Changing Minds Through Movies | Suzan Beraza & Shae LaPlace | Mountainfilm

What happens when artists, athletes, journalists, and activists come together in a mountain town to change the world? You get Mountainfilm. In this episode, Kara sits down with Festival Director Suzan Beraza and Marketing Manager Shae LaPlace to explore how this Telluride-based documentary film festival sparks global conversations and lasting impact. Suzan and Shae share how they curate more than 100 films each year, why curiosity is the foundation of powerful storytelling, and what’s in store for this year’s lineup, from climate justice to AI. Plus: Kara reflects on what made her own trip to Mountainfilm so unforgettable. Chapters: 00:00 – Meet Suzan and Shae 02:00 – What is Mountainfilm? 05:00 – Suzan’s path to filmmaking 08:00 – Documentary film as a tool for change 10:00 – Themes for this year: AI, climate, and culture 14:00 – What it takes to run a year-round festival 17:00 – How they choose which films get in 20:00 – Beyond screenings: talks, hikes, and community 24:00 – Curiosity as a core value 28:00 – Why you need to attend in person 31:00 – Favorite festival moments 36:00 – What power means to Suzan and Shae 45:00 – How to support and get involved The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices