We’re looking forward to introducing you to Amy Smyth. Check out our conversation below.
Amy, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: When was the last time you felt true joy?
I get so much joy from witnessing and capturing beauty. I live on a farm at the base of the Santa Monica Mountains, and I’m surrounded by natural beauty every day. We have a little kitchen garden, and in the late afternoon, the sun comes down and backlights everything — it’s magic and very photogenic. Nothing makes me happier than seeing my kids out there picking things in the evening light.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a photographer, a filmmaker, and occasionally I write. At the heart of everything I create is a deep reverence for the intimate connection between people and the planet. My work tells stories that elevate environmental leaders and amplify voices that need to be heard. I explore the healing power of nature and the transformative potential of storytelling.
I’m currently finishing two documentary films. One follows a farmer in the midst of transitioning from conventional, chemical-based agriculture to regenerative farming. His journey is powerful and personal—we hope it will inspire others to rethink the way we grow our food.
The second film centres on a groundbreaking invention that transforms food waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer in under an hour. It’s an extraordinary solution with the potential to address multiple crises at once—from landfill overflow to soil degradation and climate change.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
After the birth of my second child, I experienced a severe nervous system breakdown. It wasn’t until I was hospitalised that I realised I had lost touch with consensus reality. I was diagnosed with postpartum psychosis—but the inner journey I underwent was deeply mystical. Recovery took six months of gently releasing delusional beliefs, learning to regulate my nervous system, and reclaiming sleep after intense insomnia. What I learned about the psyche during that time was profound. The tools I discovered for restoring mental balance continue to guide me. While I would never wish that experience on anyone, I believe that—with the right support—breakdowns can become powerful gateways to breakthrough.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I give up filmmaking at least once during every film I make! Photography was a path that I chose, but filmmaking was something I fell into by accident. I love how a film can hold layers of meaning that a single image can’t always capture, but the process is complex, full of moving parts, and it’s challenged me in ways I never expected. The learning curve has been steep. I’ve made so many mistakes, I’ve made all the mistakes! But I’m still here, constantly learning and still creating. And I’m curious to see where my creativity wants to go next.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I believe that despite rapid advances in science, we thrive most when we turn to natural solutions before man-made ones. Everything I do is rooted in exploring, narrating and ultimately affirming this belief. I’m studying herbal medicine and I practice regenerative gardening to grow my own food and medicine. This is a lifelong path for me, one I’ll walk for as long as I live.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
In my garden with my children, tending to our garden beds, with my husband and dog close by.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amysmyth.com
- Instagram: byamysmyth
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@peopleoftheplants
Image Credits
Amy Smyth
