In episode 157, I sit down with Daril Fannin — Army veteran, award-winning screenwriter, producer, and the founder of KINO — for a raw, energetic conversation about his path from military life to Hollywood and the power of authentic human interaction.

We dive deep into Daril’s upbringing in a fundamentalist Pentecostal cult, his eye-opening introduction to the world of movies, and how storytelling literally changed the course of his life. Daril’s journey from combat medic to making deals with A-list celebrities in the entertainment industry demonstrates exactly what’s possible when we choose to connect with others on a human level to build genuine relationships.

We don’t sugarcoat the grind or the realities of transitioning from the military to an industry as ruthless as entertainment. Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a real way of being and a real strategy for building a fulfilling, sustainable career. Cinema is more than escape; it’s communal, foundational, and instructive. It shapes the very way we see the world. Through Daril’s story, we break down the myth that success in Hollywood is about who you know or luck — it’s about being deliberate with your relationships, relentless in your pursuit, and refusing to settle for transactional exchanges when you can build meaningful human connection instead.

Episode Sponsors:

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Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

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