Formative Podcast: Season 2 Episode 9 - Debra OConnell and Takaira: Confidently Creative

Absolutely, thank you so much, Takira, really appreciate your time and thanks for your energy. I'd love to hear that you are a big fan of Disney. I have the great fortune of overseeing our television networks as well as our television stations. We have a variety of different businesses that expand off of different brands that are networks as well as opportunities in the multi-platform space that we focus on to make sure that we're driving our incredible content directly to consumers in any way they want to experience it. So I have the great fortune of overseeing our multi-platform linear networks: that is ABC, ESPN, FX networks, including National Geographic networks and the Disney channels. In addition to all of those wonderful networks that have such a diverse array of programming, I also oversee our television stations such as WABC Channel 7 right here in New York City. I also oversee National Geographic editorial and media, which is our magazines and our digital as well as social platforms.

Thank you so much, Rachel. Yes, my day-to-day is very interesting and intriguing. I have the opportunity to not only collaborate with an amazing team, which allows me to have several conversations and meetings about what our plans are for the day, weeks, months, and sometimes a year to come. Our conversations and decision making are around what kind of content we focus on a regular basis, so we make sure that ties nicely to our brands and then ties back to some marketing initiatives. Each and every day we think about how we're inspiring our teams. I have an opportunity to reach so many employees at once, giving messaging and direction. At the same time, each team is responsible for a variety of different focal points. That's making sure that we are on the air 24/7, we are focused on bringing great content to our consumers and our fans and followers on a regular basis, as well as an opportunity to give creative direction. So a suggestion on how to cover a story or a story we should cover, or how to take an opportunity inside of a particular show to be able to use that to talk about another creative execution across the company. So it's getting to do those fun things and creative announcements, and also tying back to content that's fun, wonderful, engaging for our audiences. It's a bit of a day-to-day mix of operations, business, creative. I would say the trifecta of the best of all worlds.

I always, when I was young of your age, maybe even a few years before, I would sneak out of my bedroom at night and watch television all night long. I'm not recommending you do that, but it's something that I would do. I would watch late night shows, and this was when there was no cable; cable was just about starting, so we didn't have it in my home at first. So it was literally three broadcast networks and just a few stations here in the New York area where I grew up. Over time, I realized that this industry offered a lot of opportunity: you could be on the creative side, the business side, or in a variety of different roles. So I went to college and focused on broadcast telecommunications to understand the industry. I also did internships and worked hard to make my first step into the business. A few years later, I joined the Walt Disney Company after they had purchased ABC and ESPN. I started at a radio station and then transitioned to television over 25 years. I celebrated my 25th anniversary last month. I consider myself a student of the business, always learning about what different life stages are interested in content, from young kids to adults.

That's a great question. It's a lot of structure. We focus on our strategy for any issue or opportunity, with check-in points and deadlines. Since we're on the air 24/7, we constantly think about what's next. Communication is regular meetings, emails, and strategy conversations. We follow consumer trends to connect with them on television or streaming. Leadership is about giving direction and inspiring teams.

I thought about the industry a lot. Television and film were an escape from a difficult home life. I considered going into medicine or anthropology, but I had job opportunities from internships and networking, so I chose media. I think it's good to consider multiple paths. For anyone your age, there are many opportunities. Focus, work hard, and ask for help.

I had specific aspirations but knew I had to take many steps. I didn't have financial backing for college, so I worked full time and went to school part time. I applied for scholarships and sought advice. I encourage everyone to get work experience and find a mentor. If you do what you love, you'll be successful.

It feels pretty great, even on stressful days. And Takira, can I ask you a question? What are your favorite things about Disney and wildlife?

That's great to hear. I remember launching Doc McStuffins. My daughter loved it. I also love Marvel films. Do you have a favorite show or movie from Disney Plus or Disney in general?

Yes, Zombies 3 is a teen musical, really fun.

Yes, we have an amazing animation and casting group. We work with Pixar and Disney Animation. We cast voice actors for characters in animated shows and movies.

It felt wonderful to be honored for giving back to New York Edge, which provides great opportunities for students. Rachel has done an amazing job leading the organization. It was special to be at an in-person event after the pandemic.

I do feel proud of my contributions, but it's a team effort. Disney is special because of its people. I'm honored to be part of such a team.

Always have integrity, be collaborative, and become a student of the business. Use resources like Google to research industries. Embrace change with the quote 'Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.' And 'Throw kindness like confetti.' These are key for your future. In fact, Takira, do you have a passion you want to explore?

How great, developing solutions. That's really exceptional, Takira.

Be more confident about who you are and what you'll be in the future. I want our listeners to know it's been a pleasure. Takira, you have made my day. Our future is bright with students like you. Thank you to Rachel and New York Edge for your work.