Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
The Friendly Fishes teams are ephemeral. We function more as an arthouse collective. Each project attracts different individuals with varying skills in the film industry.
Although most of our work is centered in the documentary realm, we produce both narrative and documentary films. Here we are, storytellers, and we follow the stories that inspire us most.
Good films come about in the process, no matter the genre or format, so we like to make the process as fun and inclusive as possible. Our sets, shoots, and edit rooms are fueled by creative drive, laughter, and camaraderie.
We consider film an art form. Like paintings or sculptures, each film is crafted with precision, creativity, and a deep understanding of the art of filmmaking. Each film is a visual journey like no other.
Our values are simple.
LONG-TERM
TEAM
We approach each project with love, respect, humility, honesty, and open minds. Filmmaking, especially documentary, involves many tough conversations. We always strive to create an open, respectful environment, where our teams' main goal is simply to listen. Each team member contributes their thoughts to the project and we are constantly learning from each other and our subjects. We encourage cohesive teamwork and, as we grow together, we add to our collective team wisdom.
Jordan Hoffmaster
director, producer, & team leader
I am many things, but for this introduction, I’ll start by saying that I am a creative and award-winning filmmaker. I am also a writer, director, producer, cinematographer, and editor. Above all, I am a storyteller.
I see the world most clearly through the lens of my camera and have a long history in filmmaking. My work highlights issues rooted in conservation, wildlife, and the natural world. Since childhood, I have developed a deep fondness and respect for wild spaces and am fascinated by the stories that exist there.
Equipped with camera gear and unbridled creativity, I follow various threads—different versions of Earth’s breadcrumbs—to uncover stories worth telling. I often help translate scientific jargon, sharing important research and discoveries in a way that any audience can understand. I collaborate closely with scientists and conservationists, amplifying their voices so that they can be heard outside the scientific community. With a background in zoology, I leverage my experience in wildlife science along with my skills as a filmmaker to achieve this amplification. Films and digital media platforms help bridge the gap between scientists and a broader audience. Effective and clear communication with the public is a key element of successful conservation, and I believe films serve that purpose beautifully.
My goal is to share stories that matter—stories that can make a difference. Through my work, I aim to encourage audiences to think more critically about the Earth and the impact of their choices on the future. By merging film with science, I strive to provoke contemplation and questions about what we, as humans, can do to protect the world around us. If I can create a film that changes one person's mind or shifts a single perspective, I know I am making an impact.
Kay Weidow
director, writer, producer, & researcher
I am a writer and producer based in Montana. I studied at the National Film and Television School in London, where I honed my skills in television writing. My work spans multiple genres, including gritty adventure stories, thrilling true crime, original sci-fi, heartfelt dramedies, and historical dramas. Currently, I am developing two graphic novels.
I have recently achieved recognition in several contests, placing as a second-round finalist in the Sundance Development Track, a semifinalist in the Austin Film Festival, and among the top 26 in Kinolime's feature contest. In 2024, I was honored to join Friendly Fishes Films, where I assist the team as a scriptwriter, researcher, and producer. With the support of Jordan, I am excited to develop projects focused on human and environmental storytelling.
When I'm not writing and enjoying an unhealthy amount of Earl Grey tea, I can be found backpacking in the Bitterroot Mountains or playing golf with my husband.I am a writer and producer based in Montana. I studied at the National Film and Television School in London, where I honed my skills in television writing. My work spans multiple genres, including gritty adventure stories, thrilling true crime, original sci-fi, heartfelt dramedies, and historical dramas. Currently, I am developing two graphic novels.
I have recently achieved recognition in several contests, placing as a second-round finalist in the Sundance Development Track, a semifinalist in the Austin Film Festival, and among the top 26 in Kinolime's feature contest. In 2024, I was honored to join Friendly Fishes Films, where I assist the team as a scriptwriter, researcher, and producer. With the support of Jordan, I am excited to develop projects focused on human and environmental storytelling.
When I'm not writing and enjoying an unhealthy amount of Earl Grey tea, I can be found backpacking in the Bitterroot Mountains or playing golf with my husband.
Joshua Lisbon
host, narrator, naturalist, & tracker
I am an avid outdoorsman, educator, skilled naturalist, and researcher. My goal is to foster understanding and connection to the natural world around us. Through my work as an educator, I have reached thousands of students, and I have inspired many more through my documentary films. As the narrator and host of both Stewards of Land and Bushcraft with Friendly Fishes Films, I aim to share the secrets and wonders of nature through engaging and honest storytelling.
I hold a master's degree from the University of Montana and have extensive experience in education and research. For many years, I served as the education director for a large private conservation organization and co-founded the Montana Folk School.
One of my passions is tracking mountain lions. For over a decade, I led a winter study that pioneered non-invasive techniques to monitor these populations over time, resulting in the Emmy-nominated documentary Willow: Diary of a Mountain Lion. To track is to immerse oneself in the present moment, moving through time and diverse landscapes. As famed tracker Boyd Varty says, “We are a species that belongs within stories. We are the meaning-making animal. Tracking is a narrative that can help us reimagine why we are here.” I love nature, tracking, teaching, and telling stories through film.
When I’m not following tracks in the forest, I teach ancestral wilderness skills, a pursuit I’ve engaged in for over 20 years. This work provides a pathway to deep connection with the wild around us, our ancient human lineages, and the wild within ourselves. I believe in the importance of fostering direct, authentic connections with the natural world through education, conservation, advocacy, and film.
Luc Hoffmaster
actor & model
I am love. I am hugs. I am laughter. I am an actor, dancer, singer enthusiast, an inspiring writer, and guitar and songwriting hopeful.
My imagination allows me to follow dreams that seem unattainable but manifest differently every day. It allows me to view the world with purity and true hope. I hope to meet some of my favorite Disney actors and be able to work on a Warner Brothers movie. I truly hope to change the acting industry from the inside out. I really want to make it so that we can all hang out outside of “the industry” and just be friends. I want to celebrate love, life, togetherness, and friendship…not “celebrities”.