Veteran Showrunners discuss the changing landscape of TV and how indie has a unique space in this expanding medium

Key Insights

Indie TV is an art form, a proof of concept, and it's often creatives working for no money outside of the traditional system
Indie episodic comprises many forms: mobile, television, streaming platforms, apps, new technology. Consider how your work is best experienced.
Episodic creators are not beholden to traditional broadcast formats. Funding can come from anywhere; find the new buyers.
Rely on cultural hooks – or even gimmicks – to break through the crowded entertainment market.
There are niches for everything. Partner with creators who have already penetrated your niche audience.

Steven Soderbergh

Writer, Director, Producer

Steven Soderbergh is a writer, director, producer, cinematographer, and editor. He lives in New York. more...

Stephanie Allain

Producer

Stephanie Allain produces award-winning films that make headlines, launch careers and shape the culture. Homegrown Pictures' past slate includes Hustle & Flow, Something New, Black Snake Moan, Beyond the Lights, Dear White People, French Dirty, Burning Sands, Juanita and Really Love. Additionally, she executive produced four seasons of Dear White People. From 2011-2016, she served as Director of the LA Film Festival, the first to report on its percentages of films directed by women and people of color. In 2020, she became the first African American woman to produce the Academy Awards for which she was Emmy-nominated. In 2022 she became the first woman of color elected President of the Producers Guild of America. A long-time activist for equity and belonging, she’s a member of ReFrame, AMPAS and the Writers Guild of America. She sits on the boards of American Cinematheque, Producers Guild of America and Cast & Crew. Her first children’s book, I’M IN CHARGE will be published by Candlewick Press in 2024.unique voices. more...

Bernie Su

Storyteller, Creator, Showrunner

Bernie Su is a two-time Primetime Emmy award-winning interactive storyteller, creator, and showrunner. more...

David Wain

Director, Writer, Actor

David Wain began his career as a member of the sketch comedy group The State. He went on to co-write and direct movies such as WET HOT AMERICAN SUMMER, ROLE MODELS, WANDERLUST, and THEY CAME TOGETHER. more...