What happens when an actor decides that performing isn't enough and starts creating the stories she wants to see in the world?

In this episode of Next Act with Jeff Ornstein, Jeff sits down with actor, filmmaker, and producer Lauren Sowa to explore her journey from performing professionally as a child to acting in theater, film, and television, and eventually stepping behind the camera to produce and direct her own work.

Lauren shares why she began viewing filmmaking as a form of activism and how that philosophy helped inspire Marisol, her first film as a producer, which went on to win the HuffPost Impact Award and be licensed by HBO. She also discusses the realities of financing independent films, why representation behind the camera matters, and how producers can create safer, more supportive sets where everyone feels valued.

The conversation also looks at the challenges facing independent filmmakers today, from shrinking funding opportunities to the economics of producing, and why Lauren remains optimistic that difficult times can lead to a new wave of creativity and innovation.

For Lauren, the next act isn't simply about making more films. It's about creating meaningful stories, building stronger creative communities, and helping shape a more human future for filmmaking.