We recently connected with Dustin Bergmann and have shared our conversation below.

Dustin, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. One of our favorite things to hear about is stories around the nicest thing someone has done for someone else – what’s the nicest thing someone has ever done for you?

The kindest thing anyone has ever done for me was an unexpected act of kindness from a woman I had never met before. At the time, I was going through a challenging period in my life – I had recently gone through a divorce, was burnt out from my career, and found myself in a very dark place mentally.

This woman happened to be a well-known actress who was in town filming a movie. I had been a fan of hers for a while, not just because of her talent but also because of the inspiring and positive thoughts she shared on her social media platforms. I would often express my support for her projects and appreciate her uplifting posts.

Surprisingly, one day she reached out to me, expressing gratitude for my kind words of support. She went a step further and asked if I would like to grab a cup of coffee with her so she could personally thank me. I was astonished by her genuine and unexpected gesture. In that serendipitous meeting, she lent a compassionate ear to my struggles and offered words of encouragement.

What began as a chance encounter evolved into a profound moment that changed my life forever. During our coffee chat, she shared her own experiences and insights, igniting a belief within me that anything is possible, and it’s never too late to pursue one’s dreams.

Fast forward to today, and we’ve been friends for seven years. Remarkably, she continues to be a beacon of inspiration in my life. Her ongoing support and encouragement serve as a testament to the enduring impact of that initial act of kindness. In every interaction and shared moment, she reaffirms the belief in limitless possibilities, making our friendship a source of perpetual inspiration. I am eternally grateful for her role in my life, reminding me that true kindness knows no boundaries and can create ripples of positive change that endure through the years.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

In the dynamic and all too often challenging world of the entertainment industry, my journey as an independent filmmaker has been a picture woven with passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of storytelling. It all began in front of the camera, with a modest role in a short film produced by my college. Little did I know that this small step would be the start of a transformative journey into the realm of filmmaking.

It was on the set of that college project that I forged connections with a group of like-minded individuals who would become the cornerstone of my cinematic endeavors. Embraced by this community of creators, I delved into various roles, donning hats as diverse as grip, gaffer, UPM, 1st AD, and producer. These multifaceted experiences provided me with invaluable insights into the intricacies of film production, each role contributing to the mosaic of skills I would later bring to my directorial endeavors.

Throughout the years, my unwavering goal remained clear: to helm the creative vision from behind the camera. Despite wearing different hats on set, I knew that directing was my ultimate destination. The path to realizing this dream was a gradual ascent, marked by learning curves, setbacks, and persistent determination.

The turning point arrived when I co-founded Crazy Ant Media with my son-in-law, Logan. Together, we cultivated our indie production company into a formidable content creator, with a diverse portfolio that spans a feature-length film, three short films, and two television series, all currently in various stages of development.

Our directorial debut, “Deadlines,” was a pivotal moment that materialized on the big screen at a red carpet event in North Carolina. The film not only showcased our storytelling prowess but also symbolized the culmination of years of hard work and artistic evolution. The thrill of presenting our creation to an audience underscored the realization of a dream long harbored.

Beyond our film projects, Crazy Ant Media expanded its footprint into the realm of podcasts, producing two top-rated shows. One is centered on entertainment, offering a unique perspective on the industry, while the other delves into the critical domain of mental health, fostering important conversations.

As an independent filmmaker, the journey is ongoing, and the canvas of possibilities continues to expand. With each project, I remain committed to pushing boundaries, exploring new narratives, and contributing to the rich tapestry of the entertainment landscape. The road traveled from a small role in a college short film to the helm of Crazy Ant Media has been a testament to the transformative power of passion, collaboration, and an unwavering belief in the art of storytelling.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a filmmaker lies not solely in the stories that I tell, but in the huge impact their work can have on others. The realization that, through my art, I may have provided a guiding light or a moment of solace for someone navigating their dreams is a humbling and deeply rewarding experience. It reinforces the belief that art is not just a personal expression but a communal force capable of fostering dreams, resilience, and the courage to pursue one’s calling. To know that my creations have inspired someone to embark on their own creative journey, to pursue what they love, and to overcome challenges in the process, is the true essence of artistic fulfillment.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

On my creative journey, my mission is to use art as a catalyst for change. I aim to transform uncomfortable topics into meaningful conversations, making the seemingly difficult both accessible and necessary. Through my platform, I aspire to break down barriers, challenge societal norms, and amplify voices often silenced. By navigating the uncomfortable through my art, I hope to contribute to a world where open dialogue and empathy lead to positive transformation.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://crazyantmedia.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyantceo/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustin-m-bergmann-a53b0a185/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/CrazyAntCEO
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEM41V4Z6xCb5uc7Gyk4svg