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What shaped George Washington into one of history's greatest leaders?
In this inspiring episode of The Joy of Living, host Barry Shore welcomes Tom Provost—screenwriter, actor, and co-writer of the upcoming film Young Washington.
Tom shares the untold story of George Washington's early years, revealing how failure, perseverance, humility, and character prepared him to become the leader who helped shape a nation.
Together, Barry and Tom explore the power of storytelling, the value of resilience, servant leadership, and why Washington's journey remains deeply relevant today.
Whether you're passionate about history, leadership, personal growth, or great films, this conversation offers timeless lessons on courage, purpose, and becoming the best version of yourself.
Show Notes:
- [08:06] Meet Today's Guest: Tom Provost
- [09:12] Why Young Washington Was Created
- [10:30] The Untold Story of George Washington's Youth
- [13:22] Character Over Greatness: Washington's True Legacy
- [14:19] How Failure Shaped a Great Leader
- [15:14] The Power of Storytelling to Inspire Change
- [16:32] Service, Integrity & Resilience in Leadership
- [17:45] Why Young Washington Matters Today
- [19:16] George Washington's Love of Learning & Self-Improvement
- [21:19] Celebrating America's Founding Through Film
- [22:53] The Lifelong Value of Reading
Important Links:
About Tom Provost
TOM’S BIO: After graduating from The University of Texas at Austin’s Plan II Honors program, with emphases in both English Literature and Film, Tom Provost moved to Los Angeles where he has worked steadily writing, directing, editing (Emmy nominee), acting…and, yes for a while, waiting tables. Tom Provost co-wrote the film Under Suspicion starring Academy Award winners Morgan Freeman and Gene Hackman. The screenplay was nominated for an Edgar Award. His feature directorial debut was The Presence, a genre-twisting ghost story he also wrote, starring Academy Award-winner Mira Sorvino, Shane West and Golden Globe Nominee Justin Kirk. The movie won numerous awards on the festival circuit including Best Picture and Best Director and was acquired and distributed by Lionsgate Films. Provost co-wrote the summer 2026 theatrical release Young Washington from The Wonder Project, directed by Jon Erwin. Provost works steadily as a script doctor and consultant. He also teaches the popular series of classes on filmmaking called Cinema Language: The Art Of Storytelling, in Los Angeles and around the country. You can find some of his writing at onfoodandfilm.com and cinemalanguage.org.
