Filmmaking & Family: How to Find the Balance
The film industry is known for its demanding schedules, long hours, and the constant pressure to deliver. For filmmakers who are also parents and partners, navigating this world while maintaining a healthy family life can feel like a high-wire act. In this episode of the Inner Circle Podcast, Lydia Hurlbut and Shane Hurlbut, ASC sit down with two industry veterans, Jordan Brady and Jeannette Godoy, to explore the delicate balance between career, family, and creative fulfillment. This insightful conversation offers a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of juggling it all, providing valuable lessons for any creative professional.
This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.
INTERVIEWS WITH CINEMATOGRAPHERS:
- How To Become a Cinematographer with Todd Dos Reis, ASC
- Standardizing Exposure with the El Zone System with Ed Lachman, ASC
- Cinematographer Mandy Walker Behind Making of Elvis Film
- Cinematically Recreating the Life of Mike Tyson with DP Brendan Uegama, CSC
- Cinematography Mentorship with Shane Hurlbut, ASC
- Finding the Frame: Alice Brooks, ASC
CAREER AND FAMILY LIFE BALANCE
The conversation begins by acknowledging the inherent imbalance in the film industry. Jordan and Jeannette discuss the 24/7 nature of their work, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and understanding within their relationship. They highlight the challenges of managing family life alongside demanding projects, especially with children and aging parents. The discussion underscores that there’s no “perfect” balance, but rather a continuous adjustment and flow that works for each individual family.
NAVIGATING WORK AND FAMILY DYNAMICS
The Hurlbuts and their guests share personal anecdotes about the fluidity of balancing work and family. They discuss the importance of staying connected, even when physically apart, through texting, voice notes, and other forms of communication. The conversation touches upon the challenges of being fully present at home after a long day on set and the need to compartmentalize work and family life. They emphasize the importance of presence and being fully engaged in family moments, recognizing that these connections are paramount.
BUILDING AND MAINTAINING RELATIONSHIPS
The podcast explores the importance of presence and avoiding distractions, particularly during family time. Jordan shares a heartwarming story about flying back for his son’s soccer game, highlighting the significance of showing support. The conversation delves into the unique challenges of being in a relationship with someone in the film industry, emphasizing the need for mutual understanding and empathy regarding work pressures. Jordan and Jeannette reveal their approach to communication while on location, opting for texting over daily calls to allow each other the space needed to focus on their work.
WORKING TOGETHER AND SUPPORTING EACH OTHER
The discussion shifts to how Jordan and Jeannette work together, both in their production company and during their Joshua Tree retreats. They explain their clearly defined roles, with Jeannette often producing and supporting Jordan as the director. They emphasize the importance of supporting each other’s creative endeavors, respecting each other’s expertise, and maintaining open communication. A key takeaway is the agreement not to take creative feedback personally, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.
EXPLORING GENIUS ZONES AND SKILLS
Lydia inquires about Jordan’s “genius zone,” focusing on his success in commercial directing. Jordan shares his journey, including teaching commercial directing workshops and creating online courses. He stresses the importance of sharing knowledge and giving back to the industry. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing film school and a production company, highlighting the need for effective compartmentalization.
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN THE FILM INDUSTRY
The discussion explores the pros and cons of starting a production company and the challenges faced by independent filmmakers. Jordan emphasizes the importance of having strong work, production insurance, and cultivating relationships within the industry. The conversation also touches on the crucial role of marketing and social media in attracting work and building a reputation. Jordan stresses the need to constantly promote one’s work to stay relevant.
JEANNETTE GODOY’S CAREER JOURNEY
Jeannette shares her inspiring career journey, from professional dancer and choreographer to costume designer and finally, director. She discusses the challenges of breaking into directing and the importance of creating her own opportunities. She highlights the impact of her documentary, “Free 2 Be Me,” on people with disabilities.
IMPACT OF “FREE 2 BE ME” DOCUMENTARY
Jeannette recounts the story behind “Free 2 Be Me,” a documentary about a dance troupe for people with Down syndrome. She discusses the challenges of working with non-verbal dancers and the importance of building trust with their families. The documentary’s positive impact on the community, including inspiring new programs for people with disabilities, is a testament to the power of storytelling.
SHANE HURLBUT’S EXPERIENCE WITH GRACE FISHER
Shane shares his own experience creating a music video for Grace Fisher, a young woman with a disability. He highlights the challenges and rewards of collaborating with artists with unique needs, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for everyone.
THE IMPORTANCE OF GIVING BACK
The conversation emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community and mentoring aspiring filmmakers. Shane discusses his commitment to personally responding to emails and comments, offering support and guidance. Jordan talks about “eventizing achievements” and celebrating victories, emphasizing the importance of promoting one’s work.
CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOURSELF
The group discusses the importance of consistently creating opportunities for oneself. Jeannette shares her experience of telling stories of home healthcare workers, which ultimately changed her commercial career trajectory. She also discusses her transition into longer-form work, including writing and directing a short film.
INVESTING IN YOUR CAREER
Jordan and Jeannette emphasize the importance of investing in one’s career and nurturing professional relationships. They discuss the value of creating spec commercials or experimental projects to attract attention from production companies and agencies. Jeannette shares her success in securing a feature film project based on a short film and a TV episode, highlighting the power of persistence and self-investment.
CHALLENGE AND SERENDIPITY IN THE INDUSTRY
Jordan and Jeannette emphasize the importance of investing in one’s career and nurturing professional relationships. They discuss the value of creating spec commercials or experimental projects to attract attention from production companies and agencies. Jeannette shares her success in securing a feature film project based on a short film and a TV episode, highlighting the power of persistence and self-investment.
SUPPORT NETWORKS AND COMMUNITY
The podcast highlights the crucial role of support networks and community for filmmakers. Jeannette shares her experience of building relationships and maintaining a positive mindset during creative slumps. The group emphasizes the importance of having a community to offer support, share ideas, and celebrate each other’s successes.
RITUALS AND MINDSET FOR SUCCESS
The podcast highlights the crucial role of support networks and community for filmmakers. Jeannette shares her experience of building relationships and maintaining a positive mindset during creative slumps. The group emphasizes the importance of having a community to offer support, share ideas, and celebrate each other’s successes.
THE ROLE OF EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY IN THE FILM INDUSTRY
The conversation emphasizes the importance of seeking out education and getting involved in industry organizations. The group highlights the power of community support and relationship building. Jordan stresses the importance of focusing on talent and storytelling rather than getting caught up in the latest tools and technology.
THE BOTTOM LINE: FILMMAKING & FAMILY BALANCE
This episode of the Inner Circle Podcast offers a valuable and inspiring conversation about the realities of navigating the film industry while balancing personal life and creative aspirations. Jordan Brady and Jeannette Godoy share their personal experiences, offering practical advice and emphasizing the importance of communication, collaboration, self-investment, and a strong support network. Their stories serve as a reminder that while the film industry can be demanding, it is possible to find harmony between one’s passion and personal life.
More from Shane Hurlbut, ASC for cinematographers and do-it-all filmmakers:
- Cinematography: Virtual Location Scouting with the Insta360
- Cinematography: The EL Zone System Exposure Guide
- Shane’s Gear Bag
- Shane Hurlbut’s Go-To Lighting Package
- The Modern Cinematographer – On-Set Essentials
- Shane Hurlbut’s Kit
- Cinematography Mentorship – Shane Hurlbut, ASC
- Design Your INOVATIV Cart for Film Production
More from Lydia Hurlbut and her Leadership & Wellness Initiative: