🎬 Passing The Torch: Ryan Curtis – Hollywood Grit, Veteran Storytelling & the Power of Failing Forward 🎬
Welcome to another inspiring long-form episode of Passing The Torch! Host Martin Foster sits down with Army veteran, filmmaker, and creative leader Ryan Curtis for an in-depth conversation about overcoming adversity, veteran advocacy, and carving your own path in Hollywood.
Ryan shares his journey from a small-town upbringing outside of Boston, through his military service—including eight years and two deployments following 9/11—to his breakout as a director in the entertainment industry. Learn how his military background shaped his leadership style, resilience, and passion for storytelling.
In this episode, you'll hear about:
Ryan’s transition from the military into filmmaking and why he believes in flipping the veteran narrative to highlight positivity and success.
The behind-the-scenes creation of his new feature film Hollywood Grit—from neo-noir inspirations, tight budgets, and nailing the perfect tone, to collaborating with celebrated actors like Max Martini.
The importance of failing publicly, the lessons learned from setbacks, and why embracing fear is key to personal growth and creative achievement.
The challenges of making indie films during a turbulent time in Hollywood, the impact of strikes and shutdowns, and the drive required to keep pursuing your passion.
Ryan’s work advocating for veterans in the entertainment industry, his recent government campaigns, and how storytelling can effect real change.
Practical wisdom on mentorship, the value of humor under stress, using film as escapism, and advice for anyone chasing big dreams.
Plus: Fun rapid-fire questions, Ryan’s thoughts on cult classic movies, working with idols like Oprah and Steph Curry, advice to the next generation, and what it means to keep “Passing The Torch” forward.
WATCH TILL THE END FOR: Actionable tips for aspiring filmmakers, artists, veterans, and anyone wanting to break through fear to pursue their true calling.
đź”— Enjoyed this episode? Support Ryan and indie filmmaking by renting or purchasing "Hollywood Grit" on October 21st on all major digital platforms!
#PassingTheTorch #RyanCurtis #HollywoodGrit #VeteranStories #Filmmaking #IndieFilm #RyanCurtisInterview #Podcast #Motivation #overcomingadversity
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🔥 Ryan's Resources
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➡︎ Website: https://www.ryancurtis.us/
➡︎ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-curtis-2431858a/
➡︎ Deployed Media: https://www.deployed.media/
➡︎ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryan32curtis/?hl=en
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Support Passing The Torch
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🎙️Podcast: https://www.passingthetorchpod.com/
🎥YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC04suOPTX3ny_M0aDxmBAXQ
➡︎Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/passing-the-torch/id1338122884
➡︎Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/47ZwWTJWETz5SwEfcuPQwF?si=055366dec7154b3c
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Connect with Passing The Torch!
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Facebook: ➡︎ https://www.facebook.com/torchfoster
IG: ➡︎ https://www.instagram.com/torchmartin/
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QUESTION - What did you take away from this video?
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This video is NOT sponsored.
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⏰ Chapters ⏰
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:14 Career Highlights and Current Projects
04:12 Hollywood Grit: Concept and Themes
07:00 Visual and Emotional Crafting of Hollywood Grit
10:00 Challenges in Filmmaking
12:56 The Role of Failure in Success
16:15 Reflections on Film and Personal Growth
31:39 Navigating Childhood Trauma
34:07 Embracing Life's Impermanence
37:32 The Art of Filmmaking and Storytelling
39:21 The Power of Humor in Tragedy
43:32 Dream Collaborations and Aspirations
49:01 The Importance of Mentorship
52:31 Leaving a Legacy and Inspiring Others
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Audio version with Chapters AND Transcript -
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1946508/episodes/17974372
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Episode Mentions:
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Carey Kight @VeteranMadeCK
Rudy Reyes (Face Your Dragon)
Max Martini
Tyrese Gibson @VoltronRecordz
Kristina Denton @kristina7denton
Jay Visit
Pete Collier
Nick Gomez
Quentin Tarantino
Tony Scott
Jon Hamm
Hugh Jackman
Justin Timberlake
Steph Curry
Oprah Winfrey
Ted Lasso
John Krasinksi
JJ Redick
Justin Folger
Bryan Eliacin
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Quote to open episode:
"The reality of your career is overcoming adversity…and the only way to do that is to fail.” - Tom Brady
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Keywords:
Ryan Curtis, Hollywood Grit, filmmaking, military influence, storytelling, overcoming adversity, creativity, mentorship, authenticity, failure