Christmas Movies and Mars Simulations with Matthew Montgomery
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt37057122
About the Guest(s):
Matthew Montgomery is an accomplished producer with a rich background in engineering and product development. He has successfully transitioned from a career in venture capital and engineering to become a film producer. Matthew is the founder of Floating Lava Studios, an independent production company based in Los Angeles. His career trajectory includes working with innovative technology and startups, guiding product concepts from inception to production. He is also part of a unique NASA project where he will participate in a year-long Mars simulation mission.
Episode Summary:
In this engaging episode of The Chris Voss Show, host Chris Voss is joined by Matthew Montgomery, a multi-talented producer and engineer. The conversation begins with a lively introduction to Matthew’s latest film project, “The Spirit of Christmas Station,” a hallmark-esque Christmas movie set to be released on Tubi this holiday season. Matthew shares insights into the making of the film, the picturesque locations used during filming, and the hallmark appeal that Christmas movies have on audiences, particularly during the festive season.
Highlighting Montgomery’s versatile career, the discussion shifts to his involvement in a groundbreaking NASA project. Matthew elaborates on being selected for a year-long Mars simulation mission at Johnson Space Center, where he will help in researching sustainable living conditions for future Mars settlers. The conversation delves into the rigorous preparations required to replicate the Martian environment, such as diet, space limitations, and team dynamics. With humor and intriguing insights, Chris and Matthew explore the profound implications of this simulated experience for humanity’s future and scientific advancements.
Key Takeaways:
Matthew Montgomery has transformed his career from engineering and venture capital to film production, successfully founding Floating Lava Studios.
“The Spirit of Christmas Station” is a heartwarming holiday film set to premiere on Tubi, featuring hallmark-style romance and feel-good storytelling.
Matthew is part of a NASA project to simulate Mars living conditions for a year, focusing on food systems and human health in a confined environment.
The mission, CHAPEA, includes rigorous training and simulates Martian-regolith construction and space walks using virtual reality.
The episode explores both the romantic and thrilling aspects of Matthew’s projects, promising insightful stories about his unique experiences in film and aerospace.
Notable Quotes:
“You wanted the best. You’ve got the best podcast. The hottest, hottest podcast in the world.” – Chris Voss
“We’re gonna live in a habitat isolated at Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.” – Matthew Montgomery
“We wanna get that out there, get that in front of your audience… it’s exactly what you think, feel good.” – Matthew Montgomery
“The team’s incredibly professional as you would imagine with NASA, as a well-oiled machine.” – Matthew Montgomery
“I’d love to find a way to tell this story, whether it’s production or film. I’m not sure what that’ll look like, but that’s definitely in the back of my mind.” – Matthew Montgomery