Hi everyone,
I’m a film and TV school graduate (editing & script supervision) who somehow ended up in software engineering… and stayed there for over 25 years!
In late 2024, I decided to return to my first passion and launched my own company to support indie genre films.
By day, I’m a full-time engineer; by night and weekends, I’m building my future in film — learning and growing through real projects.
I started by participating in a crowdfunding campaign, then made my first real (and small) investment in an indie horror film.
I’m now working as a sales representative for a documentary aimed at TV and VOD channels — my first contract!
I’m currently following two new projects — an indie horror feature and a sci-fi series evolving into a feature film — while working on building the skills needed to properly get involved as a helpful associate and/or executive producer.
Any advice or guidance would be very welcome!
Thank you all and nice to meet you!
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Hi, Stephanie T. Heden. Welcome to the community. Here's a blog that'll help you navigate Stage 32 and connect with creatives and industry professionals: www.stage32.com/blog/how-to-successfully-navigate-the-stage-32-platform-...
Congratulations on launching your own company! And congratulations on all the progress with your projects!
Members in the Producing Lounge might be able to give you advice and guidance (www.stage32.com/lounge/producing)
And Stage 32 is having a free Community Open House tomorrow at 12:00 pm PT / 3:00 pm ET. You'll discover ways to build real industry connections (producers, directors, etc.), learn how to navigate the platform, get tips on how to maximize everything Stage 32 has to offer, and be able to ask questions live. It's an opportunity to ask for advice and guidance about getting involved as a helpful associate and/or executive producer. You can register by emailing Edu@Stage32.com or register here: www.stage32.com/education/products/stage-32-community-open-house-webcast
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Thank you Maurice!
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Hey Stephanie T. Heden and welcome to our Stage32 platform and our family of creatives! Interested in finding out more about you so I will check out your CV!
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What a great way to start investing in projects at a small scale and develop your portfolio, Stephanie T. Heden
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You're welcome, Stephanie T. Heden. What Horror film did you invest in if you don't mind me asking?
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Thank you Pat and Geoffroy!
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Maurice, the film is "Devoted" by Richard J. Bosner, currently in post-production.
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Great leap! I asked for an add!
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Thank you Jon!
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Great to meet you Stephanie T. Heden ! And welcome back to your passion! I love how you found a way to utilize your strength to contribute to the industry - very smart!
Now, when you say “genre” indie films, is there something in particular you look for? I’m not a horror fan, but I do like a good mystery/thriller, and love SciFi.
Advice? it depends on what more you’re hoping to do - you’re already rocking right along! definitely check out the Financing Lounge and the Distribution Lounge here on Stage 32!
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I just read the summary for Devoted on IMDb, Stephanie T. Heden. It sounds interesting. I'm looking forward to seeing it!
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Hi Karen,
Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement. It really means a lot as I’m just getting started on this journey!
About “genre” films: I really love sci-fi. It’s my favorite!
I also love fantasy, supernatural thrillers, and psychological horror. I’m drawn to strong emotional stories, not just gore or jump scares.
I also really enjoy movies that flirt with genre elements (supernatural, fantastical, sci-fi) without fully crossing over into them, and those that blend different genres.
Thank you for the tip about the Financing Lounge and Distribution Lounge - I’ll definitely check them out!
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Maurice, me too! Can't wait to see the movie! :)
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I'm also looking forward to staying in contact and seeing the projects your company makes, Stephanie T. Heden!
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Hi Stephanie T. Heden, welcome to Stage 32! I’m Ashley, the Head of Community here. I love your story, it’s so inspiring to hear how you’re building your path back into filmmaking while balancing a full-time career. That dedication and passion really shines through!
It sounds like you’re making some incredible moves already between crowdfunding, investing, and now stepping into sales representation and producing. You might want to explore the Producing Lounge here to connect with other indie filmmakers and producers:
https://www.stage32.com/lounge/producing
Also, we’re hosting a free Stage 32 Community Open House webcast today at 12:00 pm PT, where we’ll be diving into how to navigate Stage 32 and use all of the resources available to help grow your career. You can register or catch the replay here:
http://www.stage32.com/education/products/stage-32-community-open-house-...
Excited to see what you build next!
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Thank you, Ashley! I've just attended the webcast. It was very helpful!
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Wow. What an incredible journey! It sounds like you're taking the right steps. As someone who strayed away from my creative side (but never truly left) and went into tech for the last 7+ years, I can definitely understand you. I wish you good luck at getting back to your passions and would love to see where your journey takes you.
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Thanks, Ryan! I’ve got a lot to learn, and I’ll be learning on the job—just like I did in my current career in IT :)