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Monday, June 1

8:00am
10:00am

Intro to Realscreen West (10:00am-10:45am)

Ocean I&II

Informal presentation designed to help you make the most of your Realscreen West experience. Our veteran team members will be on-hand to guide you through the event features that'll help you meet your business goals. Drop in only. No sign-up required.

 This session is recommended for first-time attendees of Realscreen West.


10:45am

Networking Coffee Break (10:45am - 11:00am)

Sponsored by:

11:00am

30 Minutes With: David Eilenberg, TBS/TNT (11:00am-11:30am)

Main House

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

David Eilenberg

Vice President and Head of Content

TBS and TNT

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30 Minutes With: James Bolosh, FYI (11:00am-11:30am)

The Study

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Host

James Bolosh

President & Partner

FYI

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Meet a Mentor: Gary R. Benz, GRB Entertainment (11:00am-11:45am)

Ocean I&II

Realsceen's "Meet a Mentor" series is designed to give delegates rare access to some of the top producers in factual programming. Sign up for the opportunity to glean valuable information in an intimate, "off the record" setting, and hear from A-list producers through Q&A about how they charted their paths, faced and met challenges head-on, and learned invaluable lessons along the way. If you've ever asked yourself "How do they do it?", here’s your chance to find out. 

*Pre-sign up is required- A total of two (2) Meet a Mentor spots can be reserved

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 13th at 11:00am ET

Featuring:

Host

Gary R. Benz

President & CEO

GRB Entertainment

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Meet an Expert: Distributors (11:00am - 12:00pm)

Bungalow Patio

In an effort to continue to facilitate your ongoing business ventures and making great connections, we’ve assembled some of the top distributors in factual entertainment and made them available for you to meet with. Sign up to find out what these industry experts can offer you and your production. 

*Pre-sign up is required- A total of one (1) Meet an Expert spot can be reserved

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 13th at 11:00am ET

Featuring:

Host

Hayley Babcock

Founder and CEO

DRG

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Host

Hayley Dickson

SVP, Head of Global Non-Scripted, Acquisitions & Development, Global Content

FremantleMedia International

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Host

Lisa Fahrenholt

SVP, Scripted Development

Endemol Shine International

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Host

Anthony Kimble

CEO

Cineflix Rights

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Host

Andreas Lemos

Director, International Content

Zodiak Rights

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Host

Michael Lolato

VP Sales Solutions, Unscripted Series, Global Distribution and International

GRB Entertainment

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Host

Jessica Watson

Vice President, Global Sales & Strategic Partnerships

eOne Television International

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Speed Pitching One (11:00am - 12:00pm)

Wilshire I&II

Programming execs, each at their own table, will take individual one-on-one three-minute pitches. Slots are limited, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

*Pre-sign up is required- A total of two (2) Speed Pitching spots can be reserved

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 20th at 11:00am ET

Featuring:

Host

Lauren Frasca

SVP, Content

The Weather Channel

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Host

Elliot Jacobson

EVP of Programming & Chief Content Officer

Seventh State Prods

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Host

Sandra Kleinfeld

Senior Director Documentary

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation

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Host

Evan Lerner

EVP Production and Development

A&E

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Host

Charlie Parsons

SVP, Global Development

National Geographic Channel

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Host

Caroline Perez

SVP, Development & Production

Destination America

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Host

Mike Stiller

Head of East Coast Development, The HISTORY Channel

History/H2

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Host

Todd Weiser

SVP, Programming & Development

Cooking Channel/Food Network

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12:00pm

Lunch (12:00pm - 1:30pm)

1:30pm

30 Minutes With: Elvia Van Es Oliva, TLC (1:30pm-2:00pm)

The Study

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Elvia Van Es Oliva

EVP, Head of Current Programming

TLC

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30 Minutes With: Jason Sarlanis, ABC (1:30pm-2:00pm)

Main House

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Jason Sarlanis

President, TBS, TNT, truTV, ID & HLN - Linear & Streaming

ABC Entertainment

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Speed Pitching Two (1:30pm - 2:30pm)

Wilshire I&II

Programming execs, each at their own table, will take individual one-on-one three-minute pitches. Slots are limited, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

*Pre-sign up is required- A total of two (2) Speed Pitching spots can be reserved

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 20th at 11:00am ET

Featuring:

Host

Doug Bailey

Director Programming

Travel Channel

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Host

Christy Dees

VP, Development

Bravo

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Host

Toby Faulkner

SVP, Content discovery+

FYI

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Host

Endyia Kinney-Sterns

CEO & President

OWN Oprah Winfrey Network

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Host

Fernando Mills

VP, Production & Development

VH1

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Host

Nicholas Oakley

Senior Vice President, Unscripted Development

HLN

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Host

Michael Sorensen

Co-Founder

Discovery Channel

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Host

David Stefanou

Unscripted Programming

WE tv

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2:15pm

30 Minutes With: Colin Nash, MTV (2:15pm-2:45pm)

Main House

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Colin Nash

SVP Alternative Development

MTV Networks

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30 Minutes With: Steven Lerner, HGTV/DIY Network and Great American Country (2:15pm-2:45pm)

The Study

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Steven Lerner

SVP, Programming & Development

HGTV, DIY Network & Great American Country

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2:30pm

Meet a Mentor: Thom Beers, FremantleMedia North America (2:30pm-3:15pm)

Ocean I&II

Realsceen's "Meet a Mentor" series is designed to give delegates rare access to some of the top producers in factual programming. Sign up for the opportunity to glean valuable information in an intimate, "off the record" setting, and hear from A-list producers through Q&A about how they charted their paths, faced and met challenges head-on, and learned invaluable lessons along the way. If you've ever asked yourself "How do they do it?", here’s your chance to find out. 

*Pre-sign up is required- A total of two (2) Meet a Mentor spots can be reserved

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 13th at 11:00am ET

Featuring:

Host

Thom Beers

Partner

FremantleMedia North America

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Meet an Expert: Agents (2:30pm - 3:30pm)

Bungalow Patio

In an effort to continue to facilitate your ongoing business ventures and making great connections, we’ve assembled some of the top agencies in factual entertainment and made them available for you to meet with. Sign up to find out what these industry experts can offer you and your production. 

*Pre-sign up is required- A total of one (1) Meet an Expert spot can be reserved

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 13th at 11:00am ET

Featuring:

Host

Courtny Catzel

Agent, Non-Fiction Television

ICM Partners

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Host

Ra Kumar

Unscripted

N.S. Bienstock / UTA

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Host

Josh Levenbrown

Alternative TV Agent

APA

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Host

Kristin Peace

Agent

Kaplan Stahler Agency

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Host

Puraj Puri

Manager

Paradigm Talent Agency

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Host

Alec Shankman

Senior Partner and Head, Alternative

Abrams Artists Agency

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Host

Scott Wachs

Agent

WME

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Host

Katie Zwick

TV Alternative Agent

Creative Artists Agency

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3:00pm

30 Minutes With: Howard Swartz, Discovery Channel (3:00pm-3:30pm)

Main House

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Howard Swartz

EVP Development

Discovery Channel

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30 Minutes With: Justin Lacob, Spike (3:00pm-3:30pm)

The Study

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Justin Lacob

Head of Development

SPIKE TV

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3:30pm

Networking Coffee Break (3:30pm - 3:45pm)

Sponsored by:

3:45pm

Keynote Conversation: Mark Burnett (3:45pm - 4:45pm)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

Husband and wife team Mark Burnett and Roma Downey comprise the dynamic duo behind one of television's biggest miniseries, The Bible for History, as well as AD The Bible Continues for NBC airing on Sunday nights and Women of the Bible for Lifetime. 

Their upcoming series for TLC, Answered Prayers, will premiere on July 26th, and following the success of Son of God, they have moved further into the theatrical feature world, currently producing the epic film Ben-Hur, a remaking of the classic story with MGM and Paramount Pictures, set for release in Spring 2016.

In this keynote conversation, Burnett, the executive producer behind such iconic series as CBS's Survivor and NBC's The Voice among many others, and Downey, star of the CBS hit Touched By an Angel and President of LightWorkers Media,  will share their thoughts on life as a "power couple" in the content industry; their business initiatives including the formation of United Artists Media Group, and their vision for the content they plan to develop within it. They'll also discuss their recent forays – both scripted and unscripted – into family-friendly and inspirational content; and provide a look at their careers to this point, sharing the valuable lessons they’ve learned through successes and challenges.

Featuring:

Mark Burnett

Chairman

United Artists Media Group

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Roma Downey

President

LightWorkers Media

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Interviewer

Michael Schneider

TV Editor

TV Guide

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4:45pm

Opening Cocktail Reception (4:45pm - 6:00pm)

Sponsored by:

Tuesday, June 2

8:00am
9:50am

Opening Remarks (9:50am - 10:00am)

Wedgewood Ballroom

Featuring:

Claire Macdonald

SVP, Executive Director

Realscreen

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Barry Walsh

Editor-in-Chief & Content Director

Realscreen

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10:00am

In Conversation With Rich Ross, President, Discovery Channel (10:00am - 11:00am)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

Rich Ross took the reins as Discovery Channel president in January of 2015. At Realscreen West, Ross will share his vision for where he wants to take the cable giant in the immediate future.

Featuring:

Interviewer

Phil Keoghan

Executive Producer, Director, Writer, Host

The Amazing Race & Author, No Opportunity Wasted

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Rich Ross

Group President, Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, Science Channel & Velocity

Discovery Channel

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11:00am

Networking Coffee Break (11:00am - 11:15am)

Sponsored by:

11:15am

Living on the Edge (11:15am - 12:15pm)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

Docureality programming can shed light on shadowy worlds, illuminate important social issues and tackle tough subject matter. In all of those cases, balancing the grittiness of the stories with the entertainment factor needed for network television is a tightrope walk that requires networks and producers to tread carefully. In this session, network and production executives, as well as legal representatives, discuss the risks and rewards in documenting “life on the edge.”

Featuring:

Michael Branton

Executive Producer

GRB Entertainment

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Michael C Donaldson ESQ

Attorney & Partner

Donaldson & Callif

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Laura Fleury

SVP, Category 6 Media™

LMN

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Tom Forman

CEO

Relativity Television

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Jane Lipsitz

Founding Partner

Magical Elves Productions

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Moderating:


Jane Root

Founder & CEO

Nutopia

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Between the Screens (11:15am - 12:15pm)

Ocean I&II

While many stories in the trades deal out dire predictions for cable TV in the years ahead, thanks to the rise of cord-cutting and “Generation D”, traditional media giants are staking their claim in the online video game by making major investments in digital content companies, and digital media creators are taking some of their bigger properties and talent to television. What lessons can each side learn from the other when bridging the gap between screens, and how can everyone play together in the ever-expanding content universe?

Featuring:

Kathleen Finch

Chairman and Chief Content Officer, US Networks Group, Warner Bros. Discovery

HGTV, DIY Network & Great American Country

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Gayle Gilman

Co-Founder and CEO

Tiny Riot

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Margo Plotkin

Agent, Digital Talent & Packaging

Creative Artists Agency

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John P. Roberts

Chief Content Officer

Bunim/Murray Productions

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Vivi Zigler

President Digital Brand & Audience Development

Endemol Shine North America

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Moderating:


Gavin McGarry

President

Jumpwire Media

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30 Minutes With: Brian Leonard, Travel Channel (11:15am-11:45am)

The Study

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Host

Brian Leonard

VP, Programming and Development

Travel Channel

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30 Minutes With: Matt Hanna, Esquire Network (11:15am-11:45am)

Main House

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Matt Hanna

CCO

Esquire Network

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Speed Pitching Three (11:15am - 12:15pm)

Wilshire I&II

Programming execs, each at their own table, will take individual one-on-one three-minute pitches. Slots are limited, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

*Pre-sign up is required- A total of two (2) Speed Pitching spots can be reserved

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 20th at 11:00am ET

Featuring:

Host

Paul Bourdett

Owner DNB Productions

truTV

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Host

Sarah T. Davies

SVP, Development

Discovery Family Channel

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Host

John Feld

.

HGTV, DIY Network & Great American Country

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Host

Mariana Flynn

SVP Unscripted Development and Programming

Lifetime

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Host

Marisa Levy

Chief Content Officer

TLC

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Host

Leela Pon

SVP, Content

E! Entertainment

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Host

Chanel Pysnik

Head of Unscripted

CNN

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Host

Keith Wooten

Director, Creative Development

BET Black Entertainment Television

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12:15pm

Lunch (12:15pm - 1:45pm)

12:30pm

Luncheon Roundtables (12:30pm-1:45pm)

Sponsored by:

Bungalow Patio

You have the option over lunch to sign up for a luncheon roundtable hosted by select network executives. Lunch is an informal affair and a chance for producers to learn a little more about programming needs and for broadcasters to possibly meet the producer that may deliver their next big hit. These are NOT pitch sessions - just a fantastic networking opportunity.

*Pre-sign up is required- A total of one (1) Luncheon Roundtable spot can be reserved

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 6th at 11:00am ET

Featuring:

Host

Andy Berg

Head of Development

Animal Planet

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Host

Kelly Garner

VP Alternative Development

Syfy

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Host

Enrique Guillen

Chief Content Officer

NBC and Universal Television

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Host

Jill Holmes

SVP, West Coast Development & Production

VH1

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Host

Russ McCarroll

Executive Producer

History

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Host

Noah Pollack

VP, Original Content, Unscripted

E! Entertainment

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Host

David Schiff

Head, Game/Format Think Tank

GSN Game Show Network

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Host

Kayo Washio

Head of Los Angeles Office

WOWOW INC.

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1:45pm

The Showrunner: Soldier, Savior or Spy? (1:45pm - 2:45pm)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

The freelance showrunner is often an integral part of the equation for many unscripted productions. But finding the right one, and making the process work can be work in itself. Here, producers, showrunners and network execs weigh in on the challenges and dynamic of the working relationship and offer insight on how to keep everyone on the same team.

Featuring:

Jenny Daly

President

T Group Productions

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Lauren Gellert

EVP, Development & Original Programming

WE tv

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Alan Moore

Agent

APA

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Chris Rantamaki

Head of TV & Film

Discovery Channel

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Arthur Smith

Chairman

A Smith & Co Productions

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Billy Taylor

Executive Producer

MBN Productions

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Moderating:


Rebecca Toth Diefenbach

Co-President and Executive Producer

Sirens Media

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Unscripted, Everywhere (1:45pm - 2:45pm)

Ocean I&II

The arrival of unscripted programming on cable and broadcast revolutionized television, and now, as more content distributors emerge and invest in long-form, original programming, it’s moving across platforms. What are the key programming strategies for the new players in the unscripted arena, and what do television producers need to know about storytelling in the digital domain? Hear from execs leading the push across platforms for the unscripted genre, and from producers and programming execs who are making their mark in the multi-platform media landscape.

Featuring:

Jeremy Chilnick

COO & Head of Production & Partner

Warrior Poets Entertainment

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Nate Hayden

SVP, Originals

AOL Inc

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Ashley Kaplan

Executive VP of Unscripted, Nickelodeon, Awesomeness and Digital Franchise Studio

Fullscreen

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Bonnie Pan

Head of Network

Maker Studios

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Anna Robertson

VP, Head of Video

Yahoo!

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Moderating:


Bruce David Klein

President & Executive Producer

Atlas Media Corp

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2:15pm

30 Minutes With: Joseph Ferraro, Bravo (2:15pm-2:45pm)

Main House

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Host

Joseph Ferraro

VP, Development

Bravo

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30 Minutes With: Rob Swartz, Reelzchannel (2:15pm-2:45pm)

The Study

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Host

Rob Swartz

SVP, Development & Production

REELZ Channel

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2:45pm

Networking Coffee Break (2:45pm - 3:00pm)

Sponsored by:

3:00pm

In Conversation With Paul Buccieri, President, A&E and History (3:00pm - 4:00pm)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

Paul Buccieri moved from ITV Studios to A+E Networks as president of A&E and History early this year. At Realscreen West, hear Buccieri's plans for these top A+E channel brands.

Featuring:

Paul Buccieri

President & Chairman

A&E and History

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Interviewer

Greg Lipstone

President

ICM Partners

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30 Minutes With: David Hillman, Lifetime (3:00pm-3:30pm)

Main House

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Host

David Hillman

Head, Alternative & Unscripted

Lifetime

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30 Minutes With: Jill Dickerson, OWN (3:00pm-3:30pm)

The Study

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Host

Jill Dickerson

EVP & Head of Development

OWN

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4:00pm

2015 Realscreen Awards + Cocktail Reception (4:00pm - 6:30pm)

Sponsored by:

Featuring:

Host

Christopher Titus

Comedian and Host, Pawnography

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Wednesday, June 3

8:00am
10:00am

Bringing Big Swings to Broadcast (10:00am - 11:00am)

Wedgewood Ballroom

The unscripted genre has seen much change in the U.S. broadcast world - executive shake-ups, the resurgence of scripted drama, and various long-running franchises reaching their maturation point. But reality still packs a big punch on broadcast ratings-wise, and the next game-changing series could be just around the corner. Here, alternative broadcast execs and producers who've made their mark on the Big Five's schedules weigh in on the challenges facing the genre and opportunities to reinvigorate and reinvent.

Featuring:

Meredith Ahr

President Alternative Reality Group

NBC Entertainment

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Eden Gaha

President

Endemol Shine USA

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Toby Gorman

President

FremantleMedia North America

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Bruce Robertson

Head of Creative Strategy & Development

ITV Studios America

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Justin Rosenblatt

EVP, Original Programming & Development

The CW

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Moderating:


Josh Pyatt

Partner, Non-Scripted Television

WME

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11:00am

Networking Coffee Break (11:00am - 11:15am)

Sponsored by:

11:15am

Trendwatch: Keeping it Real (11:15am - 12:15pm)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

It’s been an unscripted buzzword for years but whereas in the past the term “authenticity” was used to describe docusoap characters and worlds, now the word is used to denote experiences and production techniques. In a move away from “over-produced” reality, GoPro-outfitted casts are filming themselves in the field, with adventure and excitement being the key elements for various U.S. cable nets. Here, network executives and producers behind the trend discuss what it takes to “keep it real” but also keep it entertaining.

Featuring:

Paul Cabana

EVP, Head of History & Biography Digital

History and H2

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Jeff Conroy

Co-Founder/Partner

Original Productions

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Alan Eyres

Head of Plimsoll, USA

National Geographic Channel

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David Garfinkle

President

Renegade83

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Sharon Scott

President & General Manager

NBC Peacock Productions

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Moderating:


Jim Berger

CEO

High Noon Entertainment

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Let's Stick Together (11:15am - 12:15pm)

Sponsored by:

Ocean I&II

The process of getting a show to air can be messy and fraught with back and forth, but it can also be constructive and collaborative. While the producer/network relationship is often seen through an "us and them" lens, the fact is that both partners need to communicate and work together effectively to ensure the project stays on the rails. Here, you'll hear from network and production execs who have gone the extra mile to reach the finish line with programming that everyone could be proud of. From making the network notes process smoother and managing budgetary bumps in the road, to learning the art of picking your battles, this session will offer guidelines about how to make the journey to the premiere date a smoother one.

Featuring:

Nicholas Caprio

Chief Content Officer

Pilgrim Studios

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Mary Donahue

SVP, Development & Programming

Lifetime Televison

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David Eilenberg

Vice President and Head of Content

TBS and TNT

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Rick Ringbakk

Co-Founder

5X5 Media

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Moderating:


Tim Duffy

Co-Bro

Ugly Brother Studios

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30 Minutes With: Angel Annussek, truTV (11:15am-11:45am)

Main House

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Host

Angel Annussek

SVP, Development & Original Programming

truTV

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30 Minutes With: Bonnie Pan, Maker Studios (11:15am-11:45am)

The Study

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Host

Bonnie Pan

Head of Network

Maker Studios

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12:15pm

Lunch (12:15pm - 1:45pm)

12:30pm

Luncheon Roundtables (12:30pm-1:45pm)

Sponsored by:

Bungalow Patio

You have the option over lunch to sign up for a luncheon roundtable hosted by select network executives. Lunch is an informal affair and a chance for producers to learn a little more about programming needs and for broadcasters to possibly meet the producer that may deliver their next big hit. These are NOT pitch sessions - just a fantastic networking opportunity.

*Pre-sign up is required- A total of one (1) Luncheon Roundtable spot can be reserved

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 6th at 11:00am ET

Featuring:

Host

Nicole De Fusco

Consultant

Sundance TV

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Host

Laura Fleury

SVP, Category 6 Media™

LMN

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Host

Brent Hatherill

Senior Director, Development

American Heroes Channel

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Host

Marcia Martin

TV Executive

Blue Ant Media

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Host

Jennifer Quainton

Head of Content Programming

Cooking Channel/Food Network

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Host

Nicole Reed

SVP of Development

National Geographic Channels

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Host

Jessica Sebastian-Dayeh

President

USA Network

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Host

Jean Shi

SVP, Alternative Programming & Development

Oxygen Media

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1:45pm

Trendwatch: Driving a Hybrid (1:45pm - 2:45pm)

Wedgewood Ballroom

In the search for fresh approaches to unscripted programming, producers and networks are combining genres to arrive at innovative hybrids. Whether it’s finding inspiration from the drama and cinematic production values of the scripted world, or mixing up unscripted sub-genres, the challenge is to find the right mix of worlds to create something unique. Here you’ll learn about the challenges and potential opportunities in blending genres from successful mixmasters in the production and network spheres, and gain valuable insight into what works – and what doesn’t – when dabbling in hybrids.

Featuring:

Jason Carbone

CEO & Founder

Good Clean Fun, LLC

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Nancy Daniels

Head of Discovery, Animal Planet, Science, TBS, TNT & truTV

TLC

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Charlie Parsons

SVP, Global Development

National Geographic Channel

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Bertram van Munster

Executive Producer

Profiles Television Productions

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Moderating:


Deirdre Gurney

Co-Founder & Executive Producer

Gurney Productions

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Making it to Season 2... And Beyond (1:45pm - 2:45pm)

Ocean I&II

While the road to a greenlight isn’t always a smooth one, once your show is on the air, the challenges change, and intensify. Here, you’ll hear from producers with series at various stages of their runs - from season one to season 10 - and find out what they’ve learned at different points of the journey; and from the network executives who are tasked with keeping the schedule - and its perennial favorites - fresh and relevant.

Featuring:

Susanne Daniels

Global Head of Original Content

MTV

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Gil Goldschein

Chairman & CEO

Bunim/Murray Productions

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Gena McCarthy

Founder & President

FYI

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Nick Rigg

Founder

Loud Television

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Mona Scott-Young

CEO

Monami Entertainment, LLC

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Moderating:


Brant Pinvidic

CEO

3 Ball Entertainment

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2:15pm

30 Minutes With: Angela Molloy, WEtv (2:15pm-2:45pm)

The Study

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Host

Angela Molloy

SVP, Development & Original Production AllBlk & WEtv, Unscripted

WE tv

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30 Minutes With: Regina Thomas, BET (2:15pm-2:45pm)

Main House

These intimate and interactive sessions feature some of the most in-demand unscripted buyers and commissioners talking candidly about their programming strategies, future plans and priorities. Seating is limited to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. BUT, we’ve removed the session limit on 30 Minutes With sessions so you're welcome to squeeze in as many of these popular broadcaster briefings as you like. No sign-up required. We'll fill space on a first-come, first-seated basis until we reach room capacity. Inclusion in your personal agenda does NOT guarantee your spot, so be sure to show up a bit early!

Featuring:

Host

Regina Thomas

VP, Original Programming & Development

BET Networks

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2:45pm

Networking Coffee Break (2:45pm - 3:00pm)

Sponsored by:

3:00pm

Grace Under Pressure (3:00pm - 4:00pm)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

Every producer has at least one (and probably many more than one) – a behind-the-scenes story that encapsulates the chaotic roller-coaster ride that is the essence of television production, especially in the unscripted world. In this entertaining, fast-paced and inspiring session, you’ll hear such stories from some of the industry’s top producers – detailing the hitches, glitches and gaffes that can derail the process – and learn how they overcame incredible challenges to deliver the goods.

Featuring:

Maria Armstrong

CEO & Executive Producer

Big Coat Productions

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David M. Frank

President & Executive Producer

Indigo Films

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Scott Gurney

Co-Founder and Executive Producer

General Manager

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Brent Montgomery

CEO

Leftfield Entertainment

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Todd A. Nelson

CEO

3 Ball Entertainment

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SallyAnn Salsano

Founder, Executive Producer & CEO

495 Productions

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Eric Schotz

CEO

LMNO Productions

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Travis M. Shakespeare

SVP, Unscripted Television

BBC Worldwide Productions

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Colleen Steward

President & CEO

Tremendous! Entertainment

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Natalka Znak

President

Znak&Jones

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4:00pm

Closing Cocktail Reception (4:00pm - 5:30pm)