More Than You See Deborah Lee Smith

In this episode of the More Than You See podcast, host Deborah Lee Smith engages in a deep dive with filmmaker Cameron Mitchell. The discussion centers on Cameron's latest project, 'This Sucks', a dark comedy film about dealing with depression, showcased through the life of a woman haunted by the physical manifestation of her depression. Beyond sharing personal mental health journeys and the film's background, they delve into broader topics such as the therapeutic role of humor, the systemic issues intertwined with personal mental health struggles, and the importance of supporting underrepresented voices in the filmmaking industry.



00:00 Welcome to the episode

01:49 Spotlight on 'This Sucks': A Dark Comedy Exploring Depression

07:04 Cameron Mitchell's Journey: From COVID Recovery to Activism and Filmmaking

09:33 The Making of 'This Sucks': Visualizing Depression Through Cinema

23:17 Rapid Fire Questions

24:40 Deep Dive into Personal Struggles and Mental Health

26:07 Growing Up in Alaska

29:21 Exploring Creative Outlets and Future Projects

43:22 The Role of Humor in Coping with Life's Challenges

46:10 Wrapping Up: Acknowledgments and Future Aspirations



About Cameron:

Cameron has been writing all his life. Growing up in Anchorage, Alaska, there was nothing else to do. Cameron has had his scripts and finished films place in dozens of film festivals.He realized right away how important it was to build the right team. Writing was something he could do alone, but filmmaking is not a solo art; it involves collaboration at every level. He made sure to come away from every gig with new contacts, new friends, and new members of his team.In 2017 he, Andrew Menjivar, and Thresa Richardson started their production company Tequila Mockingbird Productions. They wanted to produce their own work outside the rigors and obstacles of the studio system. As a producer, Cameron has always wanted to help new and underrepresented voices create their films. He's worked with countless creatives in the years since.Cameron wrote the script for his debut feature This Sucks in part to vent his frustrations with the state of the world and to talk about his own struggles with depression. The film was awarded the ReFrame Stamp from Women In Film and the Audience Award for Best Feature Film at the Golden State Film Festival. It is currently streaming free on Tubi.



Cameron's Links:
Stream "This Sucks" on Tubi

Stream "Driven: The Tony Pearson Story" on Apple+

Website

Instagram



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New here? Every Wednesday join me, Deborah Lee Smith (actor, filmmaker, and mental health advocate) for a conversation with creatives about their mental health journeys. We discuss the highs, lows, and in-betweens of a creative career and the tools they use to get through it all. Our hope is that you will resonate with their journey, pick up some tips and tricks for your own mental health, and most importantly, feel a little less alone. Because we’re all More Than You See.


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This episode of the More Than You See podcast features an in-depth conversation with Elizabeth Boykewich, a casting director and career coach, about her journey through the entertainment industry and how it intertwined with her personal growth and mental health.



They dive into topics such as the impact of corporate culture shifts, the challenges of living with an autoimmune disease, and the transition from casting to career coaching. Elizabeth shares her insights on the importance of mental health tools, her approach to overcoming personal and professional obstacles, and how mindfulness practices have transformed her life.



Throughout the episode, practical advice for creatives navigating their careers and mental health is provided, highlighting the significance of self-listening, present awareness, and embracing one's unique skills and passions.



Timestamps:

00:41 Spotlight on Elizabeth Boykewich: Casting Director Turned Career Coach

02:17 Elizabeth's Personal Journey: Battling Autoimmune Disease and Embracing Change

12:38 The Evolution of a Casting Career

20:54 Supporting Actors Beyond the Screen: Mental Health and Social Media Guidance

28:40 Navigating Industry Changes and Personal Growth with Elizabeth Boykewich

33:13 Rapid Fire Questions: Getting Personal with Elizabeth

33:29 Unveiling Personal Fears and Preferences

34:11 Transitioning from Casting to Coaching

34:53 Deep Dive into Spiritual Psychology and Personal Growth

38:24 Applying Spiritual Insights to Professional Life

42:38 Navigating Career Transitions and Embracing Multiplicity

53:34 Practical Tools for Personal Development

58:00 Embracing Vulnerability and Presence

01:03:01 Reflections and Takeaways



About Elizabeth:

Elizabeth Boykewich spent two successful decades as the Senior Vice President of Talent & Casting at The Walt Disney Company. She loved discovering new stars, identifying where artists were most powerful and often said that her purpose was to give them “a platform to shine.” In 2013, Elizabeth felt a call to do this same meaningful work on a larger scale. She earned an MA in Spiritual Psychology with an emphasis in Counseling & Facilitation from the University of Santa Monica. Elizabeth continues to study all kinds of healing modalities and mindfulness techniques.



Elizabeth's Links:
3 min box breath

Website

Instagram

Podcast



If this episode resonates with you, please share it with your friends, subscribe, write a review, etc! It really does help spread the word of mouth!



Thank you for being part of this MTYS community!



Join us on social media:⁠ Instagram⁠| ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Tik Tok⁠ | YouTube

_______________________ 

Learn more about Deborah Lee Smith:

 ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠

⁠~NEWSLETTER SIGN UP~

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New here? Every Wednesday join me, Deborah Lee Smith (actor, filmmaker, and mental health advocate) for a conversation with creatives about their mental health journeys. We discuss the highs, lows, and in-betweens of a creative career and the tools they use to get through it all. Our hope is that you will resonate with their journey, pick up some tips and tricks for your own mental health, and most importantly, feel a little less alone. Because we’re all More Than You See.


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In this mini-episode of the More Than You See podcast, Deborah discusses the importance of investing in oneself, particularly in the context of creativity and mental health.



The conversation delves into the idea that investing in oneself goes beyond financial aspects and includes nurturing creativity, personal health, and mental well-being.



Everyone, not just creatives, should prioritize investing in themselves as a holistic approach to personal and professional growth.



Timestamps:

00:39 Reflecting on Creativity with Brad Rushing

01:35 The Journey of Producing 'Glitter Bomb'

03:52 The Power of Investing in Yourself

05:54 Everyday Investments: Health, Reading, and Personal Joy

09:17 Revisiting Monetary Investment and Creative Careers

13:42 Embracing Self-Investment for a Fulfilling Career and Life

16:29 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude


If this episode resonates with you, please share it with your friends, subscribe, write a review, etc! It really does help spread the word of mouth!



Thank you for being part of this MTYS community!



Join us on social media:⁠ Instagram⁠| ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Tik Tok⁠ | YouTube

_______________________ 

Learn more about Deborah Lee Smith:

 ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠

⁠~NEWSLETTER SIGN UP~

~

New here? Every Wednesday join me, Deborah Lee Smith (actor, filmmaker, and mental health advocate) for a conversation with creatives about their mental health journeys. We discuss the highs, lows, and in-betweens of a creative career and the tools they use to get through it all. Our hope is that you will resonate with their journey, pick up some tips and tricks for your own mental health, and most importantly, feel a little less alone. Because we’re all More Than You See.


---

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/more-than-you-see/message

In Season 5 Episode 5 of the More Than You See podcast, Deborah has an in-depth conversation with Brad Rushing, a celebrated musician and cinematographer known for his work on top movies on Netflix, HBO, and other platforms.

This episode explores Brad's multi-disciplinary approach to life as an artist and how his identity has shaped his journey. Brad shares his experience navigating the industry, his creative processes in cinematography and music, and the importance of being unapologetically authentic.

He discusses the challenges and lessons learned from the recent film industry strike, personal traumas, and the therapeutic aspects of immersing in music.

Throughout the conversation, Brad emphasizes the significance of community, authenticity, and self-awareness in both professional and personal spheres, offering insights into finding one's group of people and the impact of being genuine on mental health and relationships.



00:42 Brad Rushing: A Multidisciplinary Artist's Journey

01:38 Embracing Authenticity and Finding Your Tribe

03:41 Brad's Personal Struggles and Triumphs During the Industry Strike

05:59 The Power of Collaboration and Building Your Creative Community

12:03 Exploring Musical Diversity and the Freedom of Being a Multi-Hyphenate Artist

17:33 The Therapeutic Journey of Rediscovering Music

21:47 Opening Up About Depression and the Quest for Authenticity

26:45 Navigating Misunderstandings and Embracing Authenticity

28:42 Rapid Fire Questions

34:02 The Creative Process and Overcoming Personal Struggles

45:02 Embracing the Multifaceted Self and Future Excitements

48:02 Finding Hope and Value in Commitment and Creativity

50:53 Reflections and Gratitude: Wrapping Up the Podcast

About Brad:

Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Brad expressed an aptitude for art and science from a very early age. He majored in fine art at Houston's prestigious High School For The Performing And Visual Arts and also college where he added filmmaking for a double major.

Early filmmaking experience afforded Brad some of his first feature film opportunities as Director of Photography. After a number of years concentrating on indie feature films, Brad began to shoot high-end music videos photographing award-winning, iconic clips for artists like Britney Spears, Mariah Carey, Lionel Richie, Nelly and Eminem.

Brad has achieved a reputation as a gifted commercial cinematographer. Brad’s recent cinematography highlights include the Netflix Original feature films "A California Christmas" and “A California Christmas: City Lights.”, “Holiday Harmony” on Max, “Alarmed” on Tubi, and “The Island” on Starz.

Brad's experience with visual effects led to an invitation to join as a full member of the Visual Effects Society. He is also a member of The Television Academy. Brad Rushing is known for being well-prepared, organized, fast, efficient, and always friendly and cheerful. He is a longtime vegetarian, animal lover, artist, musician, and songwriter.

Brad's Links:

Website
⁠Personal Instagram⁠
⁠"Just Call On Me" (Song)

"Dreams Are All I Have" (Song)

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with your friends, subscribe, write a review, etc! It really does help spread the word of mouth!

Thank you for being part of this MTYS community!

Join us on social media:⁠ Instagram⁠| ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Tik Tok⁠ | YouTube

_______________________ 

Learn more about Deborah Lee Smith:

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New here? Every Wednesday join me, Deborah Lee Smith (actor, filmmaker, and mental health advocate) for a conversation with creatives about their mental health journeys. We discuss the highs, lows, and in-betweens of a creative career and the tools they use to get through it all. Our hope is that you will resonate with their journey, pick up some tips and tricks for your own mental health, and most importantly, feel

In Season 5 Episode 4 of the More Than You See podcast, Deborah Lee Smith dives into a rich conversation with actor and podcaster Brittany Rizzo.



Brittany, known for her TV & mental health-focused podcast 'My Only Friends', shares her journey of self-discovery, the therapeutic value of Pop Culture, and her struggles with mental health.



They cover managing mental wellness in the acting industry, the importance of building a mental health toolbox, and the impact of social media. Through Brittany's story of joining an outpatient program, listeners are encouraged to find gratitude in their support systems and to practice asking for help.



The episode emphasizes taking inspiration from fictional characters and the significance of staying present in challenging moments. Brittany's openness provides insights into facing mental health challenges and the journey towards finding one's worth and purpose.



00:42 Guest Introduction: Brittany Rizzo

01:34 Discussion on Mental Health and Personal Experiences

02:42 Interview with Brittany Rizzo Begins

03:37 Personal Stories and Experiences

03:46 Discussion on Women's Reproductive Rights

05:49 The Importance of Support and Gratitude

08:26 The Role of TV Shows in Mental Health

12:38 The Impact of Personal Struggles on Mental Health

22:41 The Importance of Self-Worth and Recognizing Triggers

25:56 Rapid Fire Questions

27:59 Acts of Kindness and Gratitude

28:57 Acting, Emotions, and Mental Health

30:21 Coping with Bad Mental Health Days

32:34 Balancing Acting and Salon Work

35:04 Self-Love and Personal Growth

35:58 Overcoming Struggles and Seeking Help

45:21 The Need for Validation and Self-Worth

47:23 The Impact of Acting Industry on Mental Health

51:02 Conclusion: Embracing the Journey and Living in the Moment



About Brittany:



Brittany Rizzo is an actress, singer, and podcast host. Her show My Only Friends is a mental health podcast that highlights what TV shows, movies, and other forms of entertainment help people get through their mental health struggles and hard times.



Brittany's Links:

Personal Instagram

Website⁠⁠

Podcast Instagram

⁠⁠IMDB⁠


If this episode resonates with you, please share it with your friends, subscribe, write a review, etc! It really does help spread the word of mouth!

Thank you for being part of this MTYS community!



Join us on social media:⁠ Instagram⁠| ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Tik Tok⁠ | YouTube

_______________________ 

Learn more about Deborah Lee Smith:

 ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠

⁠~NEWSLETTER SIGN UP~

~

New here? Every Wednesday join me, Deborah Lee Smith (actor, filmmaker, and mental health advocate) for a conversation with creatives about their mental health journeys. We discuss the highs, lows, and in-betweens of a creative career and the tools they use to get through it all. Our hope is that you will resonate with their journey, pick up some tips and tricks for your own mental health, and most importantly, feel a little less alone. Because we’re all More Than You See.


---

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/more-than-you-see/message

Episode 3 this season features Sam Valentine, the host of the One Broke Actress podcast!



Sam shares her unique insights into the struggles and triumphs she's faced within the acting industry, the mental health journey she has undergone, and how she remains resilient and creative.



She discusses her own past struggles with body acceptance, reflects on feelings of jealousy and the fear of not being 'good enough,' and offers perspectives on embracing the challenges and viewing them as learning experiences. Sam also opens up about how she handles expectations vs reality and maintaining a healthy mindset despite setbacks.



00:40 Introducing the Guest: Sam Valentine

01:40 Deep Dive into Sam's Journey and Mental Health

03:13 Sam's Day-to-Day Life and Challenges

05:55 Sam's Journey and Struggles in the Acting Industry

06:19 Dealing with Expectations and Reality

06:58 Sam's Personal Growth and Reflections

08:21 The Impact of Social Media and Setting Boundaries

09:54 Sam's Perspective on Success and Progress

12:20 The Importance of Living in the Present

16:51 Sam's Approach to Mental Health and Coping Mechanisms

17:31 Navigating Jealousy and Comparison in the Industry

25:17 The Role of Fitness and Nutrition in Sam's Life

28:16 Therapy and Acting

28:44 Turning to Anti-Anxiety Medication

30:39 Living Life on Camera

32:18 The Role of Psychiatry in Mental Health

34:17 The Importance of Communication in Relationships

35:24 Self-Awareness and Empathy

40:06 Balancing Acting and Other Work

40:43 Dealing with Self-Doubt

51:45 Finding Creativity in Different Areas



About Sam:

I am Sam Valentine, a 12 year veteran of the Actor-Life in LA (with credits from Amazon's Bosch: Legacy to some pilots you never saw). I moved to LA with a Theatre degree and more conviction than I had dollars and proceeded to spend the better part of a decade trying to be literally anything a breakdown wanted me to be.I created One Broke Actress because I saw a need for stories and advice of real working actors. Am I the all-knowing being in Hollywood who has booked a billion jobs and made big bucks with acting so therefore I know how to advise people and lead like the Gandhi of Southern California? Negative. But I feel there is a lack of honest sharing from actors who are in the thick of it. This career path is crazy AF but that doesn't mean you have to be. So let's get real and maybe learn a life lesson or two in the process.



Sam's Links:

Instagram

One Broke Actress Links


If this episode resonates with you, please share it with your friends, subscribe, write a review, etc! It really does help spread the word of mouth!

Thank you for being part of this MTYS community!



Join us on social media:⁠ Instagram⁠| ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Tik Tok⁠ | YouTube

_______________________ 

Learn more about Deborah Lee Smith:

 ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Website⁠

⁠~NEWSLETTER SIGN UP~

~

New here? Every Wednesday join me, Deborah Lee Smith (actor, filmmaker, and mental health advocate) for a conversation with creatives about their mental health journeys. We discuss the highs, lows, and in-betweens of a creative career and the tools they use to get through it all. Our hope is that you will resonate with their journey, pick up some tips and tricks for your own mental health, and most importantly, feel a little less alone. Because we’re all More Than You See.


---

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/more-than-you-see/message