How do you turn complex science into captivating stories that inspire millions?
In this episode of Ignition Sequence, we sit down with Paula Apsell, a visionary force behind NOVA who shaped the groundbreaking series during her three-decade tenure, including 33 years as senior executive producer. From the infancy of PBS to the technological leaps in science filmmaking, Paula shares her journey of making science accessible and engaging to global audiences.
Discover the art of science storytelling, the challenges of breaking into a male-dominated industry, and how NOVA tackled some of the most pressing issues of our time—climate change, artificial intelligence, and the human genome.
We also dive into Paula’s latest film, Resistance: They Fought Back, which shines a light on untold stories of resilience and defiance during the Holocaust. Paula reflects on the personal and historical significance of this project, the process of uncovering hidden stories, and the challenges of independent filmmaking.
Paula Apsell’s latest film, Resistance: They Fought Back, tells the powerful and untold stories of Jewish resistance during the Holocaust. From armed uprisings to acts of courage and defiance within ghettos, the film sheds light on the resilience and bravery of those who refused to be passive in the face of oppression. Premiering on PBS on January 27th, International Holocaust Remembrance Day, at 10 PM, the film will also be available on PBS Passport, Amazon, and other platforms.
Learn more at
https://www.pbs.org/show/resistance-they-fought-back/
https://www.theyfoughtback.com/
What you’ll learn:
1. The Birth and Legacy of NOVA
How a bold idea revolutionized science programming on television.
2. The Power of Storytelling in Science
Why human stories are key to understanding complex concepts.
3. Tackling Big Questions
How NOVA explored topics like AI and human origins.
4. The Evolution of Science Filmmaking
From early film techniques to groundbreaking visuals and animation.
5. Paula's New Chapter - "Resistance: They Fought Back": How untold stories of resilience and courage came to life on screen.
Timestamps
00:02:30 - Proposing a science program in the 70s: A bold idea in the infancy of PBS.
00:07:16 - Why storytelling is essential in science communication.
00:14:18 - Paula Apsell’s journey to becoming executive producer of NOVA.
00:35:11 - The art of using visual metaphors to explain complex science.
00:46:35 - Introducing Paula’s latest film, Resistance: They Fought Back and its significance.
00:51:06 - "Resistance: They Fought Back" - The story, the mission, and the message
00:54:03 - Capturing the discovery of the Holocaust escape tunnel on camera.
01:06:25 - Paula’s reflections on the teamwork behind her success.
