Guest Lena Waithe, known for her work on shows like Master of None and The Chi, discusses the state of black television, the lifecycle of a script, and working on shows like Master of None and The Chi.
Having a strong script and a talented team are crucial for bringing a project to life in the entertainment industry.
Finding the right production company and studio partnership is significant in navigating the entertainment industry.
Perseverance and handling rejection are essential qualities for success in the entertainment industry.
A great script can open doors and attract investment, leading to the development of a successful show.
Deep dives
The Journey to Success
Lena Waif started her career by pounding the pavement and grinding in LA. She initially pursued acting and landed small roles, but it was her meeting with casting directors and her scriptwriting ability that led to her breakthrough. Through her determination and connections, she got the opportunity to create her own show, The Shy, which was eventually picked up by Showtime. Lena emphasizes the importance of having a strong script and surrounding oneself with a talented team to bring a project to life.
Navigating the Industry
Lena Waif discusses the complex process of navigating the entertainment industry. She highlights the significance of finding the right production company and studio to partner with. Additionally, Lena explains the role of a showrunner and the importance of having a strong team that understands and supports the vision of the show. She encourages aspiring writers and creators to focus on the quality of their work and to take advantage of opportunities like the Blacklist site to gain exposure.
Overcoming Challenges
Lena Waif's journey in the entertainment industry has not been without challenges. She emphasizes the need for perseverance and the ability to handle rejection. Lena shares her experience of working in reality TV and taking on various jobs to gain experience and make ends meet. Despite the obstacles, she stayed focused on her dream and ultimately found success.
The Power of a Strong Script
Lena Waif emphasizes the importance of a strong script in capturing the attention of industry professionals. She recommends using platforms like the Blacklist site to receive evaluations and feedback on scripts. Lena believes that a great script has the power to open doors and attract investment from production companies and studios, ultimately leading to the development and production of a successful show.
The Making of the Thanksgiving Episode
The podcast explores the creation of the Thanksgiving episode of a TV show, and how it was influenced by personal experiences and conversations.
The Importance of Authenticity and Branding
The podcast discusses the importance of being true to oneself and building a personal brand in the entertainment industry, with reference to a successful showrunner as an example.
Managing Multiple Projects
The podcast delves into the challenge of managing multiple projects simultaneousl, discussing the importance of delegating tasks and building a trustworthy team.
Navigating the Entertainment Industry
The podcast touches on the importance of staying true to one's own vision and values in the entertainment industry, and the need to navigate challenges and make decisions that align with one's brand.
