As an actor, Corbin Allred has shared the silver screen with the likes of Kirk Douglas, Dan Aykroyd, Susan Sarandon and Natalie Portman.
As an emergency medical technician and paramedic, Corbin has cared for those facing cancer, cardiac arrest, COVID-19, major trauma and debilitating depression.
Now, the St. George resident is channeling both professions—and stints as a singer/songwriter, comic, writer, producer and director—into a media movement to enlighten ‘tweens and teens about the impact of social media. Through his Looking Up Foundation, Corbin hopes to create brighter, happier futures for all.
Beginning at age 12, Corbin actively pursued a Hollywood film career. Now 42, his enviable resume of credits includes roles in “Robin Hood: Men in Tights,” “Teen Angel” and “Saints and Soldiers,” along with multiple LDS Cinema productions. Though grateful for his success, the profession took a toll.
“I learned growing up that I was only as valuable as someone else thought I was,” Corbin noted. “It had everything to do with how I looked; what sort of ‘product’ I was, and nothing to do with my character. Over time that can make you very vulnerable and insecure.”
Fortunately, Corbin’s familial support system kept him grounded through his formative years. Yet he draws a parallel between his Tinseltown experiences and the impact of social media on the younger generation’s sense of self-worth. Working at St. George Regional Hospital, he often witnesses the grim aftermath.
“When I started working in emergency medicine, I saw children who were so broken mentally, who didn’t have the capacity or tools to deal with the depression and societal pressures they’re facing with social media. I was tired of being on the ‘outcome’ end; we have to get out in front of the problem,” Corbin said.
Corbin believes the best route to establishing connections with young people is more time spent in person, and much less time tethered to “smart” devices—although those devices can effect change.
“If we’re going to get through to young people, we have to combine our teaching, at least partially, with the digital content they actively consume. I want to help people think and feel. So we’ll talk about what they’re feeling, and then make a plan for growth and change.”
With that aim, Corbin is writing, producing and directing short films that touch on important themes. “Sticks and Stones” captures the power of social media to terrorize and paralyze young girls, while “All That Matters” stresses that for those suffering from depression, kindness can make the critical difference between mental triumph and tragedy.
Corbin and his Looking Up partners hope to connect with communities and school districts nationwide, share their films and accompanying course content, and educate and empower participants to make positive life choices. The strategy closely mirrors Corbin’s principles.
“I try to focus on four things, which I call LIFT: love, inspire, fulfill and teach. If what I’m consuming or putting out there doesn’t fall into one of those categories, it’s basically a waste of my time,” Corbin said. “None of us is immune to negative influences. If even one kid messages me to say, ‘you saved my life,’ then what we’re doing will be totally worth it.”
Learn about the Looking Up Foundation or schedule a presentation at lookingupfoundation.artisancreativemedia.agency.
Follow Corbin Allred on Instagram at @thecorbinallred.