How many years have you been a Judge?

This is my first year!

What was your first job in the industry? What did it teach you?

I started as a live event producer. This taught me two things. One – what good videos look like from opening videos to onsite candids pieces. Two – it taught me how to adapt on the fly. Live events are a different beast from a controlled set environment. Being able to pivot quickly is a life skill that has served me well. 

What project are you most proud to have worked on?

I produced a documentary short about an organization that puts on theatrical productions for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. It was really cool getting to better understand this community and shine light on this organization that is making a real difference in peoples lives.

What’s the best part of your job? What’s the most challenging?

The best part of my job is my team. They are truly great and I like working with and hanging out with them. The most challenging part is the paperwork and admin stuff. (YAWN!)

What do you look for when reviewing Telly Award entries? 

Creativity, Story, Talent

How do you unwind from work mode?

Playing video games and music.

Do you have any specific practices you lean on to fuel your creativity?

Meditation and separation. Giving space to a creative challenge is always good to be able to come back at the issue with fresh eyes or a spark of inspiration you have when you’re not actively trying to solve problems. 

When did you know that this career is what you wanted to do?

I worked as a PA on a tv commercial in college and I knew then that this was for me.

What inspired you to join the field and create the kind of work you do? 

I thought it was fun and from my first project I got to lead I just wanted to do more. Great movies are also an inspiration for storytelling.

Where do you see your field of work in 5 years?

Rapidly changed. Generative AI is shaking this field up quickly. I think, done the right way, generative ai can assist creatives in more efficient workflows and also empower more junior folks to use these as tools to show their creativity.

Why interested in judging for The Telly’s? 

Having won some Tellys in the past I personally feel like it’s a great organization that honors good work. Recognition is important and The Telly’s offer an external sounding board to show your stuff and see if the industry agrees that you’ve made something great!

 Have you ever experienced discrimination within your work and how did you deal with it? 

Maybe a touch of ageism but nothing serious. 

What’s a work tool you use every day and what’s one that is obsolete that you wish still existed?

Microsoft Suite is still invaluable to me everyday. I wish rolodexes were still a thing. They were fun to play with back in the day.