JUNE 4 - 6, 2019 | FAIRMONT MIRAMAR HOTEL, SANTA MONICA, CA
Marriott Marquis | Washington, DC | Sunday, January 28 – Wednesday, January 31, 2019

Agenda

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Tuesday, June 4

8:00am

Registration (8:00-5:45)

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

8:30am

Continental Breakfast (8:00-10:00)-Starlight Ballroom

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

9:00am

Delegates' Lounge (8:00-5:15)-Starlight Ballroom

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom,Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

10:00am

AI, Audience Engagement, and the Future of Content (10:00am - 11:00am)

Wedgewood Ballroom

As part of a special presentation, technology catalyst and founder of StoryTech Lori H. Schwartz will explore “The Future of Technology Driven Storytelling,” and provide insights into the future of content and the tremendous role the audience will play in consuming stories and driving engagement. AI expert Yves Bergquist, program director for AI and Neuroscience in Media at the University of Southern California, will offer a glimpse into the work being done at the USC’s Entertainment Technology Center, and will illustrate how AI is impacting and will impact the production and consumption of content going forward.

Featuring:

Yves Bergquist

Director, AI & Neuroscience in Media

Entertainment Technology Center at USC

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Lori H. Schwartz

Principal

StoryTech

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11:00am

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

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

11:15am

Trendwatch: Interactive Unscripted (11:15am - 12:15pm)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

Unscripted programming has led the charge in bringing the audience into the action, since the days of American Idol's call-in voting. Now, broadcasters and SVOD services are experimenting with interactivity in earnest, ranging from "choose your own adventure"-style content to social media-driven game play. Has tech finally caught up to creative ambition in order to bring us truly interactively unscripted? Hear from producers embracing the interactivity challenge, and learn first hand about the risks and rewards of this brave new world.

Featuring:

Jack Burgess

EVP, Development & Current

Studio Lambert USA

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David Eilenberg

Head of Content

ITV America

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Allison Grodner

Founder & Executive Producer

Fly on the Wall Entertainment

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Alon Shtruzman

Co-CEO

Keshet Studios

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Moderating:


Melissa Grego

CEO

Hollywood Radio & Television Society (HRTS)

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11:30am

30 Minutes With: Kristina Edwards,TBS & TNT (11:30am - 12:00pm)

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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!

Featuring:

Kristina Edwards

VP, Current Series and Development, Unscripted Formats

TNT & TBS

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30 Minutes With: Winona Meringolo, Investigation Discovery (11:30am - 12:00pm)

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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!

Featuring:

Winona Meringolo

SVP, Development

Investigation Discovery

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Executive Insights: Jonathan Skogmo, Jukin Media (11:30am - 12:15pm)

Stateroom

Join Jukin Media Founder and CEO Jonathan Skogmo for an insightful conversation touching on the red hot ad-supported streaming video space, including Viacom's recent acquisition of PlutoTV, and how next-gen production companies can (and often should) create content for multiple platforms.

A new format in the Realscreen West program, Executive Insights is designed to give delegates access to top producers in unscripted programming within a more intimate "inside the boardroom" setting. Delegates attending "Executive Insights" sessions will be able to glean valuable knowledge from A-list producers in an intimate, "off the record" setting, and have the opportunity to ask questions that will help guide you in your career. Seating in each session is limited to 12 delegates. 

*Advance sign up is required- One (1) Executive Insights spot can be reserved at sign-up time. 

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 15th at 11:00am ET and closes Monday, June 3rd at 5:00pm ET.


Featuring:

Jonathan Skogmo

CEO

Jukin Media

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12:15pm

Lunch (Starlight Ballroom + Garden) (12:15pm - 1:45pm)

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study

12:30pm

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

Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

You have the option over lunch to sign up for a luncheon roundtable hosted by select network and production development executives. Luncheon Roundtables are an informal affair and a chance for producers to learn a little more about programming needs  and parttnership opportunities of networks and production studios who may meet the producer that will help deliver their next big hit. These are NOT pitch sessions – just a fantastic networking opportunity. Arrive at the session 15 minutes before start time and check in with the room monitor. 

*Advance sign up is required - One (1) Luncheon Roundtable spot can be reserved per day at sign-up time. Three (3) Spots total can be served.

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 8th at 11:00am ET and closes Friday, May 31st at 5:00pm PT/8:00pm ET.

Featuring:

Table host

Hayley Babcock

Founder and CEO

A+E Networks

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Table host

Joseph Boyle

SVP, Production & Development

Discovery Channel

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Table host

Sydney Clover

Senior Director, Development

National Geographic

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Table host

Timothy Kuryak

Executive Producer

UPtv

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Table host

Patrick Moses

Head of Development

Viceland

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Table host

Keith Nietupski

Director, Programming & Development

Freeform

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Table host

Sean Olsen

VP, Development

Game Show Network

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Table host

Nina Weinstein

Executive Producer

MSNBC

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1:45pm

Power Lawyers Roundtable (1:45pm - 2:45pm)

Wedgewood Ballroom

The unscripted industry, like the entertainment business in general, is undergoing rapid change, with new buyers emerging in higher numbers, new deal terms and types being negotiated and new ways of approaching the workplace itself all part of the shift. Here, you'll meet top entertainment lawyers who will offer their perspectives on the changes, how the industry is handling them, and how they will impact your business.


Featuring:

Lisa A. Callif

Partner

Donaldson & Callif

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Matthew Levy

Partner

Hansen, Jacobson, Teller, Hoberman, Newman, Warren, Richman, Rush,Kaller & Gallman LLP

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Darrell Miller

Founder/Partner

Fox Rothschild LLP

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Moderating:


D'Angela Proctor

Owner/Founder

Undaunted Content

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2:00pm

30 Minutes With: Betsy Sanner Ayala, HGTV & DIY Network (2:00pm - 2:30pm)

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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!

Featuring:

Betsy Ayala

Head of Content, Food Network, Interim Head of Content, HGTV

HGTV, DIY Network & Great American Country

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30 Minutes With: Marisa Levy, BET (2:00pm - 2:30pm)

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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!

Featuring:

Marisa Levy

Chief Content Officer

BET Networks

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Executive Insights: Allison Grodner, Fly on the Wall Entertainment (2:00pm - 2:45pm)

Stateroom

With LIVE a current huge trend and networks clamoring for the immediacy to drive viewership, veteran producer and live programming specialist Allison Grodner talks about what it takes to bring “live” to life.

A new format in the Realscreen West program, Executive Insights is designed to give delegates access to top producers in unscripted programming within a more intimate "inside the boardroom" setting. Delegates attending "Executive Insights" sessions will be able to glean valuable knowledge from A-list producers in an intimate, "off the record" setting, and have the opportunity to ask questions that will help guide you in your career. Seating in each session is limited to 12 delegates. 

*Advance sign up is required- One (1) Executive Insights spot can be reserved at sign-up time. 

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 15th at 11:00am ET and closes Monday, June 3rd at 5:00pm ET.


Featuring:

Allison Grodner

Founder & Executive Producer

Fly on the Wall Entertainment

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2:45pm

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

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

3:00pm

The New Breed of Digital Players (3:00pm - 4:00pm)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

It seems that every corner of the Internet is being taken over by a new content platform, with brands, publishing companies and other businesses continuing to try their luck as content creators or curators. But of these nascent channels and studio outfits, which ones are actively buying or partnering with producers? What do they want, and what do the deals look like? Get the lowdown on all this and more from companies entering the unscripted arena, and learn how to work with this expanding segment of the content marketplace.


Featuring:

Jesus Chavez

Chief Executive Officer

Vertical Networks

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Michael Meyer

President

Group Nine Media

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Dana Olkkonen

Vice President, Television & Film

Vox Media Studios

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Bruce Perlmutter

SVP, Production, Conde Nast Entertainment

Conde Nast Entertainment

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Moderating:


Evan Shapiro

Producer/Owner

National Lampoon

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30 Minutes With: Christy Dees, Bravo (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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!

Featuring:

Christy Dees

VP, Development

Bravo

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30 Minutes With: Julie Meisner Eagle, Travel Channel (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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!

Featuring:

Julie Meisner Eagle

VP, Production & Development

Travel Channel

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Speed Pitching One (3:00pm - 4:00pm)

Wilshire I- III

Programming execs, each at their own table, will take one-on-one, three-minute pitches.

Participants who have successfully signed up for a speed pitching spot should check in at the session room for processing 20 minutes in advance of their scheduled time or risk forfeiting their slot. For those who did not secure a spot in advance, some space may become available due to no-shows. Arrive at the session 20 minutes before start time and check with the room monitor.

Some networks may require you to sign a submission release or non-disclosure agreement in advance of your meeting. If this is required by the network, the room monitor at the face to face check-in desk onsite will hand you the network's document for you to review, sign and deliver directly to your host during your meeting time slot.

*Advance sign up is required - A total of (3) Speed Pitching spots can be reserved at sign-up time.

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 22nd at 11:00am ET and closes Friday, May 31st at 5:00pm ET.


Featuring:

Table host

Brandon Allen

Manager, Linear & Digital Development

Fuse Media

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Table host

Kim Chessler

VP, Unscripted Programming

Lifetime

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Table host

Laura Crowson

VP, Development

Discovery Inc.

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Table host

Rachael Graeff

Program Development

TLC

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Table host

Marcie Hume

VP, Programming

A&E Network

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Table host

Mark Levine

VP, Television, Digital Video & Podcasts

Food Network & Cooking Channel

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Table host

Ann Marie Redmond

Executive in Charge of Production, Unscripted Content

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation

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Table host

Keith Wooten

Director, Creative Development

BET Networks

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Table host

Fay Yu

Head of Content

Animal Planet

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Table host

Jihoon Zun

Director, Non-Fiction Development & Programming

USA Network/Syfy

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4:00pm

Networking Break (4:00pm - 4:15pm)

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

4:15pm

Trendwatch 2020: What's on the Way for the Unscripted Business (4:15pm - 5:15pm)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

The roller coaster ride that is the television industry seems to be accelerating with each passing year, with major players emerging to disrupt the new order set up by the disruptors a few short years ago, traditional media ramping up its efforts to take on global platforms, and a steady stream of execs jumping ship from cable and broadcast to pastures digital. Meanwhile, producers and content creators catch their collective breath and wait for the next volley of change to be unleashed. Here, industry execs cast their 20/20 vision (see what we did there?) to the year ahead to discuss the trends they see taking shape on the media horizon, the latest developments in the ever evolving buyer-seller relationship, and the plans they have to keep building their businesses for the decade ahead.

Featuring:

Jodi Flynn

President & Chief Content Officer

The Content Group

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John Ford

Head of Programming

NPACT

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Tom Forman

CEO

Critical Content

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Eli Lehrer

Executive Vice President and Head, Programming Genres & Music Services

History

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Allison Page

Global President, Magnolia Network

Discovery, Inc.

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Moderating:


Michael O'Connell

Senior Writer

The Hollywood Reporter

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5:15pm

Opening Cocktail (Miramar Gardens) (5:15pm - 6:30pm)

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

Wednesday, June 5

8:00am

Continental Breakfast (8:00-10:00)-Starlight Ballroom

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

Registration (8:00-5:15)

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

8:45am

Meet an Expert-Distributors (8:45am - 9:45am)

Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

As part of our networking series designed to grow your connections, we’ve assembled some of the top distributors in unscripted 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. 

*Advance sign up is required - One (1) Meet an Expert spot can be reserved per day at sign-up time. Two (2) sessions total can be reserved.

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 15th at 11:00am ET and closes Monday, June 3rd at 5:00pm ET.

Featuring:

Table host

Simona Argenti

VP Content Sales EMEA

TCB Media Rights

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Table host

Harriet Armston-Clarke

Senior Global Acquisitions Manager

TVF International

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Table host

Gary R. Benz

President & CEO

GRB Studios

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Table host

Shirley Bowers

SVP, US Distribution

Red Arrow Studios International

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Table host

Lilla Hurst

Global Head of Acquisitions

Drive

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Table host

Diane Rankin

Executive Vice President, Content Development & Commercial Strategy

Distribution360

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Table host

Gillian Rose

Executive Producer

Sky Vision

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Table host

Justina Wójtowicz

EVP, Acquisitions Co-Productions & Sales

Beyond Distribution

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9:00am

Delegates' Lounge (8:00-5:30)-Starlight Ballroom

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom

10:00am

Trendwatch: Kinder, Gentler TV (10:00am - 11:00am)

Wedgewood Ballroom

Family friendly formats are enjoying a resurgence, as linear TV and VOD platforms alike search for co-viewable content, and a wider range of networks, including kids entertainment nets, move deeper into unscripted programming. From "junior" versions of much loved classics, to original formats with massive demographic reach, this session will explore what's working now, how to develop in the space, and the growing opportunities that exist for kinder, gentler formats.

Featuring:

Rob Bagshaw

Executive VP, Creative

Nickelodeon

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Nina Etspueler

Head, Entertainment Development

Red Arrow Studios

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Karen K.Miller

President & CEO

NBCUniversal

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Arthur Smith

Chairman

A. Smith & Co. Productions

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Moderating:


Joe Livecchi

Chief Executive Officer

Noble Savages

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11:00am

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

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

11:15am

Bringing Talent to the Table (11:15am - 12:15pm)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

Having talent attached to an unscripted project is increasingly a prerequisite for moving it ahead in an incredibly competitive marketplace. But in a multiplatform media landscape, bankable talent can come from many avenues. Here, you'll learn about where producers and networks are turning to discover the next generation of experts and stars… from social media influencers to podcast producers and beyond.  



Featuring:

Casey Brumels

Creative Director & Co-Owner

Ping Pong Productions

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David Collins

Co-Founder & Executive Producer

Scout Productions

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Loren Ruch

Head of Content HGTV

HGTV

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Jo Sharon

Co-CEO

Magical Elves Productions

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Moderating:


Babette Perry

Head of Broadcasting & Hosting

Innovative Artists

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11:30am

30 Minutes with: Sara Helman, TLC (11:30am - 12:00pm)

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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!

Featuring:

Sara Helman

VP, Production & Development, TLC

TLC

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30 Minutes With: Toby Faulkner, Facebook Watch (11:30am - 12:00pm)

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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!

Featuring:

Toby Faulkner

SVP, Content discovery+

Facebook Watch

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Executive Insights: Sam Barcroft, Barcroft Studios (11:30am - 12:15pm)

Stateroom

Join Sam Barcoft as he shares his expertise on how to build "prodco 2.0".  With viewer habits shifting towards live events and video on demand, how can producers adapt their approach to prosper?

A new format in the Realscreen West program, Executive Insights is designed to give delegates access to top producers in unscripted programming within a more intimate "inside the boardroom" setting. Delegates attending "Executive Insights" sessions will be able to glean valuable knowledge from A-list producers in an intimate, "off the record" setting, and have the opportunity to ask questions that will help guide you in your career. Seating in each session is limited to 12 delegates.

*Advance sign up is required- One (1) Executive Insights spot can be reserved at sign-up time. 

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 15th at 11:00am ET and closes Monday, June 3rd at 5:00pm ET.

Featuring:

Sam Barcroft

CEO

Barcroft Studios

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12:15pm

Lunch (Starlight Ballroom + Garden) (12:15pm - 1:45pm)

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study

12:30pm

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

Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

You have the option over lunch to sign up for a luncheon roundtable hosted by select network and production development executives. Luncheon Roundtables are an informal affair and a chance for producers to learn a little more about programming needs  and parttnership opportunities of networks and production studios who may meet the producer that will help deliver their next big hit. These are NOT pitch sessions – just a fantastic networking opportunity. Arrive at the session 15 minutes before start time and check in with the room monitor. 

*Advance sign up is required - One (1) Luncheon Roundtable spot can be reserved per day at sign-up time. Three (3) Spots total can be served.

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 8th at 11:00am ET and closes Friday, May 31st at 5:00pm PT/8:00pm ET.

Featuring:

Table host

Ben Anderson

Development

MTV & VH1

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Table host

Blake Levin

VP, Unscripted Development

USA Network/Syfy

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Table host

Brigitte McCray

SVP, Original Programming & Production

TV One

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Table host

Leela Pon

SVP, Content

E! Entertainment

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Table host

Chanel Pysnik

Head of Unscripted

CNN

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Table host

Lynn Sadofsky

SVP, Food Network Programming & Development

Food Network

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Table host

Tori Socha

Chief Content Officer

Paramount Network

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Table host

Rob Swartz

SVP, Development & Production

REELZ Channel

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1:45pm

The Twists and Turns of Fast Turnaround TV (1:45pm - 2:45pm)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

The ongoing success of such fast turnaround formats as Big Brother, The Voice and America's Got Talent illustrates that this unscripted sub-genre has plenty of momentum. As networks battle for content that classifies as appointment viewing that engages audiences, and streamers begin to wade into these waters, what are the current risks and rewards in taking on such projects? Is production tech making it easier to handle the challenges of fast turnaround TV, or are there new challenges arising? Here, you'll hear from seasoned production pros behind some of the top fast turnaround hits and learn what it takes to pull it all off.


Featuring:

Philip Byron

Head of Unscripted & Docs

SpringHill Entertainment

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Sam Donnelly

Executive Producer

America's Got Talent

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Rob LaPlante

President

Lighthearted Entertainment

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Paul Osborne

Executive Producer

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Moderating:


MIke Duffy

CEO

Ugly Brother Studios

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Speed Pitching Two (1:45pm - 2:45pm)

Wilshire I- III

Programming execs, each at their own table, will take one-on-one, three-minute pitches.

Participants who have successfully signed up for a speed pitching spot should check in at the session room for processing 20 minutes in advance of their scheduled time or risk forfeiting their slot. For those who did not secure a spot in advance, some space may become available due to no-shows. Arrive at the session 20 minutes before start time and check with the room monitor.

Some networks may require you to sign a submission release or non-disclosure agreement in advance of your meeting. If this is required by the network, the room monitor at the face to face check-in desk onsite will hand you the network's document for you to review, sign and deliver directly to your host during your meeting time slot.

*Advance sign up is required - A total of (3) Speed Pitching spots can be reserved at sign-up time.

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 22nd at 11:00am ET and closes Friday, May 31st at 5:00pm ET.


Featuring:

Table host

Cara Casey

Development Lead

YouTube Originals

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Table host

Meghan Cassin

VP Content

Nat Geo Wild

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Table host

Zara Frankel

Senior Director, Programming & Development

PBS

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Table host

Angela Freedman

Director of Development

Travel Channel

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Table host

Mandel Ilagan

Vice President, Current & Development, Game Shows

Nickelodeon

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Table host

Robyn Lattaker-Johnson

Agent, Media Consultant

Revolt TV & Media

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Table host

Todd Lichten

Head of Emerging Content

Facebook Watch

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Table host

Max Micallef

VP, Head of West Coast Development

History

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Table host

Angela Molloy

SVP, Development & Original Production AllBlk & WEtv, Unscripted

WE TV

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Table host

Betsy Slenzak

VP, Unscripted Programming

E! Entertainment

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Table host

Robert Wimbish

Senior Director of Programming, HGTV

Discovery, Inc.

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2:00pm

30 Minutes With: David Stefanou, WEtv (2:00pm - 2:30pm)

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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!

Featuring:

David Stefanou

Head of Unscripted Programming

WEtv

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30 Minutes With: Sarah Kuban, Discovery's JV with Chip & Joanna Gaines (2:00pm - 2:30pm)

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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!

Featuring:

Sarah Kuban

SVP, Content & Special Projects, Magnolia Network

Discovery, Inc.

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2:45pm

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

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

3:00pm

Case Study: The Masked Singer (3:00pm - 4:00pm)

Wedgewood Ballroom

With unscripted formats, the onus is always on finding the all-important twist that will separate your show from the pack. Fox's smash hit The Masked Singer delivers that, and then some. Adapted from a South Korean format, the U.S. version is one of the biggest unscripted successes in years. Here, you'll hear from the team behind the hit about the challenges of bringing the format to America and adapting the show for U.S. audiences, and get the scoop on how the right twist can turn into must see TV.


Featuring:

Nahee Kim

Managing Director of Contents & Channel Business

MBC America

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Craig Plestis

President

Smart Dog Media

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Robin Thicke

Judge

The Masked Singer

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Rob Wade

Chief Executive Officer

Fox Entertainment

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Moderating:


Michael Schneider

TV Editor

Variety

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4:00pm

Networking Break (4:00pm - 4:15pm)

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

4:15pm

Formagination at Realscreen West (4:15pm - 5:30pm)

Wedgewood Ballroom

Join us at the live presentation of FORMAGINATION! 

Realscreen West is delighted to be working in partnership with Armoza Formats to present the next edition of FORMAGINATION.

FORMAGINATION is a unique format competition and an international launching pad for international creativity. Whether you are a professional content creator working in the media industry or an individual from any walk of life with a great idea for a TV show – the competition is open for ANYONE with a format idea!

Come watch as the finalists present their concepts and the following three prizes are awarded. 

  • 1st place winner: up to US$25,000, which shall be awarded in TWO STAGES ($5,000 for further development of the format, and up to $20,000 to shoot a pilot if approved for production), as well as one (1) registration to REALSCREEN SUMMIT 2020, which takes place January 27-30, 2020 in New Orleans.
  • 2nd place winner: an ENTERTAINMENT MASTER CLASS module scholarship and one (1) registration to REALSCREEN SUMMIT 2020.
  • Audience favorite: one (1) registration to REALSCREEN SUMMIT 2020.

Featuring:

Judge

Avi Armoza

CEO

Armoza Formats

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Judge

Toby Faulkner

SVP, Content discovery+

Facebook Watch

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Host

Adam Ferrara

Actor/Comedian

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Judge

Marisa Levy

Chief Content Officer

BET Networks

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Judge

Michael Schmidt

International Media Executive

TV-Scout GmbH

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Thursday, June 6

8:00am

Registration (8:00-5:15)

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

8:30am

Continental Breakfast (8:00-10:00)-Starlight Ballroom

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom

8:45am

Meet an Expert-Agents (8:45am - 9:45am)

Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

As part of our networking series designed to grow your connections, we’ve assembled some of the top agents in unscripted 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. 

*Advance sign up is required - One (1) Meet an Expert spot can be reserved per day at sign-up time. Two (2) sessions total can be reserved.

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 15th at 11:00am ET and closes Monday, June 3rd at 5:00pm ET.

Featuring:

Table host

Matthew Baskharoon

Non-scripted TV Agent

WME

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Table host

Heather Budman

Agent, Unscripted

Kaplan Stahler Agency

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Table host

Carly Fromm

Agent, Alternative Television

CAA

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Table host

Debra Goldfarb

Head of Alternative Television

Gersh Agency

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Table host

Greg Jules

Agent, International Television Media

ICM Partners

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Table host

Josh Levenbrown

Alternative TV Agent

United Talent Agency

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Table host

Jared Thompson

Senior Agent

Abrams Artists Agency

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Table host

Sean Zeid

Vice President of Alternative & Factual Programming

Paradigm Talent Agency

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9:00am

Delegates' Lounge (8:00-5:15)-Starlight Ballroom

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom

10:00am

Keynote Conversation: Joe Berlinger (10:00am - 11:00am)

Wedgewood Ballroom

Joe Berlinger, director of the Netflix docuseries Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes and the narrative feature Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile, will be featured in a keynote conversation at Realscreen West. Here, Berlinger will discuss the process behind these latest projects and how they intersected with each other from a creative and business standpoint, as well as his body of work and his take on the health of the documentary and non-fiction content genres across platforms.

Featuring:

Joe Berlinger

Director, Producer & Partner

Radical Media

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11:00am

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

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

11:15am

The Numbers Game - Which Metrics Matter the Most (11:15am - 12:15pm)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

In television, the old maxim about living and dying by the ratings remains intact. But in our post-DVR, binge viewing, big data and social media driven world, what are the numbers that matter most? If overnights are truly over, which metrics – or what combination of metrics – should drive the decision-making? This session will explore the methodologies used, and the ones that are on the way, to more accurately measure who’s watching what, when, and how – with an eye towards how the new moves in measurement will impact your business.


Featuring:

Karina Dixon

Head of Global Insights

Parrot Analytics

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Christian Drobnyk

EVP Programming Disney Branded Television & National Geographic

National Geographic

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Lauren Gellert

EVP, Development & Original Programming

WE tv

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Brian West

VP, Multiplatform Measurement Strategy & Analytics

NBCUniversal

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Moderating:


Julie Bristow

Founder

Bristow Global Media Inc.

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11:30am

30 Minutes With: Cat Rodriguez, Lifetime (11:30am - 12:00pm)

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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!


Featuring:

Cat Rodriguez

VP, Unscripted Development & Programming

Lifetime

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30 Minutes With: Rob Bagshaw, Nickelodeon (11:30am - 12:00pm)

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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!


Featuring:

Rob Bagshaw

Executive VP, Creative

Nickelodeon

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Executive Insights: Ed Simpson, Wheelhouse Entertainment (11:30am - 12:15pm)

Stateroom

Join Wheelhouse's Ed Simpson as he discusses what scaling and consolidation in the current marketplace means for up and coming producers.

A new format in the Realscreen West program, Executive Insights is designed to give delegates access to top producers in unscripted programming within a more intimate "inside the boardroom" setting. Delegates attending "Executive Insights" sessions will be able to glean valuable knowledge from A-list producers in an intimate, "off the record" setting, and have the opportunity to ask questions that will help guide you in your career. Seating in each session is limited to 12 delegates. 

*Advance sign up is required- One (1) Executive Insights spot can be reserved at sign-up time. 

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 15th at 11:00am ET and closes Monday, June 3rd at 5:00pm ET.


Featuring:

Edward Simpson

Chief Strategy Officer

Wheelhouse

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12:15pm

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

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study

12:30pm

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

Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

You have the option over lunch to sign up for a luncheon roundtable hosted by select network and production development executives. Luncheon Roundtables are an informal affair and a chance for producers to learn a little more about programming needs  and partnership opportunities of networks and production studios who may meet the producer that will help deliver their next big hit. These are NOT pitch sessions – just a fantastic networking opportunity. Arrive at the session 15 minutes before start time and check in with the room monitor. 

*Advance sign up is required - One (1) Luncheon Roundtable spot can be reserved per day at sign-up time. Three (3) Spots total can be served.

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 8th at 11:00am ET and closes Friday, May 31st at 5:00pm PT/8:00pm ET.

Featuring:

Table host

Alex Dundas

EVP Unscripted Premium Originals

ITV Entertainment

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Table host

Maria Ishak

Head Of Content & Co-Productions

All3media International

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Table host

Brett-Patrick Jenkins

Executive Producer & Creator

Propagate Content

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Table host

Ben Megargel

SVP, Unscripted Development - US, Television

Entertainment One

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Table host

Christmas Rini

EVP, Development, Unscripted Original Series

Endemol Shine North America

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Table host

Jean Shi

SVP, Unscripted Television

Fremantle

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Table host

Adam Steinman

Production and Development

Warner Bros. International Television Production

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Table host

Joe Weinstock

Chief Executive Officer

Spoke Studios

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1:45pm

The Incredible Expanding Production Company (1:45pm - 2:45pm)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

It's no secret that producers are under more pressure than ever in a hyper-competitive marketplace that is in the midst of significant transformation. But rather than relying on the traditional ways of running their businesses, some producers are looking at a range of areas that used to be handled by their network partners - from marketing and PR to casting and podcasts, and from social media to establishing their own streaming services. Here, you'll meet several of these intrepid, enterprising producers who are embracing the "do it yourself" mentality, broadening their capabilities, and reaping the rewards in an increasingly unpredictable business climate.


Featuring:

Fenton Bailey

Co-Founder & Executive Producer

World of Wonder

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Stephanie Drachkovitch

Co-CEO & Co-Founder

44 Blue Productions

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Colby Gaines

Founder

Back Roads Entertainment

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Ben Samek

CEO

Endemol Shine Americas

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Moderating:


Ari Mark

Co-Founder

Ample Entertainment

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2:00pm

30 Minutes With: Patrick Jager, bluprint (2:00pm - 2:30pm)

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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!


Featuring:

Patrick Jager

Founder

Bluprint

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30 Minutes With: Sean Gottlieb, A&E (2:00pm - 2:30pm)

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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!


Featuring:

Sean Gottlieb

VP, Head of Development

A&E Network

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Executive Insights: Mona Scott-Young, Monami Entertainment (2:00pm - 2:45pm)

Stateroom

Meet with Monami Entertainment's Mona Scott-Young as she delivers an insightful conversation about constructing and selling docufollow television.

A new format in the Realscreen West program, Executive Insights is designed to give delegates access to top producers in unscripted programming within a more intimate "inside the boardroom" setting. Delegates attending "Executive Insights" sessions will be able to glean valuable knowledge from A-list producers in an intimate, "off the record" setting, and have the opportunity to ask questions that will help guide you in your career. Seating in each session is limited to 12 delegates. 

*Advance sign up is required- One (1) Executive Insights spot can be reserved at sign-up time. 

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 15th at 11:00am ET and closes Monday, June 3rd at 5:00pm ET.


Featuring:

Mona Scott-Young

CEO

Monami Entertainment

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2:45pm

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

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

3:00pm

Pitch, Greenlight, Premiere: How We Got On Air (3:00pm - 4:00pm)

Wedgewood Ballroom

While it's true that the ongoing transformation of the content industry is having considerable impact on buyers and producers of unscripted television, there are still plenty of success stories in the making, via up and coming production companies that are building their businesses with their first major greenlights.Here, you'll meet several producers who are getting their first big on air credits, and gain inspiration as you learn how they navigated the many challenges presented to producers making their way in the current climate.

Featuring:

Neil Berkeley

Producer & Director

Future You Media

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Louis Burgdorf

Director/Executive Producer

Dynamo Films

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Autumn deVitry

Founder & CCO

Rebeliam Media

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Max Welch

Founder & CEO

Renowned Films

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Moderating:


Noah Pollack

VP, Original Content, Unscripted

M.A.P Media & Consulting

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30 Minutes With: Brian Tannenbaum, Quibi (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 40 delegates to maintain an up-close-and-personal vibe. No advance sign-up required. We’ll fill space on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach room capacity. NOTE: inclusion in your personal agenda does not guarantee a spot in these sessions, so show up early!


Featuring:

Brian Tannenbaum

Head of Originals

Quibi

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Pitching Partners (3:00pm - 4:00pm)

Wilshire I- III

Much like our signature Speed Pitching sessions, production execs, each at their own table, will take one-on-one three-minute pitches from potential production partners. Slots are limited, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Participants who have successfully signed up for a pitching partners spot should check in at the session room for processing 20 minutes in advance of their scheduled time or risk forfeiting their slot. For those who did not secure a spot in advance, some space may become available due to no-shows. Arrive at the session 20 minutes before start time and check with the room monitor.

Some production companies may require you to sign a submission release or non-disclosure agreement in advance of your meeting. If this is required by the company you are pitching to, the room monitor at the face to face check-in desk onsite will hand you the release for you to review, sign and deliver directly to your host during your meeting time slot.

*Advance sign up is required - A total of three (3) pitching spot can be reserved.

Sign ups open Wednesday, May 22nd at 11:00am ET and closes Friday, May 31st at 5:00pm ET.

Featuring:

Table host

Tricia Biggio

SVP, Unscripted Television

MGM Television

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Table host

Jamie Canniffe

SVP, Alternative Programming

Sony Pictures Television

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Table host

Jeff Conroy

Co-Founder/Partner

BoBCat

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Table host

Brian Dale

SVP, Development

Thinkfactory Media

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Table host

Jenny Daly

President

Critical Content Studios

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Table host

Elwin de Groot

Head of Development

Optomen Entertainment

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Table host

Harrison Land

President

Jupiter Entertainment

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Table host

Travis M. Shakespeare

SVP, Unscripted Television

BBC Studios

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Table host

Nicole Sorrenti

Executive Vice President, Development

Half Yard Productions

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Table host

Andrew Whitney

VP, Development & Production, Formats & Unscripted TV

Revelations Entertainment

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4:00pm

Networking Break (4:00pm - 4:15pm)

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study,Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

4:15pm

Diversity and Inclusion: Where We Are, Where We Need to Go (4:15pm - 5:15pm)

Sponsored by:

Wedgewood Ballroom

The good news is that discussion about diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry has been front and center for several years now. But what progress is being made behind the camera, in the C-suite, and on set when it comes to ensuring diverse and inclusive environments? This session will feature a range of execs from various sectors of the screen content business who will share their experiences as well as their ambitions to create an industry that truly reflects the diverse audiences it serves.


Featuring:

Janet Han Vissering

SVP, Development & Production

Nat Geo Wild

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Madison Merritt

EVP, Unscripted Content & Alternative Programming

Entertainment One

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Sergio Pizzolante

Founder & General Manager

C&T MOBS

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Moderating:


Mioshi Hill

President

Lifetime

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5:15pm

Closing Cocktail (Sunset Terrace + Miramar Gardens) (5:15pm - 6:30pm)

Wedgewood Ballroom, Ocean I & II, Wilshire I- III, Main House, The Study, The Stateroom, Bungalow Patio (The Deck)

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