Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Michael Boidy. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Michael, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
The most important project I’ve been part of is Heart Beat documentary, a film that explores the profound healing power of music and the science behind sound. I am deeply involved in this project, serving as the director, cinematographer, and producer, working alongside a small but incredibly talented team of producers and filmmakers.
My journey in life took a twist and this project began on April 15, 2012, when I survived a horrific helicopter crash in Guatemala. The crash left me with a broken back and significant facial injuries, requiring immediate spinal and facial surgery. My recovery in a Guatemalan hospital stretched over a month, providing me with ample time to reflect on life and my purpose on this earth. Through this period, I experienced a profound sense of gratitude for simply being alive, for the healing process, and for the unwavering support from my friends and family.
A year and a half later, a good friend took me to Burning Man, a music and arts festival in the desert for a week. This experience catalyzed a complete physical and emotional transformation within me, akin to hitting a reset button on my well-being. This pivotal moment reshaped my perspective on the power of music, sound, community, nature and energy itself.
Driven by this newfound understanding, I dedicated myself to researching sound as a healing modality. This journey led to the creation of Heart Beat, where I have met countless individuals who have also experienced the theraputic benefits of music. In 2018, I had the privilege of speaking at TEDx on the topic “Music Is Medicine,” sharing my insights and experiences with a broader audience.
Heart Beat is not just a documentary; it is a manifestation of my journey from near-death to a new purpose. It embodies my mission to share the healing power of music with the world and to inspire others through the stories we tell in this film.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My journey into the world of filmmaking began with my education at San Diego State University, where I graduated in 2002 with a degree in Communications, emphasizing Television, Film, and New Media. After graduation, I worked with many of my colleagues, working my way up in the film industry, starting in the camera department. In 2007, I had a mentor / helicopter film pilot for major films and commercials by the name of Peter McKernan, who helped get me into aerial filming, which opened doors to numerous exciting projects later on.
Over the years I have had the privilege of filming for prestigious projects such as National Geographic’s Great Migrations, the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, and the Royal Tour series featuring Presidents and Prime Ministers from various countries. My work also includes major reality shows like The Bachelor, Survivor, Hell’s Kitchen, Alone, and Stranded with a Million Dollars. These diverse experiences have provided me with a deep understanding of the filmmaking process and honed my skills in various aspects of production.
In 2012, my career and life took an unexpected turn when I survived that devastating helicopter crash in Guatemala. During my month-long recovery, I reflected deeply on my purpose and the direction of my life. This period of introspection sparked a profound sense of gratitude and a desire to find meaning in my experiences.
A year later, I attended a music and arts festival in the desert, which led to a transformative physical and emotional shift. This experience reshaped my understanding of the healing power of music and sound, inspiring me to dedicate my life to sharing this knowledge with the world. In 2014, I expanded my aerial filming expertise by becoming an FAA-certified drone pilot, further enhancing my capabilities in capturing stunning visuals from the sky.
My Work and What Sets Me Apart
As a filmmaker, I direct, shoot, and produce films that explore powerful subjects like the healing power of music and the science behind sound. My most significant project to date is the Heart Beat documentary, a film that delves into how music and sound can aid in healing and transformation. Working with a talented team of producers and filmmakers, we bring stories to life that highlight the profound impact music can have on individuals’ well-being.
What sets me apart in this industry is my unique perspective and personal journey. My experiences, from working on high-profile projects to surviving a near-death experience, have given me a deep understanding of the transformative power of music and sound. I am passionate about telling stories that not only entertain but also educate and inspire.
Proud Accomplishments and Core Messages
I am most proud of the Heart Beat documentary and the opportunity to speak at TEDx in 2018 on the topic “Music Is Medicine.” These milestones represent the culmination of my efforts to share the healing potential of music with a broader audience.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that my work is driven by a genuine passion for helping others discover themselves. My film work aims to inspire, educate, and create a positive impact on viewers’ lives. I believe in the profound ability of music to transform and heal, and I am committed to bringing stories like this to light.
Through my work, I strive to create a world where the therapeutic benefits of music are recognized and embraced, offering hope and healing to those who seek it.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
### A Story of Resilience from My Journey
In 2012, while filming in Guatemala, I experienced a life-altering event that tested my resilience in unimaginable ways. During an aerial shoot, the helicopter I was in crashed, leaving me with a broken lower back and severe facial injuries. The crash was a near-death experience that changed my life forever.
The aftermath of the crash was a challenging period. I underwent immediate spinal and facial surgery and spent over a month in a Guatemalan hospital, slowly recovering. The physical pain was immense, but the emotional and psychological toll was equally profound. During this time, I had plenty of moments to reflect on my life, my career, and my purpose. Despite the overwhelming circumstances, I found a deep sense of gratitude for simply being alive and for the support of my friends and family.
My recovery journey was long and arduous, but I was determined to come out stronger. A year and a half after the crash, a friend invited me to a music and arts festival in the desert. Initially, I was hesitant, unsure if I was ready for such an experience. However, that week in the desert turned out to be transformative. The power of music and the collective energy of the festival-goers created an environment of healing that I had never experienced before. It was as if a reset button had been pressed, and I felt a profound physical and emotional shift.
This experience sparked a new direction in my life. I began to explore the healing power of music and sound, leading to the creation of the Heart Beat documentary. My journey into aerial filming, starting in 2007 and evolving into drone piloting in 2013, provided me with the skills and insights necessary to tell these stories effectively. Despite the crash and the challenges that followed, I continued to work on high-profile projects, such as National Geographic’s Great Migrations, the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, and various reality shows.
Through it all, my resilience has been my greatest strength. The helicopter crash could have ended my career and shattered my spirit, but instead, it became a catalyst for personal and professional growth. It taught me the importance of gratitude, the power of music, and the necessity of perseverance. Today, I am proud to share my journey through my films, inspiring others to find healing and strength in their own lives.
Where do you think you get most of your clients from?
The best source of new clients for me has been a combination of social media and personal networking. Social media platforms have allowed me to showcase my work, share the progress of my projects, and connect with a broader audience. Through engaging content and regular updates, I’ve been able to reach potential clients who resonate with my focus on the healing power of music and the science of sound.
Personal networking has also been invaluable. Building relationships within the film industry and beyond has opened up numerous opportunities. Whether it’s through industry events, collaborations, or word-of-mouth referrals, my network has been instrumental in connecting me with clients who appreciate and seek the unique perspective and expertise I bring to my projects.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.heartbeatdocumentary.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartbeat_documentary/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeartBeatTheFilm/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-boidy-6a3b72111/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLK8sZIVa91V06LXuSg7JT12ABvGebv6zt&si=C0rKmg6o1J-UpGUH
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/heartbeatspodcast
- Other: https://www.boidyfilms.com
