Today we’d like to introduce you to Shonda Harris
Hi Shonda, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
“My journey began in the vibrant entertainment scene of Southern California. Born and raised in this dynamic environment, I was captivated by the allure of showbiz from a young age. At just 12 years old, I had the incredible opportunity to dance for Michael Jackson and The Jackson Family, a milestone that profoundly influenced my future in the entertainment industry.
My passion for performance extended to DJing, and by the age of 15, I was already spinning records at adult parties. Seeking new horizons, my family moved to Austin, Texas, where my breakdancing skills quickly gained local recognition.
After high school, I decided to explore my culinary passions. I enrolled in Le Cordon Bleu, where I developed a deep appreciation for the art of cooking. This phase of my life led me to Dallas, Texas, where I co-founded a DVD magazine that showcased the vibrant hip-hop culture of the time. Each project I undertook was a learning experience that fueled my creative vision.
Transitioning from magazine publishing to filmmaking, I poured my heart and soul into my first movie, “A Better Lyfe.” The film delved into the tragic story of my best friend’s daughter and her disabled uncle, both of whom were murdered. Despite the gravity of the crime, the incident received minimal news coverage, prompting me to create a film to shed light on their story. My debut film was a heartfelt endeavor, and although it was my first foray into filmmaking, it resonated deeply with a sold-out audience during SXSW in Austin, Texas.
Determined to further develop the narrative, I have written several episodes to turn “A Better Lyfe” into a compelling series. My commitment to the project reflects my dedication to honoring the memory of my loved ones and highlighting social issues that often go unnoticed.
Continuing my cinematic journey, I released my next film, “Tatted Souls,” which has gained significant attention on platforms like Amazon Prime and Tubi. My focus on crafting compelling narratives and connecting with viewers on an emotional level has been central to my work.
I am also dedicated to empowering aspiring filmmakers, offering guidance on breaking into the industry and streaming their movies for profit. My instructional books, aimed at helping filmmakers succeed financially, will soon be available on Amazon.
In addition to my work in film, I have been involved with Austin Public Studios as a television producer. I co-produced the longest-running show at the station, “Magic Video,” for its final two years. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, I have continued to produce shows, contributing to the studio’s success.
Beyond entertainment, I am an entrepreneur. I own Talent Beyond Belief Studios and the Garden of Eden Infusion Café, known for its herb-infused pain relief lotion and exceptional catering and personal chef services. My culinary creations are celebrated for their flavors and healing properties, making me a valued member of the community.
My journey is a testament to my dedication, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. From dancing for legends to producing films and running successful businesses, I strive to inspire and uplift those around me. With numerous projects on the horizon, I look forward to making a meaningful impact in the entertainment, culinary, and business worlds.”
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey has been anything but smooth. It often feels like every accomplishment is followed by a tragedy. I lost both of my grandparents, who raised me, within a year and a half of each other. After my grandfather passed, I moved back to California and took a year and a half off to care for my grandmother.
During this time, I faced my own health crisis. After a serious surgery, I didn’t allow myself the proper time to heal and quickly resumed my caregiving duties. This led to a severe infection that landed me in the hospital for three weeks, including three days in the ICU. I had to relearn how to walk. Tragically, my grandmother passed away just two months after I was discharged.
In between films and sometimes even while filming, I experienced periods of homelessness. Despite these hardships, my passion for filmmaking never waned. I juggled various app gig jobs to fund my projects and keep my dreams alive. While I’ve had very little outside funding, I am deeply grateful to those who have supported me along the way.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I wear many hats, but at my core, I am a chef turned filmmaker with a boundless passion for storytelling. My journey began in the culinary arts, where I mastered the delicate balance of flavors and the artistry of presentation. However, my true calling emerged when I transitioned into filmmaking, a field where I could weave powerful narratives and bring stories to life on screen.
What I’m most proud of is not just what I’ve become, but what I chose not to become. In a world that often tries to pigeonhole you, I’ve embraced versatility and resilience. There are countless qualities that set me apart, but the one that truly stands out—and what people often notice—is my unwavering work ethic. Whether I’m in the kitchen crafting a gourmet dish or behind the camera directing a film, I pour my heart and soul into every project.
It’s this relentless dedication and passion that fuel my creative endeavors and drive me to keep pushing boundaries.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success is a multifaceted concept that varies greatly depending on who you ask. For some, it might mean achieving financial prosperity, for others, it could be attaining personal or professional milestones. In my view, success is inherently tied to the notion of freedom—specifically, the freedom to pursue one’s passions and live life on one’s own terms.
To me, success is the ability to wake up each day and choose to do what I love, without being constrained by external limitations. It means having the autonomy to follow my creative instincts, whether that’s in the kitchen, behind the camera, or in any other endeavor I choose to pursue. This sense of freedom is the cornerstone of my definition of success, as it empowers me to fully express my talents and fulfill my potential.
Freedom is important because it provides the space for growth, exploration, and self-discovery. It allows us to break free from societal expectations and carve our own unique paths. When we have the freedom to make our own choices, we can align our actions with our values and passions, leading to a more fulfilling and authentic life.
Moreover, freedom fosters resilience and adaptability. It encourages us to take risks, learn from our experiences, and continually evolve. In my journey, I’ve faced numerous challenges, but the freedom to pursue my dreams has been a driving force in overcoming obstacles and achieving my goals. It’s this freedom that has enabled me to transition from a chef to a filmmaker, and to continue creating impactful work despite the adversities I’ve encountered.
In essence, freedom is not just a component of success; it is the essence of it. It is the ability to live authentically, to pursue our passions without restraint, and to create a life that is true to who we are. For me, that is the ultimate measure of success.
Pricing:
- Wedding
- Music Video
- Commercial
- Professional 4k Drone Filming
- Let’s Make A Movie
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.talentbeyondbeliefstudios.com | www.tri-cityeventcenter.com | www.austinfilm.org
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talentbeyondbelief/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Talent_Beyond_Belief_Studios
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/shondaharris/sets/the-music-a-better-lyfe
- Other: https://tubitv.com/movies/100005669/tatted-souls
