> 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:
00:00 – Intro to Rob Rock & DeSoto Arts Institute
01:00 – From Worship Leader to Filmmaking Mentor
02:30 – “God Said Use Filmmaking” – The Birth of DAI
03:45 – What Students Learn at DAI (Story to Screen)
05:30 – Unlocking Creativity with Constraints
07:00 – Scriptwriting, Beat Sheets, and Pitching
08:00 – Understanding the Industry: Rules, Gear & Jargon
09:30 – Real-World Studio Production & Lighting Lessons
10:30 – Who Can Attend? Age Range and Goals
12:00 – Why Story & Character Are King
14:00 – Film School 101 & the Film Factory Explained
16:20 – DAI’s Culture: Respect, Realism & Readiness
18:30 – Career Prep: From Shorts to Orpheum Gigs
20:00 – YouTube vs. In-Person Training
21:00 – Nonprofit Mission & Fundraising Goals
22:15 – Family-Friendly Film Festival (Coming November)
24:30 – Chamber of Commerce Impact & Networking
26:00 – Final Thoughts & How to Connect
🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this episode with someone who dreams of making movies or wants to support the arts in the Mid-South. Let’s help the next generation of storytellers get the tools—and the confidence—they need to shine
PODCAST URL:
https://southavenbusinessbeat.com/podcast/the-secret-to-great-filmmaking-story-and-community/
