The world of documentary and unscripted television has a new leader at the forefront, and his name is Jon Bardin. With a recent promotion to President of Documentary and Unscripted at Story Syndicate, Bardin's influence and impact on the industry are set to grow even further.
A Rising Star in the Documentary Scene
Bardin's journey with Story Syndicate began in 2019, and since then, his role has evolved significantly. His new position recognizes the additional responsibilities he has taken on, especially in guiding the company's expansion into recurring nonfiction shows. One notable example is the series "Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross," which premiered its second season on The Roku Channel, showcasing Bardin's ability to nurture and develop successful projects.
Expanding Horizons and Impact
Beyond his role in production, Bardin also oversees Story Syndicate's equity fund, which was established in 2025 to finance documentary films and series with commercial potential. This fund not only supports the creation of impactful content but also demonstrates Bardin's commitment to diversifying the funding landscape for documentary filmmakers.
A Team Player and Leader
Dan Cogan, Story Syndicate's CEO, and co-founder Liz Garbus praised Bardin's contributions, highlighting his brilliance, judgment, and strong work ethic. They emphasized that Bardin's new title is a testament to the central role he plays in the company's nonfiction work. Bardin's leadership team includes key figures like Tommy Coriale, Lianna Schwartzman, Casey Currier, Brendan Waterhouse, and Celia Winchester, each bringing their expertise to the table.
A Background in Neuroscience and Nonprofit Work
Bardin's academic background in neuroscience from Harvard and Weill Cornell Medical College adds a unique dimension to his work in the documentary world. Prior to Story Syndicate, he co-founded The Public Good Projects, a nonprofit production company, and worked as a Vice President of Documentaries and Specials at The Discovery Channel. This diverse experience positions Bardin as a well-rounded leader with a deep understanding of the industry.
A Portfolio of Groundbreaking Work
Bardin's production credits include notable titles such as "Fauci," "Mayor Pete," "Sally," "Last Take: Rust and the Story of Halyna," "Titan: The OceanGate Disaster," and "Maternal Instinct." He has also served as an executive producer on major projects like "Britney vs. Spears," "Harry & Meghan," and "Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer." These projects showcase Bardin's ability to collaborate with top filmmakers and produce impactful, thought-provoking content.
A Bright Future Ahead
In his own words, Bardin expresses gratitude for the opportunity to work with Story Syndicate and the mentorship he has received. His enthusiasm for the future is palpable, and he looks forward to continuing to produce groundbreaking work with the talented team at Story Syndicate. With Bardin at the helm, the future of documentary and unscripted television is sure to be filled with innovative and compelling storytelling.
