Along with overseeing HR for all Showtime networks, Casanas launched the SHO We Care volunteer program and started an executive mentoring program for junior staffers. “I think from a human resources perspective, technology continues to play a bigger role—from the way we recruit to the various platforms that provide more opportunity for online training content to be developed, created and delivered,” she says.
What’s a recent example of a step forward for diversity in the industry?
I think there is a much more robust conversation in the industry about unconscious bias and its impact. Companies like Showtime, are investing in educating and heightening awareness amongst its employees. We understand that as human beings we all have bias, but then we need to take the next steps to determine how to overcome those biases so we are able to better innovate and create better shows and products for our viewers.
What’s your best advice to someone just entering the video content/distribution industry?
I think some of the best content is coming from diverse and fresh voices who are celebrating people from all different backgrounds and perspectives. My advice would be to establish teams with different backgrounds; create content that represents voices that are not yet being heard or may be a bit of a disruptor in a particular marketplace. I think content creators that are finding a void in an already crowded genre or day part are really making their mark and standing out. An example is our new late-night show, “Desus & Mero.”
What’s been the most dramatic change in your sector of the business today vs. three years ago?
I think from a human resources perspective, technology continues to play a bigger role—from the way we recruit to the various platforms that provide more opportunity for online training content to be developed, created and delivered.
