Arix Zalace, a renowned filmmaker, longtime Florida Panhandle resident, and owner of AZA Productions, joined the VIE Speaks lineup to share his creative vision for the upcoming feature film The Paper Bear. In partnership with social entrepreneur and philanthropist Sean Couch, Zalace honed a shared vision to protect and preserve the Panhandle’s natural wonders. Beyond a mere film, The Paper Bear represents a preservation movement aiming to raise awareness about the region’s immense biodiversity. Viewers will be taken on a captivating coming-of-age adventure (for both boy and bear) and learn to view the world through the eyes of the area’s majestic native black bears. The film is a powerful tool that aims to illuminate the Panhandle’s extraordinary natural heritage and foster a deep connection with its ecosystems. During the filming process, Arix had the remarkable opportunity to live alongside a family of black bears, gaining invaluable insights into their behaviors, their vital role within the ecosystem, and the urgent need to protect them. The Paper Bear entertains and aims to inspire a profound appreciation for the Panhandle’s biodiversity and instill a commitment to its preservation. This episode will leave you with a newfound respect and admiration for the creatures who share our neighboring forests, offering a fresh perspective on the dedication required to execute this premier conservation piece in media.

LET’S CONNECT:
Instagram: @viespeaks // @viemagazine
YouTube: (@VIEtelevision | WATCH VIE Speaks)
Website: viemagazine.com

CONNECT WITH ARIX:
Website: thepaperbear.org
Instagram: @thepaperbearfilm

A special thank you to Rose & Company for sponsoring today’s episode. For sponsorship inquiries, please contact kelly@viemagazine.com and hailey@viemagazine.com.

63. "The Journey of the Paper Bear Project!" – A Conversation with Arix Zalace

VIE Speaks was thrilled to host a special podcast pop-up studio at the Redfish Film Festival in Downtown Panama City, Florida, on April 26, 2025. In this special episode, VIE Speaks host/ VIE founder and editor-in-chief Lisa Marie Burwell sits down with Redfish Film Fest founder/director Kevin Elliott to discuss all things Redfish! This documentary film festival, celebrating its second year in 2025, was the culmination of many years of dreaming and envisioning a place and gathering of creatives from around the world, artists, chefs, craftspeople, and more. Kevin’s goal of bringing world-class art and culture to his hometown of Panama City has led him and his team to discover that there is already an incredible array of art in the area and people who want to be involved. Bringing those local creatives together with filmmakers and visitors from the US and beyond has been a challenging and rewarding journey—and it’s only the beginning!

Learn more about Redfish Film Festival, see the complete list of featured documentaries and filmmakers, and stay up to date on future events at RedfishFilmFest.com and @redfishfilmfest.

LET’S CONNECT:
Instagram: @viespeaks // @viemagazine // @viebookclub
YouTube: ( @VIEtelevision | WATCH VIE Speaks) 
Website: viemagazine.com

For sponsorship inquiries, please contact lisa@viemagazine.com.

VIE Speaks Episode 78: "The Vision for Redfish Film Festival" – A Conversation with Kevin Elliott

A podcast from the editors of VIE Magazine. Hosted by Founder/Editor-in-chief of VIE, Lisa Marie Burwell.

63. "The Journey of the Paper Bear Project!" – A Conversation with Arix Zalace

VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul

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