Born and raised in Missoula, Montana, Ian Frank's passion for storytelling and exploring diverse cultures has taken him across the globe. After completing high school, Ian embarked on a gap year that would shape his career as a filmmaker. He lived with a host family in the lush jungles of Ecuador, an experience that culminated in the production of his first documentary, "Yaya the Wise Man." This film, deeply rooted in the local culture and experiences of Ecuador, marked Ian's debut and went on to premiere at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival in his hometown.