In this powerful episode of Geek Freaks, we sit down with Cindy Mich—award-winning journalist, indie filmmaker, author, and founder of the Art Is Alive Film Festival. Cindy opens up about her roots in writing, the transition into broadcasting, and how she's building platforms to elevate unheard voices. From launching her own magazine, Elegant Expressions, to writing a screenplay for Holocaust survivor Ben Lesser, Cindy shares how personal loss, deep compassion, and sheer determination have shaped her career. This conversation is packed with insights on independent media, the realities of the film festival world, and how storytelling can create real change. Timestamps and Topics:00:00 Welcome and intro to Cindy Mich00:54 Cindy’s origin story and early influences02:13 Breaking into journalism without a degree03:10 Staying authentic in the age of social media04:18 Jumping into broadcasting via Blogtalk Radio05:50 Looking back on 450+ interviews06:53 Radio vs. podcasting in the modern era08:13 Why writing is still Cindy’s first love09:03 Choosing the right medium for a story10:24 The mission behind Elegant Expressions magazine11:56 Giving voice to indie filmmakers, small businesses, and survivors13:13 How journalism shaped Cindy’s approach to filmmaking15:09 Bridging the gap between media and film17:35 The growth of Art Is Alive Film Festival19:02 Hybrid distribution model and outreach21:29 Long-term community building through festivals23:18 Debunking film festival misconceptions25:22 Creating lasting connections through collaboration27:01 The evolution of Cin’s Chat Corner29:07 Cindy’s work with Holocaust survivor Ben Lesser31:01 Writing Ben’s screenplay and preserving legacy33:06 Balancing projects after personal loss35:28 Healing through storytelling37:43 Cindy’s personal legacy and final advice Key Takeaways: Cindy built a successful media career through authenticity, persistence, and a commitment to elevating others. Art Is Alive isn’t just a festival, it’s a launchpad for indie creators looking to break through the noise. Independent filmmakers often don’t understand the business side—Cindy is actively helping them learn. She’s currently writing a screenplay about Holocaust survivor Ben Lesser, guided by trust and respect for his voice. Personal grief led her to deepen her mission to lift up others who feel invisible. Memorable Quotes:🗣️ “Words are magic. They can make people feel, inspire, and move forward.”🗣️ “If you’re not seen, you’re forgotten. My job is to make sure that doesn’t happen.”🗣️ “Never do anything for money. Do it because it matters.” Call to Action:Enjoyed this conversation with Cindy Mich: https://cindy-mich-award-winning-journalist.yolasite.com/Subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for the latest geek culture news. Follow us on social:📱 Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast📘 Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast🧵 Threads: @geekfreakspodcast🐦 Twitter: @geekfreakspod💸 Support us on Patreon: Geek Freaks Patreon Have a question or want to be featured on a future episode? Email us at info@gfpods.com or DM us on any of our socials. Apple Podcast Tags:Cindy Mich, Art is Alive Film Festival, indie film, journalism, Elegant Expressions, podcast interview, Holocaust survivor, Ben Lesser, public access TV, indie filmmakers, Geek Freaks, inspirational stories, filmmaking journey, media careers, podcast guest, creative storytelling, geek culture