Meet Cathleen Dean | Producer/Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cathleen Dean and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cathleen, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I yearned for the freedom to explore my creativity and bring unique stories to life through the medium of film. The thought of being able to create something from scratch, to have complete control over the artistic direction, and to share my vision with the world was exhilarating.

Starting my own business was not an easy decision. It meant leaving behind the stability of a steady paycheck and venturing into the unknown. But the thought of spending the rest of my life confined within the walls of a corporate office, suffocating my dreams, was unbearable.

With a leap of faith, I took the plunge into entrepreneurship. I knew it would be a challenging journey, filled with countless obstacles and sleepless nights. But the fire within me burned brighter than ever, fueling my determination to succeed.

I immersed myself in the world of independent film, attending festivals, networking with like-minded individuals, and devouring every piece of knowledge I could find. I surrounded myself with passionate filmmakers who shared my vision and supported my dreams. Together, we formed a tight-knit community, united by our love for storytelling.

As I built my business from the ground up, I faced numerous setbacks and moments of self-doubt. But every time I watched a film I had produced come to life on the big screen, or witnessed the impact it had on its audience, all the hardships seemed insignificant.

My business became a platform for emerging talent, a sanctuary for those who dared to challenge the norms and push the boundaries of storytelling. I provided opportunities for filmmakers who were often overlooked by the mainstream industry, giving them a chance to showcase their unique perspectives and voices.

Today, my business stands as a testament to the power of following one’s passion. It is a constant reminder that life is too short to settle for mediocrity and conformity. Every day, I wake up excited to face the challenges that lie ahead, knowing that I am living my purpose and making a difference in the world of independent film.

So, if you find yourself trapped in a corporate world that stifles your creativity and leaves you yearning for more, I urge you to take that leap of faith. Embrace your passion, follow your dreams, and create a life where every day feels like Friday. Because when you do what you love, success and fulfillment will naturally follow.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am incredibly proud of my Emmy award-winning film, “Wade in the Water: Drowning in Racism.” This project has not only been a personal achievement but has also transformed me into an impact storyteller, using the power of film to bring about positive change.

With “Wade in the Water,” I set out to address a pressing issue that affects communities of color: water safety, drowning prevention, and the joy of swimming. I wanted to shed light on the disparities and systemic barriers that prevent many individuals from accessing swimming lessons and enjoying the water safely.

Through powerful storytelling and compelling visuals, I aimed to engage bipoc communities and encourage them to overcome their fears, learn to swim, and embrace the joy and freedom that comes with being in the water. I wanted to empower individuals to break through the limitations imposed by racism and discrimination, reclaiming their right to enjoy water activities without fear or hesitation.

Receiving an Emmy award for this film was not just a personal achievement; it was a validation of the impact it had on the communities it reached. It served as a reminder that storytelling has the power to inspire, educate, and bring about positive change.

Since the release of “Wade in the Water,” I have been humbled by the response from bipoc communities. I have witnessed individuals who were once afraid of the water now confidently swimming, parents enrolling their children in swimming lessons, and communities coming together to advocate for equal access to water safety education.

The impact of this film has gone beyond the screen, and I am proud to have played a role in empowering individuals and communities to embrace water safety and the joy of swimming. It has reinforced my belief in the power of storytelling as a catalyst for change and has inspired me to continue using my skills as a filmmaker to address important social issues.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to create “Wade in the Water,” I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to make a difference through my passion for filmmaking. I am proud to be an impact storyteller, using my voice and creativity to amplify important messages and create a more inclusive and equitable world.

I look forward to continuing this journey, creating more impactful films, and inspiring change through storytelling. Together, we can break down barriers, promote water safety, and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the joy and freedom of being in the water.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: – Head to Von D Mizell Eula Johnson State Park, Broward’s historical black beach, for a morning of mindfulness, a day of water fun including swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the intercoastal.
– In the evening, visit the Red Rooster for cocktails and dinner. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and dance to the beats of the DJ upstairs.

Day 2:
– Start the day with a traditional Bahamian breakfast at Conch Heaven in Miami.
– Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Wynwood and admire the colorful murals and street art at the Wynwood Walls.
– Catch a movie at the historic Tower Theater on Calle Ocho to experience Miami’s cultural heritage.
– Have dinner at Ball and Chain in Little Havana, enjoying live music and delicious Cuban cuisine.

Day 3:
– Spend the day in Coral Gables, starting with a visit to the stunning Venetian Pool for a refreshing swim.
– Explore the Deering Estate and immerse yourself in the cultural happenings and art exhibitions by resident artists.
– Take a walk down South Beach’s Ocean Drive and capture the obligatory photo in front of the Versace Mansion.
– Visit the Gulfstream for shopping and indulge in delicious ice cream.

Day 4:
– Embark on a beach tour, starting with Hollywood Beach, known for its beautiful sandy shores and lively atmosphere.
– Explore Key Biscayne and enjoy the pristine beaches and stunning views.
– Visit Virginia Key Beach, a hidden gem with tranquil waters and a peaceful ambiance.

Day 5:
– End the trip at Dania Pier’s Upper Deck restaurant, where you can soak up the beautiful beach vista from the outdoor patio while enjoying a delicious fried red snapper meal, before heading to The Hollywood International Airport.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shermaine Lopez, a true friend and believer in my dreams. She saw the fire in my eyes and the determination in my heart, and without hesitation, she offered her support in a way that went beyond mere words of encouragement.

When I shared an early film project with Shermaine, she didn’t just offer kind words or empty promises. She went above and beyond, showing her unwavering faith in me by investing her hard-earned money into my project. It was a gesture that spoke volumes about her character and her belief in my abilities.

Although, in the end, we made the decision not to use her investment, the fact that Shermaine was willing to take that leap of faith with me remains etched in my memory. It was a testament to her trust, her loyalty, and her unwavering support.

Shermaine’s investment was not just a financial contribution; it was a symbol of her belief in my potential. It gave me the confidence to push forward, knowing that someone I respected and admired had placed their faith in me. It served as a constant reminder that I was not alone on this journey, that there were people who believed in me and were willing to invest in my success.

Website: www.cathleendean.com

Instagram: @cathleendeanbcm

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-dean-91081a1/

Twitter: @catdean10

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cathleen.dean

Youtube: https://youtu.be/6SeZljYQ1bQ

Other: https://youtu.be/eR0eaNMjlbk

Image Credits
David I Muir [white shirt/ beach shot]