Meet Yanli Feng

We were lucky to catch up with Yanli Feng recently and have shared our conversation below.

Yanli, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?

In the environment of film production, I have greatly developed my resilience by observing those around me and gaining hands-on experience in different production teams. Every film project, regardless of its size, is always full of uncertainties and challenges, from pre-production to shooting. Filmmaking is not just about artistic creation; it’s an endeavor involving many people and logistical aspects. There are always unexpected situations that arise, and as a producer, I’m the one who cannot break down or run away. I need to be the pillar holding the entire project together and supporting the team. I believe my experiences as a producer have shaped the calm and emotionally stable person I am today.

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?

As a freelance producer, my role involves overseeing and coordinating various aspects of film, TV, and commercial productions—from the initial concept to the final product. What excites me most about this work is the dynamic nature of each project. Every production, whether a narrative film or a commercial, presents its own creative challenges and logistical complexities. This constant need for problem-solving and adaptability keeps things incredibly engaging, as no two days are the same.

What makes this field particularly special to me is the collaborative effort behind every project. I get to work alongside talented teams of writers, directors, actors, and crew members, bringing a shared vision to life. Being a producer means I have the privilege of shaping the project both creatively and strategically, which is immensely rewarding.

As for what’s new, I’m currently preparing to establish my own production company, with several like-minded investors who share my vision and are ready to support its growth. In addition to film and TV work, I’ve also been actively involved in commercial production, balancing both creative storytelling and brand-focused content. Looking ahead, my upcoming projects include short dramas, commercials, and vertical short dramas tailored for mobile audiences. I’m also exploring international partnerships to bring more diverse stories to the screen, so there are a lot of exciting developments on the horizon!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that had the most impact on my journey as a producer are:

1. Adaptability: The ability to stay flexible and adjust plans when things inevitably change is crucial. In film and TV production, unexpected challenges—from weather delays to last-minute talent changes—are common. Adaptability allows you to remain calm under pressure and find creative solutions quickly. For those starting out, I recommend embracing uncertainty and learning to pivot when necessary. Practicing problem-solving in small, controlled scenarios can build this skill over time.

2. Collaboration: Production is a highly collaborative field. Understanding how to work with a diverse range of people—whether it’s the director, cast, or crew—is key to ensuring the success of any project. Being a good listener and communicator can significantly improve your working relationships. For those early in their journey, I suggest focusing on interpersonal skills and learning how to manage different personalities on set. Networking with industry professionals and shadowing experienced producers can also help develop your collaboration abilities.

3. Leadership and Decision-Making: As a producer, you’re often the person responsible for making critical decisions that affect the entire project. Developing strong leadership skills and confidence in decision-making is essential. Early on, you might not have all the answers, but learning to trust your judgment and making informed choices will come with experience. For beginners, I recommend taking on small leadership roles, whether in school projects or independent productions, to build these skills.

Advice for those starting out: Be proactive in seeking opportunities that allow you to practice these skills in real-world situations. Volunteering on sets, participating in workshops, or finding a mentor in the industry are great ways to accelerate your growth.

To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?

One of the most impactful things my parents did for me was encouraging me to follow my dreams, even when it meant stepping out of a stable and secure life. Growing up in a small town in southern China, I initially became a teacher after graduating, enjoying a steady income and a predictable life. However, I had always nurtured a deep passion for film, which began during my undergraduate years. This dream of pursuing a career in film seemed far-fetched, especially with the prospect of leaving behind everything familiar to move to a foreign country.

When I was at a crossroads, unsure whether to abandon my stable career and start over in the U.S., my parents gave me unwavering support. My mother, in particular, told me something that has stayed with me: “In life, you must always have dreams and work hard to pursue them.” Her words deeply moved me, giving me the strength to take that leap of faith. I eventually realized my dream by coming to Hollywood to study film production, and I’ve now begun working on projects as a producer.

Their belief in me, despite the uncertainties, was a source of tremendous courage and motivation. It was their encouragement that allowed me to embrace the unknown and pursue something I truly loved. I will always be grateful for that push, and it has shaped not only my career but also how I approach life with optimism and persistence.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Yanli Feng

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems,
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Ignoring the Naysayers

Almost everything that’s changed the world in a positive way has been an unreasonable idea.

Thriving Through Adversity & Overcoming Mental Health Challenges

“After every storm, there is a rainbow. If you have eyes, you will find it.

Where do you get your resilience from?

Resilience is often the x-factor that differentiates between mild and wild success. The stories of