The Professional Problem Solver Guiding ELEMENT Towards Creative New Heights
In the exceedingly fast-paced world of video production, where creativity collides with logistics, Kristen Kearns stands out as a beacon of stability and innovation. As an executive producer and partner at Boston-based video production company, ELEMENT, Kristen's journey through the industry has been marked by a deep-rooted passion for creativity, an unwavering commitment to problem-solving, and a dedication to fostering talent within her team and the wider film community.
Kristen’s path into production was paved by her upbringing in a family immersed in the arts. With a dancer mother and an artist father, creativity flowed through her veins from an early age. While initially drawn to theatre, Kristen's journey led her to Emerson College, where she honed her skills in TV and video production. “It was during this time that I gravitated towards producing and supporting other creatives with logistics and coordination - I found myself thriving.” This role would become her calling card in the industry.
A Problem-Solving Prodigy
One of Kristen's defining traits as a producer is her ability to thrive in the face of complexity. From orchestrating 360-degree captures in sub-zero temperatures to powering a tiny home with biofuel made from spent coffee grounds, Kristen has tackled every challenge with poise and ingenuity. Her journey as a producer has been one of continuous growth, expanding her network, seeking out experts, and always ensuring there's a backup plan in place.
At the helm of ELEMENT, Kristen embodies the qualities of a true executive producer. Her steadiness under pressure and unwavering loyalty to her team enables creatives to focus on their vision without worrying about the minutiae of production. “I hardly break a sweat when under pressure, which allows the creatives to stay focused. They know I have their back,” she tells me.
With a keen eye for talent, she nurtures directors, supporting their growth and pushing them to explore new creative horizons. “When I find a director I connect with, my goal is to support them, grow their reel and push them to grow creatively,” Kristen explains. “Our clients have a lot at stake when producing a new project and being a creative, reliable and resourceful executive producer they can call, is essential to my success in this role.”
Central to Kristen's success is her belief in the importance of trust in producer-client relationships. In an industry where leaps of faith are often required, Kristen advocates for open and proactive communication as the foundation for successful collaborations. It's this commitment to transparency and reliability that has earned her the trust of clients, ensuring smooth sailing even in the choppiest of production waters.
Leading by Example
As a working mother of three, Kristen brings a unique perspective to her role as a leader. Drawing parallels between her roles at home and at work, she channels a “lighthouse parent" approach, providing support and guidance while allowing her team the freedom to explore and grow. Her experience as a problem-solver on set translates seamlessly to the challenges of family life, fostering flexibility and resilience in both realms. Kristen gives the example of a recent family trip to illustrate her intuitive problem solving abilities. “We recently took a vacation overseas and we experienced a delayed flight, missed connection, injury, cancelled plans, but through my learnings as a producer, I guided my family to be flexible. We pivoted, reworked plans and ended up having an amazing time as a family.”
In addition to her role at ELEMENT and in her family home, Kristen is a fervent advocate for mentorship and community engagement. Recognising the importance of giving back, she has dedicated herself to empowering the next generation of filmmakers. From guest lectures to industry panels, Kristen's mentorship initiatives extend to programs like Women in Film and The Loop Lab, where she champions diversity and inclusion in the industry.
Passionate about ensuring greater representation of all genders and races in the industry, she actively seeks out new voices and talent, recognising that diversity breeds creativity and innovation. By breaking out of established patterns and embracing new perspectives, Kristen and her team strive to create work that resonates with audiences from all walks of life.
Inspired by Excellence
Surrounded by the talented cohort of female leaders at ELEMENT, Kristen draws inspiration from her team's unwavering commitment to excellence. Their collective thoughtfulness, dedication, and creativity serve as a constant source of motivation as they navigate the ever-evolving landscape of video production.
Despite the never-ending demands of her role, Kristen finds solace in the simple pleasures of life. An avid reader, she escapes the chaos by immersing herself in books, both in print and through audiobooks. And when she needs to recharge, nothing beats a long walk outdoors or time spent in her garden, reconnecting with nature and finding peace amidst the hustle and bustle.
As Kristen looks ahead to 2024 and beyond, she tells me how her goals remain rooted in growth and innovation. Despite the challenges facing the industry, she is committed to pushing the boundaries of creativity, staying ahead of the curve, and helping her clients thrive in an ever-changing landscape.
Clearly, ELEMENT is in very good hands. With Kristen at the helm, the future of ELEMENT shines bright, guided by a spirit of innovation and a commitment to excellence.
