The Light Watkins Show
Have you been dreaming of helping people in a meaningful way, but can’t get past your deepest insecurities or self doubt? The truth is: every change maker has to confront those same fears. The Light Watkins Show is a weekly interview podcast that unpacks the experiences of regular folks who have navigated dark and uncertain times in order to help improve the lives others. Light candidly shares these stories in the hopes of igniting your inspiration so you can start living your purpose!
Light Watkins is a best-selling author and keynote speaker. In 2014, Light started a non-profit variety show called The Shine Movement in Los Angeles, which grew into a global inspirational variety show! In 2020 he started an online personal development community called The Happiness Insiders. His most recent book, Travel Light, documents his one-bagger nomadic journey that he started in 2018.
The Light Watkins Show
280: From Dream Job to Oscar Winner: My Octopus Teacher Co-Director Pippa Ehrlich on Leaving Stability, Trusting Her Instincts & Saying Yes to Life's Uncertainties
In this episode, Light Watkins sits down with Pippa Ehrlich, the co-director of the Academy Award-winning documentary My Octopus Teacher. Pippa's journey is nothing short of remarkable—she left behind a stable, dream-worthy career as a marine journalist to follow an inner calling that defied logic. With no guaranteed funding and no clear roadmap, she took a leap of faith to help filmmaker Craig Foster tell an extraordinary story—one that would ultimately captivate millions.
Pippa shares how diving into the great African seaforest transformed not just her perspective on storytelling, but also her sense of purpose. She describes the visceral experience of free-diving, the magic of witnessing underwater creatures in their natural habitat, and how these moments helped her find her creative voice. Light and Pippa also discuss the pressures of filmmaking, imposter syndrome, and the unexpected emotional weight that comes with massive success—including how winning an Oscar didn't make self-doubt disappear.
If you've ever stood at a crossroads between comfort and passion, or wondered what it really means to follow your intuition despite uncertainty, this conversation is for you. Pippa's story is a testament to trusting your instincts, showing up fully, and embracing the unknown—even when the path ahead makes no practical sense.
Tune in to hear how Pippa turned a wild idea into an award-winning film, how she’s navigating her journey as a filmmaker, and why sometimes the best opportunities come when you stop asking for advice and just say yes.