( ENSPIRE She Did That ) CEO & Filmmaker Stephanie Garvin Transforms The Film Production Industry With Hollywood Expansion Corporation
ENSPIRE Contributor: Madison Dinges
In a world where creativity meets commerce, few have managed to blend to two as seamlessly as Stephanie Garvin– CEO, writer, producer, director, actress, and devoted mother. As the visionary founder of Hollywood Expansion Corporation (HEC), Garvin is redefining what it means to be a woman in power within the entertainment industry. From her roots in finance and entrepreneurship to producing films that balance artistry with meaningful storytelling, she embodies the spirit of perseverance and purpose. Through HEC, Garvin is not only expanding opportunities for filmmakers but also reshaping the infrastructure of Hollywood itself. She integrates innovation, sustainability, and heart into every project.
As Garvin continues to expand her influence as both a creative force and a business visionary, her journey offers invaluable insight into the evolving world of film production. ENSPIRE Magazine took the time to ask her about the passion, purpose, and principles that drive her work. In the interview below, Garvin shows how her path from finance to filmmaking shaped her mission, the inspiration behind Hollywood Expansion Corporation, and the life lessons that continue to guide her as a leader, artist, and, most importantly, mother.
You transitioned from a successful career in finance and entrepreneurship to film. What inspired that leap, and how has your background in business shaped the way you approach filmmaking?
I have a myriad of life experiences that seemed to guide me to my current passions. They say everything happens for a reason, and I couldn’t agree more! Sometimes we have no idea what we are meant to do, but when we follow the open doors, the flow just arrives. I was running my business—a chain of furniture stores—when I began to realize I loved making all the commercial content. It reminded me of the entertainment dreams I gave up to raise my family years prior. The more commercials I made, the more business I had, which was amazing; however, I ran myself ragged into a forced shutdown with life-threatening pneumonia. That downtime was what I needed to truly realize I had to follow my dreams. Dreaming up stories while sleeping reignited all the sparks I had lost as an adult. I decided to make a drastic life change and never looked back.
What was the vision behind HEC, and how is it breaking barriers for independent filmmakers?
Life experiences inevitably bring a sprinkling of mistakes, pitfalls, hardships, and speed bumps, as well as triumphs, blessings, and success. I’m an observer more than most. I saw the good, the bad, and the ugly in the industry and instantly knew I wanted to make a difference. It became a passion to improve infrastructure for entertainment.
Your upcoming project Maserati: The Brothers features an all-star cast and a powerful story of legacy and ambition. What drew you into this project, and what message do you hope audiences can take away from it?
I was invited to work on the project around the midpoint. The caliber of this movie is outstanding, to say the least! I know the audience will think about this beautiful family every time they see a Maserati on the road. The essence of the movie is about passion, life, competition, love, and life’s unexpected uncertainties. The drive to continue has rewards. I want audiences to walk away knowing that perseverance through their journey is the mission of humanity. We all may have a different journey to fulfill, and everyone is valuable to mankind.
You have built a career focused on creating meaningful, family-oriented storytelling. Why is that kind of content important to you in today’s Hollywood landscape?
It’s been left behind so much of the time. I love watching entertainment where I can be with my parents and my children at the same time and know we are all enjoying the experience together. It’s a genre that started getting left in the past, and I believe more and more people now feel the way I do. Let’s stay real—not everything has to be about fictional heroes blowing stuff up or bodies being diced to pieces. It’s unsettling to the nervous system to be exposed to that for long periods of time. I appreciate all kinds of entertainment, but personally, I’d rather have a shot of joy than a shot of cortisol watching a movie.
As a CEO and creative leader, what do you think the industry needs more of right now regarding filmmaking?
We need more up-and-coming talent and more lightheartedness in the industry. Sometimes taking yourself too seriously becomes problematic to one’s success. It’s good to follow your heart.
You are also a mother and an entrepreneur with multiple ventures behind you. How do you balance such a demanding career with home life and family?
Honestly, I have not always been good at that. It’s something I work on daily. Because I love what I do, I can put in a 16-hour workday with no problem—it’s not work to me. But it is time away from other important aspects of life that must be nurtured. I set alarms throughout the day for myself, which is very helpful. Every 2–3 hours, I force myself to get up and move around, take my dogs out to play, call someone who’s been on my mind, or lie down for a brain break and listen to calming sounds. It all helps me stay balanced.
What lessons have you learned from motherhood that have helped influence the way you lead your company and storytelling approach?
Kids pay attention even when you think they are not. They remember emotional influence. They may not remember all the details perfectly, but how something landed on them leaves an impression. We were all kids at some point, and bringing back the innocence and influence of entertainment is meaningful to me.
You have accomplished so much, from producing award-winning films to founding multiple businesses. What advice would you give women who want to pursue their big dreams across different industries?
Have no limitations on what you envision for yourself. Being realistic is good advice, but expanding your horizons brings new levels of realization you may have never thought possible. Every time I take a leap of faith, somehow the universe, God, and my tribe always have my back. I highly recommend keeping the faith, knowing everything you experience is for a purpose. Keep believing, and eventually—like the last few pieces of a puzzle—it all falls into place perfectly.
At ENSPIRE Magazine, we champion individuals who break barriers and inspire others to dream bigger, and Stephanie Garvin is a true embodiment of our mission. Her work through Hollywood Expansion Corporation represents the possibilities when passion meets strategic vision and the true vision of what happens when women lead with courage and creativity. Garvin’s journey serves as a beacon for aspiring filmmakers and entrepreneurs alike. As she continues to expand the future of film with upcoming projects like Maserati: The Brothers (2025) and Buggati: The Genius (2026), her story reminds us that empowerment is not just about achieving success; it is about using that success to inspire and uplift others.
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