Kehoe launched her creative ad agency more than 30 years ago. At the time, “a smart, male accountant starting his own business like me advised me to wait a few months and launch PK Network in 1989 rather than 1988,” she recalls. Why? Because until then, banks required women entrepreneurs to have a male relative co-sign a business loan. “My adviser introduced me to a bank team managed by a woman, who then helped me achieve a startup loan and business line of credit—a team I’ve stayed with and followed through four bank mergers and changes.” Over the years, Kehoe has racked up some of the industry’s biggest clients, including ESPN and Mediacom, and has marketed more than 25 major pay-per-view events including the 25th Anniversary Gala At the Met and NFL Sunday Ticket. A strong believer in helping others, Kehoe serves as a mentor and coach on the NY Institute of Technology’s advisory board.
How would you rate the industry regarding gender bias in shows/characters?
Industry grade for gender parity – B. For the most part entertainment is becoming more diversified and equitable in both storylines and casting – engaging to see more smart women leaders and super girls. Reality How To is on the up and up – good to see a woman with a hammer in her hand and a man with a spatula. Hard news is making strides, but continues to lag in both women anchoring and reporting, Sports coverage is improving – we’ve moved past gymnastics and ice skating to showcase women’s basketball and soccer yet there is room for coverage improvement especially on the college and high school levels.
Do you have an example of male allyship that made a difference to you?
A smart, male accountant starting his own business like me, advised me to wait a few months and launch PK Network in 1989 rather than 1988. Why? because until then, banks required women entrepreneurs to have a male relative co-sign a business loan. That could be your husband or your son. My advisor introduced me to a bank team managed by a woman, who then helped me achieve a startup loan and business line of credit – a team I’ve stayed with and followed through four bank mergers and changes.