Thoughts From the Top
August 28, 2023
For this year’s 40 Under 40 issue, I once again reached out to some of home entertainment’s top executives and asked them what they’d like to say to our Class of 2023 honorees. And in sharp contrast to our current political environment, the phrase that kept popping up most was to “be kind.”
“Be curious and make an effort to get to know people,” says Garson Foos, CEO of Shout! Studios. “Find a mentor, or at least people who will be helpful by initiating in-person conversations and meetings. Don’t get discouraged if someone isn’t responsive. You will meet someone, or several people, who will engage and will want to help you. If you take initiative and show that you’re interested, or maybe even passionate about the work or the content, it will be infectious and people will want to support you. And then do the same for those coming up behind you. Be kind and generous — it will make people want to do the same for you.”
From Bill Rouhana, CEO of Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment: “In a world that is evolving as quickly, and often unexpectedly, as home entertainment, it’s important to be flexible, to never be afraid of trying new ideas, and to take risks, even if there is a chance you might fail. No one can predict the future; all we can do is rely on the best intelligence, the best data and, sometimes, our own best gut instincts. And through it all, remember to treat everyone with respect, kindness and grace.”
Lexine Wong, head of global multichannel marketing at Sony Pictures Entertainment, offers her congratulations to this year’s honorees and notes, “It’s certainly a fascinating time to be in the entertainment industry. There are many reasons you have chosen careers in entertainment: You have a passion for content and storytelling, you love this industry’s fast pace, you embrace technology, and you relish delighting consumers with boundary-pushing creative, just to name a few reasons. As business models continue to evolve across all segments of the industry, it’s a great time to stand out and build your careers. As you all work to do that, there is no substitute for hard work. Embrace and influence change, be a problem solver vs. a problem identifier, add value, be transparent, be honest, be open, and, most importantly, be kind. You are the change makers paving the way for the next generation.”
Premiere Digital head of growth Michele Edelman also offers her congratulations: “You have been acknowledged by your colleagues, managers and our industry, and this is a wonderful recognition. The best piece of advice shared with me that I love to pass on is, sometimes you have to leave the places you love in the beginning, but you can always go back. In an ever-changing industry, such as ours, this is important to remember. And, lastly, work to your heart’s desire and not to the beat of someone else’s. Your rhythm is what drives you and will be the guide for your success. Lead with love and know nice people do finish first. Being kind is a recipe for success in business.”
Andrea Downing, CEO of PBS Distribution, kept her comments short and sweet: “Lean in, say yes, ask for help and collaborate well with others.”