Welcome to the DMF! I'm Justin Younts, and today I’m thrilled to introduce Christine La Monte, who shares her inspiring journey through the film industry. Growing up in Buffalo, New York, Christine was surrounded by art, culture, and cinema, which sparked her lifelong passion for storytelling and filmmaking.

From her early memories of watching films in theaters to working with major studios like Universal and Disney, Christine’s career has been shaped by powerful mentors, unforgettable projects, and a deep respect for the craft. She reflects on the lessons she learned along the way—what it truly takes to create stories that connect with audiences on an emotional level.

Christine believes film is far more than entertainment; it’s a unifying force that brings people together and gives voice to shared human experiences. In this episode, she opens up about her career, the creative risks she’s taken, and the joy of producing work that inspires others.

Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a creative professional, or simply someone who loves movies, Christine’s story offers insight, motivation, and a genuine love for the art of cinema. Join us as we explore the magic behind the scenes and uncover what makes storytelling such a powerful force in our lives.

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:00:12 - Early Life and Love for Arts

00:02:12 - College Life and Exposure to International Films

00:03:43 - Moving to Aspen and First Producing Job

00:04:38 - Career as a Studio Executive

00:07:01 - Working at Universal and Disney

00:08:06 - Moving to New Zealand and Working for TV3

00:08:53 - Joining Orion Pictures

00:10:26 - Working with Directors and Marketing Films

00:12:08 - End of Orion Pictures

00:14:24 - Transition to Producing Plays

00:16:04 - Producing Viva Verde

00:16:51 - Working with Franco Zeffirelli

00:17:13 - Development of Viva Verde

00:17:46 - Viva Verde's Impact and Recognition

00:19:06 - The Power of Intergenerational Exchange

00:20:06 - Film Distribution and Outreach

Welcome to the DMF! I'm Justin Younts, and today I had the pleasure of speaking with Kris Keppeler, an audiobook narrator, voice actress, and writer. Kris shared her fascinating journey from growing up in the snowy Midwest to exploring the arts and finding her passion in acting and voiceover work. She opened up about her experiences moving from Ohio to Michigan and then to Washington State, where she discovered a love for the arts that would shape her career. Kris's story is one of resilience and determination, as she faced discouragement in her singing journey but persevered to find her voice. We discussed her transition from stage acting to film and voiceover, and how her background in opera has influenced her work. Kris also shared insights into her creative process, her love for storytelling, and her passion for helping others through her podcast and YouTube channel. If you're curious about the world of voice acting or looking for inspiration to pursue your dreams, this episode is for you! Tune in to hear Kris's incredible story and learn how you can transform your life through the arts.

00:00:00 - Introduction and Greetings

00:00:21 - Early Life and Moving Experiences

00:03:45 - Interest in Arts and Initial Challenges

00:05:28 - Journey into Acting and Training

00:10:00 - Experience with Improv and Challenges

00:12:57 - Education and Career Shift

00:14:21 - Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking and Love for Acting

00:16:22 - Transition into Film Acting

00:17:00 - Challenges of Transitioning from Stage to Film

00:20:16 - Transition into Voice Acting

00:20:57 - Challenges and Techniques in Voice Acting

00:22:33 - Role Preparation and Character Building

00:27:08 - Incorporating Singing Skills into Voice Acting

00:27:33 - Experience with Opera

00:29:40 - Transition into Chris Keppler's Company and Narration

00:31:35 - Transition into Audiobooks

00:31:46 - Creating a Home Studio

00:32:29 - Working with Voice Fatigue and Studio Preferences

00:34:18 - Creation and Evolution of Podcast

00:37:05 - Challenges and Learning Experience in Audio Editing

00:40:53 - Exploring Different Genres and Creating Children's Shorts

00:44:14 - Exploring the Potential of AI in Content Creation

00:46:50 - YouTube Channel and Future Plans

00:47:57 - Venturing into Writing a Book

00:48:28 - Writing Process and Memoir Creation

00:49:31 - Affection for Animals and Childhood Experiences

00:50:52 - Future Plans and Monetization

00:53:32 - Daily Routines and Meditation

00:59:09 - Reading, Listening and Watching Preferences

01:03:41 - Contact Information and Conclusion

Here is her website:

https://www.kriskeppeler.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf34F6oBy2VEGbLYXHlot2sPgvaGIaIf8qAKbqbVtqHzK1-eIMwAwDRng0KEw_aem_ITCHIEhwWKr_memIv26Zbw

https://www.instagram.com/kriskeppeler

Check out her YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBpQqs-cpq3z7FLcVTrf0Tw

Welcome to the DMF! I'm Justin Younts, and today we're diving into the world of YouTube monetization. Is there something you want to accomplish on YouTube that you haven’t done yet? Many creators feel that way — including Kris Keppeler, who joins me to share her own goals and experiences in content creation.

Kris talks about expanding her platform through writing a book, growing her podcast, and creating new forms of engaging content. She’s driven not just by monetization, but by a deep desire to tell meaningful stories and shine a light on issues she cares about, including women’s rights.

She also shares how her love for animals helped her cope with childhood trauma, adding a powerful emotional foundation to the stories she tells. For Kris, content creation isn’t just a career — it’s a way to connect, heal, and inspire others.

We discuss the importance of finding a personal routine, whether it’s caring for pets, meditating, or carving out time to create. Kris emphasizes that everyone has their own rhythm, and the key is working with your natural flow, whether you're an early riser or a night owl.

If you’re navigating the challenges of YouTube growth and monetization, this episode is full of insight and inspiration. Join us as we explore the realities of being a creator and the joy that comes from sharing your passion with the world.

Don’t forget to check out Kris’s YouTube channel and her upcoming projects. Let’s embark on this journey together and make our creative dreams a reality!

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:00:05 - Monetizing YouTube and Blogging

00:00:27 - Writing a Book

00:02:01 - Affection for Animals

00:03:22 - Future Plans

00:05:42 - Retirement Thoughts

00:06:22 - Morning Routine

00:10:07 - Nighttime Routine and Meditation

00:11:26 - Fitness Routine

00:11:41 - Current Reading and Listening

00:16:12 - Contact Information

00:17:09 - Conclusion

Here is her website:

https://www.kriskeppeler.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf34F6oBy2VEGbLYXHlot2sPgvaGIaIf8qAKbqbVtqHzK1-eIMwAwDRng0KEw_aem_ITCHIEhwWKr_memIv26Zbw

https://www.instagram.com/kriskeppeler

Check out her YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBpQqs-cpq3z7FLcVTrf0Tw