Elaine Frontain Bryant

Bryant has strengthened and broadened the programming team and added to the already robust development pipeline at History. In addition to launching two new hit series—“The Curse of Oak Island” and “Appalachian Outlaws”—she has also refreshed some existing programs and is developing cutting-edge new content. “When I’m at work and at home, I make a conscious effort to be 100 percent present,” she says.

 How can cable do a better job at supporting the industry’s women?

From its inception, the cable business has always stepped up for women. Today, women play leading roles as heads of networks, heads of programming and in the executive suite. WICT does an amazing job of fostering women’s initiatives and is a major advocate for mentoring young women. Networks like Lifetime are front and center on spotlighting women’s issues, such as breast cancer. Women are and have always been well-represented in our industry. Is there room for improvement, of course, there is always room to do better in any industry, but cable remains ahead of the game.

How do you define a successful career? 

I believe a successful career is doing work you love and can truly be engaged with. I come to work every day energized by a new project or inspired by a co-worker or producing partner. I am also incredibly fortunate to have amazing bosses who cultivate creativity and risk-taking in everything we do; it’s baked into the culture here at A&E Networks. Learning and stretching yourself while entertaining audiences is a gift and I consider that success.

Best trick for maintaining the personal-professional life balance? 

Making the most of the time you have. I use train and cab rides to read scripts and/or watch cuts of shows. I try to schedule lunches instead of drinks so I can get home earlier to my family. When I’m at work and at home, I make a conscious effort to be 100 percent present. But if I have to sneak in a few emails when I’m with my loved ones, I do it quickly and get back to our quality time.