Daily Inspiration: Meet Megan MacGrath

Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan MacGrath.

Hi Megan, 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 have been in the film industry since 2006, starting as a Production Assistant and now working mainly as a Producer and Production Manager. I have worked on all types of projects, from music videos to corporate videos to films, feature-length, short-form, and documentaries. I’m on the board of two film organizations.

I have always been interested in movies. I used to see things that didn’t look right, whether it was a necklace outside of a shirt in one scene and inside the shirt the next or lighting differences between actors in a scene. I’m a computer nerd at heart and wanted to be a computer scientist. Although I went to college for Computer Information Services, I still found myself drawn to the arts and moved into a Media Arts and Animation course. Due to scheduling conflicts, I was not able to finish the degree.

In 2006, a friend of mine had a neighbor who owned a Production Company. We met and ultimately, he brought me under his wing and was able to bring me on to some projects as a Production Assistant. I worked with numerous productions this way and met many people. It was on one of those projects that I met Mathew Nelson, who had a feature-length script he was going to start filming and asked if I was interested in helping.

I agreed and by Fall, we were knee-deep in our own film school as we worked together to create the first feature-length film I would work on. I helped to coordinate and manage details and be a helping hand, wherever needed. I have since worked on two of Mathew’s feature-length films, one currently in post, and two short films.

Through Mathew, I also met another filmmaker, Nathan Letteer. Nathan and I have worked together since 2006, creating several production companies and working on projects from corporate/fundraising videos to music videos to films, both feature-length and short form. I started my Production Managing and Producing career while working on projects with Nathan. We are currently in pre-production for another film.

The saying “It’s all about who you know” is so very true in the film industry. I have met and worked with so many people, even celebrities. Most of my work comes from word of mouth and I’m so grateful for those who have recommended me for projects.

Over 10 years ago, I attended the first meeting of one of the newly formed Colorado Springs film groups. I am now on the board for both IFSOC: Independent Film Society of Colorado and Peak Film Forum. I am also the Volunteer Coordinator and Ticket Sales Manager for several film festivals and work on the many events we hold in Colorado Springs.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There have been many bumps in the road, but that comes with anything in life and learning. We are constantly learning as the world is changing; new technology, equipment, software, etc. One of the biggest struggles I encountered during filming was the world crumbling around us.

We were filming during Covid and riots, in which we needed to postpone our last filming day, due to unforeseen circumstances with local riots and our team possibly being in danger. Personally, if I’m set to work with someone new who I’ve not worked with before, the challenge can be if the project might be right for me and how organized everything is to determine what I’m stepping into and how experienced the team might be.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a Film Producer, Production Manager/Coordinator, and Assistant Director; each depends on with whom I’m working. I am most known for the award-winning film, Monster Force Zero, which I do have to say is one of the films I’m most proud of. What makes MF0 (zero) special for me is that it was my first official, feature-length film as a Producer. We had an amazing cast and crew and to see something so big come together with so much love and passion from everyone was an awesome experience.

The other film that I’m proud of is the award-winning DRT: Dead Right There; a short film we made during Covid and local riots. I’m proud of what we created through such an unknown, trying time. I feel my attention to detail and my caring nature is what sets me apart. I have a heart for helping and assisting people in a variety of ways and genuinely want what’s best for everyone involved. Fair is not always easy to do, as you will not be able to please everyone.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up.
One of my favorite childhood memories is when I would be able to spend time with my extended family on Sundays. My Mom-Mom (grandmother), Aunts, and cousins lived in Pennsylvania, where I lived for about 7 years. I was able to spend quality time with my family. One of my other favorite memories is when I was in dance class as a child. I loved to dance back then and still do today.

Contact Info:

• Website: meganmmacgrath.wixsite.com/hello
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meganmmacgrath/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganmacgrath/