AWOKEN RIVER Short Documentary - Taryn O'Neill (NAU Cross Country)

After battling mental health, 20 year old Taryn O'Neill over comes her depression to become one of the best runners in the country. This is a humble comeback story like no other. Enjoy!
This project started in March of 2021. I saw Taryn's story on a podcast and wanted to explore deeper into her journey. I loved working with Taryn and it was a great experience to film this short documentary.
Media Archive/Footage Credits/Photographs:
FloTrack Media
ESPN Media
NCAA Photos
NAU athletics
NAU track & Field
Shannon Thompson
Shane Bevel
Michael Scott Photography
Help From:
Lucas Gauna (Driver)
Pipi Eitel (Interview)
Tiana Bradfield (Interview)
Hanna Behunin (Photos)
Rachel Kisela (Second Set of Eyes)
(INSTAGRAM) FOLLOW ME!!!
/ justinsusannn
Business Inquiries
(My email [e-mail] or [e-mail])
Justin Susan Productions | 2021 | Arizona
Also Please keep the comments positive!

[@phxsunz100]

I can only imagine the pressure she must’ve felt. Loved it! Your gift Justin is telling peoples stories through a lens.

[@anitalarsen5328]

This is one tough woman. Congratulations, Taryn. Keep having those conversations with yourself.You're showing the world how living with depression and anxiety can be managed. You are a real winner.

[@katelyntuohyfans]

so brave, taryn you are amazing, can't wait to see you race again!

[@madsbaird7830]

Honestly speechless... If only every athlete heard this. Dang

[@cucoreyes7941]

I love this! Thank you for showing us the personal side of runners we don’t often get to see. What a beautiful soul this young lady has. Will be rooting for her and NAU this season! ❤️

[@Alh359]

What a brave young lady. Thanks for sharing Taryn's story, Justin. Sometimes the youtube algorithm recommends a gem such as this one. Keep it up.

[@JustinSusan]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@darringrey4329]

Hey Justin/ Taryn what a great watch , emotional, fun, thanks from NZ

[@scottripley8535]

Production value is amazing Justin. I got hooked on the Brady specials that you did. I'm from Boston. You have a unique storytelling talent thru film that truly pulls in the viewer and makes him/her feel a kind of way. Kudos my man! You keep making, I'll keep watching. Old man, dad,Grampa, truck driver, huge fan. Thank you for filling my Saturday morning with amazing stories.

[@JustinSusan]

Thank you so much Scott, this made my day

[@landyncb8751]

Wow, I met Taryn at the Canadian cross country championship in 2019 and would have never guessed she was going through that at the time. Thank you for sharing the story

[@ladybug8122]

Wow amazing job! Stumbled across this searching for NAU cross country! She has an inspiring story and it was so well represented!

[@emanuelab774]

Thank you for sharing Taryn! I’m sorry I didn’t know the things you were going through a couple yrs ago - you’re so brave for sharing this. Can’t wait for our next backcountry ski adventure, until then, be well, be you and always know we love you. Also, JUSTIN, WOW - what a beautiful film and so well done to showcase how beautifully complicated we humans are. This is your calling, keep the films coming. Great tracks and awesome videography and editing 🙌🏽 you made me cry. Thanks to you both for sharing ❤️

[@chh2373]

Terrific film. Taryn, thanks for the humility and vulnerability.

[@marcumxc]

Great work. Thanks for putting this together!! Amazing person to highlight

[@tonycruz9026]

Great Work!! 🎥 🏃........
More more please!!!! 🌞 🌴

[@Notnotcam]

Amazing film!

[@saramurray8021]

Wow! This is an amazing film Justin. So inspiring

[@JustinSusan]

Thank you so much!

[@josecrosby4787]

Wow an incredible story and an incredible film!

[@JustinSusan]

Thank you so much for watching

[@n.s.c_]

Amazing film. Love her story.
You haven't interviewed L.J. yet? Lol ❤