In an industry where access often defines opportunity, Chris and McKenzy Bowers set out to change the equation. What began as a need for a production space evolved into Tivid TV Studios, a creator-driven environment built with intention and community at its core. From immersive set design to strategic storytelling, the husband-and-wife team has developed more than a studio. They have built a platform that merges filmmaking, marketing, and entrepreneurship into a single ecosystem.
As Tivid expands from Florida into Texas, the Bowers are scaling their vision without compromising its foundation. Their approach remains rooted in authenticity, access, and a commitment to equipping the next generation of creators with both the tools and the mindset to succeed. In this conversation, they discuss the origin of Tivid Studios, the evolution of their mission, and how they balance cinematic craft with measurable impact.
What problem were you trying to solve when you launched Tivid Studios, and how has that mission evolved?
Chris Bowers: We had just launched a streaming platform, Tivid.TV, and I needed a place to film content. That’s where it started. We shoot many types of projects and wanted to build a platform filled with content that creators could use and contribute to. We began by producing original content and searching for locations. Eventually, I decided to get a warehouse and build sets tailored to our needs. It grew beyond that. The community embraced it.
Filmmakers and music artists started using the space daily. We created environments that are not typically accessible, including a private jet set, a casino, and a diner, along with several other builds. What started as a production need turned into a creative hub shaped by both our vision and the community’s input.
McKenzy Bowers: One thing that set us apart early was our decision to rotate sets every six months. That gave creators new resources and kept the space fresh. We focus on immersion. Every set is built to feel real. Within the first week of opening, students from nearby film schools started coming in. We are about three miles from Full Sail University.
Soon after, another school approached us about using the space as a backlot. That led us into philanthropy. We offered 80 hours of free studio time for students. It grew into something bigger. Students returned even after graduating because the studio became a safe, structured environment for learning.
How do your personal backgrounds shape your approach to cultural storytelling?
Chris Bowers: I came into this as a creator first. I love film. I would do this whether I was making money or not. Growing up, movies helped me escape difficult situations. Now I want to create stories that allow others to do the same. For 90 minutes, they can step into another world. That’s always been the goal.
McKenzy Bowers: My background is in marketing and corporate work. When I met Chris, I brought that perspective into the business. We focus on professionalism and consistency, whether online or in person. We also emphasize the business side of filmmaking, which many students are not taught. We want people to understand they can build something of their own. We lead by example.Visit Orlando Collaboration
What stood out during your collaboration with Visit Orlando?
Chris Bowers: We were brought in through a collaboration with Ebony magazine. They saw our work and wanted us involved. The experience stood out from start to finish. The production team was strong, and we worked well together. We visited culturally significant locations in Central Orlando and captured their stories. Being part of that alongside a company like Ebony made it meaningful.
McKenzy Bowers: It was a major milestone for us. To be recognized by a legacy brand and trusted with that work meant a lot. We highlighted Black history in Orlando, including Eatonville, one of the first incorporated Black towns in the United States. We had already been working on a project about it, so joining a larger effort added depth. It was an important moment for us.
What are clients usually missing when they come to you, and how do you close that gap?
Chris Bowers: Clients are often looking for a fresh perspective. When they meet us, they see the passion we bring. We don’t just execute ideas. We ask why the project matters. I want to understand the story behind it. That helps us bring depth to the final product. There’s a difference between a company focused only on business and one that connects with the purpose behind the work.
McKenzy Bowers: We start by identifying the client’s goals, then build from there. We also think about longevity. We want the content to continue delivering value over time. Their success is our success. That mindset guides how we approach each project.
How do you balance cinematic quality with measurable impact?
McKenzy Bowers: We begin with strategy. Who is the audience? What is the goal? Are we driving leads, sales, or awareness? Once we define that, we build visuals and messaging around it. That includes calls to action and structure. We approach projects from the end goal backward to ensure nothing is missed.
Chris Bowers: Understanding the audience is key. Once I know who the content is for, I can shape the visuals to guide attention. There’s often a lot happening in a project. My role is to focus the viewer on what matters most.
What led to your expansion into Texas?
Chris Bowers: Expansion was always part of the plan. We aim to establish studios in major cities. Austin made sense because of its tech growth and increasing film activity. It aligns with both our production and streaming platform. The market differs from Florida. Texas has a stronger filmmaking presence, while Florida leans more toward music production. That allows us to focus more on narrative storytelling here.
McKenzy Bowers: Our studios create a space where people can fully express themselves. In Austin, that fits naturally with the creative culture. We’ve also begun working with local governments and organizations. That has opened new opportunities and partnerships.
How do you protect authenticity as you grow?
Chris Bowers: We stay grounded in why we started. Everything we do reflects that. We turn down opportunities that don’t align with our mission. That helps us stay focused and maintain trust.
McKenzy Bowers: We communicate our values clearly to anyone who joins the team. That helps maintain consistency. We’ve built safeguards over time. Since launching in 2018, we’ve stayed committed to our direction, even when outside opinions differ.
What can we expect next?
Chris Bowers: We’re working on a new studio location in Austin. We’re also developing narrative projects and expanding partnerships, including work with the city of Leander. There’s a lot in progress.
McKenzy Bowers: Expect the unexpected. That’s always been our approach.
Be’n Original
