From an award-winning Hollywood writer, actress and producer—a practical, motivational guide on everything you need to know (and how you should think) about writing, directing, producing, and even starring in your first feature film.

As an aspiring actress Selina Ringel waited for years for her train to arrive.

She moved to Hollywood and did everything “by the book”—went to film school, attended endless casting calls, and searched for an agent. But without a finished project, opportunities kept passing her by.

That’s when she realized she had to become the train—create her own momentum rather than waiting for external validation or resources.

Drawing from her experience writing, producing, and starring in her own projects—including three feature films, a comedy special, and a digital TV series—as well as working with stars like Issa Rae, Lee Aronsohn, and Salvador Paskowitz, Selina reveals the most important tools that first-time filmmakers need to succeed:

» The relentless mindset needed in creative industries

» How to get funding—and how to get things done without it

» How to build and steer the right team into the station

» How to find joy and fulfillment in the process

More than a traditional filmmaking manual, Be the Train is a powerful blend of real-life examples, actionable advice, and mental resilience strategies for empowering creatives to take control of their art.