After 25 years in television, Shannon has seen it all.

Why Shannon Mentors

Growing up as the youngest of six, Shannon was a bright but often unfocused student. With her parents expecting her to pursue a prestigious legal career and attend an Ivy League school, Shannon’s interests seemed to shift frequently—from random history books to independent cinema at the local video store. Dismissing a discouraging school counselor’s harsh prediction of failure, Shannon defied expectations by choosing art school, majoring in video at Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD). There, she anticipated the future of video and Internet media, which set the stage for her dynamic career. Shannon now mentors younger creatives because she understands the importance of following one’s passion and making bold choices. Her own journey, marked by intuition and perseverance, inspires her to guide others toward achieving their own success.

Why to Expect the Unexpected

Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) was a new venture in the southeast USA, offering a top-notch art education. Although Shannon faced homesickness and worried her now-separated parents with the idea of studying 10 hours away, her intuition proved correct. SCAD’s partnership with Panasonic provided cutting-edge equipment, and the school rapidly evolved, turning the downtown area into a hub for creative innovation. Despite balancing classwork with employment, mental health challenges, and student protests, Shannon thrived, creating impactful art with talented peers. She learned early on to embrace the unpredictable nature of life, a lesson that would serve her well throughout her career.

The Zig-Zags of Career Paths

After graduation, Shannon found herself overqualified for many roles due to her extensive experience with Panasonic technology. Frustrated by job prospects in NYC and Washington, DC, she moved to Chicago, where she entered graduate school and discovered new opportunities. At Portfolio, a staffing agency evolved from Boston’s Aquent, Shannon’s leadership potential was recognized despite her age. She played a crucial role in expanding their Chicago office by 200%, demonstrating her ability to navigate and excel in unexpected career shifts. Personal challenges, including her mother’s early-onset Alzheimer’s, led Shannon to return home and balance family responsibilities with her career. Serendipitously, a position at Discovery Channel near her hometown allowed her to transition careers while staying close to family. As Discovery evolved, Shannon’s role expanded from midnight editor to Senior Producer at Discovery & Supervising Producer and Director of Global Development at National Geographic.

Career Comfort + Creative Teamwork = Success

Though Shannon’s early years lacked international travel, her roles at Discovery and National Geographic took her around the globe, from the North Pole to the rice paddies of China. Despite personal losses and the demands of balancing family commitments with a global career, Shannon chose to prioritize family when needed. After feeling stifled by corporate life, her expertise and industry reputation led her to Wag TV in Washington, DC. The real breakthrough came when she joined forces with Brian Armstrong at Red Rock Films. Together, they produced acclaimed films for major networks, earning multiple Emmy Awards and solidifying their place in the competitive media industry. Shannon’s career is a testament to the value of perseverance, adaptability, and a balanced approach to life and work.

Putting the Puzzle Pieces Together

In the media industry, age, beauty, and talent can sometimes be unfairly judged. Shannon has faced her share of layoffs and rejections, but her resilience and skill have opened numerous doors. Respected by her peers, she offers valuable counsel, emphasizing the importance of networking, maintaining relationships, and staying current with industry trends. Shannon founded Padlin Creative, named in honor of her mother, Paddy, and Lina, to continue helping others navigate the industry’s challenges. Combining her nurturing nature with sharp business acumen, Shannon embodies success and balance, demonstrating that even when life’s puzzle pieces don’t fit perfectly, perseverance and dedication lead to achieving your goals.