Host: Aaron Cozort
Guest: Rob Smith
VIDEO
EPISODE SPONSOR:
Pure Focus Media – https://www.purefocus.media/
EPISODE SPONSOR:
Pure Focus Media – https://www.purefocus.media/
DESCRIPTION
Welcome back to another inspiring episode of Southaven Business Beat! This week, host Aaron Cozort sits down with none other than Rob Smith—aka Rob Rock—the visionary behind DeSoto Arts Institute (DAI). From shredding dreams as a heavy metal guitarist to shaping storytellers through film education, Rob’s journey is anything but ordinary. So, what is The Secret to Great Filmmaking? Story and Community.
Founded in 2016 after years of youth ministry and mentoring, DAI is more than just a film school—it’s a creative community and a launchpad for aspiring filmmakers. Whether you’re a high schooler passionate about visual storytelling or a 63-year-old ready for a creative pivot, DAI offers hands-on training, industry insights, and a whole lot of heart.
Inside the Episode: In this in-depth conversation, Rob shares his unconventional path to founding DeSoto Arts Institute, including:
His background in youth ministry and why mentoring young creatives still drives him.
The powerful moment God told him to “use filmmaking”—and how that calling turned into a full-blown institute.
A behind-the-scenes look at DAI’s flagship program, Film School 101, a 10-month crash course in everything from ideation and scriptwriting to lighting, editing, and production.
The importance of story over spectacle—why great character and story always win over fancy gear.
How DAI’s “Film Factory” helps graduates stay sharp by producing short films and building real-world experience.
A sneak peek into DAI’s upcoming Film Festival this November—family-friendly, community-supported, and widely regarded as one of the best independent film festivals in the country.
Why DAI?
In a world where YouTube tutorials are everywhere, why should someone invest in a program like DAI? Rob breaks it down: community, mentorship, hands-on access to pro-level equipment, and the kind of encouragement and accountability that YouTube just can’t replicate. From Hollywood cameras to real-world clients like FedEx, DAI students get the kind of training that truly prepares them for the industry—or simply helps them become better storytellers.
Supporting the Vision:
DAI is a nonprofit, and they’re currently raising matching funds to unlock a $110,000 grant from the Mississippi Arts Commission. If you’re a business or individual who believes in the power of local arts and youth development, this is your moment to step up. You can also sponsor the upcoming Film Festival or volunteer behind the scenes.
Power of Networking: Rob credits much of DAI’s momentum to its relationship with the Southaven Chamber of Commerce. What started as professional networking has turned into meaningful friendships, collaborative opportunities, and a support system that keeps DAI growing strong. As Rob says, “Very rarely does anyone ever go where they want to go by themselves—you go with a network.”
Want to Get Involved?:
Enroll or learn more: Visit DeSotoArts.org
Make a donation: Help DAI unlock that $110K grant
Sponsor or volunteer at the film festival: November is just around the corner!
CHAPTERS
- Intro to Rob Rock & DeSoto Arts Institute (00:00 – 1:05)
- From Worship Leader to Filmmaking Mentor (01:05 – 3:04)
- “God Said Use Filmmaking” – The Birth of DAI (3:04 – 4:23)
- What Students Learn at DAI (Story to Screen) (4:23 – 5:21)
- Unlocking Creativity with Constraints (5:21 – 8:01)
- Scriptwriting, Beat Sheets, and Pitching (8:01 – 10:53)
- Understanding the Industry: Rules, Gear & Jargon (10:53 – 11:52)
- Real-World Studio Production & Lighting Lessons (11:52 – 13:29)
- Who Can Attend? Age Range and Goals (13:29 – 14:51)
- Why Story & Character Are King (14:51 – 17:39)
- Film School 101 & the Film Factory Explained (17:39 – 18:39)
- DAI’s Culture: Respect, Realism & Readiness (18:39 – 19:25)
- Career Prep: From Shorts to Orpheum Gigs (18:39 – 19:25)
- YouTube vs. In-Person Training (18:39 – 19:25)
- Nonprofit Mission & Fundraising Goals (18:39 – 19:25)
- Family-Friendly Film Festival (Coming November) (18:39 – 19:25)
- Chamber of Commerce Impact & Networking (18:39 – 19:25)
- Final Thoughts & How to Connect (19:25 – 26:09)
SPONSOR LIST
https://www.wisdomintegrators.com – Wisdom Integrators
https://thefollowapp.co/ – The Follow App
https://www.purefocus.media/ – Pure Focus Media
https://www.southavenchamber.com/ – Southaven Chamber of Commerce
YOUTUBE URL
