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Stephen “Dr” love

Producing Your Purpose

In this lecture, students will learn about how to build their career as a producer with award-winning producer Stephen “Dr” Love. Stephen has produced films like the Netflix movie “They Cloned Tyrone” and Stephen Caple’s “The Land,” and he has upcoming projects, including “Shadow Force” and “Notes from a Young Black Chef.” 

Stephen, a Morehouse College and USC Peter Stark Producing Program graduate, walks students through his own experiences of finding his way as a producer. He discusses why it’s important for aspiring producers to identify their purpose and mission and how that is a foundation for whatever they may face in their journey. Stephen recognizes that pain is inevitable when it comes to reaching goals and purposes, which is why he also covers how to recognize pain tolerance.

Students will also learn some tangible steps they can take to figure out their producing path based on lessons and actions Stephen took from his own early experiences. By using these tangible steps and building good professional relationships, students can apply insight to their own journeys.

Producing Your Purpose (Course Trailer)

Introduction: Meet Your Substitute Teacher, Stephen “Dr” Love

Stephen, a Morehouse College and USC Peter Stark Producing Program graduate, walks students through his own experiences of finding his way as a producer. He discusses why it’s important for aspiring producers to identify their purpose and mission and how that is a foundation for whatever they may face in their journey. Stephen recognizes that pain is inevitable when it comes to reaching goals and purposes, which is why he also covers how to recognize pain tolerance.

Module 1 – Finding Your Divine Mission

In this module, students will understand the significance of defining their mission before embarking on their professional endeavors. This lesson delves into the core concept of defining your purpose as a producer, a fundamental building block of a successful career. Stephen's personal experiences underscore the importance of this journey, revealing that finding your purpose can be challenging but rewarding once you get to the other side.

Module 2 – Knowing Your Pain Tolerance

In this module, you will learn about how to properly assess your risk tolerance. You’ll hear about Stephen’s own experiences how observing assistants confined their desks, missing out on vital opportunities, and feeling stuck served as a catalyst for exploring a non-traditional path. Whether it's financial challenges or the emotional toll of choosing the unconventional route, you will learn to navigate and embrace the discomfort while maintaining focus on their unique journey. Stephen's valuable insights on the importance of networking and seeking opportunities, even when not in the ideal position, are also highlighted.

Module 3 – Guerilla Tactics

In this module, you will hear Stephen’s insights about the art of resourcefulness and the power of leveraging available assets, especially when financial means are limited, to bring your creative visions to life. Stephen's own experiences during his graduate thesis, where he transformed a concept into the real-life movie "The Land," serve as a rich source of inspiration and guidance. Throughout the lessons, you will glean key takeaways like being aware of the resources around you, reaching out to the right people when your product is ready to launch, and having your paperwork in order.

Module 4 - The Gravity of Good Relationships

In this module, you will hear about the power of cultivating genuine relationships with peers who are rising alongside you. You will gain insights into the concept of partnering with individuals who can genuinely contribute to your projects, inspired by Stephen’s journey. Your end goal should not just be about attaching yourself or your project to a famous name, it should be about finding collaborators who can enhance your vision through contacts, advice, or fresh perspectives.

Producing Your Purpose: Full Course

Course Resources

Course Resources

Teacher: Cam Kirk

Turning creativity into business