Reimagining Rural America Through Storytelling

​How can storytelling reshape perceptions of rural America? Join us in exploring and celebrating the whole story of the people and land that nourish this country; their communities and places; and the rural storytellers who lead by example. In an engaging conversation with entertainment executives, marketing leads, creative storytellers, and bridge-building practitioners, we will explore the importance of nuanced portrayals and the power of stories to bridge divides. We will also share resources from the Modern Rural Collective to improve onscreen rural representation and will engage the audience in a Q&A.

​Bridge Entertainment Labs (BEL) is the entertainment office for the national movement to combat toxic polarization and build social cohesion in America. 

​PARTICIPANTS

• ​Steven Olikara (CEO - Bridge Entertainment Labs)

• ​Amanda Farrand ( EVP of Business & Brand Development - Imagine Entertainment)

• ​Heather Malenshek (Modern Rural Collective, Convener / Land O’Lakes CMO)

• ​Nick Barnes (Agent, Heartland at United Talent Agency)

• ​Ai-jen Poo (Executive Director of Caring Across Generations, President of Give Not Take Media, President of National Domestic Workers Alliance, Executive Producer, Take Me Home)

​Open to the public first come, first served. RSVP does not guarantee entry.