The MAKE IT Podcast

426 - Tia A. Smith - Veteran TV and Film Producer - Why She Almost Quit After 4 Days in New York, How to Create Your Own Path in the Film Business, and Why Pre-Production is Everything

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This episode is brought to you by The Film Tech Program at Columbia State Community College. ENROLLMENT begins each fall semester. But space is limited to 20 students each year. So, apply now. For more information, reach out to David Smith, FCT Program Director at 615-790-4410 or email him at [email protected]

www.ColumbiaState.edu/FCT

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Hello, Hello! 

In this episode, Producer, Director, and Consultant Tia A. Smith joins us to discuss her journey from Broadcast Journalism at Ithaca College to becoming a powerhouse in television and film production. She shares insights about her new short film "The Heir," which explores the complex family dynamics surrounding inherited property and gentrification in African American communities. Throughout the conversation, Tia emphasizes the importance of authentic storytelling, cultural responsibility in entertainment, and the development of sustainable creative ecosystems.

We also talk about:

  • The challenges of freelancing in the entertainment industry and overcoming periods of unemployment
  • Her experiences working at BET and VH1, including the cultural responsibility of programming decisions
  • The differences between music producers and TV/film producers in terms of celebrity status and career paths
  • Her time at Viacom as a showrunner and the transition from content producer to creative leader
  • The importance of pre-production in filmmaking and managing both creative and business aspects of production


People, Places, Products, and Websites Mentioned:

Ithaca College

Syracuse University

Behind the Music (VH1)

BET Network

VH1 networks

TalentedSol Productions

Heir Bloom Entertainment

“The Heir" short film

Silver Spring, Maryland

Oprah Winfrey

Maureen Bunyan

Bobby Jones Gospel

Kathleen Kennedy

Producers Guild Association

Nashville Film Festival

Columbia State Community College

Apocalypse Now

Cry Freedom

Cooley High

Rear Window

Baby Driver

Nas

Quincy Jones

Pharrell Williams

CeCe Winans

Shirley Caesar

Chris Gaines (Garth Brooks alter ego)

Gospel Music Hall of Fame

South Africa

Dubai


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The MAKE IT PodcastBy Chris Barkley & Nicholas Buggs
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