Meet Breanna Wing

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

Hi Breanna, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I used to be a workaholic. You know the saying, ‘Sometimes people’s best qualities are also their worst?’ I can get obsessive. When I love something, I think about it constantly and work on it around the clock. Early in my career, all my friends were work friends, and my days were a cycle of long hours on set, followed by ‘networking meals.’ Weekends were spent catching up on tasks for the coming week. My life revolved around work (work that I loved), but so did my friendships.

At some point, I realized I didn’t have much time for family or friendships outside of the industry. That imbalance pushed me to take a step back and reflect. I started prioritizing my health, my peace, and myself. During this time, I taught pottery, flew trapeze, ran marathons, rock climbed, meditated, and practiced a lot of yoga. It became a journey of self-discovery—who was I without constantly grinding? What did I want when not serving or assisting someone else at work? On this journey, I met my husband, who often reminds me, ‘If you can’t fully say no, you can’t fully say yes either.’ It clicked for me – to be the best version of myself for others; I also have to be the best version of myself…for me.

When I returned to the industry, I had a deeper understanding that saying ‘no’ can be just as powerful as saying ‘yes.’ Just like in running or other athletic pursuits, recovery is essential for sustaining both progress and creativity. Except now, I find myself waking up at 4 a.m. with a burst of energy and a new idea—maybe a new cycle is beginning. Perhaps these lessons aren’t set in stone but a practice I’ll always try to be mindful of.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am currently directing and co-producing a documentary about Lumberjills, which has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. Sparked by my curiosity about my Maine roots and the remarkable women in that community, this film explores over 100 years of women’s contributions to the timber industry while showcasing modern-day athletes who defy societal norms with their strength and resilience. Every day is filled with research (which I love—going down rabbit holes!) and the joy of meeting new people. Whether we’re discussing how to capture a speed climbing event or marveling at stories of women working in forestry during WWII, I find myself falling in love with the people I meet along the way.

The filmmakers joining this project are a talented and creative force, and the athletes we encounter are generous, passionate, and kind. This documentary has become a journey that connects me to both my heritage and the resilient women making history today.

My path in the film industry has been dynamic. While in college, I initially aspired to be a production designer, which led to internships on major blockbuster sets, including two Marvel Cinematic Universe films. This experience paved the way for my first job out of college to be on ‘Django Unchained.’ From serving as an art department coordinator for an NBC sitcom to assisting a producer, a director, and an award-winning casting director, I’ve worked across many departments. This winding path has led to conversations ranging from script development to construction costs to “It’s 4 a.m., we’re cold, we’re wet, we’re exhausted— and sh*t, we’ve got the giggles.”

I’ve also stepped out from behind the camera, transitioning to acting and landing roles in films directed by Academy Award winners—filmmakers I’ve admired since I was little. I co-directed a documentary in Cameroon that advocates for the protection of endangered primates.

Reading all of this back feels exciting, but there was a time when I felt somewhat disjointed, like I’d had “multiple careers.” That’s when a former boss, now a friend, met me for dinner and suggested I stop thinking of it as “separate careers” and instead as one long, beautiful career in the film industry. He was right. I’ve always loved this medium. It’s my favorite art form—it can touch millions, inspire change, and make the world a better place.

As I direct this current documentary, I reflect on all the departments I’ve worked in over the years and the conversations I’ve had, from studio execs to PAs and the overnight security guards who ensured I walked safely to my car. I realize that all of it has helped shape me into the director I hope to be—someone who leads with grace, kindness, and a sense of humor.

(Also, a strong cup of coffee really helps.)

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.
Oh wow, here we go! The morning starts with a dark, rich pour-over (freshly ground beans) and a little heavy whipping cream.
Then, a nice, long hike with my sweet dog, Joey.
Afterward, gluten-free pancakes before heading out to swim laps, dive into the pool, or maybe dip in the ocean—we’ll feel it out.
Midday? Sushi. Omakase (or we’ll swing by Santa Monica Seafood and get sushi-grade fish and make sushi at home)
Then, iced matches or coffees, strolling around in a breezy sundress, no bra, soaking in all that glorious sunshine.
By 8:30 pm, I’m turning into a pumpkin. We’ve been up since 4 a.m., so tomorrow’s the day for a home-cooked meal.
We’ll go to the farmer’s market for some fresh produce.
Throughout the week, we’ll throw in a little flying trapeze session, rock climbing, maybe a pottery class, and more cooking on our cast iron skillets.
L.A. has endless outdoor fun, so we’ll go mountain biking in the Pasadena mountains, hike through Griffith Park, catch a movie at the New Bev, and more swimming.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Season 5, Episode 12 of The X-Files—’Bad Blood.’ I was eight years old, and from that moment, I knew I wanted to work in the film industry. Cue my obsessive nature. Have you seen that episode? I can’t stop smiling when I watch it. It’s hard to credit just one person who influenced my journey, so I’ll start with the public school teachers in Maine. They let me call them at home when I needed clarification or stayed after hours so I could finish something I had to get right. They were incredible.

I also want to recognize my university professors, bosses, and supervisors over the years. Many became friends, and I’m incredibly grateful that I can still reach out to them for advice or support and be candid when I feel creatively vulnerable. The generosity and empathy my colleagues have shown as I’ve carved my path are things I never take for granted.

Website: www.axewomenfilm.com

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/axewomenfilm/

Other: https://www.instagram.com/axewomenfilm/ https://www.breannawing.com/ https://imdb.me/breannawing

Image Credits

Sean Kara Indeana Underhill Arthur Wing