We were lucky to catch up with Erica Bock recently and have shared our conversation below.
Erica, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear the story of how you went from this being just an idea to making it into something real.
When I started my career, it wasn’t an immediate leap off a cliff into the unknown but a series of small, deliberate steps that gradually built momentum. Each project I took on—creating a video, organizing a fundraising event, or starting a new initiative—felt like a startup, each with its unique challenges and rewards.
The journey began with a single, empowering step: action. I quickly realized that waiting for the perfect moment was a myth. People often delay their dreams, thinking they’ll start when they’re less busy, have more money, or feel more prepared. But that perfect moment rarely comes. I was juggling various responsibilities and didn’t have everything perfectly lined up, but I knew I might never begin if I didn’t start now. This realization, this sense of taking control, was liberating.
The very next day, I began making incremental progress. I reached out to new people, made bold requests, and built relationships with potential collaborators and mentors. It was sometimes awkward and slow, but every conversation and connection added a small piece to the puzzle. I asked for advice and pitched my ideas, and slowly but surely, a support network began forming.
Over the next few months, I kept moving forward, bit by bit. I didn’t wait to have everything perfect. Instead, I produced work with what I had, learning and adapting along the way. This meant accepting that my initial efforts wouldn’t be flawless, but it was far better to have something tangible to show than to be stuck in endless planning. Each imperfection was a learning opportunity, a chance to grow and improve.
Physically, I was often tired, and I sometimes felt stretched intellectually. But I had a plan and a team that believed in the vision. We faced challenges and stress, but we took them one at a time, knowing that each obstacle was a step towards growth. I carried forward the lessons from previous projects with every small victory, continually refining my approach.
One of the most valuable lessons was the importance of execution over perfection. An almost perfect result is infinitely better than no result at all. Each small success built momentum and many projects began taking shape. It was an iterative process with constant feedback loops and adjustments, but with every iteration, I became better at my craft.
In the end, the results came. Not immediately and not without effort, but they came. I gained more confidence and knowledge with each accomplishment, ready to tackle the next project with even greater determination.
Transforming an idea into reality is often a gradual journey, not a grand launch. By taking action, embracing imperfection, and persisting through the daily hurdles, you can breathe life into your vision. Each project becomes a stepping stone, each challenge a lesson, and each success a testament to the power of starting now, rather than waiting for the perfect moment. It’s the persistence, the refusal to give up, that ultimately leads to the realization of your dreams.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
For those who may not be familiar with my work, I’m a passionate video producer and professor with a deep commitment to charitable causes. From an early age, I knew I wanted to tell stories, and I found the perfect medium for me in video. I pursued this passion through my studies, earning degrees in film at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. After completing my education, I realized I wanted to work in my hometown of Cincinnati, OH, and begin my career in video production. My portfolio includes a diverse range of projects, from documentaries to commercials, showcasing my versatility and ability to adapt to different storytelling formats.
My journey has been multifaceted, encompassing professional video production, academia, and extensive work with non-profit organizations. I’ve always had a special place in my heart for charitable efforts, so I’ve devoted significant time to collaborating with non-profits that serve women, children, people experiencing homelessness, those affected by cancer, and arts organizations. These collaborations, which have had a profound impact on the community, not only inspire me but also allow me to merge my storytelling skills with my desire to positively impact the community.
In addition to my work in video production, I’m dedicated to higher education. I teach undergraduate film and media programs at the University of Cincinnati and Ohio. My goal as a professor is to prepare students not only to excel in their craft but also to understand how to market their skills effectively in the industry.
One of the unique aspects of my career is my ability to meld video production with charitable causes. I create compelling video content to promote these non-profit organizations, helping them to raise awareness and funds. As a video producer, I specialize in bringing a client’s vision to life within time, budget, location, and crew constraints. For instance, I once successfully completed a project with a tight deadline by implementing a streamlined production process and leveraging my network of industry professionals. For non-profits, I focus on marketing and fundraising through impactful video storytelling.
What sets me apart is my unwavering belief in the power of video to tell important stories and drive change. Whether I’m working on a commercial project or a non-profit campaign, my aim is to create content that not only resonates but also makes a significant difference in the lives of those it reaches. I’m driven by the belief that every video has the potential to change the world.
I’m most proud of the projects where I’ve successfully combined my love for video production with my charitable causes. These projects include documentaries that shed light on social issues, fundraising videos that inspire action, and promotional videos that help non-profits reach a wider audience. These projects fulfill my creative ambitions and contribute to critical social causes, amplifying voices that need to be heard.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that a commitment to storytelling, education, and community service drives my work. I strive to create high-quality video content that meets your needs, whether it’s to raise awareness, inspire action, or promote your brand. My brand is built on the principles of creativity, compassion, and collaboration, and I look forward to every opportunity to bring these values to life through my work.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
My reputation in the market is firmly rooted in two key principles: reliability and relatability. I have always made a steadfast commitment to follow through on my promises. Upholding my word is not just a part of my approach, it’s a fundamental aspect of who I am. This unwavering consistency has fostered trust with my clients and collaborators, assuring them of my reliability.
At the core of my work philosophy are relationships. When I identify a potential collaborator, I place a high value on nurturing that connection. I firmly believe that products are created for people, and if we don’t genuinely care about the individuals involved, the quality of the product will suffer. By prioritizing people, I ensure that our collaborations are built on mutual respect and understanding, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
My clients and colleagues are familiar with my people-first approach, and it’s a key reason why they choose to work with me. I am dedicated to going above and beyond in all my endeavors, refusing to let any obstacles hinder our progress toward our goals. Whether it’s a tight deadline, limited budget, or challenging circumstances, I am resolute in my commitment to finding solutions and delivering exceptional results, instilling confidence and optimism in our shared outcomes.
My reputation is built on a combination of steadfast reliability and genuine relatability. For instance, my clients and colleagues have consistently praised my ability to deliver high-quality work on time and my approachable nature, which they find easy to relate to. These qualities ensure that I am seen as a dependable professional and someone who truly values and prioritizes the people I work with. This dual focus has been instrumental in building and sustaining my reputation in the market.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
“How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie.
“Etiquette” by Emily Post.
“The Storytelling Animal” by Jonathan Gotschall.
“48 Laws of Power” by Robert Greene.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @beetlebaileybock
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-bock-712630122/
- Other: Link to reel: https://vimeo.com/823504529
