EP29 - Crafting Stories Through Food and Film | Kevin Longa

How did a suburban kid with a penchant for skate videos become a celebrated food filmmaker? Join us as Kevin takes us through his unexpected journey, from wielding his dad's Hi8 camera to navigating his way through health challenges and discovering a profound love for culinary storytelling. Influenced by his optometrist father, who documented the family's life, Kevin's early years were a mix of creative experimentation and a pivotal health scare that set him on a transformative path.

Discover how Kevin's passion for food and filmmaking flourished during his time at UCLA, where he majored in economics and minored in human complex systems, all while sidestepping traditional culinary and film schools. His entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of "Taste," an international documentary series capturing the stories of unique food entrepreneurs across three continents. Kevin's college experiences, from founding a film organization to traveling extensively, were instrumental in shaping his career and bringing his vision to life.

Go behind the scenes of independent filmmaking as Kevin shares his minimalist approach to production, emphasizing authenticity and human connections. Learn about the practicalities and strategic decisions that have defined his journey, from balancing high-quality gear with a frugal lifestyle to hosting culinary tours that connect people through shared stories and meals. This episode is a testament to staying true to one's passions and the power of genuine human interaction in a digitally driven world.

CHAPTERS:

(00:01) Journey From Suburbia to Filmmaking (07:44) Passion, Education, and Entrepreneurship in Filmmaking
(13:34) Culinary Exploration and Career Path (27:11) Independent Filmmaking and Culinary Entrepreneurship
(42:27) Entrepreneurial Approach to Authenticity

EPISODE LINKS:
Website: tastewithkevin.com
Instagram: @tastewithkevin
YouTube: @tastewithkevin