Tana Jamieson

Jamieson oversaw scripted programming at A&E before she was tapped for her role at the newly created A+E Studios in 2014. She now helps A+E Networks create its own original programming by overseeing scripted programming for all of its brands. Outside of the office, Jamieson is inspired by her 15-year-old triplets. “We’re staring down the barrel of a lot of tuitions…!  You better believe that’s an inspiration at work!”

What’s the most important aspect of mentoring?

I’ve been lucky — heck, I REMAIN lucky — with the mentors I’ve had in my career … as an executive producer, at TBS, at The WB, and at A&E.  I feel this is a joyful debt, a beautiful pay-back-the-next-generation compulsion.  And just as my mentors have tried not to mold me into some generic exec but into a better version of ME, I strive to nurture my mentee to be the best-possible version of herself.

What/who inspires you at work? What/who inspires you outside the office?

Hands down, my kids.  For starters, with 15-year-old triplets, we’re staring down the barrel of a lot of tuitions…!  You better BELIEVE that’s an inspiration at work!  Furthermore, I see the great creative forces in this business I’m lucky enough to work with — the writers, the directors, the actors, the producers — and I’m jazzed by the possibilities of what we can do together.  Outside the office, my family is my solace, my island of (occasional) sanity.  Love those weekends!

Best trick for maintaining the personal-professional life balance?

Let me get back to you on that one.

Your favorite trick for unwinding?

Believe it or not, I’ve just started meditating.  Talk about an LA/beach kid! Plus I exercise regularly, watch Trevor Noah (who’s KILLING it, btw!!!), and walk the dogs with my husband most mornings to get my daily hit of Starbucks dark roast.