Picture this, my supervising producer and I are on a scout in a movie-perfect peach orchard in John Day, Oregon. It is the summer of 2009. It’s Brian and me trying to decide after this hour-long drive if this location will work for a segment we need on our show. Showing up to the site is the only way to know if the location will work and if the owner will say yes to allowing a film crew. We met the owner to get the thumbs up and location release, but the peach smell overtook my brain. When you are away on the road for a long time, you look for adventure. Your producing partner becomes your best friend and “partner in crime.” All I could think about was fresh peaches for the week, and I had to have them. Finally, Brian agrees, and as we go to check out, I panic in slow motion. Unfortunately, I do not have the car keys.
In the midst of our deliberations with the owner, seeking approval for filming on their property, the allure of fresh peaches beckoned irresistibly. You see, when you’re constantly on the road, every detour becomes an opportunity for adventure, and your producing partner becomes not just a colleague, but your trusted confidant and “partner in crime.” The thought of indulging in those juicy peaches for the week ahead consumed my mind, and I was determined to make it happen.
Eventually, Brian acquiesced to my fruit-fueled desires, and as we made our way to purchase the coveted peaches, disaster struck in slow motion. Panic set in as I realized the car keys were nowhere to be found. We were stranded in the middle of nowhere, a three-hour drive from the car rental location, with no means of getting back. My heart sank as I grappled with the enormity of my mistake, fearing its repercussions on our day and possibly my job.
But Brian, ever the epitome of kindness and level-headedness, remained calm in the face of adversity. With a reassuring tone, he urged me to retrace our steps, offering support and guidance when I needed it most. As I frantically searched for a signal to call for help, the owner emerged with an unexpected solution—a metal detector. Though the odds seemed slim, Brian began methodically retracing our movements, instilling a glimmer of hope in my despairing heart.
- Treasure your producing partner like family, for they are the cornerstone of your journey on the road.
- Surround yourself with the best in the business, as their expertise and support will elevate you to new heights.
- Embrace accountability for your mistakes, as owning up to them fosters respect and growth.
- Trust your instincts and heed the wisdom of those around you, for they often lead you to the right path, even when it means forsaking a tempting detour for a greater purpose.
And so, amidst the peach-scented backdrop of John Day, Oregon, a tale of camaraderie, resilience, and lessons learned emerged—a testament to the unpredictable beauty of life on the road.
Discover more from ReelTraveller
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.