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What does it look like to practice trauma-informed storytelling behind the camera?

In this episode of When Bearing Witness, filmmaker Heidi Burkey shares how she approaches documentary work with care and a deep respect for those she films. With projects featured on Netflix, Hulu, PBS, and Disney+, Heidi brings powerful insights into ethical storytelling practices that nonprofit leaders and communicators can learn from.

Together, we explore the parallels between documentary filmmaking and nonprofit storytelling, especially when it comes to navigating consent, power dynamics, and cultural context. Heidi reflects on moments in her career where doing what’s right meant stepping back, collaborating with community members, and rethinking her role as a storyteller. Her approach is a model for nonprofit communication ethics—one that prioritizes safety, transparency, and trust at every stage of the process.

About Heidi Burkey

Heidi Burkey is a seasoned documentary filmmaker specializing in character-driven stories with a passion for highlighting underrepresented individuals and communities. Through verité-led filmmaking, she strives to create films that offer a nuanced and empathetic perspective. As a filmmaker, she is known for her ability to quickly establish trust with individuals and adapt to the unique cultures and communities represented. Her films have been distributed on platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Max, PBS, and Amazon.

Connect with Heidi Burkey

Website | Instagram | From Reflection to Release Framework | Ethical Storytelling

About Host Maria Bryan

Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, Trauma-Informed Coaching, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.

Connect with Maria

Speaking & Training | LinkedIn | Email