Meet Dylan Woodhouse | Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dylan Woodhouse and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dylan, how do you think about risk?
Risk has been the defining factor of my journey. Leaving my home country of Zimbabwe to come to the U.S. was the first big leap, one that came with uncertainty, but also endless possibility. Then, in my first week here, I broke my back. That moment could have derailed everything, but instead, it reinforced my mindset: setbacks never means the end, they’re just part of the story.

Every major step I’ve taken has been about pushing toward something bigger. I left the startup world for film because I knew I wanted to make a greater impact, not just build, but tell stories that matter. Unscripted storytelling has the power to shape narratives, expose truths, and challenge perspectives, and that’s the space where I knew I could create real change. So for me, risk isn’t about gambling on the unknown, it’s about betting on yourself and your ability to adapt, grow, and make something meaningful out of every challenge.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets me apart is my ability to persevere through adversity, take calculated risks, and approach every challenge with strategic planning. I’ve also built a strong mentorship board, people who not only guide me but actively champion my success. That support system has been invaluable.

Perseverance has defined my journey. I broke my back in my first week in the U.S., something that could have completely derailed everything. Instead, I used it as motivation to push even harder, eventually going on to win an NCAA championship in Water Polo. That experience taught me early on that setbacks don’t dictate outcomes, your mindset and response do. This learning is something I implement on a daily basis as a Producer for Wahlberg, as problem solving and determination is critical to succeeding in Hollywood.

Was it easy? Not at all. But it was an absolute pleasure because fostering a positive mindset is a practice that can be learned and used as a tool. The challenges were real, immigrating to a new country, breaking into a legacy industry that thrives on connections, and constantly having to prove myself. I overcame these obstacles by maintaining a growth mindset, being uncompromising toward my goals, and reminding myself why I started. Retiring my family has always been a huge source of motivation, and that drive pushes me forward every day.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that resilience and adaptability are everything. Talent and ambition are important, but success comes from how well you can pivot, learn, and keep going when things don’t go as planned.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My idea of fun might be a little untraditional. When my brother, who I’m closest to on this planet, came to visit, we didn’t do the usual touristy LA things.

One of the most incredible things I’ve found in LA is a community of international rugby players who get together every weekend to play, share stories, and support each other. So, of course, that was a must. There’s something about stepping onto a field, getting knocked around a bit, and then grabbing a drink with people from all over the world who have each other’s backs on and off the pitch. That’s our kind of fun.

We also went bouldering because what’s a trip without climbing an artificial wall?

Of course, we had to dive into LA’s food scene. We tried some of the best spots around the city.
For me, the best experiences aren’t just about places. They’re about the people you meet, the stories you hear, and getting out of your comfort zone. That’s what makes LA special.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people who have played a role in my journey, but the first ones to truly open the door for me were Adam Paul Smith, David Johnson, and Suzanne Nora Johnson. They gave me my start, took a chance on me, and set me on a path that led to everything I’m doing today. From being the first Zimbabwean to attend the USC, Peter Stark Producing program to going from Assistant to Producer at Mark Wahlberg’s Production Company in seven months, they have always given me the support I needed to go the extra mile.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylanwoodhouse/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-woodhouse-790754176/