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“How would you describe what it is that you do?”

A common opening question to get the guest's mission statement in their own words.

“Why did you choose to make [your first project]?”

Used early on to understand a creator's origin story and initial motivations.

“What was the biggest surprise you found while making your documentary?”

This question seeks a personal, high-level takeaway from the guest's experience on a project.

“What piece of work are you most proud of so far?”

This helps surface the guest's personal values and what they consider their most significant achievement.

“How did you get high-level people to go on the record for your film?”

Asks about the practical process of gaining access and trust from powerful sources.

“How many people are on your team?”

A direct question to understand the scale and resources behind the guest's operation.

“How do you respond to criticism that this is government propaganda?”

Directly addresses a key controversy surrounding the guest's work.

“Is it true that [a controversial entity] is one of your customers?”

A pointed follow-up question to probe financial and political connections.

“Do you think the internet has turned geopolitics into fandom culture?”

A broader, philosophical question about the modern media landscape.

“You've referenced [a philosopher/theory]. Is that what's happening here?”

This explores the theoretical underpinnings of a guest's work, showing Smith has done his research.

“In [the current year], is the phone mightier than the sword?”

A final, philosophical question designed to summarize the central theme of the conversation.

“What scares you most about the future of [this technology]?”

Asked towards the end to get the guest's personal fears and future outlook.

“Where do you think this is all going in the future?”

A forward-looking question that asks for the guest's predictions on their field.