Check Out Finley O’hara’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Finley O’hara

Hi Finley, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been a creative for as long as I can remember. I’ve never known a time when I wasn’t creating in some way. Whether it was writing, acting, playing music, or performing in theater, I’ve always been drawn to artistic expression. Ever since I was little, I knew I wanted to work in this industry, and I was lucky enough to have incredibly supportive parents, friends, and mentors who encouraged me along the way.

I got my start around 2015, filming YouTube videos by myself or with friends. We would create sketches, experiment with storytelling, and just have fun. I never gave it up, and over the years, my passion grew into something bigger. Now, I run two YouTube channels: one focused on lifestyle content and another dedicated to film. I’m also very involved in the Nashville film community and have worked on many short films, both my own and those of other filmmakers.

Filmmaking and storytelling have always been my biggest passions, but they’re also part of something bigger: my love for art in all its forms. Every creative experience I’ve had, from music to theater to writing, has shaped the way I tell stories today. I love getting to share stories that matter to me while connecting with others who feel the same way.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, anyone working in entertainment will tell you that. This industry is full of uncertainty, and you hear countless voices saying it’s not worth it or that you’ll never make it. Thankfully, I’ve learned to tune those people out and focus on the ones who truly support me. Having a strong community of friends and fellow creatives makes all the difference.

On a personal level, I’ve struggled a lot with grief, loss, and my own mental health. Like any other creator, I also deal with burnout, imposter syndrome, and moments of doubt where I feel like I’m not enough to have the opportunities that I do. I’ve found that the best way to work through those feelings is to turn them into art. Through filmmaking, writing, or any other form of storytelling, I try to connect with others and let them know they’re not alone in these feelings. These feelings are all too common and barely ever talked about or represented. That’s what keeps me going, knowing that my work might resonate with someone who needs it.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a filmmaker, writer, and content creator, but a storyteller at my core. As a filmmaker, I focus on creating short films that explore meaningful themes, often drawing from personal experiences or topics that spark important conversations. Beyond that, I also share my love for film and creativity through YouTube. One of my channels is dedicated to lifestyle content, where I film my everyday life (and all the struggles that come with it), while my other channel is a space where I break down movies, review some of my favorites, and discuss what makes films impactful.

In addition to my own projects, I’m actively involved in the Nashville film scene, collaborating with other creatives and working on a variety of short films. My recent projects include writing and producing “Extra,” a comedy short made during a workshop at the Belcourt Theatre, “Killjoy,” a film about a conversation between siblings after their dad disappears, and helping out with school projects brought up by friends. I also attend classes at The 4th Wall Studio, which is where I met Josiah Winston, someone I’m collaborating with right now! Whether I’m behind the camera, in front of it, or discussing the art of filmmaking, my goal is always the same: to tell stories that resonate with people and inspire them.

I think what sets me apart is my deep passion for using storytelling as a way to connect with people, especially when it comes to mental health. A lot of my work explores difficult but important topics such as grief, anxiety, and complicated relationships because I know how isolating those struggles can feel. If even one person watches something I’ve made and feels seen or understood, I know I’ve done something worthwhile.

One of the things I’m most proud of is my upcoming short film, “dread.”, which I’m working on with the ever-talented Josiah Winston, Scott Haynes, and Kelsey Christian. It focuses on a school shooting from the students’ perspectives and really shows the emotional impact without glorifying it. It is a deeply important and personal subject, and my goal is to bring awareness to the reality so many young people face. I want to tell stories that matter, stories that start conversations, and stories that make people feel something. That’s what drives me as a filmmaker.

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
There are so many ways to collaborate, work with me, or support what I do!

For filmmakers, actors, and creatives in the Nashville area, I’m always open to collaborating on short films, whether that means working behind the scenes, acting, or anything else you might need! I love connecting with other storytellers and building a creative community. I know how daunting making things can be, and I’d love nothing more than to help someone’s dream become a reality.

For brands or businesses, I’m available for partnerships and sponsorships that align with my content. Whether it’s lifestyle related or film focused, I’d love to work with brands that fit my audience and passions!

And for anyone who just enjoys my work, the best way to support me is by watching, sharing, and engaging with my content! Subscribing to my YouTube channels, following along on social media, and spreading the word about my projects means the world to me. Every comment, like, and share helps me keep creating and growing.

If you’re interested in working together, feel free to reach out, I’d love to hear from you! My professional email is finley.ohara.contact@gmail.com.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/finley.ohara/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@finley.o
• Other: https://www.youtube.com/@FinleyOnFilm