We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mike Lindle a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Mike, so happy to have you on the platform and I think our readers are in for a treat because you’ve got such an interesting story and so much insight and wisdom. So, let’s start with a topic that is relevant to everyone, regardless of industry etc. What do you do for self-care and how has it impacted you?
In the dynamic world of visual media, where every frame tells a story, maintaining a sharp creative edge and fostering a resilient mindset is crucial. As the owner of Framework Films, my journey toward professional growth has been intertwined with a commitment to holistic self-care, navigating the bustling energy of Los Angeles.
Embracing the Coastal Balance:
Living in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, surrounded by the rhythmic waves of the Pacific, has provided a unique backdrop for my self-care journey. I’ve found solace and rejuvenation in the art of surfing along the iconic shores of Venice Beach. The act of riding the waves not only serves as a physical workout but also acts as a form of meditation, allowing me to disconnect from the demands of the creative industry and reconnect with nature. The salty breeze and the endless horizon serve as a reminder that balance is not just a concept but a tangible force that shapes both my personal and professional life.
Pounding the Pavement:
Complementing the calming embrace of the ocean, I’ve incorporated a dedicated running routine into my weekly schedule. The vibrant Venice boardwalk provides a diverse backdrop for my runs, each step propelling me toward a healthier physical and mental state. Running, for me, is not merely a fitness regimen but a mindful practice that clears the mental clutter, fostering creativity and resilience in the face of challenges.
Discipline in Routine:
Balancing the chaos of the creative industry demands a structured approach to self-care. I’ve established a weekly gym routine, where the hum of machinery and the clink of weights create a symphony of focus. This routine, though physically demanding, serves as a foundation for discipline, resilience, and consistency, qualities that transcend into the professional sphere.
Fueling the Body and Mind:
Recognizing the symbiotic relationship between physical health and mental well-being, I’ve prioritized effective and healthy meal prep. The fuel I provide my body directly impacts my energy levels and cognitive function. As a result, I’ve cultivated a habit of mindful eating, ensuring that each meal is a nutritious investment in my overall well-being.
Impact:
This holistic approach to self-care has had a profound impact on my effectiveness as a professional in the creative industry. The amalgamation of coastal serenity, urban vitality, structured fitness routines, and mindful nutrition forms a tapestry of balance. This balance, in turn, enhances my focus, fuels creativity, and fortifies resilience. The ability to navigate the ebbs and flows of the industry with a centered mind and a healthy body has become a cornerstone of my professional journey.
Outro:
In the vibrant mosaic of Los Angeles, where the cityscape meets the ocean’s edge, my commitment to balanced self-care stands as a testament to the belief that personal well-being is not a luxury but a strategic necessity in the pursuit of professional growth.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I bring a wealth of experience from my previous employment at Deloitte, where I excelled in managing data analytics projects and overseas teams serving numerous Global Institutions and Fortune 500 clients. My passion for filmmaking sparked during my weekly corporate travels. I filmed specialty UHD B-roll of skylines and scenic landscapes, focusing on aerial, drone, and timelapse cinematography in my free time.
During a transformative gap year, I founded Framework Films and sold my first two contracts to a global brand. Since then, I have served clients like Microsoft, Netflix, Amazon, Chanel, Dior, and Azuki; I haven’t looked back since.
Driven by my creative vision, I turned my eye towards producing marketing initiatives, narrative films, and documentary productions, immersing myself further in the filmmaker track. With a dedication to storytelling and a commitment to excellence, I continue to make a mark in the industry. I blend a corporate consulting, project management, and strategy background with an obsession for emerging camera tech and specialty cinematics. Channeling 10+ years of professional experience into leading production, campaign, and experiential initiatives to craft media that ignite imaginations. I thrive on sparking narratives that connect, inspire, and elevate, transforming communications initiatives and creative marketing goals.
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Embarking on a “Bold Journey” with Framework Films means navigating the exciting intersection of innovation, strategy, and cinematic craftsmanship. As the owner and executive producer of this full-service visual media agency, I take pride in leading a team that transforms client visions into awe-inspiring visual narratives.
Our Core Essence:
Framework Films stands at the forefront of visual storytelling, seamlessly blending creative strategy with cutting-edge production execution. We don’t just create content; we embark on a voyage to discover new creative frontiers, inspiring audiences and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Versatile Expertise:
Whether collaborating with Enterprise, Agency, or Production clients, we are equipped to spearhead production initiatives and supplement teams with seasoned experts. The dynamic blend of strategy and development, coupled with meticulous attention to detail from ideation through final delivery, sets Framework Films apart
Strategic Agility:
At the heart of our visual media agency is an agile approach that permeates both strategy and production cycles. We thrive on delivering exceptional results within tight deadlines, ensuring that each project is successfully executed and aligned with our client’s objectives.
Award-Winning Talent:
Our in-house roster contains credentialed marketers, cinematographers, and Hollywood production talent. This collective expertise positions Framework Films as an award-winning powerhouse capable of delivering impactful campaigns and experiences.
Innovation Unleashed:
We pride ourselves on proficiency in emerging methodologies and custom cinema technologies.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on the journey with Framework Films, three pivotal elements have been instrumental in navigating the creative industry and fostering our growth and disruption.
Client Service and Professionalism:
Coming from a background in Big 4 Corporate Consulting, legal contracting, and team leadership/management, I’ve recognized the paramount importance of client service and professionalism. These experiences have been invaluable in differentiating our services and ensuring a top-notch client experience. Upholding the highest standards, delivering on commitments, and exceeding client expectations has been foundational to our success. My advice to those early in their journey is to prioritize building a strong foundation in client service. Seek mentorship from senior leaders who can provide guidance and invest in your longstanding professional development.
Staying Ahead of Trends and Understanding Client Goals:
In the ever-evolving landscape of the creative industry, staying ahead of trends is not just an advantage; it’s a necessity. Understanding and refining client goals based on marketing best practices and industry trends have been key to our relevance and success. This involves continuous learning, keeping up-to-date with emerging technologies, and anticipating shifts in consumer preferences. My advice to emerging professionals is to cultivate a curiosity for industry trends, engage in continuous learning, and proactively adapt to change. Embrace a mindset of evolution to remain at the forefront of the creative field.
Specialty Cinematics:
A distinctive aspect that has set Framework Films apart is our focus on Specialty Cinematics. Offering niche and state-of-the-art cinematic services and having access to the best tools and a creative roster in Los Angeles have allowed us to ideate and execute innovative campaigns. This specialization has been a disruptive force in the industry, allowing us to create content that stands out and captures attention. To those starting their journey, I advise exploring niche areas where your passion aligns with market demands. Differentiate yourself by becoming an expert in a vertical, and leverage this expertise to bring a unique perspective to your work
Outro:
The journey with Framework Films has underscored the importance of client service, staying ahead of trends, and specialization. For those embarking on their creative journey, my advice is to embrace excellence in client service, stay attuned to industry trends, and find your niche.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
In the past 12 months, Framework Films has undergone significant growth and improvement, with a strategic focus on developing new assets, videos, production reels, marketing materials, and launching an updated website. Our emphasis on creating scalable and efficient sales pipelines has been a pivotal aspect of this transformative phase.
Years of dedicated effort have been invested in building a robust foundation, including a comprehensive portfolio of services, compelling case studies, and successful client campaigns. Now, our vision extends beyond this groundwork, as we are poised to enter the next stages of growth and scalability.
A central element of this progression involves expanding our outreach capacity. We are strategically using outreach, advertising, and marketing strategies, coupled with our revamped online presence, to elevate our discoverability in the creative industry. This approach aligns with our commitment to delivering the very best services to our creative allies, clients, partnering agencies, and production companies.
In addition to our strategic initiatives, Framework Films created our first Short Film in 2023, diving into the creative narrative space and marking a significant milestone in our growth trajectory. We embraced the challenge of fully producing and directing a 16-minute creative narrative short film that reflects our commitment to pushing boundaries. This compelling project is currently being submitted to the 2024 film festival circuit. The exploration of narrative storytelling not only demonstrates our versatility but also underscores our dedication to weaving captivating tales that resonate on both artistic and emotional levels. This exciting endeavor showcases our passion for storytelling beyond the commercial realm, reinforcing Framework Films as a multifaceted creative force in the industry.
This past year has been a period of evolution and refinement, marked by a proactive stance towards growth and communications. By developing new assets, refining our outreach strategies, and reinforcing our commitment to excellence, Framework Films is positioned for continued and sustainable growth in the creative industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://frameworkfilms.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelindle/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikelindle/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/frameworkfilms
- Other: [email protected]
https://vimeo.com/frameworkfilms
https://youtu.be/nYo8Av1qZ7I
https://youtu.be/FgfnA-_LN4c
Image Credits
Credits: Framework Films, LLC