Anna Snead

Senior Casting and Development Manager at Investigation Discovery, American Heroes Channel and Destination America

TV and film have always been Snead’s passion, and she says going to the movies was a big deal when she was growing up in a small town. Her passion has become the reality. At only 29, she has been in cable for 8 years officially, but for more than a decade when internships are included. “The industry is ever evolving which can be exciting but also intimidating,” she says “It challenges producers and development executives to be even more innovative with new programming ideas because it’s a constant race to find the next best thing. Personally, I find it exhilarating.”

What makes you most excited about this industry as you advance in your career?

The industry is ever evolving which can be exciting but also intimidating. It challenges producers and development executives to be even more innovative with new programming ideas because it’s a constant race to find the next best thing. Personally, I find it exhilarating. I’m excited to see how the TV forum changes over the next 10 years especially with media companies like Netflix moving into original programming. Also, it will be interesting to watch various cable networks that are well-known for unscripted programming to continue to explore scripted which makes me eager to see what my own career has in store because I thoroughly enjoy both of these genres.

What would be your ultimate dream job?

I’m really lucky to know that I’m in the right industry. TV and film have always been a passion of mine especially because I grew up in a super small town so going to the movies was a big deal…and a 45 minute drive one way. I enjoy program development because being creative has always been an outlet for me. There are very few people in this world who can say they absolutely love their job and I’m one of them. I hope to keep advancing in my field and make compelling content that I’m proud of.

Who has been your biggest mentor and why?

I’ve had numerous mentors throughout my career. With each job, I have learned something crucial which has been extremely beneficial to me in the long run. Working at Discovery Communications, you’re exposed to some of the best talent in the industry so you just hope some of that rubs off on you. Since joining the company in 2010 two people who have had a strong impact on my career are Matthew Kelly and Jane Latman. I’m forever grateful to them.

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