Tony Gapastione is a pastor turned filmmaker, actor, director, producer, screenwriter, podcaster, and CEO of BraveMaker.

In this episode, Tony shares how he went from creating in the shadows of his spiritual work as a pastor to the empowering realization that the performing arts can be a spiritual experience itself. Now from the hub of his organization BraveMaker he supports brave storytellers of all kinds through film screenings, panel discussions, and an annual film fest in Redwood City.

In the wake of his own recent loss, Tony’s first feature film Last Chance Charlene invites much-needed conversation about death in our culture that largely keeps it at arm’s length. Get a look into the emotional and real-life inspiration for characters in the film as well as a couple of fun easter eggs to look out for. Hear Tony’s thoughts about normalizing and de-stigmatizing discussions of death and suicide in support of those who are grieving.

View Last Chance Charlene at Cinequest Aug 21 and 27.

More info at https://bit.ly/CQlastchancechar

Follow Tony on Instagram tonygapastione

Find his website at tonygapastione.com

Follow BraveMaker on YouTube

And on Instagram at bravemakerorg

Red more about Tony and BravemMaker on our blog feature.

Did you watch the film and want to process your thoughts, questions and emotions? Download our FILM + GRIEF DISCUSSION GUIDE here: https://www.yahdavhanlon.com/lastchancecharlene

Photo of Tony by Israel Soler

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This episode’s music is “408” by Jack Pavlina. Read more about Jack in Issue 14.1 Winter 2022 — release date: Dec. 9, 2021: https://bit.ly/Discover141

Follow Jack at @jackpavlinamusic

Spotify: https://bit.ly/jackpavlina