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 Mich
00:54 Cindy’s origin story and early influences
02:13 Breaking into journalism without a degree
03:10 Staying authentic in the age of social media
04:18 Jumping into broadcasting via Blogtalk Radio
05:50 Looking back on 450+ interviews
06:53 Radio vs. podcasting in the modern era
08:13 Why writing is still Cindy’s first love
09:03 Choosing the right medium for a story
10:24 The mission behind Elegant Expressions magazine
11:56 Giving voice to indie filmmakers, small businesses, and survivors
13:13 How journalism shaped Cindy’s approach to filmmaking
15:09 Bridging the gap between media and film
17:35 The growth of Art Is Alive Film Festival
19:02 Hybrid distribution model and outreach
21:29 Long-term community building through festivals
23:18 Debunking film festival misconceptions
25:22 Creating lasting connections through collaboration
27:01 The evolution of Cin’s Chat Corner
29:07 Cindy’s work with Holocaust survivor Ben Lesser
31:01 Writing Ben’s screenplay and preserving legacy
33:06 Balancing projects after personal loss
35:28 Healing through storytelling
37:43 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:
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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