Award-winning TV and film producer Jenny Feterovich shares her fascinating journey from fleeing Eastern Europe to capturing the American dream. Topics include navigating challenges of immigrating to the U.S., transitioning from DJing to entrepreneurship in the film industry, overcoming funding obstacles for a PBS series, empowering women in the DJ industry, and making a difference through humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.
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Quick takeaways
Jenny's journey from Soviet Union to American dream, overcoming hurdles and building entrepreneurial life.
Entrepreneurial spirit leading to innovative projects addressing gender disparities in DJ culture.
Storytelling challenges and perseverance in creating impactful films despite financial and content obstacles.
Deep dives
Jenny Faber-Rovic's Escape from the Soviet Union to the US
Jenny Faber-Rovic shares her journey from being born in the Soviet Union to escaping persecution as a Jewish person. She vividly describes the limitations of living in the Soviet Union where Judaism was listed as a nationality in passports and being branded as such impacted opportunities. The American Jews' effort to help Soviet Jews escape through private funding and advocacy led to Jenny's family emigrating to America with limited belongings and starting anew in Detroit.
Starting a New Life in America After Escaping the Soviet Union
Upon arriving in Detroit, Michigan, after a series of journeys from the Soviet Union, Jenny Faber-Rovic and her family faced the challenge of adapting to a new life with minimal resources. They were sponsored by Jewish organizations, which provided initial support, including a six-month apartment rental and language education. Jenny's entrepreneurial spirit led her to sell bread, earn her first money in the US, and eventually venture into diverse business opportunities.
Empowering Women in Music Through 'Girls Gone Vinyl'
Jenny Faber-Rovic initiated 'Girls Gone Vinyl' to address gender disparities in the music industry, particularly DJ culture. The project aimed to showcase and support female DJs who faced discrimination and underrepresentation. 'Girls Gone Vinyl' sparked a conversation about booking women performers, visibility in lineups, and empowerment. By highlighting talented women and initiating dialogue, the project contributed to increased opportunities and visibility for female DJs in a male-dominated industry.
Origin of 'The Russian Five' Story
The podcast discusses how the idea to create a story about the Russian Five, the first five Russian hockey players who significantly impacted the sport, originated from a filmmaker's personal experience. Despite initial reluctance, a chance encounter with a young filmmaker led to the decision to undertake the project. The journey involved overcoming challenges such as securing financing, acquiring archival footage, and facing opposition from the NHL due to sensitive content.
Humanitarian Efforts and Geopolitical Perspective
The episode delves into the host's extensive involvement in humanitarian efforts during the conflict in Ukraine. The discussion highlights the unprovoked nature of the conflict, the importance of supporting grassroots initiatives, and efforts to provide aid to those affected. Additionally, the host shares personal experiences and reflections on the geopolitical situation, emphasizing the need for global awareness and action in response to propaganda and misinformation.
Jenny Feterovich is a truly creative entrepreneur and renaissance woman. She is an award-winning TV and film producer, internationally renowned DJ, and serial entrepreneur. She is perhaps best known for the Emmy-nominated TV show START UP, which spotlights outstanding entrepreneurs and their businesses.
Jenny joined host Robert Glazer to share her extraordinary story–fleeing Eastern Europe at the end of the Cold War as a child and capturing the American dream with a remarkable entrepreneurial life.