Founded in 2012, Roller Coaster Road is the brainchild of documentary producer, Steve Burns. His career spans more than 25 years from National Geographic cinematographer/producer to EVP positions at Discovery Networks, returning to National Geographic Channel’s Executive Vice President of Global Content for NGC worldwide.

Prior to re-joining NGC, Burns served as Executive Vice President and Chief Science Editor at Discovery Networks, responsible for nearly 2,000 hours of programming per year across 10 Discovery networks.

From 2003 to 2005, Burns was Executive Vice President and General Manager of The Science Channel. Most recently, he was also a freelance Executive Producer for WNET/ NY’s long-running Secrets of the Dead series for PBS in the U.S. Currently, he is Chief Content Officer for CuriosityStream.com, a newly launched subscription-video-on-demand (SVOD) channel.

He has won multiple industry awards, including two Emmys for “5 Years on Mars” and “Spirit of the Rainforest” . His teams have been nominated for two Academy Awards, over 200 Emmy nominations, including dozens of wins, and two Peabody Awards.

Now, Roller Coaster Road Productions continues the tradition of quality under Executive Producers Alex Sherratt and Sarah Burns. Seasoned producers in their own right, they have produced over 100 hours of documentary and reality programs for networks like Showtime, National Geographic, A&E, Lifetime and most recently Discovery Channel.

Introducing New York WILD, the inaugural yearly documentary film festival held in the heart of one of the most urban cities in the world: New York. This festival offers a diverse range of topics, from exploration and adventure to wildlife, conservation, and the environment, bringing all things WILD together in a unique urban setting.

In this era of increasing fascination with the planet and its urgent need for conservation, New York WILD presents an extraordinary platform for exchanging ideas, celebrating the wonders of the natural world, and inspiring positive change through powerful and exhilarating films and engaging discussions.

More than just a film festival, New York WILD serves as a vital platform to generate excitement, identify critical issues, foster partnerships, and connect with audiences passionate about exploring, discovering, and protecting our planet.

Founded by the accomplished filmmaker, ardent conservationist, and adventurous spirit Nancy Rosenthal, New York WILD is the brainchild of a passionate advocate for the natural world. With a history of award-winning films for National Geographic and a keen eye for emerging talents, Nancy brings a unique perspective to the festival.

Her talent for unearthing powerful and innovative films, coupled with her strong belief in the power of cinema to engage and inspire New Yorkers in exploration, conservation, and environmental advocacy, lies at the heart of the New York WILD Film Festival.

An active member of the Explorers Club and a proud Trustee of the Egan Maritime Institute, Nancy Rosenthal’s dedication to exploration and conservation is evident in every aspect of the festival.

Experience the untamed spirit of adventure, conservation, and environmental stewardship at the New York WILD Film Festival, where awareness of all things WILD is paramount.