Welcome to Episode 42 of the Gent’s Talk podcast, where we sat down with actor/writer/producer Vinay Virmani. As a natural-born storyteller, the Chief Content Officer of Uninterrupted Canada uses the art of storytelling to change how we view the world. We learn so much from stories, and Vinay does an unbelievable job at telling stories that continue to help us change how we look at each other. Virmani believes that diversity in storytelling is the future of the entertainment industry.
Uninterrupted Canada
In 2019, Virmani partnered with LeBron James and Drake to bring the content studio Uninterrupted to Canada. Uninterrupted Canada is a platform that stands for athlete empowerment. Virmani brings a new perspective to audiences by producing groundbreaking documentaries that showcase diversity in Canadian sports.
Atop the list of his many successful projects is Black Ice, which deals with the forgotten history of the Black contribution to hockey. Intending to look at hockey as a larger conversation, he dove deep into the systemic racism in hockey culture. “If hockey defines us as Canadians,” he asked, “and hockey is so culturally problematic, what does that say about us?”
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“Scream your truths. Make people feel uncomfortable.”
Vinay Virmani on Sharing your experiences & making a change
The film emphasizes hockey’s need for explicit disciplinary action regarding racial and abuse issues. “More athletes need to come out and speak up,” Vinay pleaded, “a lot of players are forced to carry this pain, this baggage. [There’s] an everyday feeling of isolation and humiliation.” The film premiered at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival, winning the People’s Choice Award for Documentaries. The film was also named to TIFF’s ‘Canada’s Top Ten list for 2022.’
See Also: Gent’s Talk: Ep 41 – A Sit-Down w/ Matty Maggiacomo
Tell Your Story
Of the many hats Virmani wears, he struggles the most with business conversations. He admitted, “I’ve never been really good with numbers, contracts and business affairs,” but he surrounds himself with intelligent people to offset this imbalance. He credits his ability to ask questions with his success. “Ask. It’s the only way you’ll learn.”
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A vital part of a producer’s job is to find stories. Vinay explained that a producer is a great curator and a good listener. Take a listen as Vinay explains the importance of disseminating your experiences. He firmly believes in speaking your truth and sharing your story. “Your truth is going to make people feel uncomfortable, but you can’t think about that.”
Obsession
Virmani has had the luxury of bumping elbows with many greats, and the trait he found they all had in common: obsession. “Whatever the craft or field, they’re obsessed with refining their craft.” noted Vinay, “[They’re] obsessed with perfecting it. Learning more about it.” Being close to these extraordinary individuals has enforced his self-belief, highlighting the power of the mind. To witness that “I’m destined for greatness” mentality is something that he will take with him forever.
Please tune into Episode 42 for the entire conversation with Vinay Virmani, and be sure to catch a few of his other memorable documentaries: Superfan, the story of a Sikh immigrant’s devotion to the Toronto Raptors; Anything is Possible: The Serge Ibaka Story; and Par-Lay: The Fred Vanvleet Story.
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About Gent’s Talk
Bulova Canada presents Episode 42 of Gent’s Talk, available for streaming on Youtube, Spotify, Goodpods, iHeartRadio, Apple and Google Podcasts! It is filmed at StartWell Studios in Toronto. You can now catch Season 1 on all Air Canada flights! Your continued support throughout this journey is appreciated. Thank you!
