Join Donny McGuire on "Switches to Channel 2" with George Barnes—award-winning director, producer, cinematographer, and legendary hand model! Dive behind the scenes of the entertainment industry as George shares his fascinating journey from humble beginnings as a third-generation construction worker and unexpected hand model, to building a successful production company working with icons and streaming giants.

This episode covers everything from George’s start in film, the secrets to getting your foot in the door, honest perspectives on industry challenges, and exclusive stories from sets like Ace Ventura: Pet Detective with Jim Carrey. We also get a taste of his life outside film, from beekeeper to champion soap maker, and hear about his upcoming high-profile live-stream event for Amazon and Viola Davis.

Donny and George get real about how strikes, AI, and over-regulation have changed filmmaking in LA and beyond, and discuss why crews are heading overseas for production. Plus, George reveals his firsthand experience with mysterious drones over New Jersey, shares insight on EVs like Tesla, and reminds us why honest work and a little innovation go a long way in media.

In Memory of Hudson:
This episode is lovingly dedicated to Hudson, our beloved Bernese Mountain Dog, who crossed the rainbow bridge on August 3rd, 2025. Hudson was always by our side, and his spirit will always be part of the GoForDonny family.

00:00 From Hand Model to Builder

05:32 Uncashed Checks Surprise

09:20 "Shooting: Cinematic Singing Talent"

11:29 Industry Recovery Concerns Discussed

16:13 Filming Costs: Travel vs. Tax Incentives

19:27 Support Small Podcasts

20:35 Netflix Ventures into Podcasting

26:16 Drones and Unexplained Orbs

29:50 "Passionate Car Enthusiast"

31:24 Tesla Triumphs Over Supercars

34:00 Brake Signals Misunderstood

37:10 Pure & Organic Soap Initiative

40:20 Interview Wrap-Up with George Barnes

SEO Keywords:
George Barnes interview, GoForDonny podcast, film industry insights, production advice, working with Jim Carrey, Ace Ventura stories, hand model, beekeeping, podcast studio design, industry strikes, AI in film, filming overseas, Los Angeles production, Tesla performance review, Amazon live stream, Viola Davis G20, mysterious drones New Jersey, podcasting trends, union jobs in media, career beginnings in film, champion soap making

Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode—your support helps us keep the conversation going and the stories coming.

#GoForDonny #GeorgeBarnes #FilmIndustry #PodcastInterview #InMemoryOfHudson

Don't forget to check out my website www.gofordonny.com for some cool GFD Swag and some fun videos and photos.
And Remember...#HTFU