Podcasts In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, we welcome Scilla Andreen, an accomplished film director, and CEO of Impactful. Just in time for Mental Health Awareness Month, she and Dr. Wendy Amato delve into Scilla’s journey as a filmmaker, exploring her experiences and the inspiration behind her films Angst, Like, Race to be Human, and Upstanders. But what sets Scilla apart from other filmmakers is her unique approach to tough topics.
Scilla has gamified difficult subjects, introducing the Creative Coping Toolkit to help people navigate through the challenges of mental health and other critical issues. She has also been instrumental in bringing mental health to the forefront of conversations in education, providing a platform for young people to share their stories and break down the stigma surrounding mental illness. In this podcast, we explore Scilla’s incredible journey, her approach to filmmaking, and her impact on the world around her. So, grab a coffee, sit back, and join us for an insightful and inspiring conversation with Scilla Andreen.
Our Guest
Scilla Andreen is CEO & Co-Founder of IMPACTFUL and an award-winning Producer, Director, and Emmy nominated Costume Designer. She has produced topical films such as Angst, LIKE, The Upstanders, and RACE to be Human, often tackling the tough topics of race and racism, anxiety, and the effects of social media on our mental health. A mother of 6, she resides with her husband Eric in Seattle WA. She has spoken on numerous panels at Sundance, SXSW, Women in Film, etc., and is on a mission to change the world with film.
Our Host
Dr. Wendy Amato earned her Master’s in Education and Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Virginia. She holds an MBA from James Madison University. Wendy began teaching in 1991, has served as a Middle School Administrator, and still teaches at UVA’s School of Education. She has delivered teacher professional development workshops and student leadership workshops in the US and internationally. Wendy and her family live near Charlottesville, Virginia.
Resources for Continued Learning
In this episode, Scilla and Wendy talk about the Creative Coping Toolkit (CCT), an online learning platform built around IMPACTFUL’s mental health film collection and designed to bring about deeper learning, engagement, and impact through expanded programming and support services. The CCT is available for schools, businesses, and non-profits. Find out about how you can bring the Creative Coping Toolkit to your organization here.
Be sure to follow IMPACTFUL on social media to hear about their latest films and programs, and check out Teaching Channel’s free teacher resources to hear about our quarterly free screenings of IMPACTFUL films and accompanying panel discussions.
