Episode Description
What does it really mean to make media that matters? And how can creators move beyond views and clicks to create stories that spark real-world change?
On this episode of First Frame, hosts Jennifer Park and Cameron Zinger are joined by Sue Biely, the Executive Director of Story Money Impact, to explore the power of impact-driven storytelling. From documentary films to short-form content, Sue breaks down how creators can design work that doesn’t just inform audiences, but invites them into a deeper conversation that potentially leads to empathy and action. Sue also explains how intention, structure, and design can be the difference between a story that simply raises awareness or actually catalyzes change. The conversation also covers the responsibility creators carry when tackling complex social and environmental issues, and why authenticity and community engagement are essential to meaningful impact.
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Timecodes:
(3:09) - What is Money Story Impact?
(3:53) - What does "media that matters" mean?
(5:16) - Why making media matters is important in Canada
(7:05) - Impact content vs. educational storytelling
(8:47) - What makes content create social change?
(12:40) - Common mistakes when tackling social and environmental issues
(17:43) - What's in your content creator toolkit?
(18:46) - When creators should start designing for impact
(24:20) - How to create impactful content without becoming propaganda
(31:16) - Resources for creators who want to make media that matters
(33:00) - Final reflections for creators and storytellers