Corey Long
Producer and account manager
Corey handles client communication and schedules. His background includes public service, nonprofit leadership, and community advocacy.
Derek Olson
Founder and creative director
Derek has spent more than 20 years working in journalism, studio production, and independent film. He photographed the Sochi Olympics, worked on stages in Los Angeles, and produced work for Disney's Maker Studios that reached more than 100 million views.
After returning to North Dakota, he founded Grain & Thunder. He leads the company's creative and production work.
Millennial Taekwondo Tortoises, an animated pilot Olson wrote, directed, and performed in, received a Bronze at the 47th Annual Telly Awards — in the same comedy animation category where South Park took Gold.
Read the announcementThe Minot Daily News profiled Olson in September 2026 under the headline “Minot native brings stories to screen,” covering his return from Los Angeles production and the founding of Grain & Thunder.
Read the profile
