Stewart and Seacrest: A Closer Look at The Savvy "Suits"

Everyone dreams to be successful.  Some of us have been able to make our dreams a reality; and some of us make it happen and don't just wait on chance or luck.  When I think of successful entrepeneurs who have not only made a name for themselves, but have made their names a "stand alone", self proclaimed empire.  Those dreamers who have become doers, I greatly admire and intend to learn a great deal from.  When it comes to "grabbing the bull by the horns", there are two relentless entrepeneurs that come to mind right away; Martha Stewart and Ryan Seacrest.

MARTHA STEWART:

Martha Stewart has the following titles: businesswoman, media personality, author, magazine publisher, talk show host host.  She advises that all entrepreneurs create a well-researched business plan to get a grasp of how big their vision is and what they will need to achieve it.

In 2002, Inc.com published an article, "The Controversial Career and Stunning Success of Martha Stewart", in which I was able to get some insight and share with you.  She was born Martha Kostyra, the second of six children born to a Eddie Koystra and Martha Ruszkowski Kostyra; this was a working-class home in New Jersey.  Stewart's mother taught her how to cook and sew. Later, she learned the processes of canning and preserving when she visited her grandparents' home in Buffalo, New York. Her father had a passion for gardening, and passed on much of his knowledge and expertise to her.

"Martha Kostyra struck out on her own and became a fashion model in New York City while attending Barnard College for Women as an art history major.  She was selected as a "Best Dressed College Girl" in 1961 by a leading fashion magazine.  It was at this time in her life that she met the man who would become her husband for the next 20 years, a Yale Law School student named Andy Stewart"(Inc.com).  

During this time, Martha became a socialite, hosting parties for New York's powerful people.  She then worked as a Wall Street Stock Broker and had decided she had enough.  She and Husband, Andy scrapped up enough money to buy a run-down farm house in Westport, Conneticut.  They took on the restoration of the 1805 home on their own; this is where Martha summoned interior decorating.  Eventually, this house became the model for the "Martha Stewart Living Show".   In the basement of the farmhouse she began her small catering business.  She began to sell pies and cakes to small boutiques and eventually opened up her own shop (Inc.com). "Stewart's food business led to assignments writing about food for several magazines.  In 1982, it also led to her first book, Entertaining"(referenceforbusiness.com). 

Soon after, Martha was already making television show appearances and taking interviews.  Naturally, she was offered an opportunity by KMART stores to sell household items with her name on them.  It wasn't until a few years later that she met her partner, Sharon Patrick, now Cheif Operating Officer of Martha Stewart Living, whom helped Martha buy back all her shares of the company and was the beginning of  Martha's empire; in which she combined all her lines of business and created Marth Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. (referenceforbusiness.com). 

Evan Carmichael's article, "Famous Entrepeneur: Lesson #3", illustrates Martha's emphasis on using a well thought out business plan.  A well detailed business plan will assist in making key decisions.   Stewart suggests that entrepreneurs shoud learn the difference between taking risks and taking chances. “The natural question to ask yourself is whether what you are considering doing is a well-calculated risk or whether you are poised to take what I would call a chance – a long shot that depends largely on luck,” says Stewart.   “I dislike taking chances; but I think taking a well-calculated risk is the cornerstone of entrepreneurship.”


When Stewart was about to borrow $85 million to purchase Martha Stewart Living from Time Warner in 1997, she had to be realistic about the consequences of her decision.   Her advisors cautioned her about the potential risks, but Martha rationally evaluated her odds and made the purchase.  “It turned out to be the best investment I have ever made,” Stewart says.


RYAN SEACREST:


Ryan Seacrest has an impressive resume in which he is a radio personality, a television host, network producer and voice actor.  He has even been dubbed "the most powerul man in reality tv".   Seacrest was born in suburbial Atlanta, Georgia to Gary and Connie Lee.   In an interview to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, "instead of playing with G.I. Joes or cowboys and indians, he would always have a little microphone and do shows in the house".   As a child, Seacrest would perform in school musicals.  As a teen, he became the public school announcer.   He later won an internship with WSTR FM and scored an overnight weekend slot until he completed highschool (wikipedia.com). 


After high school, he went to college to study journalism.  He ended up moving to Los Angeles, California to continue his broadcast career.  At 20, he landed a job on the KYSR FM afternoon show, "Ryan Seacrest for the Ride Home", which became the station's number one show and was nationally syndicated.   In 2004, he became the new host of "American Top 40"  followed by "On Air with Ryan Seacrest"(wikipedia.com).


His televsions career took off when he began hosting shows such as "American Idol" and eventually became executive producer and co-host of "Dick Clark's Rockin' New Year's Eve with Ryan Seacrest".  He was called upon to serve as substitution for "Larry King Live". Shortly after, E! presented Seacrest with a $21 million deal to host "E! News" and Red Carpet Award Shows.  He then became Executive Producer to reality shows such as "Keeping Up With the Kardashians", "Bromance", "Momma's Boys", and "Denise Richards: It's Complicated"(wikipedia.com).


Online Journal's Greg Stacy, worte a business article on Seacrest, "Ryan Seacrest's Business Ventures Will Earn $55 Million in 2011".  The article states, "He has already sold one film project and has another in the works. In November he signed a deal with Clear Channel that's allowed him to start up his own music publishing business, so he will own the music he uses in his shows. He's signed what the Hollywood Reporter calls a "mega-deal" with NBC Universal, and in addition to reality shows he also plans to get involved in scripted television".  The article also suggests that "Seacrest is even planning on launching his own cable network, in partnership with CAA and live entertainment company AEG. While he plans to contribute content, probably from his production company, Ryan Seacrest Productions, he says that it will not be branded the Ryan Seacrest channel".




Still early in his career, Ryan has several interviews discussing his new business ventures and his plans to create his own television network as his peer and muse, Oprah Winfrey.   I am certain that in a few years, like Martha, he too will be providing his own struggles and triumphs in executing an excellent business plan.  No doubtedly, he is not the only person on this planet to avoid one. 


As you can see, the savvy and successful entrepeneurs do not just hustle; they imagine, examine, research, and analyze in order to avoid risks and easily view the strengths and weaknesses in their business plans.

Fables and Fairy Tales Fad

Phsycologist and Story teller, Dr. Jonathan Young, writer of "Once upon A Time: How Fairy Tales Shape Our Lives", published in Insider Magazine in 1997, wrote; "These tales are psychological mirrors and we become more complex as we mature.  The story tellers intentionally loaded the adventures with heavy symbolism to reveal more meanings as we develop a deeper awareness of ourselves.  Bedtime stories have enormous influence over our identities.  People identify with certain characters in the stories they heard in childhood.  To some degree, many live out these stories, largely unaware of how much the old tales may be shaping our lives."


It makes sense that the stories we hear as children, such as those of the Brothers Grimm, are so impressionable that we subconsciously carry those lessons with us in our daily lives.  Interesting enough, renowned psychologist, Dr. Carl Gustave Jung, noted that the shadow energies in dreams and stories often appear as threatening witches or wolves.


Interesting enough is that such stories, that had been deeply rooted in our imagination, have become almost a keepsake of fonder times that we tend to relinquish in them from time to time with new and intriguing adaptations of the "softer" stories we heard as children.  However, as we tend to get older, we become more inticed by the darker version of favorite past time fables. 


In the world of Entertainment, we see that such fables and fairy tales have become ever more popular; especially with that of the mature audience.  ABC's new hit show, "Once Upon A Time" has quickly appealed a favorable fan base.  I, for one, am already a fan of the show.  The twist in this story telling is that the fairy tale characters have been cursed by the Evil Queen and do not know who they are in this dark modern world that we reside in.  It is a young boy Henry who seeks his biological mother Emma, Snow White and Prince Charming's daughter, to return to Story Brooke, Maine and break the spell.  The way in which the writers of the show portray the characters and re-write the storylines and present it to the audience is not only intruiging but intelligent.  


I am including a trailor of the show for your viewing pleasures.



Another similar show at the moment is that of NBC's "Grimm"; where an unknowing descendant of the Grimms Brothers is a crime investigator and learns of his heritage through "whimsical happenings" in each case.  I have read several reviews on this show and have not found them to be so kind.  However, I will have to personally look into that myself.  


Not only are we seeing such shows on the small screen, but we are seeing them in the big screen as well. 
"Snow White and The Huntsman" is another expected box office hit starring Kristen Stewart and Charlize Theron.  Here is a glimpse of the captivating trailor.  The film is expected to be released in the summer of 2012.


"Red Riding Hood" was another movie that came out earlier in the year starring Amanda Seyfried.  Although it did not do as well as expected, it is apparent that fairytales are high in demand.


To read the original stories visit National Geographic's Grimm site.

I have become very interested in following this "fables and fairy tales fad" and intend to share my findings with you as time passes.  From a psychological point of view, there must be a desire and a serious demand for such entertainment.

Twitter to Tales says Steve Martin

This week, Reuters reports on Comedian, Actor and Best-Selling Author, Steve Martin.  As it turns out, Steve Martin is planning on coming out with another best seller; only this time, its all about Twitter.  Steve stated, "[d]ue to absolutely no demand, soon I'm publishing a book of my tweets. Many of your replies included! All my profits to charity."  Grand Central Publishing reported that the book will be called "The Ten, Make That Nine Habits, of Very Organized People. Make That Ten," and will be a collection of Martin's tweets, as well as, responses from followers.  The book is due for release in Summer 2012.  

This story has created much buzz not because the actor is publishing another book, but because he is basing the book entirely on social media! Interestingly enough, it is an excellent marketing plan as for Martin intends to use some of his followers' replies.  Steve Martin has over 1.7 million fans following him, including myself.  I have no doubt that this book will be another best seller.   I also find it interesting that he is taking this concept of social networking and giving it life.  We tend to view social media as some kind of impersonal means of communication, but it really can be quite personal.  

Thanks to social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook, we can view pictures, read other's comments and thoughts; we are able to see their moods shift and even learn about their lifestyle, etc.  Interestingly enough, we make friends with strangers or speak to people we would have never imagined and have a "relationship" of some kind no matter how small it may seem.  Due to the shared interests or shared friends we tend to have on these social media channels, we also tend to be influenced in various ways, such as where we shop, where we dine, what movies to see, how to vote, etc.  All of these things can be influenced and used as a tool through the use of social media.  

Steve Martin takes credit as an Actor, Musician, Comedian, and Author, but he needs to add Marketing Guru to his resume as well.  Earlier this month, he tweeted, "Jack Black, Owen Wilson and I did the Ellen show today. Remind me, is that the movie? Or did we shoot a movie?"  

Here is a clip of the interview mentioned promoting his next movie:

I am definitely looking forward to reading Steve Martin's book to see what he has to say about the concept of social media.  I am certain that it will be enlightening, humorous, and witty.  Although I have yet to read one of his books, I already feel I know his style for I do read his tweets.

An Exclusive with Entertainment Attorney Darren Heitner, Esquire

Darren Adam Heitner, Esquire, the lawyer, educator, journalist, athlete, and advocate, recently took time out of his busy schedule to share a bit about himself and provide some insight on the world of entertainment law. 

Darren Adam Heitner, Esquire, is an attorney based in the State of Florida, who is licensed to practice on the state and federal level, and focuses on sports, entertainment, and intellectual property litigation and transactional work. He is the Founder and CEO of Dynasty Athlete Representation, Professor of Sport Agency Management at Indiana University Bloomington, and the Founder and Chief Editor of Sports Agent Blog, a leading niche industry publication.  He is also the Public Relations Director of the National Sports and Entertainment Law Society and Associate Executive Director of the Jewish Coaches Association.


Such accomplishments no doubtedly began with a solid education.  Darren has a Bachelors of Arts and a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from the University of Florida.  During his college career, he served two terms as the President of the "Entertainment and Sports Law Society" and Chair of the popular "UF Sports Law Symposium".  His passion for his career is apparent.  I asked Darren what first drew him to the entertainment industry.  He  expressed, "my involvement in sports. I started a sports agency and went to law school, focusing on sports law. Sports and entertainment are tied together in many ways. Being involved in sports led to involvement in the entertainment industry."  


Most of us have a passion and not all of us have been able to completely relish in it.  Mr. Heitner not only practices entertainment law, he is an educator as well as journalist.  To be so dedicated, there must be something that ignites his fire.   So, I asked Darren what fascinates him most about the industry, he replies, "The interesting issues and actors involved. Many of the matters involve intellectual property disputes, which I enjoy, and breaches of contract. I also love the transactional work involved." 

With several years in practicing entertainment law, Heitner states that the most common mistakes he finds most people making in this industry are "poor drafting of contracts at the formation of important relationships. Many contracts involve a lot of money and the actors do not spend the time and money to hire competent attorneys to protect themselves ahead of time."

Prior to this interview, I let Darren know that I am a graduate student at Full Sail University majoring in Entertainment Business.  Appropriately, I closed the interview, by asking Darren what he would advise a student or young professional starting out in this industry. "Work on building connections with those already entrenched in the industry. This industry is about who you know as much as anything else."




*** I would personally like to thank Attorney, Darren Heitner, Esq. for the opportunity to answer my questions and share his story, experiences, insights, and advice.  I admire your passion and your drive. ***

Lime light and Liabilities

Holly Madison, best known as Hugh Heffner's sexy playmate girlfriend on the hit televsion series "The Girls Next Door", has recently insured her breast for $1 million.  Holly expressed to People Magazine, "If anything happened to my boobs, I'd be out for a few months and I'd probably be out a million dollars," she told People. "I thought I'd cover my assets."  According to the Reuter article, many stars have insured several body parts.  This makes perfect sense to me.  Holly Madison, as well as other celebrities, have built an empire primarily on their physical appearance.  If anything were to happen to those "assets", more than likely, they would be out of work. 


Also in the lime lights, is Barnes & Nobles Bookstore, whom purchased long time competitor Borders' client dvd order list as well as Borders Brandmarket trademarks in bankruptcy court.  This is an excellent case featuring trademarks and brand recognition and the influences over customers.  Borders has proven to keep loyal customers through the use of various intellectual property laws like that of the trademark.  It was a good idea for Barnes & Noble to make such a purchase in order to win over Borders' clients.  


A 150 year old Grand Hotel in Dixville Noth, New Hampshire has built on their brand during this "shaky" economy.  Although, old hotels do struggle just as much as new resorts, there does seem to be an advatnage to its appeal.  At the Balsams Grand Resort, there seems to be a smarter way to invest; in its brand.  Local by the name of Roch states, "[etc] the advantage is there is more awareness in the market for historic hotels. They've got a name, they've got a reputation, they've got the word of mouth."  Sometimes, taking the time to invest in what sets your company apart from others and protecting that image will benefit the business.

Book Distibution has a Problem?

At Full Sail University, where I am finishing up my Master's program in Business Entertainment, I am currently taking a Media Publishing and Distibution Course.  In this course we often discuss Publishing and Distribution in the following industries of entertainment; print, music, film, and games.  I for one tend to focus a bit more in the print industry.  


The print industry appeals to me due to my background in writing.  I have taken several courses in creative writing as well as professional writing.  I have a background in Mass Communications and Sociology from the University of Central Florida.  During which, my thought process in one day publishing my very own story and eventually book was made possible.


I have yet to publish any work.  However, the interest in doing so is very much alive.  The thing that has held me back is of course the dedication in writing a piece of work and being satisfied with completion.  It is no secret that writers are never done writing.  We tend to edit, and edit again, knowing we can do better and communicate in a more creative and intelligent form.  A writer or any artist, often times competes with one self and is his or her own toughest critic.  


When one is ready to publish, one must consider distribution channels.  In the article, "Indie Publishing: The Problem With Distribution", it discusses the need to understand publishing and media enterprise.  Author, Joel Friedlander, explains; "in order to operate profitably within this system, a publisher has to identify books that will have a very broad appeal, market these books to a national audience, print and distribute enough of these books to take advantage of mass media exposure, [and] absorb the losses on all “losers” by using the profits from big “winners.”  This basically suggests, that as an independent publisher, it is very important to know how to market your book or it may not succeed once published.  


The article continues to describe the "new world of publishing" in which independent publishers may be able to succeed through its "new world" distribution channels such as; amazon.com, the internet, social media, and ebooks.  Friedlander states, "[a]ll this has created what you might call a golden age for indie publishing. As long as indie publishers understand the nature of the book distribution that’s available to them, and exploit the advantages they have over larger publishers, amazing sales can be the result." 


As we have grown familiar with Mass Media and the world of Publication, we must also open our eyes to the many distribution channels being offered through the web today.  Book distibution may be a problem to some, but to others it is but a challenge.
   

Drea Considers Castng Director

During my time at edgefactory Omnimedia, I had the opportunity to assist the Creative Director.  I would assist in searching for props and materials for shows, book hair and make up artists, search for images to be used in film, as well as search for talent.  


I realized that I enjoy every bit of my work, but my favorite was that of finding the talent.  I enjoy bringing the client or direcrtor's image to life by realizing their needs as well as their taste and feel for the project.  This was by far my favorite part of work.  To what others call work, I call play time.  


Since I was a little girl, I would watch the Miss America and Miss Universe Pageants.  I would always know whom were going to be the top finalists.  As I child I knew that I wanted to work in the entertainment industry.  At first, like most in the industry, wanted to be the one in the lime light.  However, over the years, I began to understand my talents. 


My experiences include; acting, singing, dancing, modeling, drawing, painting, and writing.  A few of these, I have gotten a bit rusty at due to lack of practice.  I believe that to entertain, is like being an athlete; one must practice and compete in order to eventually be the best when its time to perform.  I understand the importance of discipline and perserverance.  


Being a part of the entertainment is hard work that takes much dedication both on stage and back stage.  I applaud the script writers, directors, and composers, for they are the master minds or the puppet masters in what is being performed for all to see.  It is their ideas in collaboration with collegues and assistants working together in order for it to all come together as it should.  The vision needs to be realized.


I have found that I understand both on stage and back stage roles fairly well.  I have learned that I have a keen eye and talent for pulling it all together.  That is why I believe that in my chosen career field of entertainment, I may be a skilled Casting Director.  I enjoy making people's dreams come true as well as understanding the needs of the client.  I have the experience and the talent, a sixth sense in recognizing what talents will be right for the task; just as those chosen in beauty pageants.  


I understand that this position requires much patience for it does not always take a day to find the right talent for the job.  I understand that working with creative indviduals may not be a pleasant task and once again, patience is required.  I understand how the attention working with talents may require, again, I know I posses such patience to work cooperatively.  Patience is a skill I have not acquired over the years, but one that has been gifted to me early on in my life.  


After my experices as both a Model Scout and a Communications/Production Coordinator, I feel that I have found my calling as a Casting Director.  I have been told that I am a very well connected individual and I use my networking skills whenever I can.  I appreciate business from anyone, as I believe we all have a need for one another.  This skill will enable me to be resourceful in working with others in search of acquiring the talent.


To know more about Casting Directors and their roles, please visit: http://filmtvcareers.about.com/od/basics/p/CP_CastingDir.htm and http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-casting-director.htm