We’re looking forward to introducing you to Katie Hawkins. Check out our conversation below.
Katie, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think people often underestimate how much heart, strategy and collaboration go into what we do because sometimes, it can feel effortless once a project is released into the world. People see the final video, not the hours spent shaping a story, planning each shot, and collaborating with clients to make sure it reflects their voice and purpose.
It’s easy to assume you just press record, edit a few clips, and hit publish—but filmmaking is so much more than that. Every project starts with strategy: understanding the client’s story, message, and audience. Then comes the technical side—lighting, camera work, sound, editing—all of which take experience, intention and teamwork. It’s a creative, collaborative process from start to finish.
That’s actually my favorite part of filmmaking: you’re never doing it alone. Whether it’s collaborating with a client or working alongside your crew, it’s always a shared effort to bring a story to life.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m the founder and Creative Director of Here For Good Films, where we use storytelling for good. We specialize in blending strategy with emotional impact, creating films that help community-driven organizations and businesses connect with their audiences in meaningful ways. What makes our work unique is our focus on authentic stories that inspire action, foster understanding, and highlight the humanity behind every project.
I’m also the co-founder of The Untold Project: Where stories find their voice, a non-profit that uses the power of story to heal, connect and inspire change. Our first project is a feature documentary, currently in production, with the working title Small Town Mountain Strong. It follows small towns in Western North Carolina as they rebuild after Hurricane Helene devastated the area.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Assumptions can ruin any relationship. How many times have I assumed someone meant something they didn’t say? Whether it was interpreting their tone or filling in gaps with my own ideas, assumptions can really get in your head and build up a wall between you.
Communication is what restores relationships. Even when I catch myself assuming things, I try to approach the person and clarify—just asking, “Hey, is this what you meant?”—because clear, honest conversation can quickly bridge misunderstandings and rebuild trust.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering has taught me perseverance and resilience in a way that success never can. When success comes, there aren’t obstacles to push through. It’s during the hard moments, the setbacks, and the losses that I discover what I’m truly capable of, how to adapt, and how to keep moving forward even when it feels impossible.
Perseverance and resilience are what guide me back to success every time.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
A project I’m committed to is our feature documentary Small Town Mountain Strong. Last year, a hurricane devastated Western North Carolina – including my home town of Old Fort. There was a lot of news coverage right after it happened and at the one year mark. Yet so many families are still rebuilding and towns still waiting on funding to restore infrastructure.
This long-term story of rebuilding in small towns deserves to be told with care, showing not just the immediate aftermath, but the ongoing resilience, courage, and determination of the people working to reclaim their homes, businesses, and communities. It’s a story about perseverance, hope, and the strength of the human spirit—and I’m committed not only to telling it, but to telling it in an authentic, people-first way, no matter how long it takes.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Giving your best, even without recognition, is at the heart of entrepreneurship. When you start your own business or project, there’s no guaranteed applause, no guaranteed reward, and often no one around to validate the effort you put in. Success comes from showing up, doing the work, and committing to excellence because you know it matters—not because anyone is watching.
Entrepreneurship is ultimately built on the ability to keep going and give your best, even when no one praises you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hereforgoodfilms.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hereforgoodfilms
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hereforgoodfilms
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@hereforgoodfilms
- Other: www.smalltownmountainstrong.com
www.the-untold-project.org
