Andrew Storer: The Filmmaker Behind Clayton Young's Viral Series

In this episode of Road to the Trials, host dives deep into the creative mind behind the viral running documentary series featuring BYU athletes Clayton Young and Connor Mance. Filmmaker Andrew Storer shares how he transitioned from a corporate creative role to freelance documentary filmmaking after being laid off, driven by a passion for storytelling and a belief that elite American marathoners deserved more authentic, long-form content. He recounts the genesis of the series—pitching Clayton Young with a spec episode, securing early sponsorships from ASICS and Shox, and building a raw, observational style that blends intimate athlete access with high-quality cinematography and data integration. Storer emphasizes the importance of authenticity, emotional depth, and minimal intrusion, using an e-bike with a gimbal rig to keep pace with runners during training and races. He reflects on the growing impact of the series, both for the athletes and the broader running community, and advocates for brands to invest in storytelling over glossy ads. The episode closes with Storer expressing hope that the model will inspire more filmmakers and brands to document elite athletes’ journeys, creating lasting cultural value beyond race day.