Daily Inspiration: Meet Renee Warmack

Today we’d like to introduce you to RENEE WARMACK.

Renee, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m a filmmaker and success coach who loves to help others achieve their goals. In 2007, with no filmmaking experience I made my first documentary film “Ten at the Top in Tampa Bay” about top female government leaders that aired on PBS/WEDU, was featured in film festivals, and that led to invitations from women’s groups who wanted to see the film and hear me tell them about my filmmaking journey. Producing that movie ignited my love for filmmaking and sparked my passion for helping others achieve their dreams.

As a tomboy, and youngest of three girls from a blue-collar Tampa family, I overcame three major surgeries by second grade. Although I was a gifted athlete, my Mother was hesitant to let me play organized sports, but a woman who worked for the local Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation department named Lois McCuller’s (now Lois Kessler) convinced her to let me play Little Leaguerette’s softball where I excelled as the star shortstop. The County park’s system, along with my Father’s backyard coaching, launched my sports career. This culminated in me playing on the District Championship volleyball team at Buchannan Junior High School, winning the District tennis Championship title at number one singles at Chamberlain High School where I was the County’s MVP and an All-Star on the District title winning softball team, earning eight high school varsity letters in four different sports, and achieving my dream of playing NCAA Division I tennis on a scholarship at the University of South Florida (USF).

I don’t know how it is now, but back then, it was rare for a Tampa native to play tennis at USF because the school recruited internationally—which made that accomplishment extra special.

I always played hurt, due to a knee condition. After college tennis I had knee surgery and the doctor advised me not to pursue pro tennis (which was my ultimate dream back then), because my knee would not be able to withstand the daily regimen.

I finished my Bachelor’s degree at USF in English (Creative Writing) in 1990, and then embarked on a 20-year career in government, beginning with County Parks and Recreation, where I’d proven myself as a participant for many years, and had worked summers as a part-time employee.

I was heartbroken when I faced the reality that I could not pursue pro tennis, but I believe that turning point led me to a meaningful career working in government programs, public relations and administration. Had I not gotten a Master’s degree in Public Administration from USF where I studied government organizations, I’d likely not have noticed all of the government women leaders who were serving at the same time in Tampa—which resulted in me producing “Ten at the Top in Tampa Bay.” The film captures an unprecedented time in Tampa when 10 trailblazing women broke the glass ceiling and served in top government roles at the same time. It serves as an inspiration and mentoring resource for women.

I went on to make my next inspirational documentary film for the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County that captured the special taxing district’s founding and commemoration of its 20-year journey. It’s called “A Community with a Dream: The Founding of the Children’s Board.”

The idea for my most recent film “Because of Sam” came about when I discovered a courageous young man who was born with Down syndrome, named Sam Piazza, who won Homecoming King at Gaither High School in Tampa. I learned about Sam while reading the Tampa Tribune that told of his “crowning moment” and other extraordinary accomplishments. Sam is a change agent who inspires others and I am honored to have been able to make a movie about his life. Sam has worked at a PDQ (People Dedicated to Quality) Restaurant in Tampa for 8 years, is active with Gigi’s Playhouse and Best Buddies, and has a first-degree black belt in Karate.

The film sold out Tampa Theatre and received a standing ovation, won Tampa’s Downtown Partnership Urban Excellence People’s Choice Award, and aired on PBS/WEDU television.

“Because of Sam” transforms how the world views people with disabilities and inspires everyone to pursue their dreams—just like Sam did AND DOES. I offer a Because of Sam Educational Program that targets workforce empathy and inclusion training for organizations, that includes a film screening, Educational Study Guide with objectives, discussion questions and answers, activities, and a participant evaluation. We also offer the film as an in-person screening and Q and A with proper COVID19 protocols in place; and as an at-home streaming rental for personal viewing.

I believe it’s an obligation for those who are fortunate enough to have overcome (or “survived”) obstacles, to give back.

I am absolutely committed to inspiring others and supporting them as they strive to reach their full potential. I feel it is my calling.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Although I excelled at sports my whole life, I played hurt for as long as I can remember and had to overcome the pain in order to succeed. My right knee has a bone condition on the weight bearing surface of my femur that always made (and still does make) it painful to run.

Besides overcoming obstacles to excel in sports and earn a college degree, I definitely feel that I’ve faced challenges to making movies in Tampa. I’ve had to do a ton of research on my own, find mentors, fundraise and risk making mistakes on a grand scale. I’m fortunate that all three of my films have been very well received. There’s no better feeling than standing in the back of Tampa Theatre and hearing a packed house cheer after watching your movie that you made with all of your blood, sweat and tears.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a Producer, Speaker and Coach, I produce engaging events, inspirational movies, and provide success coaching through Renee Warmack Productions, LLC.

Besides film production, I produce signature events under my brand that promote women empowerment and local female artists. Through my “The Art of Women” event series I showcase groups of diverse Tampa Bay area female artists by staging a fun, interactive evening of art, music and dancing. Sadly, these have been put on hold due to the pandemic. To help keep the momentum going, I’ve created virtual opportunities for learning by interviewing female artists via Zoom, and have posted their interesting stories and pearls of wisdom to my Renee Warmack Productions Youtube channel.

I offer my Power Hack® Playbook success coaching in person or through an online offering that’s available 24/7 for those who’d like to super charge their journey, in the comfort of their own home and on their own time.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
My family couldn’t afford for me to belong to a country club or to play junior tournament tennis, so as a kid, I learned how to play tennis mostly by reading a book, hitting up against walls, and hanging out at the County playground. My parents believed in me and loved me (and still do), which is worth so much more than money. They divorced when I was young and I ended up living in different apartment complexes growing up. I would find a wall to hit against no matter where I lived. I was driven to get a sports scholarship to pay for college, because I knew there was no money for it otherwise.

I was the first person in my family to get a college degree. Those childhood memories of banging that ball against a wall are special to me because they reinforce my drive to create a clear vision, drown out doubt with a fierce belief, and take BOLD action to make my dreams come true. These principles are now at the heart of my Power Hack® Playbook Success Program that helps others achieve their dreams.

• Contact Info:
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: https://reneewarmackproductions.com/
  • Instagram: @ReneeWarmack
  • Facebook: @ReneeWarmackProductions
  • Twitter: @ReneeWarmack
  • Other: https://becauseofsamthemovie.com/ and https://powerhackplaybook.com/ordernow

Image Credits
Jessie Stehlik
Sharon Bundrage