Ever felt like a character in a movie or TV show? I have. After 23 years in the Navy and transitioning to a career as an educator, counselor, and entrepreneur, I’ve come to realize that films and series hold more than just entertainment value. They offer lessons that help us navigate leadership, career transitions, relationships, and even personal growth.
As someone who speaks, educates, and counsels transitioning service members, I often find parallels between on-screen narratives and real-life experiences. Whether it’s guiding veterans into civilian careers, coaching aspiring entrepreneurs, or helping individuals find balance in life, storytelling provides a powerful mirror for our challenges and triumphs.
***** Checkout my reviews of 25 Films I recommend back in December 2024. *****
This year, these eight shows have stood out to me—not just for their entertainment value, but for the insights they offer to educators, counselors, and entrepreneurs alike.
1. Mo (Netflix, 2022, 16 Episodes, TV-MA)
My Rating: 8 | IMDb Rating: 7.8
Insight for Educators & Counselors:
"Mo" is a raw, heartfelt show about Mo Najjar, a Palestinian refugee navigating life in America. His struggles with identity, family obligations, and an uncertain future mirror what many transitioning veterans and immigrants experience. As an educator and counselor, I see how crucial it is to address the emotional and logistical hurdles of adapting to a new way of life.
Entrepreneurial Lesson:
Mo’s hustle—from selling counterfeit bags to working odd jobs—shows the resilience required to build something from nothing. For entrepreneurs, this is a lesson in resourcefulness and perseverance.
Key Takeaway:
Life rarely follows a straight path. Adaptability and perseverance are essential in education, counseling, and business.
#ResilientMindset
2. The Day of the Jackal (Peacock, 2024, 11 Episodes, TV-MA)
My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 8.2
Insight for Counselors:
The show’s intense focus on precision, intelligence, and strategy reminds me of the importance of planning and adaptability in both military and civilian life. Counseling veterans often means helping them prepare for new missions in life, just as an assassin meticulously plans their moves.
Educator’s Perspective:
Strategic thinking and problem-solving are vital for teaching critical thinking skills. Just like intelligence operatives, educators must train students to analyze situations, anticipate challenges, and adapt accordingly.
Entrepreneurial Lesson:
Successful entrepreneurs must think like tacticians—gathering intelligence, knowing their competitors, and anticipating obstacles before they arise.
Key Takeaway:
Success in life and business comes down to preparation, strategy, and execution.
#PlanAhead
3. Here (2024, 1h 44m, PG-13)
My Rating: 6 | IMDb Rating: 6.3
Insight for Counselors & Educators:
This film’s exploration of time, memory, and human connection struck a chord with me. As a counselor, I help individuals reflect on where they’ve been, where they are now, and where they’re headed. "Here" reminds us that each phase of life is part of a bigger story.
Entrepreneurial Lesson:
Understanding the long-term impact of decisions is crucial in business. Building relationships and fostering emotional intelligence is as important as making money.
Key Takeaway:
Reflection is just as important as progress. Look back, but don’t stay there—use your experiences to move forward.
#GrowthThroughReflection
4. A Real Pain (2024, 1h 30m, R)
My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 7.1
Insight for Counselors:
This film explores generational trauma and healing. As a counselor, I see firsthand how past pain shapes our present. Veterans and transitioning service members often carry emotional burdens, and like the characters in this film, they must find ways to confront and process them.
Entrepreneurial Lesson:
Overcoming setbacks and learning from failures is crucial for success. Every business journey has its pain points, but those who persist through them find the greatest rewards.
Key Takeaway:
Pain is part of growth—whether in life, education, or business. Learn from it and move forward.
#TurnPainIntoPurpose
5. Prime Target (Apple TV+, 2025, 8 Episodes, TV-14)
My Rating: 8 | IMDb Rating: 6.4
Insight for Educators & Entrepreneurs:
This crime thriller underscores the importance of making informed decisions under pressure. Much like real life, navigating risks in business or education requires clarity, confidence, and ethical decision-making.
Counseling Perspective:
Clients often face high-stakes moments—whether transitioning careers, dealing with mental health struggles, or making life-changing choices. Helping them break problems into manageable steps can be life-changing.
Key Takeaway:
Confidence, risk assessment, and adaptability are essential skills in both personal and professional life.
#ThinkFastActSmart
6. Palm Royale (Apple TV+, 2024, 11 Episodes, TV-MA)
My Rating: 9 | IMDb Rating: 6.7
Insight for Entrepreneurs:
This satirical take on high society and ambition highlights the power of networking and reinvention. As someone who has transitioned from military life to academia and business, I know firsthand how important it is to build connections and redefine success.
Educator’s Perspective:
Students and professionals alike must learn the difference between authenticity and appearances—just as we see in Palm Royale’s world of wealth and deception.
Key Takeaway:
Success is about more than status—it’s about relationships, strategy, and reinvention.
#NetworkYourWayUp
7. Apple Cider Vinegar (Netflix, 2025, 6 Episodes, TV-MA)
My Rating: 8 | IMDb Rating: 7.3
Insight for Counselors & Educators:
This unique drama examines self-improvement and unconventional healing. As someone who encourages holistic growth, I appreciate the message that change often requires stepping outside the norm.
Entrepreneurial Lesson:
Innovation is key in business. Sometimes, non-traditional solutions lead to groundbreaking success.
Key Takeaway:
Think outside the box—whether it’s in education, counseling, or business.
#InnovateToElevate
8. Landman (2024, 10 Episodes, TV-MA)
My Rating: 10 | IMDb Rating: 8.3
Insight for Counselors & Educators:
This series delves into power dynamics, ethics, and responsibility—core themes that I discuss with veterans transitioning to leadership roles. Understanding how to balance ambition with ethics is crucial.
Entrepreneurial Lesson:
Success in business comes with responsibilities. The most impactful leaders think beyond profit and focus on legacy.
Key Takeaway:
Power is best used when combined with integrity and responsibility.
#LeadWithPurpose
Final Thoughts
As an educator, counselor, and entrepreneur, I see every film and show as an opportunity to learn. These eight stories offer invaluable lessons in resilience, leadership, reinvention, and emotional intelligence.
Whether you’re navigating a career change, leading a team, or starting a business, storytelling provides a roadmap for overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
What shows or films have impacted you, and why? Let’s connect and share insights!
***** What else I recommend? Checkout my 2024 Annual Movie Review. *****
About Tony Astro
Tony Astro is a veteran, educator, counselor, and entrepreneur with 23+ years of experience helping people grow personally and professionally. He believes films can be powerful tools for learning, reflection, and guidance. Connect with Tony to explore how storytelling can inspire your journey.