Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lindsay Stidham. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Lindsay, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?
It takes a ridiculous amount of optimism to start new scripts, I believe the power of story is what continues to drive me and help me begin new projects and maintain optimism along the way. That, and I have been lucky enough to seek out incredible collaborators. I am trying to find partnerships for my ideas in their early stages so their final destination remains clear. The optimism also comes from the type of story I am trying to tell. I pursue a story relentlessly when I know it must exist in the world to help others in some way.
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 am focused on writing bold, funny, shocking stories that capture hearts and minds through film and novel form. I am also focused on educating the next generation of filmmakers. I believe my gift in story development and mentorship lies in empowering people to find and hone their voice and in mining the art of original captivating character development. I additionally take on writing mentorship clients and often offer quarterly group classes for those seeking to hone their craft. Follow my social media for additional news on upcoming projects and class offerings.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Pitching, presentation, and adaptation are the three skills I value most in my life and career. I am constantly pitching new stories or new takes on stories or notes to my writing students and clients. Learning how to present a new idea in a palpable way is tantamount. People do not always love the idea of change but stories are constantly growing and changing and being open to it and learning how to both pitch and take a note is incredibly valuable. I also never thought I’d become a deck maker but it’s something I now do constantly. Honing this skill and understanding the art of visual presentation is also crucial when selling an idea across all kinds of industries. Finally, as the business is in a state of flux being adaptable is now crucial. AI is inevitable in part of filmmaking and it could make independent filmmaking much easier. Knowing how to harness technology and add new skills feels more important than ever. The more skills one can acquire the more likely one is to survive and thrive.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am constantly looking for wonderful producers to collaborate with. I have found partnering with a producer on an early stage of a project has given it the greatest chance at success. I am focused on stories rooted in or influenced by reality or current and historical events. I am also often focused on female-driven narratives or characters with conflicting personality traits that make them human. I often write with a comedic bent and I love stories focused on people over plot. I currently have an open project focused in the world of female sports apparel innovation (and one insane inventor’s rivalry) set in the backdrop of the women’s lib movement that was a Nicholls finalist in 2024. Inquire within if you would like to read!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://substack.com/@lindsaystidham
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindsaynellstidham/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsaystidham/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lindsaystidhamfilms
Image Credits
Once a year I photograph myself. This was 2024’s self-portrait.
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.