuse at Indigenous boarding schools in Canada. Listen as I talk to Emily and Julian about how they were able to embed with the participants of the film for 160 days of shooting. Learn how the co-directors raised money to make their first documentary feature and how Julian balanced participating on camera with his father while also co-directing with Emily. We also dig into their bold stylistic and story choices, as this film looks and sounds unlike any of the other Oscar nominees. Watch "Sugarcane" on Hulu, Nat Geo, or Disney+ and catch our interview anywhere you get podcasts, including YouTube.

Additionally... Below are some links to GoFundMe pages for folks who have lost their homes as well as some other ways to donate to people or groups in need due to the wildfires. If you are able, please give these folks a few bucks. Thanks!

GoFundMe for documentary filmmaker Tracy Droz Tragos

GoFundMe for producer Laura Korkoian

GoFundMe for editor and producer Buzz Chatman

GoFundMe producers Dustin and Erin Rubin

GoFundMe for producer/director CJ Russo

for Black Families Impacted by LA Wildfires

Fundraisers for Hollywood Crew Members Affected by LA Fires

Wildfire Relief Fund 2025

Los Angeles Fire Department

Other organizations to donate to