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.

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