How to Make Indie Filmmaking Sustainable with Erika Arlee and Kristi Ray

“If you get your timeline pushed back, think of it as another year to make the story better.” — Erika Arlee

What does it really take to build a sustainable filmmaking career?

In this episode, Rain sits down with Erika Arlee and Kristi Ray, the powerhouse duo behind Honey Head Films, to explore how they’ve grown a production company that balances passion, purpose, and profit.

They share the story of their debut feature A Song for Imogene, and how they expanded it from a short film into a fully realized, distributed feature while staying true to their vision.

Erika and Kristi break down how they built their brand around authentic Southern stories, women filmmakers, and a collaborative, values-driven approach. You’ll learn how they crowdfunded, built community buy-in, and turned obstacles into creative opportunities.

If you’re dreaming of turning your passion for film into a business that lasts, this conversation is packed with hard-earned wisdom and inspiration.

In this episode, you will learn to:

• Build an authentic film brand that aligns with your values and attracts the right collaborators.
• Create momentum around your project by involving your community early and often.
• Balance client work with creative projects so your passion stays alive while paying the bills.
• Approach collaboration strategically to find the partners who can help you grow.
• Treat your indie film like a startup by thinking about your audience and exit strategy from the start.

Follow Honey Head Films on:

• Instagram
• Facebook

Or visit their website HERE!

*** A Song for Imogene is now on Amazon Prime!

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit my website rainbennett.com, or

Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab 

Subscribe to my Youtube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.