What does it actually take to build a sustainable career in independent film? In this episode, host Christian Navarrete sits down with filmmaker and photographer Austin Schadewald, founder of Desert Focus Productions, for an unfiltered look at the creative grind—from business hustle to passion projects.

Austin breaks down his journey from shooting beach weddings in San Diego to becoming a go-to real estate media creator in Southern Utah, and how he and his wife Angie turned a simple "I have a camera, what do you need?" mindset into a thriving company.

We also dig into the art side of his work: his experience filming Chicken Coop in a house shared by cast and crew, his approach as a cinematographer collaborating with writers to sharpen their visual storytelling, and the wild story behind Conspiracy 25—a project born in a remote geodesic dome under the strict rules of the Dogma 95 movement.

The episode closes on something bigger than film: Austin's work with the Figmentation Foundation, using cinema to help kids process trauma by becoming the heroes of their own stories.

Whether you're a filmmaker, a creative entrepreneur, or just love hearing how real art gets made, this one's full of practical tips and real heart.

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains occasional mild language. Viewer discretion is advised.

Connect with Austin & Desert Focus:

🌐 Website: DesertFocusProductions.com

📸 Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/desert_focus_productions?igsh=MXU1aWM2amoyMDR5OQ==

Support the Figmentation Foundation: Figmentation Foundation on BetterWorld https://share.google/gtlmSgHgUPnJGs9aT