The Zack Arnold Podcast

At its core, I organized my 5 day virtual summit about Navigating the Future of Entertainment to help us creatives, artists, and storytellers answer two key questions:What the hell is happening to our beloved film industry? And how can we shape the future of cinema?In this episode, I talk with Kylee Peña, Sr. Product Marketing Manager at Adobe and longtime post-production expert. We explore how AI is reshaping the creative process, what it means for editors and storytellers, and how to navigate the tension between innovation and artistic integrity. Kylee shares how tools like Adobe Firefly aim to protect creatives through transparency, and why understanding AI—rather than avoiding it—is key to staying relevant, empowered, and truly creative in this next chapter.Want lifetime access to ALL the Summit content?→ Click here for lifetime access to all 15 interviews, bonus resources, and my 90 minute Masterclass to help you navigate the next act of your creative career.Key TakeawaysStay ahead by keeping up with the speed of AI. Its explosive growth is outpacing legal, ethical, and creative frameworks—staying adaptable is your most important asset.Let AI handle the creative friction. Offload repetitive tasks so you can spend more energy on emotion, storytelling, and bold creative decisions.Use AI tools that prioritize ethics and transparency. Choose platforms trained on licensed data and commit to content credentials that clarify how media is made, altered, or sourced.Episode HighlightsCreative humanity or career survival—what’s really at risk?The detrimental effects to cognitive thought from outsourcing critical thinking to AILearn how Adobe Firefly protects creatives and ensures transparency in the age of generative AI.Why this technological shift is different and how it's unfolding at an alarming rate.Explore the optimistic view on AI's role in storytelling and how it can empower creatives.Why human judgment and understanding remain critical in a world of endless AI-generated options.Is hyper-personalized content the future, and do we truly want it?Discover why high-end productions still shy away from generative AI for final deliverables and what that means for creative workflows.Why keeping up with AI and having your own AI perspective matters more than ever in this shifting landscape.Recommended Next EpisodeThe Creative’s Guide to Understanding AI and Leveraging AI to Build Workflows & Optimize Your Creativity | with Rob HowardUseful ResourcesAdobe FireflyFirefly BoardsWant to Hear More Episodes Like This One?» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episodeGuest BioKylee Peña is Sr. Product Marketing Manager for Professional Editorial at Adobe. As a former editor herself, she’s a seasoned problem-solver who wants to bridge the gap between creative and technology for all kinds of storytellers. Kylee has over 15 years of experience in post-production and hundreds of television and film credits as both a creative and technical professional, including a long stint in creative technologies at Netflix. At Adobe, she is part of the team engaging with the professional post-production community to drive the future of Premiere Pro.An industry thought leader, Kylee has been published across various journals and included on panels worldwide. She was named a TVN “Woman to Watch in Technology”, nominated for RISE Influencer Award, and part of the team honored for HPA Engineering Excellence Award for Text-Based Editing and Enhance Speech in Premiere Pro.Kylee is an active member of the Television Academy’s Science and Technology peer group and Hollywood Region Governor for the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers. She holds a bachelor's degree in media arts from Indiana University and a master’s degree in integrated design, business, and technology from University of Southern California. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Technology from Purdue University focused on managing innovation, AI, and storytelling.Kylie’s LinkedIn | InstagramShow CreditsEdited by: Curtis FritschProduced by: Debby GerminoPublished by: Vim PangantihonMusic by: Thomas CepedaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content

At its core, I organized my 5 day virtual summit about Navigating the Future of Entertainment to help us creatives, artists, and storytellers answer two key questions:What the hell is happening to our beloved film industry? And how can we shape the future of cinema?With over 70 producing credits and 60 more as the former Co-Head of Movies at Amazon Studios, Ted Hope (connect with Ted here on Substack) has had a front-row seat to decades of disruption in Hollywood. In this conversation, Ted and I break down exactly why Hollywood’s business models are fundamentally broken and how that’s affected the quality (or lack thereof) in most movies today. Ted shares how the (broken) streaming business model has changed both our attention spans and also the way studios now prioritize content—shifting from quality to quantity. We also explore where storytelling is headed in the age of the creator economy, and what it means for filmmakers trying to do meaningful work in a shifting landscape.Want lifetime access to ALL the Summit content?→ Click here for lifetime access to all 15 interviews, bonus resources, and my 90 minute Masterclass to help you navigate the next act of your creative career.Key TakeawaysCreate work that captures attention, not just clicks. In today’s “Age of Distraction”, you’re competing not just with films but with social media, games, and the endless scroll. To stand out, craft stories that demand intentional engagement and honor deep, nuanced storytelling.Embrace a generalist mindset and connect directly with your audience. With traditional gatekeepers fading, becoming entrepreneurial and deeply understanding your audience is key. Use new platforms like Substack to build your own community and distribution channels, essentially casting your own marketing and distribution teams.Harness the power of authentic, human-centered storytelling. Like the "garage band" era of music, today’s accessible tools—including responsible AI use—empower creators to share raw, idiosyncratic stories that connect deeply and explore complex emotions. This human touch will always set your work apart in a crowded landscape.Episode HighlightsHow the indie film landscape has shrunk and what it means for filmmakers todayThe massive 40 to 60 percent “perceived value” gap forcing filmmakers to compromise on quality and sustainabilityWhy films used to be “launched” with big campaigns but are now simply “dropped” by streamers with little fanfareHow frustration with the movies of his youth became Ted Hope’s unexpected creative catalystThe rise of the “Clydesdale” creative — those workhorse artists committed to pushing the final 10 percent for timeless artWhy the industry is pushing creatives back toward a generalist mindset with diverse skills for survivalHope’s optimism about cinema’s “garage band” moment as new tools and hunger for authentic stories ignite fresh voicesRecommended Next EpisodeFrom Five Emmys to Trader Joe’s: The Realities of Working In Hollywood In 2025 | with Mark KeeferWant to Hear More Episodes Like This One?» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episodeGuest BioTed Hope describes himself as a "filmworker" and has over 70 producing credits to his name, 60 credits as a studio executive, and was the Co-Head of Movies at Amazon Studios where he led them to 19 Oscar nominations and 5 wins. Ted also helped launch the feature film careers of Ang Lee, Nicole Holofcener, Hal Hartley, Michel Gondry, and many others.Ted’s Substack, Website, Facebook, Newsletter, IMDbTed’s Book: Hope for FilmShow CreditsEdited by: Curtis FritschProduced by: Debby GerminoPublished by: Vim PangantihonMusic by: Thomas CepedaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content

What would happen if you finally got the clarity and coaching you needed to take the next step in your creative career?In today’s episode, part two of the live masterclass from my recent virtual summit, I’m sharing raw, unfiltered Hot Seat coaching sessions with three creatives facing different forms of uncertainty. From a veteran editor worried about job security, to a multi-talented storyteller struggling to break into producing, to a blocked creative paralyzed by fear and perfectionism, each story reflects a different but deeply familiar crossroads. If you’ve ever felt lost, stuck, or unsure how to move forward, their journeys will resonate, and I’ll walk them (and you) through practical, actionable steps to navigate change with clarity and confidence.Key TakeawaysPursue your next dream job, not your ultimate one. In a saturated, uncertain market, aim for strategic lateral moves or slight steps back where your current experience gives you an edge.Reframe your story to match their needs. Rewrite your resume and cover letter to emphasize relevant achievements that align with the company’s priorities—even if from different industries.Procrastination is a fear response, not laziness. Overcome it by identifying your fear and facing it gradually—start by sharing work with trusted peers to build confidence.Episode HighlightsBonus Hot Seat #1: After a decade editing full-time at Sesame Street, Ed Kulzer faces growing job insecurity and limited industry connections outside the show. We discuss how he can strategically pivot, build a more versatile portfolio, and expand his network without walking away from the security of his current role.Bonus Hot Seat #2: Alyssa Royce pivoted from leading a production team in sports to editing roles in tech, gaining better work-life balance but losing her upward momentum. Now, she wants to land producer or coordinating roles again, but feels stuck being seen only as “just an editor.” We explored how she can reframe her story and leverage relationships to break out of that box and be seen as leadership material again.Bonus Hot Seat #3: David McErlain opened up about feeling stuck in his creative journey—starting tutorials, but never finishing, paralyzed by perfectionism and fear of not being “good enough.” We unpacked how procrastination masks fear of being seen, and how sharing imperfect work in safe spaces can build creative courageInformal Q&A #1: Dave Kotwasinski asks what exercises or projects we should prioritize if we’re starting our creative career given a limited budget. We explore how building a strong network, gaining clarity on specific goals, and overcoming limiting beliefs can guide practical next steps toward meaningful progress and growth.Informal Q&A #2: Monica Daniel shared her challenge of balancing a full-time return to work, personal passions, and family life with unpredictable demands. We tackle on how to create an ideal calendar that reflects her true priorities, accepting that some things will need to be let go, and embracing strategic imbalance as a practical way to manage limited time.Recommended Next EpisodeMasterclass: Navigating the Next Act Pt1: To learn how to build a sustainable creative career, and how The Arnold Academy for Creatives can help you thrive in a fast changing world.Navigating the Future of Entertainment: To learn more about the summit that was built to redefine your creative career.Useful ResourcesThe Arnold Academy for CreativesThe Summit 2025Want to Hear More Episodes Like This One?» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episodeShow CreditsEdited by: Curtis FritschProduced by: Debby GerminoPublished by: Vim PangantihonMusic by: Thomas CepedaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content

What does it really take to build a sustainable creative career in an industry evolving faster than ever before?For today’s episode, I’m sharing something different—a live masterclass I hosted at the end of my weeklong virtual summit. Over five days, I interviewed 15 brilliant minds—showrunners, entrepreneurs, AI experts, Oscar-winning filmmakers, and more—all centered around one question: how do we adapt and thrive creatively when the rules keep changing? The truth is, events like these can overwhelm you with ideas but leave you stuck on what to actually do next. That’s exactly why I created this masterclass: to cut through the noise, synthesize the insights, and help you take meaningful action—whether you’re pivoting, expanding your skill set, or charting a whole new path.Key TakeawaysBreak free from limiting career myths. Let go of the idea that career pivots mean starting from scratch or that success only comes from insider connections. Your experience and relationships already carry value.Create balance between your work and your life. Align your work with your personal well-being and values. When life and work support each other, you protect both your energy and creativity.Build your path with support, not in isolation. Career growth isn’t meant to be a solo journey. Find your people—mentors, peers, and communities who can guide, challenge, and uplift you along the way.Episode HighlightsExplore how we must adapt to a world that won’t return to “normal,” where embracing our humanity alongside AI, investing in deep relationships, diversifying our skills, and creating meaningful, soul-driven work are essential to thriving in uncertain times.The future of entertainment lies at the intersection of legacy Hollywood and content creators, where shared purpose, emotional resonance, and evolving tools empower a new generation of storytellers to experiment, connect, and create beyond traditional boundaries.What once felt like a stable roadmap—specialization, security, and climbing the ladder—no longer serves us in a world reshaped by automation and AI, where survival now demands adaptability, a creative beginner’s mindset, and the courage to unlearn and start fresh.In a world where automation is replacing specialization, adaptability, agility, and the ability to pivot are now your most valuable skills.Learn to redefine your story by combining your diverse work and life experiences, unique interests, and character traits to create an "asymmetric advantage" and become a category of one in your field.Understand that while relationships are crucial, you can cultivate a powerful network by focusing on giving value to others, rather than just taking.Unlock sustainable productivity by managing time and focus like spinning plates, instead of trying to do everything at once.See how the Arnold Academy for Creatives empowers creative professionals through comprehensive courses, live coaching, and a supportive global community to navigate career pivots, build meaningful relationships, and achieve sustainable success without compromising their well-being.Recommended Next EpisodeNavigating the Future of Entertainment: To learn more about the summit that was built to redefine your creative career.Useful ResourcesThe Arnold Academy for CreativesThe Summit 2025Want to Hear More Episodes Like This One?» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episodeShow CreditsEdited by: Curtis FritschProduced by: Debby GerminoShownotes and published by: Vim PangantihonMusic by: Thomas CepedaNote: I believe in 100% transparency, so please note that I receive a small commission if you purchase products from some of the links on this page (at no additional cost to you). Your support is what helps keep this program alive. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content

Ever feel like your creative career is becoming an uphill battle you’re no longer sure you can win?Budgets are tighter, opportunities are fewer, and AI is rewriting the rules. But this isn’t a conversation about giving up. Debby and I focus on how to adapt with intention, and why now is the time to design your next move, not just react to change. We pull back the curtain on the summit we’ve been building—designed specifically to help creatives like you to tap into your strengths, build meaningful connections, and move forward without burning out. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the event that’s poised to redefine your creative career.Key TakeawaysAdapt to the shifting creative landscape. Traditional paths are changing fast, and relying on a single skill is no longer sustainable.Invest in learning that challenges your thinking. Engaging with experts who push your perspective can transform how you make key career decisions.Leverage free resources to fuel your growth. The summit gives you no-barrier access to insights designed for creatives navigating uncertain times.Episode HighlightsExplore the brutal truth about the current state of the entertainment industry and how to skate to where the puck is going nextWhy we built the summit and how it’s designed for a creatives navigating change and uncertaintyGet a sneak peek at the carefully curated guests and topics built to help you take bold, clear steps in your careerWhat sets this experience apart—and how it’s designed to help you absorb insights and actually apply themGo beyond the free 5-day event with the Inner Circle Pass: unlock exclusive access, live Q&As, and actionable resourcesUnpack some of the most surprising and memorable insights revealed in our expert interviewsLearn how to gain access to the FREE summit eventRecommended Next EpisodeLydia Hurlbut: if you’re facing a career crossroads and need help managing the emotional impact while discovering the strengths you already possess to create a new direction.Useful ResourcesThe Summit 2025 WebsiteWant to Hear More Episodes Like This One?» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episodeShow CreditsEdited by: Curtis FritschProduced by: Debby GerminoPublished by: Vim PangantihonMusic by: Thomas CepedaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content

What happens when your creative career no longer pays the bills—but you’re still called to create?In this episode, I talk with award-winning editor Mark Keefer, whose nearly 30-year career spans Disney, Netflix, and Warner Bros. A simple LinkedIn selfie in a Trader Joe’s uniform went viral after he shared he'd taken his first non-creative job in decades to support his family. We talk honestly about identity, resilience, and what it means to pivot when your career path changes. Mark shares the advice that shaped him, the power of being a generalist, and how letting go of titles can open surprising new doors.Key TakeawaysFind purpose in showing up with care no matter the role. Taking a moment to make others feel seen and valued can turn ordinary work into meaningful contribution.Hard work grounds you. Stepping into physically demanding, honest work can reset your perspective and reconnect you to the resilience of others.Don’t rely on just one creative “instrument.” In an unpredictable world, versatility isn’t optional, it’s survival. The more tools you have, the more ways you can adapt, create, and thrive.Episode HighlightsThe LinkedIn post that went viral — why share a photo he almost kept secret?How a Hollywood editor found unexpected fulfillment stocking shelves, and why the mindset behind it mattersOn résumés that makes no sense, and how every twist reveals a deeper story of reinventionLetting go of the sunk cost fallacy — how he pivoted careers without feeling like a quitterStill working at Trader Joe’s while getting back into editing and how he manages bothWhat’s the way forward for mid-career creatives who are trained to do only one thing?The impact and wisdom from his father that still echoes through every career decision he makesRecommended Next EpisodeChristina Rasmussen: If you too are struggling with the anxiety and potentially even the grief associated with losing your job (or even your identity)Bevin Farrand: If you’re looking for the courage to summon strength in your darkest momentsUseful ResourcesLinkedIn PostTrader Joe'sRabbit of SevilleSkywalker SoundTom MyersDan MolinaGlen KeaneOver the MoonThe Garfield MovieHouse of DavidArt & Fear: Observations On the Perils (and Rewards) of ArtmakingWant to Hear More Episodes Like This One?» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episodeGuest BioMark Keefer is a five-time Emmy-winning and three-time Golden Reel-winning film editor whose credits include “The Garfield Movie,” Netflix’s “Over the Moon,” Disney’s “Planes,” and the “VeggieTales” franchise. Beyond his professional achievements, Mark remains passionate about music and continues to play and record, drawing inspiration from his musical background.Mark’s Instagram, LinkedIn, IMDbShow CreditsEdited by: Curtis FritschProduced by: Debby GerminoShownotes and published by: Vim PangantihonMusic by: Thomas CepedaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content

How do you build a creative career that lasts when everything keeps changing?In this episode, I talk with Sven Pape—professional editor, filmmaker, and the creator of This Guy Edits, one of the most respected YouTube channels on storytelling and the creative process. With over 500k subscribers, Sven has seen firsthand how the creative industry is evolving. We dive into what it takes to adapt and stay in business—from shifting algorithms and declining ad revenue to building real community and ownership through email lists. If you're trying to pivot, stay relevant, or just keep going, this conversation is for you.Key TakeawaysRelationships are the key to long-term success in the industry. Use email as a core business tool to build trust, stay connected, and deepen those relationships over time.Begin anywhere related to your field and keep working steadily. Work attracts work, increasing your value and future opportunities.Lean into your curiosity and let your personal interests guide your content. The journey itself creates the drama that draws people in.Episode HighlightsHow Sven bridged the gap between Hollywood film and digital content creationBlending cinematic storytelling with viral content: where old-school meets new mediaThe hidden math behind content creation: how much actually converts to cash?Why community > content: the secret currency of long-term successInside the entertainment industry: navigating an evolving job marketCan being real online actually be your greatest advantage?Making money from movie clips without getting sued: Turn fair use into your creative superpowerIf Sven could rewind time—what he’d do differently with what he knows nowWhere YouTube is headed next—and how creators can stay aheadRecommended Next EpisodeMauro Guillén on redefining your career path in a post-generational societyBrad Stulberg on becoming a master of change in all aspects of your lifeUseful ResourcesSecret Editing HacksAlex Hormozi’s Value EquationBeast GamesJoseph Campell’s The Hero’s JourneyWant to Hear More Episodes Like This One?» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episodeGuest BioSven Pape is an ACE Award–nominated editor who has cut for James Cameron, Mark Webber, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. His work includes films that premiered at Sundance, SXSW, and Cannes, with several receiving national theatrical releases. He’s served as Supervising Editor on TV shows for Bravo, E!, and Fox, and was the go-to pilot editor for Fremantle Media (American Idol) for over five years.He also runs the YouTube channel This Guy Edits with over 500,000 subscribers, focusing on creative storytelling and editing. Sven has taught at Columbia College Hollywood and guest lectures at UCLA Extension. He now shares his experience through a course on becoming a go-to editor.Sven’s Website ,Youtube, IMDbShow CreditsEdited by: Curtis FritschProduced by: Debby GerminoShownotes and published by: Vim PangantihonMusic by: Thomas CepedaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content

What if creativity isn’t just self-expression, but a way to heal and connect?In this episode, I talk with Allison Sweet Grant, an author, former psychiatric nurse practitioner, and mother of three who brings deep honesty and courage to her storytelling. Her debut novel I Am the Cage wasn’t written to launch a career but to process overwhelming trauma and offer hope to others. We talk about how creativity can be both healing and hard, especially for those of us who are sensitive or introverted. But when we choose to go deeper, our stories can become acts of bravery—and unexpected gifts to the world.Key TakeawaysUse your unique life experiences to enrich your creative work. Drawing from multiple roles can deepen your storytelling and bring authenticity to your creations.Create space for your kids (and yourself) to fail safely. Protection isn’t about control—it’s about allowing risk in a space where learning and growth are possible.Use writing as a space to find your voice. It gives you the time and clarity to say what you mean without anxiety getting in the way.Create a simple mantra to steady yourself in tough times. Simple, repeated words can anchor you when life feels overwhelming.Embrace vulnerability as an act of bravery. Sharing your deepest fears and shame can feel exposing, but doing so can free you from the power those secrets hold—and prove your strength in facing them.Episode HighlightsWhy Zack and Allison are both nervous in the interviewThe origin story of the book “I Am the Cage”Defining trauma in Elizabeth’s story and how it relates to AllisonProcessing the experience through writing and self-reflectionFeelings behind self-blaming and the umbrella of shameThe impact of trauma on self-confidence, trust, and relationshipsPersonal career and impact of becoming a psychiatric nurse practitionerThe logical vs. emotional argument in personal and creative lifeParenting, advocacy, and how past experience informs present choicesCrossing senses in storytelling with SynesthesiaOpenness and vulnerability in the creative processExploring the book’s motif: “I am okay, I am safe”, to “I am not okay and I am not safe”Creativity as an act of courage and the emotional impact of releasing the bookDreaming of a movie adaptation and the poetry of everyday lifeHow to connect with AllisonZack’s American Ninja Warrior experienceRecommended Next EpisodeJennifer Kahnweiler – To dig deeper into better understanding how to thrive as an introverted creative.Bridget Sampson – If fear of speaking up and sharing your story is holding you back.Useful ResourcesAllison’s Book I Am The CageHow We are “Wired to Create”, What It Means to Be a “Creative”, and How We Can Leverage Our Unique Gifts | with Scott Barry KaufmanTurning Adversity Into Opportunity and Suffering Into Purpose (a Superhero’s Perspective) | with Aaron WeltyGo Far: The Christopher Rush StoryCall Me By Your NameLost In TranslationBefore SunriseWant to Hear More Episodes Like This One?» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episodeGuest BioAllison Sweet Grant is an author who has been published in The New York Times and The Atlantic. Previously, she was a psychiatric nurse practitioner; she holds dual master's degrees from the University of Michigan. An introvert, synesthete, and avid poet, Allison can usually be found at home with a cup of hot tea in hand, reading or rewatching a film she has seen sixteen times. She lives outside of Philadelphia with her husband and their three children (and two cats, Pom-Pom and Jasper). I Am the Cage is her debut novel.Allison’s Website, Facebook, Instagram, EmailShow CreditsEdited by: Curtis FritschProduced by: Debby GerminoShownotes and published by: Vim PangantihonMusic by: Thomas CepedaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content

Ever feel stuck between playing it safe and going all in on your dream?In this episode, I talk with filmmaker, actor, and real-life action hero Paul Beckman—whose story is equal parts hilarious, outrageous, and deeply inspiring. From sneaking into the World Series VIP section to facing cancer with grit and the mantra “This too shall pass,” Paul shows what it really means to take risks. We talk about walking away from comfort, facing fear, and pushing forward even when you’re unsure. If you’ve been holding back, this conversation might be the nudge you need.Key TakeawaysLean into the ideas that scare you—do them anyway. The gut feeling of fear is your cue that it’s worth trying, and it trains your mind and spirit for the bigger ones.Decide to bring purpose with your presence. Your attitude and energy are choices—and they shape your experience and the experience of everyone around you.Focus on what you can control and let go of what you can’t. Even in moments when outcomes are out of your hands, your time and growth are still yours.Take one breath, one moment, one step at a time. Whatever you're facing will pass, and on the other side of it is everything you want.Episode HighlightsSneaking into the Dodgers World Series gameHow confronting fear prepared him for life’s most pivotal momentsCancer journey and the power of a positive mindsetThe role of positivity and humor to navigate tough timesFacing fears: Sneaking into a stadium vs Sending outreach emailsCurrent pursuits, goals, and the ongoing journeyThe value of having diverse skills and interestsHow to leverage opportunities and balance multiple rolesLessons learned from juggling many jobs and skill setsBuilding authentic relationships and the importance of networkingPaul’s advice to his past self in the middle of chemoRecommended Next EpisodeChristopher Titus: To overcome a dark past, manage inner voices, turn pain into purpose and still find something to laugh about.Useful ResourcesFriedrich Nietzsche’s Twilight of the IdolsHalf Dome HikeThe GroundlingsWant to Hear More Episodes Like This One?» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episodeGuest BioPaul Beckman is a Los Angeles-based actor, writer, and filmmaker known for bold, character-driven stories that blend action, comedy, and a touch of the surreal. A proud Texan, cancer survivor, and graduate of the University of Iowa, Paul brings grit, resilience, and a deep sense of adventure to everything he does—both on screen and in life. From performing at The Groundlings to starring in national commercials, he’s built a reputation for injecting sharp humor and emotional stakes into every project.An Eagle Scout with a passion for climbing mountains and competing in obstacle course races, Paul gravitates toward stories about survival, justice, and transformation. His work often explores what it means to fight for something real—whether that’s a cause, a connection, or a second chance. With roots in improv and a vision for cinematic storytelling, Paul’s creative work explores what it means to fight, survive, and stand for something—often with a wink and a punch.Paul’s Facebook, Instagram, Fitness, Youtube, IMDB, Casting NetworksShow CreditsEdited by: Curtis FritschProduced by: Debby GerminoShownotes and published by: Vim PangantihonMusic by: Thomas CepedaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content

What if the way you see your struggles is the key to overcoming them?In this episode, I talk with motivational speaker and all-around awesome human Aaron Welty—moderator of the Council of Nerds film series, former Two Geek Soup co-host, and Senior Legislative Assistant in the U.S. House of Representatives. Born with cerebral palsy, Aaron brings a powerful lens to storytelling, shaped by his love of movies and his lived experience with disability. But instead of seeing himself as a victim, he calls his condition a “terrible privilege” and lives as the hero of his own story. We dig into how the stories we tell ourselves shape our mindset—and how rewriting that narrative can help us face life’s hardest challenges.Key TakeawaysHow can your terrible privilege help you serve others? We all carry something painful we wish we didn’t but it can become the very thing that equips us to make an impact.Learn how to suffer well. Know how to go from suffering to perseverance, perseverance to deeper character, and from that deeper character to a place of hope.Choose the bigger life. Heroes are shaped not by the pain they face, but by the choices they make in response to it.Episode HighlightsAaron’s origin story and early lifeWe all have a disability in certain contextsHow to turn your ‘disabilities’ into superpowersExploring fandom: Star Wars, Marvel, and comic books as more than entertainmentFinding meaning beyond yourself and transforming challenges into purposeThe power of storytelling to influence and transform livesThe importance of modern mythology for a new generationThe impact of artificial intelligence on human dignity in entertainmentHow will AI change the way we engage with filmsEmbracing the idea that suffering isn’t optionalRecommended Next EpisodeWill Storr: Dive even deeper into the science of storytelling and why our brains are wired for narrative.Useful ResourcesGo Far - The Christopher Rush StoryPodcast with Christina RasmussenViktor Frankl's The Man's Search for MeaningThe Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph CampbellThe Writer's Journey by Chris VoglerPodcast with Chris VoglerWant to Hear More Episodes Like This One?» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episodeGuest BioAaron Welty was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy as a newborn. He overcame those early years of low expectations and a presupposed poor quality of life to graduate from Cedarville University and serve as a Senior Legislative Assistant in the House of Representatives, wherein he worked on a variety of policy issues. Presently he lives and works in Washington, DC.An avid fan of comic books superheroes and Star Wars, Aaron has shared his story with outlets such as NBC Nightly News, Facing Life Head On, Roll Call, The Daily Signal, and various radio programs. His writing has been featured by a variety of publications and presented at conferences and conventions.He is the creator and/moderator of the Council of Nerds film discussion series at the Miracle Theatre in Washington, DC and served as a co-host for the Two Geek Soup podcast, focused on the intersection of faith and geek culture.Aaron’s Website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TwitterShow CreditsEdited by: Curtis FritschProduced by: Debby GerminoShownotes and published by: Vim PangantihonMusic by: Thomas CepedaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content