Influential Woman · Film and Television Production
Heather Pilder Olson
Writer and Producer, Panther Paws Productions
Seattle, WA 98116
Her Story
About Heather
Heather Pilder Olson is a writer, filmmaker, and producer whose work spans documentary film, screenwriting, and creative storytelling. Based in Seattle, Washington, she has dedicated more than 15 years to the film industry, building a career that combines compelling narratives with meaningful social impact. As a producer of *The River*, a documentary examining homelessness in Aberdeen, Washington, and associate producer of the award-winning documentary *Gold Balls*, she has helped bring thought-provoking stories to audiences worldwide. Her work also includes writing and directing the short film *Date Stories* and producing the award-winning short *Pearl* and the comedy pilot *A Broad Abroad*, which earned three Best Pilot Awards. In addition to her filmmaking experience, Olson is an accomplished screenwriter, educator, and mentor. She has taughtscreenwriting at the women's prison in Gig Harbor, Washington, and has served as a Green Room Fellow. Passionate about fostering creative communities, she co-leads writers' retreats on the Washington coast and previously led The Green Room screenwriting group. Her educational background includes studies in fiction at the University of Washington, screenwriting and story analysis at UCLA, coursework at the Austin Film Festival Writers Conference and Taos Summer Writers' Conference, and completion of the intensive screenwriting program at The Film School in Seattle. Before transitioning fully into filmmaking, Olson built extensive experience in marketing, communications, event planning, and project management, skills that continue to strengthen her collaborative approach to film production. She remains active in organizations including Seattle Women in Film, Women in Film New York, and the Northwest Screenwriters Guild. Inspired by the work ethic instilled by her single mother, Olson credits her success to perseverance, a willingness to take creative risks, genuine curiosity about people, and the ability to listen deeply—qualities that continue to shape both her storytelling and her leadership within the film community.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Heather
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to bravery in taking risks, genuine curiosity about people, being a good listener, hard work learned from my single mom, and not being afraid to try new things even if I might not be good at them. I enjoy collaborating with teams and leading people.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Nora Ephron told me not to become a screenwriter until at least 40 because you don't have interesting things to write about until then, and she learned to write as a journalist first. This advice was impactful because it validated making a career change later in life.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Start building relationships in the industry by going to events, meeting people, and getting on set to learn. The industry is built on relationships, and establishing those will benefit you more than anything else. Seattle has a supportive community of women filmmakers.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Funding is always the hardest part. Coming up with original ideas or concepts is very challenging in a landscape with so much content. You have to take inspiration and make something new and unique that will also inspire audiences.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Communication is so important, and learning how to be a good listener is one of the most important skills. Focus on the person talking without thinking about your response, take a breath before responding, and really hear what they're saying.
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