Casual Crabbing

Crabbing brought Tia Clark back to herself—now she’s using it to help others find belonging, healing, and a deeper love for nature and each other.

Casual Crabbing tells the powerful, real-life story of Tia Clark, a woman who found healing, purpose, and a meaningful connection to her family and community through the simple act of crabbing. Once battling addiction and isolation, Tia’s life changed the moment she caught her first crab. On that day, she reconnected with her Gullah Geechee heritage, igniting a journey of personal transformation. The film shows how one woman’s return to her roots, through nature, became a powerful catalyst for healing, community, and environmental connection. Today, Tia runs an award-winning crabbing experience business that has an immensely positive impact on those who participate. It serves as both a beloved Charleston attraction and a platform for environmental education, cultural preservation, and emotional healing.

Through this story, Tia shares her personal transformation from an unhealthy, disconnected drug dealer to a business-owning, community-building voice in conservation. When one person, family, or community begins to heal and grow, it creates a ripple effect that positively impacts those around them. “Now that I know what I know, I have to share it,” says Tia… so that’s exactly what we are doing!

Director | Zach Hellmuth

Producer | Leslie Hellmuth