BEYOND THE ONIROS FILM AWARDS®
VIP Interview with Rudy Mawer, director of the documentary ‘Legacy Makers’
by Alice Lussiana Parente
Today, we introduce Rudy Mawer, a visionary entrepreneur and the creative force behind the documentary Legacy Makers. In this interview, we delve into Rudy’s inspiring personal journey, his insights on the power of taking risks, the importance of dreaming big, and the mindset that fuels innovation and success.
1. When did you decide to start working on this documentary?
The idea for Legacy Makers started taking shape a few years ago when I realized the power of storytelling in inspiring others. I wanted to create a platform to share not only my journey but also the stories of over 100 influential individuals—pro athletes, entrepreneurs, innovators, and celebrities—who embody what it means to leave a legacy. The concept evolved as we built the infrastructure, eventually turning into a full-scale documentary project.
2. You directed the documentary Legacy Makers, which features your own life journey. How was this experience for you directing your own story?
Directing my own story was a unique and exciting challenge. I already had a deep understanding of my journey and the key milestones that would resonate with an audience. Because I’ve spent years building my personal brand, I knew which parts of my story people find most interesting, even if I sometimes overlook them myself. It was also fun because I got to shape my narrative and bring it to life in a way that aligns with my vision, thanks to my experience in public speaking and media.
3. How long did it take to collect all the necessary material, and how challenging was this process for you?
Fortunately, having spent the last 7–8 years building my personal brand and being active in social media, advertising, and media, most of the material was already archived and ready to go. The in-studio filming was also streamlined because we have our own 9,000-square-foot studio in Miami. This setup allowed us to collect and organize the footage quickly, making the process relatively smooth.
4. What is the message that you want to communicate to the audience through your story? What do you hope viewers take away from your documentary?
The message I want to communicate is that anything is possible if you’re willing to take risks, defy the norm, and step out of your comfort zone. My story demonstrates how a kid from a small town in England, with no money and big dreams, could create an extraordinary life by being bold enough to take chances. I want viewers to see that their circumstances don’t define them and that they can achieve greatness by taking that first leap of faith.
Rudy Mawer, director of the documentary ‘Legacy Makers‘ – www.mawercapital.com
5. You’ve always been gifted at everything you tried as an athlete, entrepreneur, real estate agent, researcher, etc. If you had to identify one overarching skill or quality that ties all your successes together, what would it be?
The one quality that ties it all together is my obsessive, all-in work ethic. I dedicate myself fully to whatever I’m focused on—often working 15+ hours a day—and I’m relentless in learning everything I can from experts, books, podcasts, and events. This belief in myself and my ability to excel in any area has been the foundation for all my successes.
6. Are there moments or milestones in your career where you feel this skill made the biggest difference?
Absolutely. Taking my business online at 20 and experimenting with online advertising was a turning point. Buying my first real estate investment at a young age was another, as it showed me, I could do what others thought was impossible. Moving to America was the biggest leap of all—it opened up new opportunities and changed the trajectory of my life. Lastly, the 200+ flights I’ve taken to attend events, meet people, and build connections have been pivotal moments where my work ethic and commitment paid off.
7. Can you tell us more about your latest platform: INSIDE SUCCESS Studio?
INSIDE SUCCESS Studio was created to fill a gap in the marketplace for educational and inspirational media. We aim to produce highly engaging TV documentaries, media, and, one day, possibly films that inspire and educate while still being entertaining. While shows like Shark Tank have made strides in this space, there’s still a need for more content that helps people grow and evolve. With our creative minds, connections, and team, we’re building a platform to meet that demand.
8. In the documentary, you called yourself “delusional.” Do you feel that being “delusional” in this context was a positive or negative trait, and why?
I see being “delusional” as a positive trait. To achieve greatness, you have to dream big and believe in things others might think are impossible. History is full of people who were called delusional—Muhammad Ali, Elon Musk, and Roger Bannister, to name a few—and they all redefined what was possible. That mindset is what drives innovation and success.
9. You have more than 100 employees. Do you ever feel the pressure of your own achievements? How do you balance your workload with your own personal time?
The pressure is always there, but I thrive on it. Leading a team of over 100 people is a responsibility I take seriously, and it motivates me to keep growing. To balance my workload, I’ve learned to delegate and trust my team while still focusing on high-impact tasks. I also carve out time for fitness and personal growth, which helps me stay energized and focused.
10. Could you share any films, documentaries, or personal stories that influenced your creative process for Legacy Makers?
Shows like Shark Tank and documentaries on visionaries like Elon Musk and Richard Branson inspired the tone and structure of Legacy Makers. I wanted to blend inspiration and education with engaging storytelling, ensuring that viewers feel both motivated and entertained.
11. How does the soundtrack you chose reflect the story and amplify the impact of the documentary?
The soundtrack was carefully selected to evoke the emotions tied to the highs and lows of my journey. The music builds anticipation, highlights pivotal moments, and connects the audience to the narrative on a deeper level. It’s an essential part of creating an immersive experience.
12. Are there specific values, principles, or achievements you strive to pass on to future generations?
I want to instill the values of hard work, resilience, and the belief that anything is possible with the right mindset. Achievements are important, but it’s the lessons and principles behind them—like taking risks and never settling—that I hope to pass on to future generations.
13. What’s next for you? What are you working on right now?
Currently, I’m focused on expanding INSIDE SUCCESS Studio and bringing even more inspirational stories to life. I’m also working on several new projects, including the Legacy Makers TV show, partnerships with top entrepreneurs, and creating innovative educational platforms. The goal is to continue inspiring others to dream big and achieve their full potential.