What was your first job in the industry? What did it teach you?
My first job was at Netflix, actually. I came from ESPN and the digital space and sort of transitioned into Netflix through more of a tech/business role. I had always been passionate about storytelling and was a novelist in my early 20s, but it was through that role at Netflix that I really got into entertainment from the business side, and eventually became the Head of International.
What’s a creative risk you took recently? How did it turn out?
My company, Wild Sheep Content, took on a small crime thriller out of Chile that focused on a young man with Down Syndrome who witnesses a murder. I thought the storytelling was really unique, but content from a small country like Chile and dealing with sensitive topics like Down Syndrome can sometimes be a hard sell. Thankfully, we sold the project to Netflix in the Americas and we’ve been getting steady sales from other markets across the globe.
What project are you most proud to have worked on?
I’m incredibly proud to have worked on Money Heist, and to have brought it to Netflix. I think it’s the project that really solidified Netflix’s (and later, the entire industry’s) international strategy. I’m really proud that I played a part in making international content an important priority for streamers.
What’s the best part of your job? What’s the most challenging?
The best part of my job is getting the flexibility to only work on projects I believe in and with really good people. The flip side of that, is sometimes when the market isn’t looking for the kind of project you’ve poured your heart into, it can sting a bit.
What do you look forward to most as a new Judging Council member?
I’m very excited to see new projects from exciting new voices.
How do you unwind from work mode?
I like to spend time with my family. I have three kids under 10 who keep me quite busy.
How do you stay up-to-date in your industry?
I read all the trades and tracking numbers, but most importantly I watch everything in the top 10 on all the streamers. I like to know what is really resonating with people.
What inspired you to join the field and create the kind of work you do?
I love traveling the world, but not as a tourist. I like to immerse myself in foreign cultures and really get to know the stories that resonate there. When I had the chance to make that my job, through international content, I jumped at it.
When did you realize your worth?
When I started my own company, Wild Sheep Content, I found that people in the industry we’re really excited to work with me, specifically, which was a big change coming from a large company.
What’s a work tool you use every day and what’s one that is obsolete that you wish still existed?
I use the entire google suite everyday. It’s amazing to have everything in one place. I do wish phone calls were used more often then they are now, it’s just so much faster to clear up issues than over text.