What if your family's greatest stories could live on like a Netflix documentary? In this episode of The Richer Geek, today we are joined by filmmaker and storyteller Chance McClain, founder of Heritage Films. With over 800 documentaries produced, Chance has made it his mission to capture family histories, founders' journeys, and life legacies in cinematic style. From Army veteran to Broadway musicals to award-nominated filmmaking, Chance shares how storytelling preserves values across generations and why every story, big or small, matters.

In this episode, we chat about…

• How Chance transitioned from Army service and radio to founding Heritage Films.

• The story behind the very first Heritage Film and how it sparked a movement in legacy storytelling.

• Why businesses and family farms are "characters" in founder films.

• Surprising, real-life stories captured on film from WWII heroes to architects with secret pasts.

• The evolution of filmmaking technology, from VHS tapes to drones and iPhones.

• The emotional impact of preserving legacies and how families actually use and rewatch these films.

• Why talking to older generations unlocks wisdom, humor, and life lessons we often overlook.

Key Takeaways:

1. Everyone has a story worth telling: whether you're a founder, veteran, or grandparent, your life holds lessons for future generations.

2. Technology makes legacy preservation possible: from high-end Sony cameras to simple iPhones, storytelling tools are more accessible than ever.

3. Hard work, grit, and values outlast success stories: the true legacy isn't just the narrative, it's the wisdom passed down.

4. Stories change how we see people we thought we knew: a "regular" grandparent may have lived an extraordinary life.

5. Businesses and land carry their own legacies: a company or farm often becomes a living character in family films.

6. Connection matters more than production: while high-quality films are stunning, the heart lies in authentic conversations and memories preserved.

Resources from Chance

LinkedIn | Heritage Films | farmandranchfilms.com

Resources from Mike and Nichole

Gateway Private Equity Group | Nic's guide