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

Hi Stefan, what principle do you value most?
HUMANITY, Empathy and Respect are the principles that matters most to me. We all have shared humanity and I wish we would experience and allow that to affect us more. Although, we all have our unique lives, our stories can come in an infinite number of ways and all of them are worthy. I believe we are all of the same energy and we have the power to affect one another. We are much more powerful than we realize. I also think our Humanity is intertwined with our living world, the nature around us. The better others and nature does, the better we will do. Having respect for other people is the foundation of a better society and shows character. I still care about character.

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 like to create art that is a feeling more than anything. We can think and analyze things, but ultimately i think we all want to feel something when experiencing art. Therefore it is very important for me to bring my inner truth to everything that i do. I do this with acting roles, writing, and directing as well. I started a short film festival several years ago called Naked Mountain International Independent (short) Film Festival. We are hosting our third installment in Miami November 16th. The tag line for this festival is “Uncover what it means to be HUMAN” website is www.NMIIFF.com So far I have been extremely proud of the films that we have showcased and the energy of the audience. We have screened films from around the world; over 25 countries, and some fantastic films that really conveyed the humanity of people in various places that the audience could FEEL and connect with. Its a very powerful thing.

Its been a long road for me in this artistic career, and one that takes continual refreshing and motivational fuel. Its not an easy road and nothing is given freely. Ive had to do many other jobs to sustain myself while i move forward, and fend off negative naysayers. Through all of this, I have grown to better protect my mental well being. And this touches on now one of my primary views on life and existence. I had a very naive and idealistic view when I was entering into college, one that said ill do what I love and no matter what ill be happy and the money will come. I dont disagree with this now, its just a little simplistic. I am very proud that Ive followed my heart and stayed vigilant on my artistic path. Now, there have been very challenging times, with no money and struggling. Now every step of progress feels especially poignant to me, But also, I do believe that success is an inner integrity and light that comes from being true to ones inner self and that is only something that each person can feel and asses for him/her self. But as I have grown and matured, I have continued to recognize that our inner space, our inner thoughts and feelings we carry in our heart is the measure of success. And this is a continual process that never ends as long as we live. I wish for material and physical prosperity but the greatest work is the internal energy we create and carry and share.

The brand that am building, through my personal work and Naked Mountain Productions, is one of depth of character and Human sincerity. One that wishes to spread light into the world though poring love and empathy into every endeavor and interaction. I wish to spread blessings and to be a vessel for goodness and contentment.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, Im currently in Miami and there are lots of cool things to do and restaurants and bars, etc. It is good to see the usual and main highlights of a place, and then break to the smaller gems. Again I like places with ambience and personality. A lot of times, the “personality” of a place comes from history. And unfortunately, like many places, Miami has gotten so expensive that many smaller cool places are gone.

But anyway, The beach would be a must, of course. That is what makes Miami a destination. I remember when I first come here, driving over the bridge to the beach was awe inspiring. Its a beautiful place.
Then, I would take them to the different areas. We moved to Coconut Grove a couple years ago and its now one of my favorite places in the city. There are many great restaurants and shops, but they also do a lot of cultural and arts events there. My favorite bar/restaurant is ‘Lagniappe’, an wine/beer are with good food that has great live music almost every night and always full of cool people! Next maybe calle ocho, the Cuban corridor and ‘Ball and Chain’ is a great restaurant/bar with live music to get in the mood. I would drive them through Wynwood to see the incredible murals all over. Although I do think Wynwood has lost a little bit of its allure, there are still a few good spots. Happy hour at ‘The Rusty Pelican’ is really nice, overlooking the bay and downtown Miami. One of my favorite restaurants is ‘Prima Pasta’ because its great food and its got a classic Italian ambience with photos lining the walls.

Other than those and many other great places to eat and drink, I would also get out of the city a bit to go on a airboat ride in the Everglades, for instance. Amazing and unique experience. Drive a short way to the Keys. Key Largo is close and has some great restaurants and Coral Reef State Park where one can scuba or take glass bottom boat tours. Or just hang out. Also dont forget museums like the PAMM, The Wolfsonian, SuperBlue and the Rubell Museum, etc. There are also some great theater groups performing around town, such as Miami New Drama.

I always try to get the most out of wherever I am and Miami has given me much more than expected.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My mom was my greatest cheerleader and instilled the love of the arts in me. She made it ok for me to choose and pursue my artistic dreams. She was a musician herself and an advocate for the arts to enrich one’s life.

My wife, Coral, is a huge support in all that I do. She believes in me as an artist and a person, and that is a huge blessing. Its so very important to have support from those closest to us.

My acting mentor, Susan Batson, helped me to refine my artistic ‘instrument’ and highlight the importance in bringing complete TRUTH to a character, story, and in my life.

Website: https://www.nmiiff.com

Instagram: @nmiiff @stefan_rollins @naked_mountain_productions

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefanrollins1/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nakedmountainproductions7907

Other: FLUM on Spotify, Apple Music, etc.

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.