An INNER VIEW with Producer and Director Anna Zielinski
BIO
Anna Zielinski has over 15 years of experience producing faith-based and family films, spending her entire career at Pinnacle Peak Pictures. Anna began her producing career in 2010, partnering with David A.R. White and Pure Flix Entertainment to produce multiple films, including Marriage Retreat, Apostle Peter and The Last Supper, and Brotha White, and made her directorial debut with The Book of Daniel (2013). In 2014, Anna served as a producer on the faith-based hit God’s Not Dead, which became the highest-grossing indie feature of that year. Anna continued her momentum in 2014 with Dancer and the Dame and the sitcom Hitting The Breaks, and in 2021, Anna produced and directed Courting Mom & Dad. She went on to expand her portfolio as executive producer on The Encounter and Sons of Thunder: Redemption, Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters, Nothing’s Impossible, Revelation Road: The Series, and God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust (2024). Throughout her career, she has successfully led the production of both original films and series, solidifying her reputation as a leader in faith-based entertainment. Now solid with wisdom and knowledge and wanting to see others excel in the industry, Anna launched The Producers Desk, a YouTube channel providing aspiring producers with practical tips and strategies to bring their creative visions to life.
INNER VIEW
Kathleen Cooke: There are many challenges as a producer and director. What’s one of the most significant recent lessons God has taught you?
Anna Zielinski: One thing God has recently taught me is the importance of surrendering control and trusting His timing. As someone who loves to plan and organize every detail, I’ve learned that trying to control outcomes often leads to unnecessary stress and frustration. God has been reminding me that His plans are always better than mine, even when they don’t align with my timeline. When I choose to let go and trust Him, I find peace and clarity, even in uncertain moments. This lesson has been significant as I navigate new opportunities and challenges in my life, reminding me to lean into faith and not fear.
Kathleen: A producer’s job requires a calm hand on the steering wheel. This means one must manage one’s time and responsibilities and align priorities. What tips can you share on how to do this?
Anna: Prioritizing my time starts with a clear hierarchy: my health and well-being come first, followed by family, community, work, and finally, guilty pleasures. I’ve learned that if I’m not at my best—physically, mentally, and spiritually—I can’t fully show up for the people and priorities that matter most. My day always starts with exercise. If I don’t get it done first thing, it’s easy for it to fall by the wayside. From there, I move on to the day’s goals, prioritizing tasks in order of importance. For work, I choose to schedule calls within specific timeframes and often conduct them as “walking” appointments to ensure I’m staying active throughout the day. Evenings are reserved for fun and connection—playing pickleball, scrolling Instagram for delicious recipes, or enjoying movie time with my son. This intentional approach allows me to stay productive, maintain my health, and make space for the lighter, joy-filled moments that recharge me. By structuring my day this way, I’ve found balance and alignment with what truly matters while still leaving room for flexibility and spontaneity.
Kathleen: Time management and getting your priorities in line requires drawing boundaries. What have you learned about staying within those boundaries in our 24/7 world?
Anna: Drawing boundaries starts with knowing my values and priorities. I’ve learned that saying “yes” to everything often leads to burnout, so I’ve become intentional about protecting my time and energy for what truly matters—my health, family, work, and personal well-being. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that boundaries are not about shutting people out; they’re about creating space to show up fully for the things and people that matter most. For example, I set clear limits on when I take work calls, ensuring I have uninterrupted family time in the evenings. I’ve also learned the importance of communicating boundaries respectfully but firmly so that others understand and respect them. Keeping boundaries requires consistency and self-awareness. It’s easy to let them slip, especially when I feel the pressure to meet everyone else’s expectations. I’ve found that regularly checking in with myself helps—am I staying aligned with my priorities, or am I overcommitting? Ultimately, boundaries are about maintaining balance. They allow me to give my best to the areas that matter while still leaving room for rest, joy, and connection.
Kathleen: The films you have produced and directed have influenced many. What have you learned about the power of influence and having one that is everlasting?
Anna: One thing I’ve learned about influence is that it’s less about what you say and more about who you are. True, lasting influence comes from character—the way you treat others, the integrity you show in your actions, and the kindness and humility you carry with you. People may forget your words, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel. To be a “sweet aroma” of influence means leaving a positive impression whenever you leave the room. It’s about being intentional with your presence—listening more than speaking, offering encouragement, and treating others with respect and grace, even in challenging situations. Ultimately, influence isn’t about power or position; it’s about the legacy you leave in the hearts of those around you. When your actions align with your values and reflect God’s love, you create a lasting fragrance that inspires and uplifts others long after you’re gone.