Are you interested in helping amplify diverse voices through storytelling? The Poplar Institute for Film assists the development, promotion, distribution, and screening of independent films and media.

Building a non-profit organization that focuses on a diversified depiction of individuals in the media, as well as the artistic sectors' ethic of creativity over profit was the dream of Merlin Bell, CEO and founder of St. Louis-based non-profit Poplar Institute for Film. PIFF urges diverse groups of people, such as Black, Latino, Asian, LGBTQ+, and other communities, to be recognized more by other groups of people through the arts of film and media, while also setting a new precedence for various forms of art.

Revel Coach celebrates fellow Denison University Alum Merlin Bell's vision on this Revel Coach + Podcast. Merlin is a creative professional, who has offered experience working in content management and production leveraging a passion for culture and the arts. He has a BA from Denison University in Theatre and a MA from Fontbonne University in Theatre. He has worked in several nonprofit arts and culture organizations as an actor, creative activist, and educator.