Mental and Physical Health as a Freelancer with Melissa Doman

In this episode of REEL WISDOM WITH NK, host NK sits down with organizational psychologist and author Melissa Doman to tackle one of the most pressing and often overlooked topics in the film industry: protecting your mental and physical health as a freelancer.

With a career advising global companies and a deep understanding of workplace dynamics, Melissa brings actionable, realistic strategies tailored to the unpredictable world of creative work. She shares how to set boundaries in an industry that often tests them, why your self-care needs to fit the life you actually have, and how to avoid using “mental health” as a shield in ways that can harm others’ genuine experiences.

From quick, on-set stress relief techniques, to reframing challenges through your circle of control, Melissa equips listeners with tools they can use immediately. She also underscores the value of caring for your body and points to accessible resources on platforms to help you reset in minutes.

Whether you’re navigating long shoot days, juggling multiple gigs, or trying to prevent burnout before it starts, this conversation is a grounded reminder that your health: mental and physical health is your most valuable asset.

Credits:

NK Gutiérrez - Host & Producer
Katelyn Henslin - Head Producer & Director
Emily Seddon - Co-Producer
Henri' Byrd - Hair and Makeup Artist & Coordinator 
Alyssa Neyland - Production Designer
Kelsey Denvir - Costume Designer
Estefania Mena - Writer and Committee Member
Netta Harper - Artwork Hair Artist
Faith Hart - Social Media Manager

Cory Coken - Audio Mixer & Executive Producer
Bryen Hensley - Technical Director 
Ashton Johnson - Video Editor & Graphics
Jake Hensley - Audio Mixer
Kimberly Knudsen - Production Manager
Devin Delaney - Composer
Jamie Vanadia - Re-Recording Mixer 

Production Facility - Noisefloor LTD
Post Production Provided by - Noisefloor LTD