“If you’re feeling stuck and tired of waiting for everything to fall into place, Selina Ringel’s Be the Train is exactly what you need. Her compelling story will show you how to build unstoppable momentum and turn your dreams into reality. As an award-winning filmmaker who dared to do things her way, Selina offers practical tips and insights to help you take control of your future. Whether you’re making your first film, launching a new career, or getting ready to take charge of your life, Be the Train will ignite the fire within you to make it happen.”—Mel Robbins, New York Times bestselling author and host of The Mel Robbins Podcast

“This book should be required reading at every film school. The cold email outreach chapter alone is worth the price of the book. But the real value is in the mindset she outlines. Inspiring. Motivational. Revolutionary. I’m on board the Selina train.”—John Fithian, former CEO, National Association of Theatre Owners, and cofounder, The Fithian Group

“Selina is an undeniable force of nature. The advice she gives is invaluable for anyone who struggles with self-doubt or needs some practical guidance in this crazy industry. I wish I had read this book when I was starting out as a young filmmaker in Hollywood!”—Amy Wang, writer of Crazy Rich Asians 2

“Even in my fourth decade as a professional filmmaker, I learned important essentials from Selina Ringel’s Be the Train. The specificity of her advice, earned from her own hard work, speaks volumes about subjects like making genuine contacts, finding an agent and/or manager, production, distribution, rejection, resilience, failing better, and so much more. If you’re looking for guidance, either as a rookie or as a refresher course for an old hand, this book is a must-read.”—Michael Miner, cowriter, Robocop; director, The Book of Stars; and lecturer, University of California, Santa Barbara

“I’m only halfway through Be the Train, and I already feel inspired to produce my own movie! Selina Ringel’s advice isn’t just practical—it’s a mindset shift that makes you believe you can make your film happen. A must-read for any aspiring filmmaker.”—Angela Guice, Emmy-winning executive producer

“I can with absolute certainty say that I would never have directed my first feature if it hadn’t been for a single phone call with my fellow Train, Selina Ringel. Be the Train is your phone call—actionable items from a passionate creator who brings positivity to a creative world that can often be riddled with self-doubt. The mindset she offers in this book will change your life and your ability to see yourself as a powerful force in the best, weirdest, most demanding industry in the world.”—Anna Campbell, director, actress, writer, and producer 

“Selina’s book not only motivates you to create your own brand but gives you the actual tools and tips on what steps you need to take to get you to where you want to go! This book is one you can read over and over again for inspiration. Having worked with Selina, I can confidently say she walks her talk. She is the Train, and she will inspire you to be one too.”—Kaela Crawford, comedian and costar of 2 Moms, 1 Mic

“In Be the Train, Selina Ringel reminds us of the innate power that we have to truly enjoy our lives. This book will give you all the tools you need to create your film, celebrate the process, and inspire others.”—Jorge Perez, author of The Shut the Fu*k Up Method

“Selina’s writing goes deep, dismantling the surface-level approach so many books take when it comes to making a feature film. While others hold back or engage in gatekeeping, she rips that wide open, sharing the raw, authentic truth of how she made it happen time and time again.”—Cat Del Re, director and writer

“Be the Train is a bold, no-nonsense guide for anyone ready to stop waiting and start building their success. Through her journey of making things happen—whether raising funds for films or forging unconventional paths—Selina shows that the keys to achieving your goals are to take action, embrace challenges, and create your own momentum. Her practical advice and fearless approach will inspire anyone looking to break the mold and take control of their career. If you’re ready to stop waiting for opportunities and start making them, this book is for you.”—Diana Luna, executive director, National Association of Latino Independent Producers

“Selina Ringel has always had an infectious enthusiasm, which she’s now sharing in her informative, inspiring, and frequently hilarious book, Be the Train! It’s a must-read not just for aspiring and experienced filmmakers alike but for any creative soul chasing a dream and eager to start driving their own train.”—Dan Mirvish, filmmaker, founder of Slamdance Film Festival, and author of The Cheerful Subversive’s Guide to Independent Filmmaking