Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Shevela.
Hi Melissa, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Film has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. One of my earliest productions was a neighborhood play called Wizard of Archer, which I put on for our block as a young girl. Later, when I had kids of my own, we made movies together—simple, fun Star Wars spin-offs that gave us something creative to do as a family. We still watch those today and laugh at the memories.
While storytelling has always been in my blood, my career initially took me into entrepreneurship. I owned several businesses, including a manufacturing plant, and today I still run a property management company with industrial buildings.
In 2019, after selling one of my businesses, I helped my son move to Los Angeles to pursue acting. Ironically, when he decided to pivot and go back to college, I stayed behind in L.A.—and something inside me reignited. That childhood spark came rushing back.
I dabbled in a few areas—directing shorts, talent management, writing—but ultimately found my place in producing. It makes perfect sense, really. Producing is just like running a business: high-stakes, creative, and all about bringing the right people together to make something great.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like building a new house, starting a job, or even a relationship, anything new comes with its fair share of bumps in the road. But I’ve found that when you truly enjoy the process, those bumps feel more like lessons than setbacks.
Yes, I’ve hit a few along the way. I made an early investment that didn’t pan out, and that was tough. But once I got through it, I realized I had something even more valuable—a growing network of people who believed in me and were willing to lift me up. That’s when it clicked: you’re only as strong as the people around you.
In this industry, and really in life, you can’t do it alone. You need a team. A solid network. That’s been one of the most important things I’ve learned.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a film and television producer with a passion for discovering meaningful, entertaining stories—whether fiction or non-fiction. My specialty is finding the story first, then building everything around it: developing the script, creating pitch decks, securing attachments, and sometimes producing a teaser to help bring the vision to life. That’s where the business side kicks in—pitching, financing, and selling the project. I genuinely love the full arc of the process.
I’m currently preparing to go into production this October on my first feature film, Cabin Cashers, a comedy inspired by childhood memories. I also hold the option for two powerful true stories: Hero Dogs and Hijacked. Both are deeply inspirational and have started gaining some traction in Hollywood.
What I’m most proud of is that I’m pursuing something I truly love—film. It’s more than just a career for me; it’s a way to make a difference. I believe storytelling has the power to inspire and spark change. And when people see you chasing your dream, you can often see that same spark ignite in them. That, to me, is everything.
What sets me apart? I come from a business background, so I’m not afraid of taking calculated risks. I believe in investing in myself and the value I bring to the table. I also genuinely like people—from all walks of life—and I think people can feel that. In a world where so much goes overlooked, I try to make others feel seen and heard. And that’s something I bring into every project I touch.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Most people are surprised to learn I was a competitive gymnast growing up. I competed at the regional level. I also play intermediate volleyball, and I love the defense position—there’s nothing more satisfying than making a good dig against a strong spiker. It’s a true team sport, and I thrive in that dynamic.
Beyond that, I enjoy pickleball, and I play poker—I once dreamed of competing in the World Series of Poker! I definitely have a competitive streak that I’ve learned to keep in check. On the flip side, I have a deep love for cats. I find their purring incredibly therapeutic and would love to open a cat rescue one day.
I also meditate regularly and value the peace and clarity it brings. Taking time to slow down and connect with something bigger than yourself is something I would recommend to anyone, especially in a world that’s always rushing. And, my favorite number is 34!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.helicopterproductions.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissashevela/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Melissa.Millett.Shevela
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-shevela34/
- Other: https://pro.imdb.com/name/nm12642921?ref_=hm_prof_name
