5 Ways to Turn Ideas Into Action

This past May, TELUS STORYHIVE was thrilled to introduce the First Frame Video Podcast, a brand new series designed to train and support new and emerging Canadian and Indigenous content creators exploring filmmaking, digital content, live streaming or video podcasting. We’re sharing some of the highlights and takeaways from past episodes of our first season. 

Every creative project starts with a great idea, but making it a reality is the true challenge. In Episode 2, First Frame hosts Cameron Zinger and Jennifer Park sat down with TELUS STORYHIVE alum Jacqueline Clements to explore what it takes to bring your idea from concept to creation.

Here are 5 takeaways from First Frame S1 Ep 02: How do I Make it Real? Turning Ideas into Action. 

1. Don’t wait for permission
   
   One of the biggest roadblocks creators face is the weight of external opinion. It’s so easy to delay taking concrete steps on a creative idea while waiting for approval from others, whether it’s industry peers, audiences or even friends and family. Clements’ advice? Don’t wait. 

   “Not everyone will understand your vision. Not everyone will like it. That doesn’t matter,” she explains. What matters is your belief in the idea. Naysayers will always exist, but their voices shouldn’t determine whether you move forward or not.
   
   

2. Be resilient
   
   Behind every finished project is a creator who didn’t give up. In the episode, Clements spoke openly about the challenges she’s faced, from funding gaps to losing her longtime co-host, Darryl Janz.

   That’s why resilience matters. Things won’t always go according to plan, but your ability to adapt will determine your longevity as a creator. 
   
   

3. Be resourceful
   
   Creativity doesn’t stop at the script. It’s about figuring out what specific things you need to make the project possible. That includes being resourceful with funding, thinking creatively about sponsorships and finding outside-the-box ways to get projects off the ground. Take initiative when it comes to finding the tools and resources to help push your project forward.

   “Even big productions are constantly chasing funding,” says Clements. 
   
   

4. Find your people
   
   No great ideas are developed in isolation. Behind every successful project is a collaborative team and support system; not necessarily a large one, but the right one. Even a couple of people in your corner can have an impact. Real-world relationships open doors to collaboration, sponsorship and support, so be visible and build genuine connections.

   Clements says to find trusted collaborators who can give honest feedback. Not “yes people”, but individuals who challenge your ideas, help refine your vision and share your passion.

   “Passion feeds passion,” says Clements. When in doubt, connect with others who also love what they do and are excited about their own ideas. 
   
   

5. Accept who you are and have confidence
   
   “There is no bigger advocate for you than you,” says Clements. One of the most powerful shifts a creator can make is embracing their own identity, strengths and style instead of constantly comparing themselves to others. It’s easy to look at peers or industry leaders and feel like you need to mimic their path or measure up to their version of success. But the most compelling work comes from a place of authenticity.

   When you accept who you are, quirks, perspective, limitations and all, you unlock a creative voice no one else can replicate. That self-acceptance becomes a foundation for confidence, resilience and originality.

There you have it. Maintaining the momentum of your creative project comes down to tapping into your inner strength, taking the leap and finding your community. Funding programs like those offered by TELUS STORYHIVE provide the guidance, training, mentorship and resources to help bring your creative ideas to life. 

Check out the full episode below. 

How to watch and listen

TELUS STORYHIVE First Frame is now available for free on TELUS Optik TV Video on Demand, Stream+ and YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more at STORYHIVE.com/firstframe. 

Stay tuned for new episodes releasing every two weeks on Tuesdays.