Barry Walton is a producer, award-winning filmmaker, and published author with over two decades of experience crafting impactful stories across platforms. He has led major productions for global networks like NatGeo and Animal Planet, and worked with premier organizations including the NBA and NHL. His Emmy Award-winning work has taken him from the Himalayas to Italy and across the U.S., always with a focus on execution, budget discipline, and measurable results. As the author of The Unknown Adventure and director of four documentaries available on Amazon Prime, Barry blends his narrative instincts with production expertise to create stories that resonate deeply with audiences.

See his producer bio, documentary films, and his book The Unknown Adventurer.

In this episode of Teach Coach Mentor, host Mike Wish sits down with Emmy-winning filmmaker and author Barry Walton for a raw, honest, and unforgettable conversation about what it really means to pursue your dreams—and survive them. From living on a sailboat with a camera and a dream to navigating the brutal truths of failure, Barry shares his personal hero's journey, one defined by adventure, insecurity, resilience, and transformation.

Together, Mike and Barry explore:

• The power of personal narrative: how the stories we tell ourselves shape our futures
• The myth vs. reality of chasing a dream—and what happens when they collide
• Why suffering is often the secret ingredient of growth and clarity
• Lessons from the hero's journey, from failure in 3rd grade to success behind the camera
• What it means to “fail forward” and how to teach that mindset to others
• Barry’s unorthodox approach to filmmaking, generative learning, and sidestepping formal education
• Balancing passion with self-awareness: knowing when to burn the boats, and when to take the safer path

This isn’t just a story about documentary filmmaking or personal development—it’s a conversation about life’s thresholds, how to cross them, and what’s waiting on the other side. Perfect for teachers, coaches, mentors, and anyone wrestling with their next big leap.

🎧 Listen now to learn why failing might just be your best move forward.