Episode 31

🎙️ From Storytelling to Legacy: How Chance McClain Turned Personal Loss Into Purpose

How do you capture the heart of a family legacy before it’s too late? In this powerful episode, Dean Van Dyke sits down with filmmaker, radio host, and Broadway writer Chance McClain—founder of Heritage Films. What started as a favor to a friend became a calling: to preserve the rich, untold stories of everyday heroes before time silences them.

From documenting his stepfather’s battle with pancreatic cancer to filming WWII veterans, Chance reveals how storytelling isn’t just a career—it’s a responsibility. If you’ve ever wondered about your own family’s story or struggled with how to preserve it, this conversation is your sign to start.

🎯 Key Takeaways:

  • The emotional moment that led to Heritage Films’ founding
  • Why your “ordinary” story matters more than you think
  • How family interviews build generational connection
  • The power of slowing down and listening with intention
  • How legacy storytelling helps with grief and healing
  • The difference between preserving a moment and honoring a life
  • Storytelling as a leadership tool
  • The behind-the-scenes of building a business rooted in meaning

🛠️ Step-by-Step (How Heritage Films Are Made):

  1. Conduct the first interview—capture life’s unscripted memories.
  2. Gather family photos, videos, and documents.
  3. Edit and craft a professional, cinematic story.
  4. Deliver a legacy film that the family treasures forever.

đź’¬ Memorable Quotes:

“There was no sign. We were drinking beer by the fire, and then—boom—stage 4 pancreatic cancer.”
“It’s not about celebrity stories. It’s about PawPaw and how he built his life.”
“These aren’t projects. These are family legacies.”

đź”— Resources Mentioned:

Connect with Chance McClain at

https://yourheritagefilm.com/

Connect with Dean Van Dyke at The Breakthrough Blueprint

https://www.deanvandyke.com

https://www.instagram.com/dhvandyke27/

https://www.facebook.com/thepillarsgroup/

If you enjoyed listening, then please take a second to rate the show on iTunes. Every podcaster will tell you that iTunes reviews drive listeners to our shows—so please let me know what you thought and make sure you subscribe using your favorite podcast player. It means a lot to me and to the guests.

All Episodes Previous Episode

About the Podcast

Show artwork for From Battle to Business
From Battle to Business
Actionable Business Strategies | Veteran Entrepreneurs | Operational Efficiency Tips

Listen for free

About your host

Profile picture for Dean Van Dyke

Dean Van Dyke

Dean Van Dyke is a business strategist and Fractional COO. He supports small business owners in creating actionable strategies and structures around their businesses to gain momentum toward their vision. As you're looking at revenue challenges, trying to find savings opportunities, or worrying about employee turnover, you need an outside advisor to bounce ideas, work through challenges, or just be 'in it' with you. His clients don't make decisions without calling Dean first. You can visit his website at (https://www.deanvandyke.com) or connect with him on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanvandyke/) to learn more.