From Shark Week to Selling Yourself
🎙️ What happens when Emmy-winning storytelling meets entrepreneurial ambition?
In this interview on Uncle Nay Nay’s Nerdcast, I share what documentary filmmaking taught me about creative leadership, personal branding, and reinventing your career.
From producing Shark Week and Secrets of the Whales to helping professionals pitch themselves like a hit TV show, I open up about the strategies that actually spark change—and why storytelling is the most powerful tool you have.
✨ We also dig into:
Behind-the-scenes challenges of filming sharks and unpredictable wildlife
How to turn storytelling into a career and branding superpower
Why selling yourself like a TV show really works
The mindset shift that makes reinvention possible
If you’re an entrepreneur, creative, or professional ready to show up as the main character—not the understudy—this conversation is for you.
The Power of Failing Forward with Stacey Ray
🎙 What happens when you stop apologizing for who you are—and start living out loud?
On this episode of the Life. Reimagined podcast, I join Stacey Ray for an honest, empowering conversation about how I went from high-powered TV executive to Emmy-winning filmmaker and founder of Padlin Creative. We talk about the courage it takes to walk away from “success” that doesn’t fulfill you, embrace radical authenticity, and build a life that feels fully your own.
We also dig into:
👉 The bold career pivot that changed everything
👉 Why Fully Unapologetic is sparking a new wave of women’s voices in media
👉 How orcas, hyenas, and other wild animals can teach us about humanity, resilience, and connection
It’s inspiring, funny, and packed with the kind of hard-won wisdom that will make you rethink how you’re showing up in your own story.
In the Wild, You Wait for the Shot. On TikTok, You F*ing Dance 🎥🦈
From Shark Dives to TikTok Hooks 🦈📱
Imagine spending hours underwater filming sharks, patiently waiting for the perfect shot — only to capture 45 seconds of stunning footage. Now switch to TikTok video creation, where you have just three seconds to grab a viewer’s attention before they scroll away.
In this post, I explore the surprising connection between wildlife filmmaking and viral social media storytelling — and how each demands a unique balance of patience, timing, and creativity. You’ll learn actionable tips on how to engage your audience, craft a content strategy that works across formats, and master storytelling techniques that keep viewers hooked — whether you’re producing long-form videos or short-form, high-impact content.
The Golden Girls Won the Streaming Wars
📺 Comfort-watching The Golden Girls again? You’re not alone.
If your brain needs a break, your calendar looks like chaos, and your soul just wants Sophia’s sass and Bob Belcher’s optimism?
You’re in good company.
💡 Because nostalgia isn’t laziness.
💡 It’s emotional regulation.
💡 It’s storytelling that sticks.
In this post, I’m unpacking:
✨ Why comfort shows are outperforming new content
✨ How creators can adapt without chasing trends
✨ What our watchlist says about our needs (and our nervous systems)
This one’s for:
🎬 Creatives rethinking binge culture
📊 Marketers curious about viewer behavior
🧠 Anyone who’s rewatched The Office 17 times and finally wants to know why
⚡ Let’s talk about the surprising power of reruns—
and what they teach us about storytelling that lasts.
Career Pivots, Emmy Wins & Telling Wild Stories That Stick
🎙️ What keeps you moving forward when the path keeps changing?
In this interview on INsights & Straight Talk, I share how unexpected pivots—from family caregiving to a midnight-shift editing job—led me into a 25-year career in documentary storytelling, creative leadership, and content development.
From producing Emmy-winning series like Secrets of the Whales to launching courses that teach people how to pitch themselves like a Netflix show, I open up about the real tools that helped me grow through change—not just survive it.
✨ We also dig into:
Finding your creative voice (when you didn’t start with a roadmap)
Blending your business brain with your storyteller heart
Why failing forward is just part of the job
How to stay curious and inspired—especially when the industry gets hard
If you’re a creative professional navigating transition—or figuring out how to make your story matter—this one’s for you.
T.R.O.N. Podcast: Entrepreneurial Ambition & Selling Yourself
🎙️ What happens when you walk away from TV and start telling your own story?
In this episode of The Randomness of Nothing Podcast, I talk about what it really took to leave a legacy TV career—Emmys, networks, the whole thing—and build something bold, personal, and unapologetically creative.
But this convo goes way beyond my résumé.
Host Rashad and I dive into:
👉 When animal documentaries stopped playing it safe (and got powerful)
👉 What happens when entrepreneurs stop dreaming big
👉 How to lead creative teams without losing yourself
👉 And why “selling yourself like a TV show” actually works—because you are the main character 🎭
It’s real talk for anyone tired of vague advice, playing small, or waiting to be “ready.”
This one’s about strategy, storytelling, and showing up like your story matters. Because it does. 🎯
✨ THE POWER OF UNITY ✨
What do sore feet, scrambled eggs, and a sea of cosplayers have to do with professional growth?
More than you’d think.
In this heartfelt reflection on Atlanta Comic Convention, I share how a weekend of fantasy, friendship, and creativity reminded me of something powerful:
Unity creates joy. Belonging fuels confidence. And connection can spark real career momentum. 💼✨
From sharing a panel with YA author and anti-bullying advocate Elara Dunn to finding unexpected inspiration in the crowd, this piece explores how diverse communities, emotional experiences, and creative spaces can transform how we show up in life—and in work.
Super Geek Power….Activate!
What do Star Trek, Ghostbusters, Comic Con, and personal growth have in common? 👀
More than you think.
For decades, I tried to fit in—hiding the parts of myself that felt “too different.” I was bullied for being weird, geeky, and not-so-"normal." But here’s what I’ve learned: normal is overrated.
In this post, I share my journey from awkward kid to unapologetic fan of geek culture—and how I ended up speaking at a comic convention.
Whether you quote HAL 9000 in casual conversation, secretly love cosplay, or just want to feel a little more confident being you—this story is for you.
✨ Embrace your quirks. Find your people. Be proudly not normal.
Mentors, Mentees, and the Magic in Between✨
Mentorship isn’t just a feel-good buzzword—it’s a powerful driver of career growth, leadership development, and organizational success. 🚀 Whether you're the one guiding or the one learning, the mentor-mentee relationship creates ripple effects that last far beyond a job title or project.
In this heartfelt and humorous reflection, we explore how casual conversations, small boosts of encouragement, and even awkward moments (🔥 torch-passing, anyone?) can shape someone’s path. From early career jitters to confident leadership, this piece highlights the magic in between—the part where mentorship truly happens. 💡
If you’ve ever said “You’ve got this!” or needed to hear it, this one’s for you.
Dear Gen Z, Here’s What You Taught Me
I used to think success meant working hard, staying quiet, and fitting in.
Spoiler alert: it doesn’t.
As a Gen X’er, I followed the rules. Gen Z? You redefined them—loudly, creatively, and unapologetically. From calling out workplace toxicity 👀 to building personal brands that are bolder than our AOL screen names ever were, you’ve turned rebellion into a blueprint.
And surprisingly? I’m here for it.
In this post, I reflect on what Gen Z taught me about authenticity, ambition, and why “rewinding trauma publicly” might just be the most honest career move we’ve seen yet.
👉 Ready to unlearn what success used to look like?
[Read the full article →]
Yes, And...Why Everyone Needs Improv Training
Think improv is just for comedy clubs and acting classes? 🎭 Think again. In today’s fast-moving professional world, the ability to adapt, respond in real time, and pivot without panic is more valuable than ever. Whether you're presenting to a team, jumping into an unexpected meeting, or pitching your next big idea, improv skills aren’t just helpful—they’re essential.
Improv training builds more than stage presence. It strengthens your confidence, sharpens your communication skills, and supports personal branding that actually connects. It teaches you to think on your feet, speak with clarity, and stay grounded when things don’t go according to plan (which, let’s be honest, is most of the time 💥).
In this blog, I’m diving into how the improv mindset can help you lead with authenticity, sell your story with ease, and handle the unexpected like a pro. Ready to trade perfection for presence?
Read on and let’s talk about how you stay ready when life doesn’t stick to the script.
🐋 Humpback Whales & Collaboration
Two weeks in Alaska’s Inner Passage brought more than rain and whales—it brought clarity.
As a naturalist and former wildlife filmmaker, I’ve been sharing stories of humpback whales, bears, and the power of the wild with audiences aboard a cruise vessel. But this journey reminded me that nature has business lessons too—especially about collaboration, leadership, and trust.
From whale watching in Juneau to bonding with young science lovers, I saw how the natural world mirrors what great teams do: support one another, share knowledge, and succeed together.
If you're navigating your own path in leadership, storytelling, or creative entrepreneurship, this reflection connects the dots between eco-tourism and business values.
🌊 Because sometimes, the best leadership lessons come with a splash.
To Be a Creative Professional
What does it really mean to be a creative professional? For me, it started with painting my dad’s brand-new suit at age four—and it never stopped there.
From 🎬 editing and producing television shows to 🎤 mentoring professionals and 🎨 consulting creatives, I’ve built a career around reinvention, curiosity, and confidence.
This blog is a reflection on how embracing our multi-dimensional selves can fuel a fulfilling career—and why Padlin Creative was born to support exactly that.
Whether you're pivoting professionally, growing your personal brand, or finding the courage to be fully unapologetic, this post is for you.
💡 Let’s explore what happens when we stop choosing one path—and start choosing ourselves.
Season Tickets, Section 316, and the Power of Showing Up ⚾
What do walk-off losses, rain-soaked ponchos, and a World Series win have in common?
Surprisingly, they all helped shape what loyalty, community, and showing up really mean to me.
What do walk-off losses, rain-soaked ponchos, and a World Series win have in common?
Surprisingly, they all helped shape what loyalty, community, and showing up really mean to me.
In this behind-the-scenes reflection, I share how:
Sitting through rebuild seasons
Finding family in the stands
Celebrating even the smallest wins
...taught me more about connection than any highlight reel ever could.
If you've ever questioned why you keep showing up (even when it’s hard), this one's for you.
Whether you're a lifelong fan, a believer in consistency, or someone searching for meaning beyond the scoreboard—this story is a tribute to presence, people, and purpose.
👇 Read on for a love letter to baseball, belonging, and showing up anyway.
🎭 Sing out, Louise! Sing out!
What do a Broadway musical, awkward small talk, and a fierce bunny 🐰 have in common?
Surprisingly, they all played a role in helping me find my voice as a public speaker.
In this behind-the-scenes reflection, I share how:
Growing up obsessed with Gypsy
Working in TV production
Navigating life as a creative introvert
...led me to step into the spotlight—literally.
If you’ve ever wrestled with impostor syndrome, struggled with visibility, or questioned whether your voice even matters, this one’s for you.
Whether you're a creative professional, an aspiring speaker, or simply someone learning to embrace your truth—this story is your reminder that your voice is powerful, and that sometimes, the boldest move you can make is to speak up. 🎤✨
👇 Read more and discover the unexpected journey behind the mic.
No Subtext, Just Truth: Fat Bias, F-Bombs & Fixing Leadership Culture with Spitfire Coach
🎙️ What does it really mean to lead without subtext?
In this episode of the Spitfire Podcast, I open up about why clear, assertive communication is one of the most misunderstood leadership tools—and why so many people still expect feedback to come wrapped in passive-aggression and coded language. 💬🚫
But that’s just one part of the conversation.
Host Lauren and I also unpack the deeper issues:
👉 The unspoken fat bias that still shapes media and workspaces
👉 The myth of traditional mentorship
👉 And the real power of showing up messy, bold, and ready to solve problems—not just perform perfection 💥
It’s raw, unfiltered, and filled with the kind of honesty that rarely makes it past the edit. There are F-bombs. There are water buffalo. And there’s a whole lot of truth about what it takes to lead with integrity. 🐃🔥
Growing Your Bad-Assery 💥
✨ Ready to grow your badassery and own your next move?
If you're navigating a career pivot, recovering from a layoff, or feeling invisible in your current role, this blog is for you. I share insights from a recent talk I gave on self-promotion and professional reinvention, especially for those in mid-career transitions or looking to break into a new industry.
We dive into the real talk: the frustration, the fear, and the pressure to constantly “reinvent” ourselves, especially if you're Gen X or a woman who’s done shrinking to fit. 💼
This isn’t a generic pep talk—it’s about reclaiming your confidence, highlighting your real accomplishments, and learning how to show up unapologetically. You’ll find encouragement, practical steps, and maybe a little kick in the ass to help you realize: you’re already a badass. Now it’s time to own it. 🚀
The State of Television, Pt. 2
The television industry is transforming fast — and in this brave new media world, it’s creators, not networks, who are leading the way. 🚀 In Part 2 of The State of Television, Shannon dives deep into why YouTube is the true disruptor, reshaping media more than Netflix, Amazon, or Disney ever could. 📺✨
Learn how media professionals can thrive by adapting, storytelling creatively, and embracing the tools already in their hands (hint: 🎥 it’s not about having a Hollywood-sized budget anymore). From the creator revolution to actionable strategies for navigating today’s smaller, scrappier TV world, this post is your guide to staying relevant, resourceful, and resilient in a rapidly changing media landscape. 🌍🔧
NOT REAL ART Podcast: Transforming the Media Landscape
I had the pleasure of joining Scott “Sourdough” Power on the NOT REAL ART podcast, where we explored the twists and turns of my creative path—from working behind the scenes in mainstream television to stepping into a more purpose-driven role as a mentor and advocate for artists.
In this episode, I open up about what it really means to walk away from the familiar in order to create something that feels true. We talk about navigating the media world as a woman who's often challenged the status quo 💪, why representation still matters so deeply, and how I’m using my platforms—Padlin Creative and Fully Unapologetic—to uplift creatives and help them thrive on their own terms. 🌱
It’s a conversation about identity, transformation, and the courage it takes to rewrite your own narrative. 🎨✨
The State of Television, Pt. 1
Let’s talk about the state of television. Spoiler alert: it’s a little messy.
Cable TV? Free falling.
Streaming platforms? Oversaturated.
Viewers? Comfort-watching Seinfeld and The Golden Girls like it’s 1998.
And content creators? We're out here pitching our hearts out in a market that’s shifted under our feet.
In my latest article, I dig into:
🎬 How the media landscape evolved (and then crumbled)
📉 Why reruns are outperforming new shows
👀 What most creators are missing about audience behavior
⚡️ And why this moment—while messy—is also a massive opportunity
Yes, the wave crashed. But if there’s one thing I know after 20+ years in the industry, it’s this:
Creative pros are scrappy. We pivot. We solve problems. And we damn sure don’t wait for permission to reinvent.
✨ All is not lost. Let’s solve this damn problem.
🔗 Read the blog, drop your thoughts, and let’s reimagine what’s next.