Lisa Hsia

EVP, Digital, Bravo & Oxygen Media

With Hsia at the helm, the digital media initiatives surrounding Bravo & Oxygen are breathing new, expanded life into existing linear programming and scoring high marks with originals that enhance the networks’ brands. Hsia has a knack for innovating in ways that fuel even greater engagement with passionate fans, and unlock doors for new fans alike. Look for her to continue to drive the creation of original digital video content, both exclusively and in partnership with Mashable. This risk taker says, “I’ve really learned to fail forward working in digital, not to be afraid of taking risks as long as you can learn from it…. I realize that perfection doesn’t exist and that the journey trying to get there is far more interesting.”

Which sector of the cable industry best demonstrates gender equality? Which could use some enlightenment?

I am happy to say that digital has plenty of great women leaders today.  It’s a relatively new field, so it was more of an even field from the start.  Admittedly, we still have a ways to go in terms of technical roles.

Which current programming best reflects the kind of women’s roles you like to see and why? Television news has made tremendous progress showing women in substantial roles on camera.  When Barbara Walters started out, she was the only female researcher in the news room and got her break on–air as a “TODAY girl,”  then acted as a trailblazer in every role thereafter. Watching the elections this year, women are on the screen everywhere – moderating debates, reporting from the road with candidates and anchoring major news network shows like 60 Minutes.