Leading With Empathy - Diversity & Inclusion Interview with Writer/Director/Producer Ciera Thompson

In this episode I have the opportunity to welcome my friend Haley Leary, a versatile actress with an inspiring journey of self-discovery and resilience. From her early days pursuing nursing to finding her calling in film and acting, Haley shares candid insights into overcoming mental health In this episode of Beyond the Scenes, I have an intimate conversation with multi-talented filmmaker, producer, and storyteller Ciera Thompson. We talk about creativity, personal growth, and building meaningful human connections in the world of film and media.This conversation goes beyond technical expertise, delving into vulnerability, gratitude, and the personal stories that shape us as artists and humans. Whether you’re a creative professional, aspiring filmmaker, or simply someone who values authentic storytelling, this episode offers inspiration, wisdom, and actionable insights.🕒 Timestamps:0:00 – Introduction & Welcome 🎤0:44 – The Pandemic Farm: Chickens, Therapy & Reconnection with Nature 🐔2:32 – Lessons from Farming Applied to Relationships 🤍4:10 – Ciera’s Journey into Filmmaking 📹8:00 – College Days: Discovering a Passion for Producing 🎓13:06 – The Value of Teachers & Mentorship 🍎18:53 – Relationships in the Film Industry: Building Trust & Community 🤝27:40 – Learning to Delegate and Let Go of Control 🛠️34:26 – Finding Personal Creative Fulfillment Outside Work ✍️42:36 – How People Remember You: Relationships Over Projects 💬50:11 – Representation and Authenticity in Storytelling 🌟1:02:03 – Diversity: Beyond Checking Boxes 🫂1:05:42 – Looking Ahead: Ciera’s Vision for the Future 🚀Follow Ciera Thompson: https://www.instagram.com/cierathompson_/Connect with Carlos Andrés Cuervo: http://carloscuervo.comFollow Carlos Andres Cuervo en IG: https://www.instagram.com/andrescuervo#Filmmaking #acting #CreativeJourney #inspirationalstories #BeyondTheScenes #CreativeLife #filmindustry #mentalhealth #selfdiscovery #mentalwellness #creativeinsights #inspirational #BeyondTheScenes #Filmmaking #Storytelling #RepresentationMatters #Creativity #FilmIndustry #Podcast #CreativeJourney #AuthenticStories #CommunityBuilding #CarlosCuervo #cierathopson #FilmmakerInterview