The Journey On Podcast: Episode with Adam Schoma
Host: Warwick Schiller
Guest: Adam Schoma
Release Date: June 14, 2024
Podcast Title: The Journey On Podcast
Introduction
In this enlightening episode of The Journey On Podcast, host Warwick Schiller welcomes Adam Schoma, a renowned conscious filmmaker and president of Eye2Eye Productions. Warwick and Adam delve into Adam’s inspiring journey from a math-focused engineering student to a passionate filmmaker focusing on spiritual and socially conscious documentaries. The conversation navigates through Adam’s spiritual awakening, his ventures into documentary filmmaking, and his commitment to spreading wisdom through compelling narratives.
Adam Schoma’s Background
Adam Schoma shares his roots from the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan, where his early exposure to spirituality began with reading Deepak Chopra's Ageless Body, Timeless Mind at age 15. Despite a strong inclination towards science and mathematics—stemming from his engineer father—Adam found his path veering towards spirituality and meditation during his college years at Cornell University.
Notable Quote:
“When I read Chopra’s book, it merged science and spirituality in a way that really opened me up to spirituality through the quantum field.”
— Adam Schoma (07:30)
Journey to Meditation and Spirituality
Adam recounts how meditation became a pivotal part of his life at 18, seeking to understand his emotions and enhance his athletic performance in soccer. His spiritual journey intensified during an exchange program at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, where he attended a Buddhist meditation retreat in the Blue Mountains. This experience solidified his commitment to not following a traditional corporate path but instead pursuing his passion for teaching and spirituality.
Notable Quote:
“Meditation was a way to understand my feelings better and work with my athletic side.”
— Adam Schoma (08:47)
Documentary Filmmaking
Transitioning into filmmaking, Adam describes his entrepreneurial spirit tested through stand-up and improv comedy before delving into documentary filmmaking. His first documentary, The Highest Pass, documented a daring motorcycle journey over the world's highest roads alongside his guru, Anand. This project was both a physical and spiritual pilgrimage, capturing raw human experiences and the challenges faced along the way.
Notable Quote:
“Documentary filmmaking is not always a creative process; it's a lot of disciplined drudgery.”
— Adam Schoma (102:21)
Challenges in Filmmaking
Adam candidly discusses the rigorous demands of documentary filmmaking, from intensive editing sessions to coordinating with a large crew under challenging conditions. He emphasizes the balance between creativity and the disciplined work required to bring a story to life, especially when the narrative involves deeply personal and traumatic experiences.
Notable Quote:
“It's incredibly challenging and taxing on the system, but making a film is about the journey and the lessons learned along the way.”
— Adam Schoma (42:27)
Overview of Adam’s Works
Road to Dharma
Road to Dharma is a sequel to The Highest Pass, chronicling a motorcycle pilgrimage in India to four sacred sites. This documentary explores themes of freedom, spiritual growth, and self-discovery amidst the chaotic and raw landscapes of India.
Notable Quote:
“It's my baby. It's my favorite project because it goes really deep into the ideas of freedom and things that we all are interested in.”
— Adam Schoma (03:09)
Selling Superman
Selling Superman tells the story of a rare Superman comic book collection worth millions, inherited by Darren. The film delves into familial trauma, the burden of legacy, and the protagonist’s quest to reconcile with his past by deciding whether to sell the collection or preserve it.
Notable Quote:
“He almost sees this as a burden, but a burden that he's trying to do the right thing with another responsibility.”
— Adam Schoma (53:14)
Heal
As a producer, Adam contributed to Heal, a documentary exploring the connections between mind, body, and spirit in the healing process. The film features prominent figures like Deepak Chopra and Dr. Joe Dispenza, advocating for holistic approaches to health.
Notable Quote:
“Healing really does encompass emotional support, purpose, meditation, stress—it’s a holistic process.”
— Adam Schoma (65:43)
Women of the White Buffalo & The Polygon
These documentaries focus on Native American communities, highlighting their struggles and resilience. The Polygon exposes the devastating effects of nuclear testing in Kazakhstan, while Women of the White Buffalo celebrates the strength and perseverance of Lakota women facing historical and contemporary challenges.
Notable Quote:
“These are the people that are standing up and saying, we’re not going to just be victims. We’re going to help rise up.”
— Adam Schoma (68:53)
Chasing the Present
Although Adam did not direct this film, he assisted in its release. Chasing the Present addresses mental health issues like stress and anxiety, emphasizing the role of meditation and holistic practices in overcoming these challenges.
Teachings and Philosophy
Adam integrates his spiritual teachings into his filmmaking, aiming to inspire viewers to look within and seek personal growth. He emphasizes faith, self-discovery, and the importance of following one's inner calling. His approach bridges the gap between entertainment and meaningful, transformative content.
Notable Quote:
“My message would be to listen to your inner wisdom, to follow that inner calling that wants freedom.”
— Adam Schoma (89:24)
Future Projects
Looking ahead, Adam is involved in projects addressing contemporary issues like artificial intelligence and advocating for laws such as Aaron's Law, which empowers children to speak up against abuse. He remains committed to creating documentaries that inspire change and foster a deeper understanding of complex social and spiritual topics.
Notable Quote:
“Aaron’s Law is about empowering kids to speak up and stop abuse, which can save lives and prevent further trauma.”
— Adam Schoma (120:13)
Conclusion
Adam Schoma's journey is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and inner calling. Through his documentaries, he sheds light on profound human experiences, blending spirituality with social consciousness. Warwick Schiller and Adam Schoma conclude the episode by encouraging listeners to explore Adam's work and embrace their own journeys towards personal and collective growth.
Connect with Adam Schoma:
- Website: Adam Yoga | Living Eye2Eye
- Instagram: @i2eye Productions
Closing Remark:
“Journey on.”
— Adam Schoma (126:46)
This episode offers a deep dive into Adam Schoma’s multifaceted life, showcasing his dedication to spiritual growth, resilient storytelling, and impactful filmmaking. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a spiritual seeker, or someone interested in the intersection of consciousness and media, Adam's insights provide valuable guidance and inspiration.