We spoke with Telly Awards judge Shawna Shultz about what inspired her to work in TV and how she got her start in the industry. Beginning as a production assistant working on the road for a web series, Shawna eventually founded her own studio, MassFX Media. Read more to learn which tools she depends on for work, her favorite parts of her job and what excites her about this season of the Telly Awards.

Hot Takes is an original, monthly, Telly Awards interview series featuring a chosen industry leader and expert presenting an unfiltered, unrehearsed response to a hot button topic within their field. What’s your Hot Take? Get in touch with our Creative Producer Jenahye Johnson at jenahye@tellyawards.com for the chance to be featured!