In this episode, I sat down with filmmaker Ragnhild Nøst Bergem and Ola Henningsen to discuss their latest project, Being Ola, friendship, vulnerability, growing up different, independence, and connection.
Being Ola follows a 30-year-old man living in a small village in Norway with a very diverse group of people. In this village, the residents live a slower-paced life that aligns with nature. Much of Ola’s time is spent working in a workshop, pulling carrots, and hanging out with his friend Lasse. After Ola’s life changes significantly, we see him step into a new light, taking bigger risks and growing as a person.
Our conversation is a deep dive into:
Ragnhild’s decision to make this film, and what drew her to Ola specifically
Ola’s decision to move to the village, his childhood, and his true feelings
Major shifts that prompted him to branch out in relationships, engage in public speaking and performance opportunities, and take his first solo trip
Ragnhild’s process as a filmmaker and how it changed over the course of two years of filming the documentary
Not only did watching Being Ola allow me to reflect on my own struggles, but its vulnerability has also empowered me to make changes in my own relationships.
So, tell me, have you experienced a loss that catapulted you into the next phase of your life?
Also available on YouTube.
