Club Shay Shay Podcast Summary

Episode: Hawks AF - Will Packer on Choosing Atlanta Over Hollywood, Kevin Hart, & a Secret of Stomp The Yard
Release Date: May 13, 2025
Hosts: DC Young Fly and Will Packer
Description: In this episode of Club Shay Shay, NFL legend Shannon Sharpe welcomes filmmaker and producer Will Packer. They delve into Packer's decision to base his operations in Atlanta instead of Hollywood, his collaborative relationship with Kevin Hart, and unveil a behind-the-scenes secret about the making of the blockbuster hit Stomp The Yard.

1. Introduction and Welcome (02:06 - 03:28)

The episode kicks off with a playful exchange between DC Young Fly and Will Packer. Will introduces himself as a Hollywood icon, filmmaker, and producer, highlighting his extensive experience in the industry. DC expresses his admiration, stating, “You’re an icon” (02:51).

2. Choosing Atlanta Over Hollywood (03:28 - 06:00)

Will Packer discusses his strategic choice to establish his production company, Rainforest Films, in Atlanta instead of the traditional Hollywood hub. He emphasizes the importance of being “malleable” and understanding one’s audience, asserting, “Your brand is very important” (05:27). Packer highlights the shift in the industry towards the “democratization of media,” encouraging aspiring filmmakers to build their own brands and audiences outside of Hollywood’s gatekeeping.

3. Overcoming Industry Challenges (06:00 - 12:24)

Packer shares his early struggles in Atlanta, where despite the booming music scene, securing projects was challenging. He recounts the rejection of their independent film Chocolate City, which led them to pivot and create TWA, an independent movie that grossed a million dollars without Hollywood backing. “If we were able to go and do music videos, if we got told yes instead of no, we never would have went off and shot our own independent movie,” Packer notes (12:16). This story underscores the theme of perseverance and adaptability in the face of industry obstacles.

4. Building a Brand in the Film Industry (12:24 - 14:51)

The conversation shifts to the significance of brand building. DC Young Fly emphasizes that both he and Kevin Hart collaborate frequently due to their strong work ethic. He advises, “You have to go out and make sure that you're outworking all your peers” (08:08). Packer reinforces this by discussing the necessity of resilience, stating, “You have to consistently take the yeses and the nos” (08:20). They agree that a strong personal brand and relentless hustle are critical for success in the film industry.

5. The Story Behind Stomp The Yard (14:51 - 13:17)

Will Packer reveals insights into the making of Stomp The Yard. Initially pitched as a “black college movie,” Packer and his team rebranded it as a “dance movie” to secure studio backing. “We switched up the pitch. All you need is one yes,” Packer explains (13:17). This strategic repositioning led to the film becoming a box office hit, demonstrating the importance of adaptability and understanding market demands.

6. Will Packer's Book: "Who’s Better Than You?" (13:38 - 14:52)

DC Young Fly introduces Packer’s new book, Who’s Better Than You?, which delves into the traits that successful individuals share, such as “healthy arrogance” and unwavering confidence. Packer describes the book as a “masterclass” aimed at those looking to transition into new careers or live more fulfilling lives. He asserts, “To achieve great success, you have to have what I call healthy arrogance” (13:46), encouraging readers to believe in their predestined success.

7. Legacy and Impact (16:13 - 20:15)

In the closing segments, Packer reflects on his legacy, emphasizing the importance of the people he has influenced. “When we all leave this earth, we will be remembered by the people that we touched and the people that we affected” (18:50). Both hosts agree that making a positive impact and leaving behind a meaningful legacy is more significant than financial success or accolades.

8. Final Thoughts and Closing (20:12 - 20:15)

The episode concludes with expressions of gratitude and affirmations of ongoing collaboration. Packer and DC Young Fly emphasize the values of staying grateful, working hard, and maintaining integrity in their endeavors.

Notable Quotes

• Will Packer (05:27): “Your brand is very important. So what that means is that you gotta be careful with what you're doing all the time.”

• DC Young Fly (08:08): “You have to consistently take the yeses and the nos.”

• Will Packer (13:17): “All you need is one yes. I don't care if you get a thousand nos. You don't need but one yes.”

• DC Young Fly (18:50): “When we all leave this earth, we will be remembered by the people that we touched and the people that we affected.”

Key Takeaways

• Strategic Location Choice: Will Packer's decision to base Rainforest Films in Atlanta instead of Hollywood was driven by a desire to stand out and avoid being lost in a saturated market.

• Perseverance and Adaptability: Facing numerous rejections, Packer and his team adapted their strategies, leading to the successful creation and release of Stomp The Yard.

• Brand Building: Establishing a strong personal and professional brand is crucial for success in the competitive film industry.

• Healthy Arrogance: Confidence and the belief in one’s destined success are vital traits highlighted in Packer’s approach to achieving greatness.

• Legacy Over Accolades: Making a lasting positive impact on others is portrayed as the ultimate measure of success.

This episode offers valuable insights into the film production landscape, emphasizing the importance of resilience, strategic thinking, and the power of a strong personal brand. Will Packer’s journey serves as an inspiring blueprint for aspiring filmmakers and entrepreneurs seeking to navigate and succeed in the entertainment industry.