Meet Via Easter of Olathe

Today we’d like to introduce you to Via Easter.

Hi Via, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Ever since childhood, when asked what I wanted to be, my answer was always the same: a director. That dream took root in Olathe Northwest’s e-Communications program, where I was introduced to the fundamentals of digital media production. There, I gained hands-on experience with editing software, directed and acted in student films, and began to shape my creative voice. After high school, I continued my journey at the University of Central Missouri, collaborating on several short projects and forming lasting connections. Following my sophomore year, I transferred to the University of Missouri–Kansas City to finish my degree in a vibrant city setting. Today, I balance full-time work and school while freelancing in photography, writing creatively, and contributing to film sets as a producer, writer, and assistant director—steadily building the career I’ve envisioned since I was a kid.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s definitely not been a smooth road, but I feel incredibly blessed to have met so many creative, inspiring people along the way. One of the biggest challenges for me has been mental health, especially in the context of growing up as a young creative in the age of social media. There’s this constant sense of urgency—you see people your age hitting major milestones, and it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind. The pressure to succeed early, to be constantly creative, and to project an image of success takes a real toll, especially when you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, and imposter syndrome. I’m not always “traditional” in my work either—I’m gay, young, and, let’s be real, my frontal lobe isn’t even fully developed yet! On top of that, maintaining a balance between work, school, and creative projects is its own struggle. I work to pay for college, but this industry doesn’t operate on a clock-in, clock-out schedule. It demands your full presence, and that can be overwhelming—but it’s also what makes it so rewarding.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I see myself as a voice in a visual field. While I’m trained in the technical side—camera operation, editing, equipment management, and production logistics—what truly drives me is the human connection behind every story. I chose this career not just to make things look good on screen, but to work with passionate people and help bring meaningful narratives to life. I feel most fulfilled when I’m on set, making sure everything runs smoothly—from the camera crew to lighting, actors, and stage teams—so the story can shine through.

At the core of everything I do is an unshakable urge to create. No matter how busy life gets, or how uncertain the path feels, I’m always drawn back to making something that speaks to people. I want to connect with my community and tell stories that reflect real experiences, real identities, and real emotion. My work isn’t about chasing blockbuster formulas or glamorizing perfection—it’s about honesty, connection, and depth. I’m proud to contribute to projects that challenge norms and explore perspectives that often go unseen or unheard. I believe storytelling can be a tool for healing, for unity, and for sparking meaningful change—and that’s the kind of impact I hope to make.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I’ve been incredibly lucky to be surrounded by people who’ve shaped, inspired, and supported me on this journey. One of the most important was my dear friend Alysha Burney, a brilliant director and an even more beautiful soul, who we lost this year. Alysha was fearless in her creativity—anxiety didn’t know her—and she led with both talent and kindness. Her presence still motivates me to be bolder in my own work. I also find inspiration in unlikely places—like Markiplier, who started as a YouTuber and has evolved into a passionate independent filmmaker. His “I can do it and teach myself” energy is something I carry with me, especially in a field where waiting for permission can hold you back.

The creative spirit of Kansas City has also played a huge role in who I am. This city is full of people who make art simply because they believe in its power. The drag and queer creative community here has been especially inspiring—raw, expressive, and unapologetically authentic. And above all, my family has always been in my corner. They never told me I couldn’t succeed, even when the path I chose didn’t follow a traditional route. Their quiet belief in me has been one of my strongest foundations. All of these people—friends, mentors, artists, and loved ones—have poured something into me, and I carry that with gratitude into every project I take on.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://viaeast84.wixsite.com/east-on-film
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/east.on.film/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@viaeast7441