TheCareerCreator.com interviews Dan Pavlik, Writer, Director and Foundation President
May 11, 2009 by careercreator
Dan Pavlik
Dan Pavlik is a video producer who used his storytelling skills to move from video production to create his own job as a filmmaker.
But he didn’t stop there. Dan also decided to help others by forming a non-profit organization to help other aspiring filmmakers get access to equipment to help make their film ideas become reality.
In this interview, Dan talks about his path to creating his own job and a non-profit.
TheCareerCreator.com: What is your “job”?
Dan Pavlik: Writer/Director/Foundation President
TheCareerCreator.com: Please tell us a bit about your company and what you sell or what service you provide?
Dan Pavlik: I am a corporate video producer by day, writer and aspiring filmmaker by night (or the rest of the day). I started Educational Films of America, a non-profit designed to get students who are aspiring filmmakers practical work experience of a movie set. EFA will ultimately sponsor student projects, giving them an opportunity to start a career.
TheCareerCreator.com: How long have you been in business?
Dan Pavlik: 13 years
TheCareerCreator.com: You had a natural interest in story telling that is now the basis of your job?
Dan Pavlik: I’ve always enjoyed getting a reaction out of a crowd when telling a happy or sad story. As a filmmaker, you thrive on the ability to lead your audience down a prescribed path. When it works the way you’ve planned, it’s like a drug.
TheCareerCreator.com: Tell us a little about how you got started…give us a bit of your Once upon a time…What was the turning point where you decided to turn your interest or hobby into a career?
Dan Pavlik: I was going to school and working as a bartender at a restaurant. I started “producing” the holiday videos for the employee party. I received such positive feedback that I was encouraged to pursue a career in video production.
TheCareerCreator.com: What were some of the materials or technology you needed to get started on a very basic level?
Dan Pavlik: When I got started all you needed was a camera and two VCRs. Non-linear, computer based editing was not even available at the consumer level. This put creativity at a premium.
TheCareerCreator.com: The best part about creating your own job?
Dan Pavlik: The best part about creating my own job is that I don’t miss a school play or a soccer game of my kid’s. I can be completely creative, and still have the freedom to enjoy all the great things about family.
TheCareerCreator.com: What’s the toughest hurdle you’ve encountered in creating your own job…and how you overcame it?
Dan Pavlik: The toughest hurdle is the same ‘ol story – getting started. The only way to overcome it is good planning and hard work. People think they are gonna get rich quick and enjoy self-employment. Such a mistake. In the beginning, it takes working a side job to supplement your income, working long hours and missing out on lots of fun. But the rewards are great!
TheCareerCreator.com: Any words of wisdom or encouragement to anyone wanting to create their own job?
Dan Pavlik: Just like I said above, plan, plan, plan. Have a reserve of cash and/or a way to pay your bills in the beginning. Don’t take no for an answer, especially when people tell you “It can’t be done”.
TheCareerCreator.com: Any favorite resources you recommend to other entrepreneurs?
The internet. You can find any answer there. Use email and ask a lot of questions. Experts love to answer questions from up-and-comers!
More About This Company:
Founder: Dan Pavlik
Company Name: Private: SouthPaw Productions; Non-profit: Educational Films of America
Products or service offered: Writer and Director
Website: www.NominatedTheMovie.com
Additional contact information: www.twitter.com/nominated
Awards and special recognition received by Dan Pavlik: Multiple “Telly” award winner; semifinalist in the 2008 Nicholl Fellowship for Screenwriting
Thanks, Dan, for taking time to tell us about your goals to tell your own stories through film and to help others do the same. We know future film entrepreneurs will find your advice very encouraging!
~TheCareerCreator.com
