Monday, April 20, 2009
Monday, April 13, 2009
In his book, THE WAR OF ART, Steven Pressfield examines the word "resistance" and how it pertains to the creative process. He writes, "There's a secret that real writers know that wannabe writers don't, and the secret is this: It's not the writing part that's hard. What's hard is sitting down to write. What keeps us from sitting down is resistance." I further appreciate how Pressfield reframes the experience of self-doubt when he states, "Self-doubt can be an ally. This is because it serves as an indicator of aspiration. It reflects love, love of something we dream of doing, and desire, desire to do it. If you find yourself asking yourself (and your friends), "Am I really a writer? Am I really an artist?" chances are you are. The counterfeit innovator is wildly self-confident. The real one is scared to death."
Facing one's fear and moving past the resistance is integral in the act of creating something from nothing. But what are we afraid of? Why do we resist? Addressing those questions honestly begins to demystify the struggle AND repositions resistance as part of a noble journey rather than a negative mode of behavior. And to authentically answer, we have to look at the dual sides of the dilemma. One side of resistance asks us, "What if I do go after my dream and succeed?" while the other side asks, "What if I fail. What if people laugh at me or think less of me?" "What if, what if, what if...?" For most all of us, I bet it's both -- fear of success as much as fear of failure. But what if we explore the idea that behind every great success often lays a string of failures? What if we shifted our attitudes and looked at a failure as a step towards succeeding? Could that take the power of fear, self-doubt, and resistance down a notch and free us to move forward?
Another way to move past resistance is to focus on what our passion is to begin with - why we yearn to create, or more importantly WHAT we yearn to create. Sumner Redstone wrote in his book, A PASSION TO WIN, "In my experience, success has three essential ingredients: a passionate commitment to your goal, the courage to dream and take risks, and the moral and intellectual character to realize the dreams worth pursuing and the best route to take to achieve them." Sumner also said, "I learned more from my failures than I did my successes." Moving past fear and resistance is just a happy by-product of focusing on your inspired motivations rather than the big What ifs that are renowned for killing ideas before they have the chance to see the light of day.
Throughout my career, I've found it ironic that the most talented writer/producers are often filled with a large amount of self doubt. This fact surprised me at first but then I recognized that these brilliant thinkers used this doubt/fear to fuel their work. They never got complacent with one week of high ratings because they knew there was always a chance that audiences wouldn't come back next week. Or the week after. This drove them to constantly try to create at the top of their game. Similarly, on the other side of writing a blockbuster movie or a bestselling novel is often the fear of "What if my best is behind me?" "What if I can't do it again? Or do it better?"
One of my favorite authors, Kahlil Gibran writes in his book THE PROPHET, "Your daily life is your temple and your religion. Whenever you enter it take with you your all. Take the plough and the forge and the mallet and the lute, the things you have fashioned in necessity or for delight. For in reverie you cannot rise above your achievements nor fall lower than your failures. And take with you all men: For in adoration you cannot fly higher than their hopes nor humble yourself lower than their despair."
We think the key to fulfillment is the destination but from hearing so many speak about what their lives are like after they've "arrived," it seems clear that the fulfillment is right there with the journey. Maybe the key is to embrace every moment that it takes to get where we want to go and if we do get there; great, if we don't, at least we know we tried. If we look at failure as a rite of passage on the road to success, it might quench our fear of failure and allow us to learn and grow.
If you're interested in moving past the "What if" and feel that you would benefit from setting up a specific strategy to get to the next step in your career, please contact me for an initial free consult at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
In the interest of evolving, moving through resistance and embracing growth, I've expanded my website!! (www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com.) I've wanted it to be more interactive and more informative, so new features include:
1) A blog
2) A link to buy all the books I recommend in my newsletters
3) Links to all helpful websites for television and feature writers
4) Podcasts - Coming soon, I will be regularly interviewing guests throughout the entertainment industry
5) An archive for past newsletters, a link to sign up for my newsletter, etc.
My website was designed by Suzie Roth Design (www.suzieroth.com).
WRITER/YOGA RETREAT
Coordinating my upcoming Writer/Yoga Retreat in Hawaii is a perfect example of thinking big and moving past my fear. Though I'd always envisioned combining the beauty of peaceful Oahu and the healing practice of yoga with the opportunity to create, it seemed a bit out of reach for me. Colleagues have told me they too were inspired to do something similar but always figured that it was too big an endeavor. And yet, my feeling ultimately is... Why not try? What if?
So....
Jen Grisanti Consultancy Inc. is putting together a Writer/Yoga Retreat in Oahu from August 18-23. I am organizing this with one of LA's top yoga instructors, Meaghan Townsend. You can read more about Meaghan at www.meaghantownsend.com
LOCATION: The Turtle Bay Resort in Oahu
DATES: August 18-23
PRICE: $1,600.00 - Yoga Only
$1,600.00 - $1,700.00 - Writing only, range determined by feature or tv script
$1,800.00 - $2,000.00 - Writing and Yoga
DEPOSIT DUE: $500.00 June 5, 2009. Please go to www.writeryogaretreat.eventbrite.com.
Remainder due the beginning of August.
The retreat will create a community experience to help accomplish your professional goals while nurturing yourself. I recognize the value of group participation as I've experienced the potency of it as the Writing Instructor for NBC's WOTV Program and having been a mentor for the CBS Program. Therefore, I've designed this retreat to mimic those experiences so that writers will get the chance to elevate the quality of their scripts amid a supportive community of colleagues. But this retreat goes one step further by offering the additional emotional, spiritual, and physical support of a yoga practice. With this unique vacation, you'll be productive, elevate your material, make new friends and return with a support group in place and be refreshed and rejuvenated by the practice of yoga. And the icing on the cake is that you can write it all off!
A few accomplished writers with TV and/or feature credits have expressed interest in coming to speak and participate in the retreat. I will keep you posted on the details.
If you're interested, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
WRITING PROGRAMS AND DEADLINES FOR TELEVISION WRITERS
NBC - Writers on the Verge
This is a 10-week program focused on polishing writers' material and readying the participants for the staff writer position on a television series. Classes concentrate on creating an exceptional spec script and understanding the dynamics of pitching oneself in the television industry.
Please go to http://www.nbcunicareers.com/entry_leadership/Writers_On_The_Verge
DEADLINE TO APPLY - June 30, 2009
ABC ASSOCIATES PROGRAM
This is a 12-month paid program, during which individuals from diverse backgrounds are placed in entry-level positions in the production-related areas of ABC Studios in Burbank, CA.
Please go to http://www.abctalentdevelopment.com/
DEADLINE TO APPLY - April 24, 2009
CBS DIVERSITY
CBS's program focuses on opening doors: providing opportunities to build relationships with network executives and showrunners; to support new and emerging writers in their efforts to improve their craft; and to develop the interpersonal skills necessary to break in and succeed.
Please go to http://www.cbscorporation.com/diversity/cbs_network/index.php
DEADLINE TO APPLY - May 1, 2009.
FOX DIVERSITY WRITERS INITIATIVE
Writers selected will be invited to attend a six-week session at Writers Boot Camp and be offered a consultation with WBC mentors during which time writers will rewrite and improve their scripts. The goal is to execute scripts at a level of professional quality equal to those purchased by Fox in the course of its normal television development.
Please go to http://www.fox.com/diversity/creative/writer_initiative.htm
DEADLINE TO APPLY - July 3, 2009
WARNER BROS. WRITERS PROGRAM
The Warner Bros. Television Writers' Workshop consists of three components, Lectures, Simulated Writer's Room, and Staffing, all geared towards preparing the writer for a successful career in TV writing.
Please go to http://www.writersworkshop.warnerbros.com
SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED - May 1, 2009 - July 25, 2009
NOTEWORTHY TELEVISION EPISODES
LIE TO ME
W - TJ Brady and Rasheed Newson D - Arvin Brown
"The Best Policy" episode was gripping because both the A and B stories were perfect examples of high stakes writing. In the A story, Tim Roth's character "Lightman" gets personally challenged when he must weigh his loyalty to a close friend against his ethical compass -- struggling with the right course of action after discovering a high-level conspiracy surrounding a new drug distributed by his friend's company. Emotionally, the B story delivered, too, as it dramatized the release of two Americans imprisoned in Yemen. "The Best Policy" was definitely one of the best episodes of this series yet.
UNITED STATES OF TARA
W - Jill Soloway D - Brian Danelly
This episode"Abundance" stood out emotionally as it explored the emergence of a new personality for Tara and the fear it brought up for her family and her. It deftly portrayed the intimate effects of the disorder tinged with subtle humor; a sophisticated mode of storytelling that captures the complexity of the life experience and just how Tara and her family process it.
W - Christopher Santos D - John Dahl
The episode "Betrayal" also stood out because of its heart-wrenching dramatization of Tara betraying her son when he finds one of her personalities kisses his love interest. Always trying to be understanding of his mom and her condition, Tara's son's inner conflict explodes when he lights the shed on fire -- the place where his mom usually goes to recover from her "personalities."
BOOKS (all of these can be ordered through my website)
PROFESSIONAL
The War of Art
Written by Steven Pressfield
This book explores how "resistance" tries to squelch artistic expression and what we can do to move past it and find success. The book both examines internal obstacles faced by the artist and presents tools to overcome them. Universally, THE WAR OF ART will hit everyone who reads it not only in their creative processes but in their lives.
SPIRITUAL
The Prophet
Written by Kahlil Gibran
The depth and intimacy of Kahlil Gibran's poetic exploration into mankind's biggest fears while bringing peace to the reader is uniquely brilliant. I've never read anything like THE PROPHET, and while reading it, I didn't want to come to the end of it -- now I want to read every single one of his books.
WEBSITES
http://Going.com
Ever wish there were one place to find all the events around town? And see what other people THINK of events? Stop wishing and start surfing. Going.com helps you find fun things to do and fun people to meet.
SCENECHRONIZE SOFTWARE
Introducing scenechronize - a radically useful software for the entire production
Scenechronize is web-based production management software for film and television. It combines the script, breakdown and scheduling into a single application, available through the web, anytime, from anywhere. It allows the core production planners (producer, director, LP/UPM, 1st AD, 2nd AD, production coordinator) to organize a production as never before, shaving days, or even weeks, off of prep. As the first day of shooting approaches, scenechronize is available to the entire crew, quickly and efficiently communicating any changes to the script or schedule.
To learn more, please visit http://www.scenechronize.com
WEBSERIES
Check out Bill Taub's cleverly written and fantastic new webseries, PSYCHO BABBLE.
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_type=&search_query=Taub+%22PsychoBabble%22&aq=f PSYCHO BABBLE
RESTAURANTS
Pizzeria Mozza
641 N. Highland Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90038
Mario Batili and Nancy Silverton are combining their love of authentic Italian food and artisanal breads to proffer what could be LA's best pizza. I went here for a celebration and loved it! The ambiance is fantastic and the food, mouth watering. We had their popular Fennel/Sausage Pizza and Fried Squash Blossoms. And for dessert, you must try their Butterscotch Budino, it's PHENOMENAL!
Osteria La Buca
5210 1/2 Melrose Ave.
LA, CA 9038
If you love thin crust pizza with sauces that will make you feel like you're in Italy, this is your place! The mushroom pizza and the scrumptious white fish made for one of my favorite meals ever. The restaurant has expanded and the new ambiance is the perfect place for either a date or a business meeting.
NETWORKING
Friday Night Drinks is a networking group I started that meets the first Friday of every month at Century Plaza Hotel's X Bar at 2025 Ave. of the Stars.
A big thanks to the tremendous group that showed up for the April mixer.
The next Friday Night Drinks is Friday May 1, 2009 from 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. at the X Bar.
There won't be one in June because I'm leaving for Seattle that Friday to present my seminar. I will resume in July but not on the 4th of July weekend. The date is TBD.
OTHER REASONS TO CONTACT JEN GRISANTI CONSULTANCY INC.
I've got many accomplished writers on my client roster who've completed pilots. If you're interested in a list, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
If you'd like to experience the effects that one-on-one coaching can have on your writing, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
In response to the economy and people losing their jobs, one day a month I will have reduced rates on single consults. I will read your script one time and give you notes either by phone or e-mail. For more info, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
SPECIAL CONGRATS
TJ Brady & Rasheed Newson for their first produced episode of TV airing with LIE TO ME. It really stood out!
Liz Benjamin for getting staffed on CRASH.
Tom Mularz for his first produced episode of television with C.S.I. It was powerful and emotional!
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
""Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars."
Kahlil Gibran
Have a great month!
Love,
Jen
www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com
Developing From Within
Facing one's fear and moving past the resistance is integral in the act of creating something from nothing. But what are we afraid of? Why do we resist? Addressing those questions honestly begins to demystify the struggle AND repositions resistance as part of a noble journey rather than a negative mode of behavior. And to authentically answer, we have to look at the dual sides of the dilemma. One side of resistance asks us, "What if I do go after my dream and succeed?" while the other side asks, "What if I fail. What if people laugh at me or think less of me?" "What if, what if, what if...?" For most all of us, I bet it's both -- fear of success as much as fear of failure. But what if we explore the idea that behind every great success often lays a string of failures? What if we shifted our attitudes and looked at a failure as a step towards succeeding? Could that take the power of fear, self-doubt, and resistance down a notch and free us to move forward?
Another way to move past resistance is to focus on what our passion is to begin with - why we yearn to create, or more importantly WHAT we yearn to create. Sumner Redstone wrote in his book, A PASSION TO WIN, "In my experience, success has three essential ingredients: a passionate commitment to your goal, the courage to dream and take risks, and the moral and intellectual character to realize the dreams worth pursuing and the best route to take to achieve them." Sumner also said, "I learned more from my failures than I did my successes." Moving past fear and resistance is just a happy by-product of focusing on your inspired motivations rather than the big What ifs that are renowned for killing ideas before they have the chance to see the light of day.
Throughout my career, I've found it ironic that the most talented writer/producers are often filled with a large amount of self doubt. This fact surprised me at first but then I recognized that these brilliant thinkers used this doubt/fear to fuel their work. They never got complacent with one week of high ratings because they knew there was always a chance that audiences wouldn't come back next week. Or the week after. This drove them to constantly try to create at the top of their game. Similarly, on the other side of writing a blockbuster movie or a bestselling novel is often the fear of "What if my best is behind me?" "What if I can't do it again? Or do it better?"
One of my favorite authors, Kahlil Gibran writes in his book THE PROPHET, "Your daily life is your temple and your religion. Whenever you enter it take with you your all. Take the plough and the forge and the mallet and the lute, the things you have fashioned in necessity or for delight. For in reverie you cannot rise above your achievements nor fall lower than your failures. And take with you all men: For in adoration you cannot fly higher than their hopes nor humble yourself lower than their despair."
We think the key to fulfillment is the destination but from hearing so many speak about what their lives are like after they've "arrived," it seems clear that the fulfillment is right there with the journey. Maybe the key is to embrace every moment that it takes to get where we want to go and if we do get there; great, if we don't, at least we know we tried. If we look at failure as a rite of passage on the road to success, it might quench our fear of failure and allow us to learn and grow.
If you're interested in moving past the "What if" and feel that you would benefit from setting up a specific strategy to get to the next step in your career, please contact me for an initial free consult at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
In the interest of evolving, moving through resistance and embracing growth, I've expanded my website!! (www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com.) I've wanted it to be more interactive and more informative, so new features include:
1) A blog
2) A link to buy all the books I recommend in my newsletters
3) Links to all helpful websites for television and feature writers
4) Podcasts - Coming soon, I will be regularly interviewing guests throughout the entertainment industry
5) An archive for past newsletters, a link to sign up for my newsletter, etc.
My website was designed by Suzie Roth Design (www.suzieroth.com).
WRITER/YOGA RETREAT
Coordinating my upcoming Writer/Yoga Retreat in Hawaii is a perfect example of thinking big and moving past my fear. Though I'd always envisioned combining the beauty of peaceful Oahu and the healing practice of yoga with the opportunity to create, it seemed a bit out of reach for me. Colleagues have told me they too were inspired to do something similar but always figured that it was too big an endeavor. And yet, my feeling ultimately is... Why not try? What if?
So....
Jen Grisanti Consultancy Inc. is putting together a Writer/Yoga Retreat in Oahu from August 18-23. I am organizing this with one of LA's top yoga instructors, Meaghan Townsend. You can read more about Meaghan at www.meaghantownsend.com
LOCATION: The Turtle Bay Resort in Oahu
DATES: August 18-23
PRICE: $1,600.00 - Yoga Only
$1,600.00 - $1,700.00 - Writing only, range determined by feature or tv script
$1,800.00 - $2,000.00 - Writing and Yoga
DEPOSIT DUE: $500.00 June 5, 2009. Please go to www.writeryogaretreat.eventbrite.com.
Remainder due the beginning of August.
The retreat will create a community experience to help accomplish your professional goals while nurturing yourself. I recognize the value of group participation as I've experienced the potency of it as the Writing Instructor for NBC's WOTV Program and having been a mentor for the CBS Program. Therefore, I've designed this retreat to mimic those experiences so that writers will get the chance to elevate the quality of their scripts amid a supportive community of colleagues. But this retreat goes one step further by offering the additional emotional, spiritual, and physical support of a yoga practice. With this unique vacation, you'll be productive, elevate your material, make new friends and return with a support group in place and be refreshed and rejuvenated by the practice of yoga. And the icing on the cake is that you can write it all off!
A few accomplished writers with TV and/or feature credits have expressed interest in coming to speak and participate in the retreat. I will keep you posted on the details.
If you're interested, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
WRITING PROGRAMS AND DEADLINES FOR TELEVISION WRITERS
NBC - Writers on the Verge
This is a 10-week program focused on polishing writers' material and readying the participants for the staff writer position on a television series. Classes concentrate on creating an exceptional spec script and understanding the dynamics of pitching oneself in the television industry.
Please go to http://www.nbcunicareers.com/entry_leadership/Writers_On_The_Verge
DEADLINE TO APPLY - June 30, 2009
ABC ASSOCIATES PROGRAM
This is a 12-month paid program, during which individuals from diverse backgrounds are placed in entry-level positions in the production-related areas of ABC Studios in Burbank, CA.
Please go to http://www.abctalentdevelopment.com/
DEADLINE TO APPLY - April 24, 2009
CBS DIVERSITY
CBS's program focuses on opening doors: providing opportunities to build relationships with network executives and showrunners; to support new and emerging writers in their efforts to improve their craft; and to develop the interpersonal skills necessary to break in and succeed.
Please go to http://www.cbscorporation.com/diversity/cbs_network/index.php
DEADLINE TO APPLY - May 1, 2009.
FOX DIVERSITY WRITERS INITIATIVE
Writers selected will be invited to attend a six-week session at Writers Boot Camp and be offered a consultation with WBC mentors during which time writers will rewrite and improve their scripts. The goal is to execute scripts at a level of professional quality equal to those purchased by Fox in the course of its normal television development.
Please go to http://www.fox.com/diversity/creative/writer_initiative.htm
DEADLINE TO APPLY - July 3, 2009
WARNER BROS. WRITERS PROGRAM
The Warner Bros. Television Writers' Workshop consists of three components, Lectures, Simulated Writer's Room, and Staffing, all geared towards preparing the writer for a successful career in TV writing.
Please go to http://www.writersworkshop.warnerbros.com
SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED - May 1, 2009 - July 25, 2009
NOTEWORTHY TELEVISION EPISODES
LIE TO ME
W - TJ Brady and Rasheed Newson D - Arvin Brown
"The Best Policy" episode was gripping because both the A and B stories were perfect examples of high stakes writing. In the A story, Tim Roth's character "Lightman" gets personally challenged when he must weigh his loyalty to a close friend against his ethical compass -- struggling with the right course of action after discovering a high-level conspiracy surrounding a new drug distributed by his friend's company. Emotionally, the B story delivered, too, as it dramatized the release of two Americans imprisoned in Yemen. "The Best Policy" was definitely one of the best episodes of this series yet.
UNITED STATES OF TARA
W - Jill Soloway D - Brian Danelly
This episode"Abundance" stood out emotionally as it explored the emergence of a new personality for Tara and the fear it brought up for her family and her. It deftly portrayed the intimate effects of the disorder tinged with subtle humor; a sophisticated mode of storytelling that captures the complexity of the life experience and just how Tara and her family process it.
W - Christopher Santos D - John Dahl
The episode "Betrayal" also stood out because of its heart-wrenching dramatization of Tara betraying her son when he finds one of her personalities kisses his love interest. Always trying to be understanding of his mom and her condition, Tara's son's inner conflict explodes when he lights the shed on fire -- the place where his mom usually goes to recover from her "personalities."
BOOKS (all of these can be ordered through my website)
PROFESSIONAL
The War of Art
Written by Steven Pressfield
This book explores how "resistance" tries to squelch artistic expression and what we can do to move past it and find success. The book both examines internal obstacles faced by the artist and presents tools to overcome them. Universally, THE WAR OF ART will hit everyone who reads it not only in their creative processes but in their lives.
SPIRITUAL
The Prophet
Written by Kahlil Gibran
The depth and intimacy of Kahlil Gibran's poetic exploration into mankind's biggest fears while bringing peace to the reader is uniquely brilliant. I've never read anything like THE PROPHET, and while reading it, I didn't want to come to the end of it -- now I want to read every single one of his books.
WEBSITES
http://Going.com
Ever wish there were one place to find all the events around town? And see what other people THINK of events? Stop wishing and start surfing. Going.com helps you find fun things to do and fun people to meet.
SCENECHRONIZE SOFTWARE
Introducing scenechronize - a radically useful software for the entire production
Scenechronize is web-based production management software for film and television. It combines the script, breakdown and scheduling into a single application, available through the web, anytime, from anywhere. It allows the core production planners (producer, director, LP/UPM, 1st AD, 2nd AD, production coordinator) to organize a production as never before, shaving days, or even weeks, off of prep. As the first day of shooting approaches, scenechronize is available to the entire crew, quickly and efficiently communicating any changes to the script or schedule.
To learn more, please visit http://www.scenechronize.com
WEBSERIES
Check out Bill Taub's cleverly written and fantastic new webseries, PSYCHO BABBLE.
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_type=&search_query=Taub+%22PsychoBabble%22&aq=f PSYCHO BABBLE
RESTAURANTS
Pizzeria Mozza
641 N. Highland Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90038
Mario Batili and Nancy Silverton are combining their love of authentic Italian food and artisanal breads to proffer what could be LA's best pizza. I went here for a celebration and loved it! The ambiance is fantastic and the food, mouth watering. We had their popular Fennel/Sausage Pizza and Fried Squash Blossoms. And for dessert, you must try their Butterscotch Budino, it's PHENOMENAL!
Osteria La Buca
5210 1/2 Melrose Ave.
LA, CA 9038
If you love thin crust pizza with sauces that will make you feel like you're in Italy, this is your place! The mushroom pizza and the scrumptious white fish made for one of my favorite meals ever. The restaurant has expanded and the new ambiance is the perfect place for either a date or a business meeting.
NETWORKING
Friday Night Drinks is a networking group I started that meets the first Friday of every month at Century Plaza Hotel's X Bar at 2025 Ave. of the Stars.
A big thanks to the tremendous group that showed up for the April mixer.
The next Friday Night Drinks is Friday May 1, 2009 from 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. at the X Bar.
There won't be one in June because I'm leaving for Seattle that Friday to present my seminar. I will resume in July but not on the 4th of July weekend. The date is TBD.
OTHER REASONS TO CONTACT JEN GRISANTI CONSULTANCY INC.
I've got many accomplished writers on my client roster who've completed pilots. If you're interested in a list, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
If you'd like to experience the effects that one-on-one coaching can have on your writing, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
In response to the economy and people losing their jobs, one day a month I will have reduced rates on single consults. I will read your script one time and give you notes either by phone or e-mail. For more info, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
SPECIAL CONGRATS
TJ Brady & Rasheed Newson for their first produced episode of TV airing with LIE TO ME. It really stood out!
Liz Benjamin for getting staffed on CRASH.
Tom Mularz for his first produced episode of television with C.S.I. It was powerful and emotional!
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
""Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars."
Kahlil Gibran
Have a great month!
Love,
Jen
www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com
Developing From Within
In his book, THE WAR OF ART, Steven Pressfield examines the word "resistance" and how it pertains to the creative process. He writes, "There's a secret that real writers know that wannabe writers don't, and the secret is this: It's not the writing part that's hard. What's hard is sitting down to write. What keeps us from sitting down is resistance." I further appreciate how Pressfield reframes the experience of self-doubt when he states, "Self-doubt can be an ally. This is because it serves as an indicator of aspiration. It reflects love, love of something we dream of doing, and desire, desire to do it. If you find yourself asking yourself (and your friends), "Am I really a writer? Am I really an artist?" chances are you are. The counterfeit innovator is wildly self-confident. The real one is scared to death."
Facing one's fear and moving past the resistance is integral in the act of creating something from nothing. But what are we afraid of? Why do we resist? Addressing those questions honestly begins to demystify the struggle AND repositions resistance as part of a noble journey rather than a negative mode of behavior. And to authentically answer, we have to look at the dual sides of the dilemma. One side of resistance asks us, "What if I do go after my dream and succeed?" while the other side asks, "What if I fail. What if people laugh at me or think less of me?" "What if, what if, what if...?" For most all of us, I bet it's both -- fear of success as much as fear of failure. But what if we explore the idea that behind every great success often lays a string of failures? What if we shifted our attitudes and looked at a failure as a step towards succeeding? Could that take the power of fear, self-doubt, and resistance down a notch and free us to move forward?
Another way to move past resistance is to focus on what our passion is to begin with - why we yearn to create, or more importantly WHAT we yearn to create. Sumner Redstone wrote in his book, A PASSION TO WIN, "In my experience, success has three essential ingredients: a passionate commitment to your goal, the courage to dream and take risks, and the moral and intellectual character to realize the dreams worth pursuing and the best route to take to achieve them." Sumner also said, "I learned more from my failures than I did my successes." Moving past fear and resistance is just a happy by-product of focusing on your inspired motivations rather than the big What ifs that are renowned for killing ideas before they have the chance to see the light of day.
Throughout my career, I've found it ironic that the most talented writer/producers are often filled with a large amount of self doubt. This fact surprised me at first but then I recognized that these brilliant thinkers used this doubt/fear to fuel their work. They never got complacent with one week of high ratings because they knew there was always a chance that audiences wouldn't come back next week. Or the week after. This drove them to constantly try to create at the top of their game. Similarly, on the other side of writing a blockbuster movie or a bestselling novel is often the fear of "What if my best is behind me?" "What if I can't do it again? Or do it better?"
One of my favorite authors, Kahlil Gibran writes in his book THE PROPHET, "Your daily life is your temple and your religion. Whenever you enter it take with you your all. Take the plough and the forge and the mallet and the lute, the things you have fashioned in necessity or for delight. For in reverie you cannot rise above your achievements nor fall lower than your failures. And take with you all men: For in adoration you cannot fly higher than their hopes nor humble yourself lower than their despair."
We think the key to fulfillment is the destination but from hearing so many speak about what their lives are like after they've "arrived," it seems clear that the fulfillment is right there with the journey. Maybe the key is to embrace every moment that it takes to get where we want to go and if we do get there; great, if we don't, at least we know we tried. If we look at failure as a rite of passage on the road to success, it might quench our fear of failure and allow us to learn and grow.
If you're interested in moving past the "What if" and feel that you would benefit from setting up a specific strategy to get to the next step in your career, please contact me for an initial free consult at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
In the interest of evolving, moving through resistance and embracing growth, I've expanded my website!! (www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com.) I've wanted it to be more interactive and more informative, so new features include:
1) A blog
2) A link to buy all the books I recommend in my newsletters
3) Links to all helpful websites for television and feature writers
4) Podcasts - Coming soon, I will be regularly interviewing guests throughout the entertainment industry
5) An archive for past newsletters, a link to sign up for my newsletter, etc.
My website was designed by Suzie Roth Design (www.suzieroth.com).
WRITER/YOGA RETREAT
Coordinating my upcoming Writer/Yoga Retreat in Hawaii is a perfect example of thinking big and moving past my fear. Though I'd always envisioned combining the beauty of peaceful Oahu and the healing practice of yoga with the opportunity to create, it seemed a bit out of reach for me. Colleagues have told me they too were inspired to do something similar but always figured that it was too big an endeavor. And yet, my feeling ultimately is... Why not try? What if?
So....
Jen Grisanti Consultancy Inc. is putting together a Writer/Yoga Retreat in Oahu from August 18-23. I am organizing this with one of LA's top yoga instructors, Meaghan Townsend. You can read more about Meaghan at www.meaghantownsend.com
LOCATION: The Turtle Bay Resort in Oahu
DATES: August 18-23
PRICE: $1,600.00 - Yoga Only
$1,600.00 - $1,700.00 - Writing only, range determined by feature or tv script
$1,800.00 - $2,000.00 - Writing and Yoga
DEPOSIT DUE: $500.00 June 5, 2009. Please go to www.writeryogaretreat.eventbrite.com.
Remainder due the beginning of August.
The retreat will create a community experience to help accomplish your professional goals while nurturing yourself. I recognize the value of group participation as I've experienced the potency of it as the Writing Instructor for NBC's WOTV Program and having been a mentor for the CBS Program. Therefore, I've designed this retreat to mimic those experiences so that writers will get the chance to elevate the quality of their scripts amid a supportive community of colleagues. But this retreat goes one step further by offering the additional emotional, spiritual, and physical support of a yoga practice. With this unique vacation, you'll be productive, elevate your material, make new friends and return with a support group in place and be refreshed and rejuvenated by the practice of yoga. And the icing on the cake is that you can write it all off!
A few accomplished writers with TV and/or feature credits have expressed interest in coming to speak and participate in the retreat. I will keep you posted on the details.
If you're interested, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
WRITING PROGRAMS AND DEADLINES FOR TELEVISION WRITERS
NBC - Writers on the Verge
This is a 10-week program focused on polishing writers' material and readying the participants for the staff writer position on a television series. Classes concentrate on creating an exceptional spec script and understanding the dynamics of pitching oneself in the television industry.
Please go to http://www.nbcunicareers.com/entry_leadership/Writers_On_The_Verge
DEADLINE TO APPLY - June 30, 2009
ABC ASSOCIATES PROGRAM
This is a 12-month paid program, during which individuals from diverse backgrounds are placed in entry-level positions in the production-related areas of ABC Studios in Burbank, CA.
Please go to http://www.abctalentdevelopment.com/
DEADLINE TO APPLY - April 24, 2009
CBS DIVERSITY
CBS's program focuses on opening doors: providing opportunities to build relationships with network executives and showrunners; to support new and emerging writers in their efforts to improve their craft; and to develop the interpersonal skills necessary to break in and succeed.
Please go to http://www.cbscorporation.com/diversity/cbs_network/index.php
DEADLINE TO APPLY - May 1, 2009.
FOX DIVERSITY WRITERS INITIATIVE
Writers selected will be invited to attend a six-week session at Writers Boot Camp and be offered a consultation with WBC mentors during which time writers will rewrite and improve their scripts. The goal is to execute scripts at a level of professional quality equal to those purchased by Fox in the course of its normal television development.
Please go to http://www.fox.com/diversity/creative/writer_initiative.htm
DEADLINE TO APPLY - July 3, 2009
WARNER BROS. WRITERS PROGRAM
The Warner Bros. Television Writers' Workshop consists of three components, Lectures, Simulated Writer's Room, and Staffing, all geared towards preparing the writer for a successful career in TV writing.
Please go to http://www.writersworkshop.warnerbros.com
SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED - May 1, 2009 - July 25, 2009
NOTEWORTHY TELEVISION EPISODES
LIE TO ME
W - TJ Brady and Rasheed Newson D - Arvin Brown
"The Best Policy" episode was gripping because both the A and B stories were perfect examples of high stakes writing. In the A story, Tim Roth's character "Lightman" gets personally challenged when he must weigh his loyalty to a close friend against his ethical compass -- struggling with the right course of action after discovering a high-level conspiracy surrounding a new drug distributed by his friend's company. Emotionally, the B story delivered, too, as it dramatized the release of two Americans imprisoned in Yemen. "The Best Policy" was definitely one of the best episodes of this series yet.
UNITED STATES OF TARA
W - Jill Soloway D - Brian Danelly
This episode"Abundance" stood out emotionally as it explored the emergence of a new personality for Tara and the fear it brought up for her family and her. It deftly portrayed the intimate effects of the disorder tinged with subtle humor; a sophisticated mode of storytelling that captures the complexity of the life experience and just how Tara and her family process it.
W - Christopher Santos D - John Dahl
The episode "Betrayal" also stood out because of its heart-wrenching dramatization of Tara betraying her son when he finds one of her personalities kisses his love interest. Always trying to be understanding of his mom and her condition, Tara's son's inner conflict explodes when he lights the shed on fire -- the place where his mom usually goes to recover from her "personalities."
BOOKS (all of these can be ordered through my website)
PROFESSIONAL
The War of Art
Written by Steven Pressfield
This book explores how "resistance" tries to squelch artistic expression and what we can do to move past it and find success. The book both examines internal obstacles faced by the artist and presents tools to overcome them. Universally, THE WAR OF ART will hit everyone who reads it not only in their creative processes but in their lives.
SPIRITUAL
The Prophet
Written by Kahlil Gibran
The depth and intimacy of Kahlil Gibran's poetic exploration into mankind's biggest fears while bringing peace to the reader is uniquely brilliant. I've never read anything like THE PROPHET, and while reading it, I didn't want to come to the end of it -- now I want to read every single one of his books.
WEBSITES
http://Going.com
Ever wish there were one place to find all the events around town? And see what other people THINK of events? Stop wishing and start surfing. Going.com helps you find fun things to do and fun people to meet.
SCENECHRONIZE SOFTWARE
Introducing scenechronize - a radically useful software for the entire production
Scenechronize is web-based production management software for film and television. It combines the script, breakdown and scheduling into a single application, available through the web, anytime, from anywhere. It allows the core production planners (producer, director, LP/UPM, 1st AD, 2nd AD, production coordinator) to organize a production as never before, shaving days, or even weeks, off of prep. As the first day of shooting approaches, scenechronize is available to the entire crew, quickly and efficiently communicating any changes to the script or schedule.
To learn more, please visit http://www.scenechronize.com
WEBSERIES
Check out Bill Taub's cleverly written and fantastic new webseries, PSYCHO BABBLE.
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_type=&search_query=Taub+%22PsychoBabble%22&aq=f PSYCHO BABBLE
RESTAURANTS
Pizzeria Mozza
641 N. Highland Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90038
Mario Batili and Nancy Silverton are combining their love of authentic Italian food and artisanal breads to proffer what could be LA's best pizza. I went here for a celebration and loved it! The ambiance is fantastic and the food, mouth watering. We had their popular Fennel/Sausage Pizza and Fried Squash Blossoms. And for dessert, you must try their Butterscotch Budino, it's PHENOMENAL!
Osteria La Buca
5210 1/2 Melrose Ave.
LA, CA 9038
If you love thin crust pizza with sauces that will make you feel like you're in Italy, this is your place! The mushroom pizza and the scrumptious white fish made for one of my favorite meals ever. The restaurant has expanded and the new ambiance is the perfect place for either a date or a business meeting.
NETWORKING
Friday Night Drinks is a networking group I started that meets the first Friday of every month at Century Plaza Hotel's X Bar at 2025 Ave. of the Stars.
A big thanks to the tremendous group that showed up for the April mixer.
The next Friday Night Drinks is Friday May 1, 2009 from 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. at the X Bar.
There won't be one in June because I'm leaving for Seattle that Friday to present my seminar. I will resume in July but not on the 4th of July weekend. The date is TBD.
OTHER REASONS TO CONTACT JEN GRISANTI CONSULTANCY INC.
I've got many accomplished writers on my client roster who've completed pilots. If you're interested in a list, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
If you'd like to experience the effects that one-on-one coaching can have on your writing, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
In response to the economy and people losing their jobs, one day a month I will have reduced rates on single consults. I will read your script one time and give you notes either by phone or e-mail. For more info, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
SPECIAL CONGRATS
TJ Brady & Rasheed Newson for their first produced episode of TV airing with LIE TO ME. It really stood out!
Liz Benjamin for getting staffed on CRASH.
Tom Mularz for his first produced episode of television with C.S.I. It was powerful and emotional!
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
""Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars."
Kahlil Gibran
Have a great month!
Love,
Jen
www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com
Developing From Within
Facing one's fear and moving past the resistance is integral in the act of creating something from nothing. But what are we afraid of? Why do we resist? Addressing those questions honestly begins to demystify the struggle AND repositions resistance as part of a noble journey rather than a negative mode of behavior. And to authentically answer, we have to look at the dual sides of the dilemma. One side of resistance asks us, "What if I do go after my dream and succeed?" while the other side asks, "What if I fail. What if people laugh at me or think less of me?" "What if, what if, what if...?" For most all of us, I bet it's both -- fear of success as much as fear of failure. But what if we explore the idea that behind every great success often lays a string of failures? What if we shifted our attitudes and looked at a failure as a step towards succeeding? Could that take the power of fear, self-doubt, and resistance down a notch and free us to move forward?
Another way to move past resistance is to focus on what our passion is to begin with - why we yearn to create, or more importantly WHAT we yearn to create. Sumner Redstone wrote in his book, A PASSION TO WIN, "In my experience, success has three essential ingredients: a passionate commitment to your goal, the courage to dream and take risks, and the moral and intellectual character to realize the dreams worth pursuing and the best route to take to achieve them." Sumner also said, "I learned more from my failures than I did my successes." Moving past fear and resistance is just a happy by-product of focusing on your inspired motivations rather than the big What ifs that are renowned for killing ideas before they have the chance to see the light of day.
Throughout my career, I've found it ironic that the most talented writer/producers are often filled with a large amount of self doubt. This fact surprised me at first but then I recognized that these brilliant thinkers used this doubt/fear to fuel their work. They never got complacent with one week of high ratings because they knew there was always a chance that audiences wouldn't come back next week. Or the week after. This drove them to constantly try to create at the top of their game. Similarly, on the other side of writing a blockbuster movie or a bestselling novel is often the fear of "What if my best is behind me?" "What if I can't do it again? Or do it better?"
One of my favorite authors, Kahlil Gibran writes in his book THE PROPHET, "Your daily life is your temple and your religion. Whenever you enter it take with you your all. Take the plough and the forge and the mallet and the lute, the things you have fashioned in necessity or for delight. For in reverie you cannot rise above your achievements nor fall lower than your failures. And take with you all men: For in adoration you cannot fly higher than their hopes nor humble yourself lower than their despair."
We think the key to fulfillment is the destination but from hearing so many speak about what their lives are like after they've "arrived," it seems clear that the fulfillment is right there with the journey. Maybe the key is to embrace every moment that it takes to get where we want to go and if we do get there; great, if we don't, at least we know we tried. If we look at failure as a rite of passage on the road to success, it might quench our fear of failure and allow us to learn and grow.
If you're interested in moving past the "What if" and feel that you would benefit from setting up a specific strategy to get to the next step in your career, please contact me for an initial free consult at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
In the interest of evolving, moving through resistance and embracing growth, I've expanded my website!! (www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com.) I've wanted it to be more interactive and more informative, so new features include:
1) A blog
2) A link to buy all the books I recommend in my newsletters
3) Links to all helpful websites for television and feature writers
4) Podcasts - Coming soon, I will be regularly interviewing guests throughout the entertainment industry
5) An archive for past newsletters, a link to sign up for my newsletter, etc.
My website was designed by Suzie Roth Design (www.suzieroth.com).
WRITER/YOGA RETREAT
Coordinating my upcoming Writer/Yoga Retreat in Hawaii is a perfect example of thinking big and moving past my fear. Though I'd always envisioned combining the beauty of peaceful Oahu and the healing practice of yoga with the opportunity to create, it seemed a bit out of reach for me. Colleagues have told me they too were inspired to do something similar but always figured that it was too big an endeavor. And yet, my feeling ultimately is... Why not try? What if?
So....
Jen Grisanti Consultancy Inc. is putting together a Writer/Yoga Retreat in Oahu from August 18-23. I am organizing this with one of LA's top yoga instructors, Meaghan Townsend. You can read more about Meaghan at www.meaghantownsend.com
LOCATION: The Turtle Bay Resort in Oahu
DATES: August 18-23
PRICE: $1,600.00 - Yoga Only
$1,600.00 - $1,700.00 - Writing only, range determined by feature or tv script
$1,800.00 - $2,000.00 - Writing and Yoga
DEPOSIT DUE: $500.00 June 5, 2009. Please go to www.writeryogaretreat.eventbrite.com.
Remainder due the beginning of August.
The retreat will create a community experience to help accomplish your professional goals while nurturing yourself. I recognize the value of group participation as I've experienced the potency of it as the Writing Instructor for NBC's WOTV Program and having been a mentor for the CBS Program. Therefore, I've designed this retreat to mimic those experiences so that writers will get the chance to elevate the quality of their scripts amid a supportive community of colleagues. But this retreat goes one step further by offering the additional emotional, spiritual, and physical support of a yoga practice. With this unique vacation, you'll be productive, elevate your material, make new friends and return with a support group in place and be refreshed and rejuvenated by the practice of yoga. And the icing on the cake is that you can write it all off!
A few accomplished writers with TV and/or feature credits have expressed interest in coming to speak and participate in the retreat. I will keep you posted on the details.
If you're interested, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
WRITING PROGRAMS AND DEADLINES FOR TELEVISION WRITERS
NBC - Writers on the Verge
This is a 10-week program focused on polishing writers' material and readying the participants for the staff writer position on a television series. Classes concentrate on creating an exceptional spec script and understanding the dynamics of pitching oneself in the television industry.
Please go to http://www.nbcunicareers.com/entry_leadership/Writers_On_The_Verge
DEADLINE TO APPLY - June 30, 2009
ABC ASSOCIATES PROGRAM
This is a 12-month paid program, during which individuals from diverse backgrounds are placed in entry-level positions in the production-related areas of ABC Studios in Burbank, CA.
Please go to http://www.abctalentdevelopment.com/
DEADLINE TO APPLY - April 24, 2009
CBS DIVERSITY
CBS's program focuses on opening doors: providing opportunities to build relationships with network executives and showrunners; to support new and emerging writers in their efforts to improve their craft; and to develop the interpersonal skills necessary to break in and succeed.
Please go to http://www.cbscorporation.com/diversity/cbs_network/index.php
DEADLINE TO APPLY - May 1, 2009.
FOX DIVERSITY WRITERS INITIATIVE
Writers selected will be invited to attend a six-week session at Writers Boot Camp and be offered a consultation with WBC mentors during which time writers will rewrite and improve their scripts. The goal is to execute scripts at a level of professional quality equal to those purchased by Fox in the course of its normal television development.
Please go to http://www.fox.com/diversity/creative/writer_initiative.htm
DEADLINE TO APPLY - July 3, 2009
WARNER BROS. WRITERS PROGRAM
The Warner Bros. Television Writers' Workshop consists of three components, Lectures, Simulated Writer's Room, and Staffing, all geared towards preparing the writer for a successful career in TV writing.
Please go to http://www.writersworkshop.warnerbros.com
SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED - May 1, 2009 - July 25, 2009
NOTEWORTHY TELEVISION EPISODES
LIE TO ME
W - TJ Brady and Rasheed Newson D - Arvin Brown
"The Best Policy" episode was gripping because both the A and B stories were perfect examples of high stakes writing. In the A story, Tim Roth's character "Lightman" gets personally challenged when he must weigh his loyalty to a close friend against his ethical compass -- struggling with the right course of action after discovering a high-level conspiracy surrounding a new drug distributed by his friend's company. Emotionally, the B story delivered, too, as it dramatized the release of two Americans imprisoned in Yemen. "The Best Policy" was definitely one of the best episodes of this series yet.
UNITED STATES OF TARA
W - Jill Soloway D - Brian Danelly
This episode"Abundance" stood out emotionally as it explored the emergence of a new personality for Tara and the fear it brought up for her family and her. It deftly portrayed the intimate effects of the disorder tinged with subtle humor; a sophisticated mode of storytelling that captures the complexity of the life experience and just how Tara and her family process it.
W - Christopher Santos D - John Dahl
The episode "Betrayal" also stood out because of its heart-wrenching dramatization of Tara betraying her son when he finds one of her personalities kisses his love interest. Always trying to be understanding of his mom and her condition, Tara's son's inner conflict explodes when he lights the shed on fire -- the place where his mom usually goes to recover from her "personalities."
BOOKS (all of these can be ordered through my website)
PROFESSIONAL
The War of Art
Written by Steven Pressfield
This book explores how "resistance" tries to squelch artistic expression and what we can do to move past it and find success. The book both examines internal obstacles faced by the artist and presents tools to overcome them. Universally, THE WAR OF ART will hit everyone who reads it not only in their creative processes but in their lives.
SPIRITUAL
The Prophet
Written by Kahlil Gibran
The depth and intimacy of Kahlil Gibran's poetic exploration into mankind's biggest fears while bringing peace to the reader is uniquely brilliant. I've never read anything like THE PROPHET, and while reading it, I didn't want to come to the end of it -- now I want to read every single one of his books.
WEBSITES
http://Going.com
Ever wish there were one place to find all the events around town? And see what other people THINK of events? Stop wishing and start surfing. Going.com helps you find fun things to do and fun people to meet.
SCENECHRONIZE SOFTWARE
Introducing scenechronize - a radically useful software for the entire production
Scenechronize is web-based production management software for film and television. It combines the script, breakdown and scheduling into a single application, available through the web, anytime, from anywhere. It allows the core production planners (producer, director, LP/UPM, 1st AD, 2nd AD, production coordinator) to organize a production as never before, shaving days, or even weeks, off of prep. As the first day of shooting approaches, scenechronize is available to the entire crew, quickly and efficiently communicating any changes to the script or schedule.
To learn more, please visit http://www.scenechronize.com
WEBSERIES
Check out Bill Taub's cleverly written and fantastic new webseries, PSYCHO BABBLE.
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_type=&search_query=Taub+%22PsychoBabble%22&aq=f PSYCHO BABBLE
RESTAURANTS
Pizzeria Mozza
641 N. Highland Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90038
Mario Batili and Nancy Silverton are combining their love of authentic Italian food and artisanal breads to proffer what could be LA's best pizza. I went here for a celebration and loved it! The ambiance is fantastic and the food, mouth watering. We had their popular Fennel/Sausage Pizza and Fried Squash Blossoms. And for dessert, you must try their Butterscotch Budino, it's PHENOMENAL!
Osteria La Buca
5210 1/2 Melrose Ave.
LA, CA 9038
If you love thin crust pizza with sauces that will make you feel like you're in Italy, this is your place! The mushroom pizza and the scrumptious white fish made for one of my favorite meals ever. The restaurant has expanded and the new ambiance is the perfect place for either a date or a business meeting.
NETWORKING
Friday Night Drinks is a networking group I started that meets the first Friday of every month at Century Plaza Hotel's X Bar at 2025 Ave. of the Stars.
A big thanks to the tremendous group that showed up for the April mixer.
The next Friday Night Drinks is Friday May 1, 2009 from 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. at the X Bar.
There won't be one in June because I'm leaving for Seattle that Friday to present my seminar. I will resume in July but not on the 4th of July weekend. The date is TBD.
OTHER REASONS TO CONTACT JEN GRISANTI CONSULTANCY INC.
I've got many accomplished writers on my client roster who've completed pilots. If you're interested in a list, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
If you'd like to experience the effects that one-on-one coaching can have on your writing, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
In response to the economy and people losing their jobs, one day a month I will have reduced rates on single consults. I will read your script one time and give you notes either by phone or e-mail. For more info, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
SPECIAL CONGRATS
TJ Brady & Rasheed Newson for their first produced episode of TV airing with LIE TO ME. It really stood out!
Liz Benjamin for getting staffed on CRASH.
Tom Mularz for his first produced episode of television with C.S.I. It was powerful and emotional!
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
""Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars."
Kahlil Gibran
Have a great month!
Love,
Jen
www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com
Developing From Within
Friday, March 13, 2009
Hello and welcome to the March newsletter for Jen Grisanti Consultancy, Inc.
This month I'd like to talk about integrity. As author Nicole Williams states in EARN WHAT YOU'RE WORTH, "The core of integrity is truth. Your ability to express truth and integrity in all aspects of your life is the surest indicator of how intrinsically worthy you feel. You need truth to act upon your intuition (to be able to hear your truth), to build intimate relationships (to be able to reveal your truth), and to explore your passions (to be able to live your truth)."
Nicole's emphasis on integrity and truth resonates with me because of how powerful those two attributes can be across every aspect of life. Since integrity adds so much to the building of relationships, it seems logical that we'd want to increase our conscious living with integrity; especially given how the current economy is stifling the contributions of so many talented people and it's in positive relationships that we can find renewed energy, inspiration, encouragement and opportunity. If we start living our lives from our truth, the answers and clarity that emerge about our next steps could surprise us.
As an industry, culture, country and world, we're undergoing profound change -- and through change, our integrity (truth) can emerge. Writing is a special and essential tool available to everyone that provides a cathartic opportunity to reflect on life, its evolutions, and our perspectives on it. In particular, during times of hardship, writing takes on even more significance, I believe, because in sharing our stories, we hold light up for others to travel their own paths to freedom and empowerment. So I encourage everyone to use the tool of writing to investigate what's true for them. You never know who you might inspire. And it's a great way to practice adjusting to the changing landscape of our time.
And speaking of adjusting, "If you do not change, you become extinct," Spencer Johnson, M.D., warns in WHO MOVED MY CHEESE. His parable nails the truth: "Haw smiled. He knew Hem was wondering, 'Who moved my cheese?' but Haw was wondering, 'Why didn't I get up and move the cheese, sooner?" When the universe gives us a nudge, it's important to trust that there must be a purpose behind it. And even if we don't completely "trust," our attitude about the change can make or break us. In regards to our particular industry, SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE filled a need, I believe, to show us how to respond to difficulty in a "Haw" sort of way. I personally hope to see more stories like SLUMDOG that involve the journey of rising above negativity and despair.
For me, when my corporate career came to a sudden stop almost two years ago, it was devastating, an almost surreal out-of-body experience in the moment. In the interest of expressing integrity and truth here, I had hit my ceiling and was beginning to wonder what else could be out there for me. I wouldn't have voluntarily removed myself from the position I held but now I recognize that I needed a nudge back then. With that change, a blessing emerged, and I took hold of it. I loved the job I had but really LOVE what I do now, feeling pride and fulfillment in a business I started from scratch and one that reflects my truest nature. My mission is to help others to connect so I wake up every day excited to see what new challenges and rewards await me. I am able to apply my personal values to the way I do business with others and there is no greater time to be immersed in a business that can guide people to their dreams.
At Jen Grisanti Consultancy Inc., I daily reap the benefits of the one-on-one experience with writers and appreciate how that connection can empower them and their careers. Are you interested in having a former studio executive be your guide? If so, please review my services at www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com and contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
EPISODIC TELEVISION
BIG LOVE
Writer - Eileen Myers Director - David Petrarca
I LOVE "Big Love"!! This season has been phenomenal, and, THE PROM episode I feel is one of the best produced in television this season. It is a great example of how the small screen can create the feeling of the big screen: visually, THE PROM was STUNNING! The content was deep and thought provoking and the style of writing, poetically perfect. Congrats to Eileen Myers and David Petrarca and thank you for your talent!
BREAKING BAD
Writer - J Roberts Director - Bryan Cranston
The season premiere of this show this past Sunday did not disappoint. It was beautifully written, compelling, suspenseful and emotionally riveting revealing just how irrational our behavior can be when we know death is immanent. Bryan is a brilliant actor and did a beautiful job directing. He really captured the emotion beneath each scene. I can't wait to see what comes next in this series!
MEDIUM
W - Craig Sweeney & Rob Doherty Director - Patricia Arquette
A PERSON OF INTEREST episode was excellent. The opening, writing and imagination at work in this episode where Allison suddenly starts taking on the actions of the criminal involved are outstanding! Patricia did an incredible job directing this episode and capturing the beauty behind the conceit.
GREAT BOOKS
ENTERTAINMENT
EMOTIONAL STRUCTURE - Creating the Story Beneath the Plot - A Guide for Screenwriters
Written by Peter Dunne
This book is an excellent resource for learning how to elevate the emotional part of your story. So many writers excel in plot but could use work on deepening the overall experience. Peter writes, "The story is the journey for truth. The plot is the road it takes to get there." Peter helps the writer to successfully move beyond the surface.
BUSINESS
EARN WHAT YOU'RE WORTH Written by Nicole Williams
One of the things I love most about this book is that it helps readers consciously establish a relationship with themselves, their money and the life they want to create. By doing exercises that help one take inventory, you identify your strengths and learn how to use them to your advantage. I highly recommend it.
LADIES WHO LAUNCH Written by Victoria Coligan & Beth Schoenfeldt
This book is so inspirational on every level. "Ladies Who Launch is the first company to define the feminine approach to launching a business and to discover that starting a business and bringing creativity into your life can increase self-esteem and happiness. The nationally acclaimed Ladies Who Launch program has enabled thousands of women across the country to break out of the nine-to-five and thrive in entrepreneurial enterprises that reflect their true passions, skills and desires."
WRITER/YOGA RETREAT
Jen Grisanti Consultancy Inc. is putting together a Writer/Yoga Retreat in Oahu from August 18-23. I am coordinating this with one of LA's top yoga instructors, Meaghan Townsend. You can read more about Meaghan at www.meaghantownsend.com.
LOCATION: The Turtle Bay Resort in Oahu
DATES: August 18-23
PRICE: $1,500 - $2,000.00 (This includes hotel, writing consults and yoga. A deposit is due in April. The remainder will be due at the beginning of August.)
The retreat will create a community experience to help accomplish your professional goals while nurturing yourself. I recognize the value of group participation as I've experienced the potency of it as the Writing Instructor for NBC's WOTV Program and having been a mentor for the CBS Program. This retreat will mimic the experience of what I've learned in those positions by designing an experience geared towards helping the writer elevate their scripts to the best place possible while creating a community environment and offering a healthy outlet with yoga.
Once the writers are assembled, they will exchange scripts; either television or features. There will be daily group and one-on-one sessions with me and daily yoga classes with Meaghan. By deepening your yoga practice, you get in touch with what is going on at your core. At the end of the trip, you'll feel more confident about your script, have a group that supports you and be refreshed from your yoga practice. The icing on the cake is that you can write it all off!
If you are interested, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
WELLNESS
PILATES
One of the best workouts for sculpting your body and seeing results is Pilates. I have a phenomenal instructor, Courtney Rackley. Courtney has Pilates classes starting at $35/class. You can find out more on her website at www.courtneyspilates.com.
INTERNET
A friend sent me the link to a talk given by Elizabeth Gilbert, the author of EAT, PRAY, LOVE.
http://www.ted.com/talks/view/id/453. The talk she gives is so INCREDIBLE in how it presents a unique way to think about creative genius. Elizabeth also tackles what it's like when the fear hits that perhaps the best of our careers is BEHIND us. She's an insightful and charismatic speaker with a great sense of humor.
The renowned author's talk is distributed by the website TED, standing for Technology, Entertainment, Design. TED distributes some of the most engaging talks and performances for FREE -- it's mission is simply to spread ideas. "We believe passionately in the power of ideas to change attitudes, lives and ultimately, the world." Have an idea? Go to http://www.ted.com/index.php/pages/view/id/112.
WEBSITE
CASHMERE APPROACH
The Cashmere Approach is the brainchild of Cindy Yantis and Sara Harrell, co-authors of the upcoming book, CASHMERE GLOVE: THE FEMININE APPROACH TO BUSINESS.
The Cashmere Approach is the next wave of thinking in business. It is a core valued consulting approach that highlights your innate qualities and characteristics so that you get what you want out of life, career and relationships.
I highly recommend this experience. To learn more, go to www.cashmereapproach.com.
RESTAURANTS
The Hall at Palihouse Holloway
8465 Holloway Dr.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
(323) 656-4020
This restaurant is so stylish and unique! The food is excellent. As soon as you walk in, you will fall in love with the atmosphere. There is a lounge, a coffee bar and a restaurant (The Hall) that are all part of Weho's boutique hotel that gives extended-stay living a luxurious twist.
I love the gnocchi, the creamed spinach and the halibut, and you'll be dreaming about the desserts for weeks. To top it off, you can bring your dog to dinner and eat on the beautiful patio.
NETWORKING
Friday Night Drinks is a networking group I started that meets the first Friday of every month at the X Bar at the Century Plaza Hotel at 2025 Ave. of the Stars.
A big thanks to the tremendous group who showed up for the March mixer.
The next Friday Night Drinks is Friday April 3, 2009 from 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. at the X Bar.
EVENTS
BELLWETHERS SHOWCASE (www.bellwethersshowcase.com)
Date: March 10, 2009
Place: Odyssey Theater
Address: 2055 Sepulveda Blvd., West LA
RSVP: rsvp@bellwethershowcase.org. For inquiries, call (310) 393-2905
Harvardwood invites you to an evening of staged readings of pilot scripts. On Tuesday, March 10th, writers participating in the Harvardwood Writers Program are hosting a showcase for television executives. Six pilot excerpts will be presented on stage by professional actors. Each reading will run fifteen minutes maximum.
A wine & cheese reception will follow the ninety minute presentation.
30TH COLLEGE TV AWARDS
The Nation's Best in Student Video, Digital and Film Work
Date: March 21, 2009
Place: Culver Studios - 9336 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA
Price: $200.00/ticket, Sponsorship Opportunities ($3,000 - $25,000) Ads (($450 - $3,000)
Contact Debbie Slavkin at (818) 754-2828 or Slavkin@emmys.org
This event is a black tie gala hosted by Tom Bergeron (Dancing With the Stars) and an opportunity to network with industry professionals, Foundation Board and TV Academy Governors. It's also a great way to support the Television Academy Foundation and its educational programs and the best way to discover the creative minds of the next generation.
OTHER REASONS TO CONTACT JEN GRISANTI CONSULTANCY INC.
If you are looking for a writers assistant or production assistant, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com. I've place many people in these positions on top primetime shows.
If you are looking for content, I have it -- I worked with more than 100 television and feature writers last year with impressively strong pilots, features and specs.
SPECIAL CONGRATS
Ben Raab and Deric Hughes for signing with CAA.
Arla Bowers for winning the award for best feature animation for her feature, THE PUDDLE JUMPER at the International Family Film Festival.
Nancy Noever for getting the Gold Award ad the PAGE International Screenwriting Competition for her script WORDS OF WAR.
Have a GREAT month!
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
All true things must change, and only that which changes remains true.
C.G. Jung
Love,
Jen
www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com
Developing From Within
website by Suzie Roth Design
This month I'd like to talk about integrity. As author Nicole Williams states in EARN WHAT YOU'RE WORTH, "The core of integrity is truth. Your ability to express truth and integrity in all aspects of your life is the surest indicator of how intrinsically worthy you feel. You need truth to act upon your intuition (to be able to hear your truth), to build intimate relationships (to be able to reveal your truth), and to explore your passions (to be able to live your truth)."
Nicole's emphasis on integrity and truth resonates with me because of how powerful those two attributes can be across every aspect of life. Since integrity adds so much to the building of relationships, it seems logical that we'd want to increase our conscious living with integrity; especially given how the current economy is stifling the contributions of so many talented people and it's in positive relationships that we can find renewed energy, inspiration, encouragement and opportunity. If we start living our lives from our truth, the answers and clarity that emerge about our next steps could surprise us.
As an industry, culture, country and world, we're undergoing profound change -- and through change, our integrity (truth) can emerge. Writing is a special and essential tool available to everyone that provides a cathartic opportunity to reflect on life, its evolutions, and our perspectives on it. In particular, during times of hardship, writing takes on even more significance, I believe, because in sharing our stories, we hold light up for others to travel their own paths to freedom and empowerment. So I encourage everyone to use the tool of writing to investigate what's true for them. You never know who you might inspire. And it's a great way to practice adjusting to the changing landscape of our time.
And speaking of adjusting, "If you do not change, you become extinct," Spencer Johnson, M.D., warns in WHO MOVED MY CHEESE. His parable nails the truth: "Haw smiled. He knew Hem was wondering, 'Who moved my cheese?' but Haw was wondering, 'Why didn't I get up and move the cheese, sooner?" When the universe gives us a nudge, it's important to trust that there must be a purpose behind it. And even if we don't completely "trust," our attitude about the change can make or break us. In regards to our particular industry, SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE filled a need, I believe, to show us how to respond to difficulty in a "Haw" sort of way. I personally hope to see more stories like SLUMDOG that involve the journey of rising above negativity and despair.
For me, when my corporate career came to a sudden stop almost two years ago, it was devastating, an almost surreal out-of-body experience in the moment. In the interest of expressing integrity and truth here, I had hit my ceiling and was beginning to wonder what else could be out there for me. I wouldn't have voluntarily removed myself from the position I held but now I recognize that I needed a nudge back then. With that change, a blessing emerged, and I took hold of it. I loved the job I had but really LOVE what I do now, feeling pride and fulfillment in a business I started from scratch and one that reflects my truest nature. My mission is to help others to connect so I wake up every day excited to see what new challenges and rewards await me. I am able to apply my personal values to the way I do business with others and there is no greater time to be immersed in a business that can guide people to their dreams.
At Jen Grisanti Consultancy Inc., I daily reap the benefits of the one-on-one experience with writers and appreciate how that connection can empower them and their careers. Are you interested in having a former studio executive be your guide? If so, please review my services at www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com and contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
EPISODIC TELEVISION
BIG LOVE
Writer - Eileen Myers Director - David Petrarca
I LOVE "Big Love"!! This season has been phenomenal, and, THE PROM episode I feel is one of the best produced in television this season. It is a great example of how the small screen can create the feeling of the big screen: visually, THE PROM was STUNNING! The content was deep and thought provoking and the style of writing, poetically perfect. Congrats to Eileen Myers and David Petrarca and thank you for your talent!
BREAKING BAD
Writer - J Roberts Director - Bryan Cranston
The season premiere of this show this past Sunday did not disappoint. It was beautifully written, compelling, suspenseful and emotionally riveting revealing just how irrational our behavior can be when we know death is immanent. Bryan is a brilliant actor and did a beautiful job directing. He really captured the emotion beneath each scene. I can't wait to see what comes next in this series!
MEDIUM
W - Craig Sweeney & Rob Doherty Director - Patricia Arquette
A PERSON OF INTEREST episode was excellent. The opening, writing and imagination at work in this episode where Allison suddenly starts taking on the actions of the criminal involved are outstanding! Patricia did an incredible job directing this episode and capturing the beauty behind the conceit.
GREAT BOOKS
ENTERTAINMENT
EMOTIONAL STRUCTURE - Creating the Story Beneath the Plot - A Guide for Screenwriters
Written by Peter Dunne
This book is an excellent resource for learning how to elevate the emotional part of your story. So many writers excel in plot but could use work on deepening the overall experience. Peter writes, "The story is the journey for truth. The plot is the road it takes to get there." Peter helps the writer to successfully move beyond the surface.
BUSINESS
EARN WHAT YOU'RE WORTH Written by Nicole Williams
One of the things I love most about this book is that it helps readers consciously establish a relationship with themselves, their money and the life they want to create. By doing exercises that help one take inventory, you identify your strengths and learn how to use them to your advantage. I highly recommend it.
LADIES WHO LAUNCH Written by Victoria Coligan & Beth Schoenfeldt
This book is so inspirational on every level. "Ladies Who Launch is the first company to define the feminine approach to launching a business and to discover that starting a business and bringing creativity into your life can increase self-esteem and happiness. The nationally acclaimed Ladies Who Launch program has enabled thousands of women across the country to break out of the nine-to-five and thrive in entrepreneurial enterprises that reflect their true passions, skills and desires."
WRITER/YOGA RETREAT
Jen Grisanti Consultancy Inc. is putting together a Writer/Yoga Retreat in Oahu from August 18-23. I am coordinating this with one of LA's top yoga instructors, Meaghan Townsend. You can read more about Meaghan at www.meaghantownsend.com.
LOCATION: The Turtle Bay Resort in Oahu
DATES: August 18-23
PRICE: $1,500 - $2,000.00 (This includes hotel, writing consults and yoga. A deposit is due in April. The remainder will be due at the beginning of August.)
The retreat will create a community experience to help accomplish your professional goals while nurturing yourself. I recognize the value of group participation as I've experienced the potency of it as the Writing Instructor for NBC's WOTV Program and having been a mentor for the CBS Program. This retreat will mimic the experience of what I've learned in those positions by designing an experience geared towards helping the writer elevate their scripts to the best place possible while creating a community environment and offering a healthy outlet with yoga.
Once the writers are assembled, they will exchange scripts; either television or features. There will be daily group and one-on-one sessions with me and daily yoga classes with Meaghan. By deepening your yoga practice, you get in touch with what is going on at your core. At the end of the trip, you'll feel more confident about your script, have a group that supports you and be refreshed from your yoga practice. The icing on the cake is that you can write it all off!
If you are interested, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
WELLNESS
PILATES
One of the best workouts for sculpting your body and seeing results is Pilates. I have a phenomenal instructor, Courtney Rackley. Courtney has Pilates classes starting at $35/class. You can find out more on her website at www.courtneyspilates.com.
INTERNET
A friend sent me the link to a talk given by Elizabeth Gilbert, the author of EAT, PRAY, LOVE.
http://www.ted.com/talks/view/id/453. The talk she gives is so INCREDIBLE in how it presents a unique way to think about creative genius. Elizabeth also tackles what it's like when the fear hits that perhaps the best of our careers is BEHIND us. She's an insightful and charismatic speaker with a great sense of humor.
The renowned author's talk is distributed by the website TED, standing for Technology, Entertainment, Design. TED distributes some of the most engaging talks and performances for FREE -- it's mission is simply to spread ideas. "We believe passionately in the power of ideas to change attitudes, lives and ultimately, the world." Have an idea? Go to http://www.ted.com/index.php/pages/view/id/112.
WEBSITE
CASHMERE APPROACH
The Cashmere Approach is the brainchild of Cindy Yantis and Sara Harrell, co-authors of the upcoming book, CASHMERE GLOVE: THE FEMININE APPROACH TO BUSINESS.
The Cashmere Approach is the next wave of thinking in business. It is a core valued consulting approach that highlights your innate qualities and characteristics so that you get what you want out of life, career and relationships.
I highly recommend this experience. To learn more, go to www.cashmereapproach.com.
RESTAURANTS
The Hall at Palihouse Holloway
8465 Holloway Dr.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
(323) 656-4020
This restaurant is so stylish and unique! The food is excellent. As soon as you walk in, you will fall in love with the atmosphere. There is a lounge, a coffee bar and a restaurant (The Hall) that are all part of Weho's boutique hotel that gives extended-stay living a luxurious twist.
I love the gnocchi, the creamed spinach and the halibut, and you'll be dreaming about the desserts for weeks. To top it off, you can bring your dog to dinner and eat on the beautiful patio.
NETWORKING
Friday Night Drinks is a networking group I started that meets the first Friday of every month at the X Bar at the Century Plaza Hotel at 2025 Ave. of the Stars.
A big thanks to the tremendous group who showed up for the March mixer.
The next Friday Night Drinks is Friday April 3, 2009 from 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. at the X Bar.
EVENTS
BELLWETHERS SHOWCASE (www.bellwethersshowcase.com)
Date: March 10, 2009
Place: Odyssey Theater
Address: 2055 Sepulveda Blvd., West LA
RSVP: rsvp@bellwethershowcase.org. For inquiries, call (310) 393-2905
Harvardwood invites you to an evening of staged readings of pilot scripts. On Tuesday, March 10th, writers participating in the Harvardwood Writers Program are hosting a showcase for television executives. Six pilot excerpts will be presented on stage by professional actors. Each reading will run fifteen minutes maximum.
A wine & cheese reception will follow the ninety minute presentation.
30TH COLLEGE TV AWARDS
The Nation's Best in Student Video, Digital and Film Work
Date: March 21, 2009
Place: Culver Studios - 9336 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA
Price: $200.00/ticket, Sponsorship Opportunities ($3,000 - $25,000) Ads (($450 - $3,000)
Contact Debbie Slavkin at (818) 754-2828 or Slavkin@emmys.org
This event is a black tie gala hosted by Tom Bergeron (Dancing With the Stars) and an opportunity to network with industry professionals, Foundation Board and TV Academy Governors. It's also a great way to support the Television Academy Foundation and its educational programs and the best way to discover the creative minds of the next generation.
OTHER REASONS TO CONTACT JEN GRISANTI CONSULTANCY INC.
If you are looking for a writers assistant or production assistant, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com. I've place many people in these positions on top primetime shows.
If you are looking for content, I have it -- I worked with more than 100 television and feature writers last year with impressively strong pilots, features and specs.
SPECIAL CONGRATS
Ben Raab and Deric Hughes for signing with CAA.
Arla Bowers for winning the award for best feature animation for her feature, THE PUDDLE JUMPER at the International Family Film Festival.
Nancy Noever for getting the Gold Award ad the PAGE International Screenwriting Competition for her script WORDS OF WAR.
Have a GREAT month!
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
All true things must change, and only that which changes remains true.
C.G. Jung
Love,
Jen
www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com
Developing From Within
website by Suzie Roth Design
Thursday, February 12, 2009
February Newsletter from Jen Grisanti Consultancy Inc!
Hello and welcome to the February newsletter for Jen Grisanti Consultancy, Inc.
This month I'd like to talk about clarity and passion. Clarity of purpose and intent mixed with passion are key ingredients to succeeding in business and in life. I love the following quote;
All people dream; but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recess of their minds wake up in the day to find that it was vanity. But the dreamers of the day are the dangerous people, for they may act their dream with open eyes to make it possible.
--T.E. LAWRENCE
Now more than ever, many people are forced into taking inventory, looking at their lives and wondering what's next? In one single day this past January, the news reported that 50,000 people were laid off. It is no doubt daunting when you go from the very fast-paced life of a working American to having so much time on your hands that you realize you've confused WHAT you DO with WHO you ARE. By simply asking a couple of key questions, the process of untangling that assumption can be very rewarding; what made you love what you do in the first place and what are you most passionate about? By answering these questions, clarity emerges about who you really are - and it's not simply a job or career, and it's not anything that can be taken away from you; rather, it's a guiding energy that can lead you with purpose and intent through all the moments of your life.
As Donny Deutsch says in his book, THE BIG IDEA, "The American Dream is within your reach. I've literally seen it happen hundreds of times. The people who turn their big ideas into millions come from every conceivable background. They're middle-class moms, factory workers, college kids, veterans, everyone and anyone. Ordinary people - some faced with enormous obstacles - are stepping out and achieving extraordinary goals." Donny goes on to mention the key behind this when he says, "They share one thing in common. They were passionate about their ideas - so passionate that when the naysayers piled on, they kept shrugging them off, believing they could achieve their desires... and they did. They acted on their beliefs. And their achievements represent a revolution that's sweeping across our nation, changing the way business is done."
How do we turn our dreams into a reality? We approach life knowing our purpose and tapping into the power of intention as well as moving past the fear. In times like we're living today, universal themes and values become even more apparent and more important to remember. And the more writers are in tune with what is happening around them, the greater the experience for those who get to experience the gift of their words. With this in mind, I love Ambrose Redmoon's words, "Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something else is more important than fear."
Clarity and intent are so important in story as well. What is the protagonist's goal? What are the obstacles? What is the turning point and what is the resolution? It is stunning how much more fulfilling story is when the above elements are clear. It is even more fascinating to recognize that the above formula applies to our own lives; for it is from our truths that we draw some of the greatest stories.
If you are looking for clarity about how to approach your career as a writer and are interested in the value of a one on one experience to help you reach your goals and get to the next step, please contact me for an initial free consultation at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com. For a list of my services, you can go to my website at www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
EPISODIC TELEVISION
GREY'S ANATOMY
W - Debora Cahn D - Rob Corn
I love how symbolism enhances our experience of stories, and Debora's use of symbolism in this first of a three-episode arc that aired in January was powerful. Debora and Rob both did an outstanding job of digging deep for the emotional moments that made this episode a stand out.
LIE TO ME
W - Samuel Baum D - Robert Schwentke
This is a GREAT new show. The cast is compelling. Tim Roth is brilliant and charming, and I love the flavor that humor adds to a procedural show. It is also enlightening to see how much our nonverbal actions communicate and how it can be used to solve crime.
TRUST ME
W - Hunt Baldwin & John Coveny D - Michael Robin
Love this show. Tom Cavanagh and Eric McCormack play partners in an advertising agency, and the pilot started off with a strong moment that clearly set forth the drama we could expect to experience weekly. We quickly see what the dynamic team is made of and how they both contribute to the success they achieve. The show is quirky and dramatic and different. I applaud Hunt and John for tapping into their own advertising experience to beautifully capture this world and the pressure that comes with it.
FEATURES
FROST/NIXON
Did you see this OUTSTANDING movie? If not, you MUST see it! If for no other reason than to watch the scene when Nixon, played by Frank Langella in a mesmerizing performance, calls Frost - played brilliantly by Michael Sheen - the night before their final interview; for my money, this was one of the best scenes I've seen in a movie in a very long time. It was absolutely riveting! The final moment between Frost and Nixon was poignant and thought provoking as well. The story is satisfying on every level. It is writing, directing and acting at their BEST.
GREAT BOOKS
BUSINESS
THE BIG IDEA - HOW TO MAKE YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL DREAMS COME TRUE FROM THE AHA MOMENT TO YOUR FIRST MILLION
Written by Donny Deutsch with Catherine Whitney
This book is inspirational on every level. There are so many real life stories about how people rose above challenging life circumstances to find great success that the book makes it seem easy. I particularly LOVE the chapter, "Why NOT Me?" The book provides website, additional books and organizations that support you in going after your dream.
ENTERTAINMENT
THE 101 HABITS OF HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL SCREENWRITERS
Written by Karl Iglesias
This book came highly recommended to me, and while reading it, I could see why; it's organized in a clear, compelling manner that keeps the reader glued to the page and on point. Karl achieved this by interviewing top-level writers and organized the book by the interviewees' responses to specific questions that writers can easily turn to for guidance in their own careers. It was inspirational for me to hear the stories behind some of these tremendously successful writers and see that their openness to their own stories rich with challenges and obstacles contributes to their success.
WRITER/YOGA RETREAT
Jen Grisanti Consultancy Inc. is putting together a Writer/Yoga Retreat in Oahu from August 23-28. I am doing this with one of LA's top yoga instructors, Meaghan Townsend. You can read more about Meaghan at www.meaghantownsend.com. For me, there is no greater practice than yoga to find clarity.
The concept is to create a community experience to help accomplish your professional goals while taking care of yourself. Once the writers are assembled, they will exchange scripts; either television or features. There will be daily group and one-on-one sessions with me and daily yoga classes. By deepening your yoga practice, you get in touch with what is going on at your core. This is a tremendous exercise for your creative process. At the end of the trip, you'll feel more confident about your script, have a group that supports you and be refreshed from your yoga practice. The icing on the cake is you can write it all off!
If you are interested, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
THINKING OF STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS?
I recommend the following resources who helped me;
Business Consultant - Alan Weiss - Summit Consulting at www.summitconsulting.com
I referred to Alan's books, which are all available on his website, to set up my business.
Website Designer - Suzie Roth at www.suzieroth.com
Copywriter - Robyn Dale Meyers - www.writingtotherescue.com
Photographer for Website - Michael Hiller - www.michaelhillerphotography.com
COOKIES
DeLuscious Cookies
If you're like me, you LOVE cookies. Well, I recently discovered one of the best cookie places in Los Angeles, DeLuscious Cookies + Milk. I had an oatmeal, cranberry, white chocolate and pecan cookie that was probably one of these best cookies I've ever tasted!
At DeLuscious, you'll find 24 flavors that will satisfy your desire for something extraordinary and keep you coming back for more. But you won't find any fillers, hydrogenated oils or corn syrup in their cookies.
You can order them at http://delusciouscookies.com.
RESTAURANTS
The Foundry on Melrose
7465 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 651-0915
Chef Eric Greenspan creates a chicken entree that melts in your mouth and the cozy ambiance is fantastic. You can either eat on the patio out back for a more romantic/intimate setting or up front where it's more casual. And jazz music on the weekends is a fabulous bonus.
NETWORKING
Friday Night Drinks is a networking group I started that meets the first Friday of every month at the X Bar at the Century Plaza Hotel at 2025 Ave. of the Stars.
The February mixer was INCREDIBLE! It was one of the biggest turn outs for this event despite the rain, making it clear just how important networking and cultivating relationships are right now. It's time to ban together. This provides you with the opportunity; it's up to you to take it!
The next Friday Night Drinks is Friday March 6, 2009 from 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. at the X Bar.
I would like to recommend another event called;
Strategy for Actors and Filmmakers February: Building Your Network of Supporters
DATE: Thursday, February 12th (Van Nuys)
TIME: 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Kimberly Jentzen's Studio in Van Nuys
RSVP: www.strategycoaching.info
Check out the website. This promises to be a terrific group experience about inspiring you to move past your barriers and make your dreams a reality.
EVENTS
I went to an event last week put on by the Writers Guild Foundation called Beyond Words. It was PHENOMENAL. The moderator was Judd Apatow with panelists, Simon Beaufoy (SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE), Dustin Lance Black (MILK), Tom McCarthy (THE VISITOR), Jonathan Nolan (DARK KNIGHT) and Eric Roth (THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON).
The Writers Guild Foundation has a program called Writers on Writing. Their next event is
DIABLO CODY (THE UNITED STATES OF TARA, JUNO)
Thursday February 26, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. at the WGAW (7000 W. Third St.)
I got to hear Michael Patrick King (SEX AND THE CITY) speak via this program and he was HYSTERICAL. I loved it!
To order tickets for Diablo Cody and other events, go to www.wgfoundation.org
Have a GREAT month!
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
Let the beauty we love be what we do.
Rumi
Love,
Jen
www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com
Developing From Within
website by Suzie Roth Design
This month I'd like to talk about clarity and passion. Clarity of purpose and intent mixed with passion are key ingredients to succeeding in business and in life. I love the following quote;
All people dream; but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recess of their minds wake up in the day to find that it was vanity. But the dreamers of the day are the dangerous people, for they may act their dream with open eyes to make it possible.
--T.E. LAWRENCE
Now more than ever, many people are forced into taking inventory, looking at their lives and wondering what's next? In one single day this past January, the news reported that 50,000 people were laid off. It is no doubt daunting when you go from the very fast-paced life of a working American to having so much time on your hands that you realize you've confused WHAT you DO with WHO you ARE. By simply asking a couple of key questions, the process of untangling that assumption can be very rewarding; what made you love what you do in the first place and what are you most passionate about? By answering these questions, clarity emerges about who you really are - and it's not simply a job or career, and it's not anything that can be taken away from you; rather, it's a guiding energy that can lead you with purpose and intent through all the moments of your life.
As Donny Deutsch says in his book, THE BIG IDEA, "The American Dream is within your reach. I've literally seen it happen hundreds of times. The people who turn their big ideas into millions come from every conceivable background. They're middle-class moms, factory workers, college kids, veterans, everyone and anyone. Ordinary people - some faced with enormous obstacles - are stepping out and achieving extraordinary goals." Donny goes on to mention the key behind this when he says, "They share one thing in common. They were passionate about their ideas - so passionate that when the naysayers piled on, they kept shrugging them off, believing they could achieve their desires... and they did. They acted on their beliefs. And their achievements represent a revolution that's sweeping across our nation, changing the way business is done."
How do we turn our dreams into a reality? We approach life knowing our purpose and tapping into the power of intention as well as moving past the fear. In times like we're living today, universal themes and values become even more apparent and more important to remember. And the more writers are in tune with what is happening around them, the greater the experience for those who get to experience the gift of their words. With this in mind, I love Ambrose Redmoon's words, "Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something else is more important than fear."
Clarity and intent are so important in story as well. What is the protagonist's goal? What are the obstacles? What is the turning point and what is the resolution? It is stunning how much more fulfilling story is when the above elements are clear. It is even more fascinating to recognize that the above formula applies to our own lives; for it is from our truths that we draw some of the greatest stories.
If you are looking for clarity about how to approach your career as a writer and are interested in the value of a one on one experience to help you reach your goals and get to the next step, please contact me for an initial free consultation at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com. For a list of my services, you can go to my website at www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
EPISODIC TELEVISION
GREY'S ANATOMY
W - Debora Cahn D - Rob Corn
I love how symbolism enhances our experience of stories, and Debora's use of symbolism in this first of a three-episode arc that aired in January was powerful. Debora and Rob both did an outstanding job of digging deep for the emotional moments that made this episode a stand out.
LIE TO ME
W - Samuel Baum D - Robert Schwentke
This is a GREAT new show. The cast is compelling. Tim Roth is brilliant and charming, and I love the flavor that humor adds to a procedural show. It is also enlightening to see how much our nonverbal actions communicate and how it can be used to solve crime.
TRUST ME
W - Hunt Baldwin & John Coveny D - Michael Robin
Love this show. Tom Cavanagh and Eric McCormack play partners in an advertising agency, and the pilot started off with a strong moment that clearly set forth the drama we could expect to experience weekly. We quickly see what the dynamic team is made of and how they both contribute to the success they achieve. The show is quirky and dramatic and different. I applaud Hunt and John for tapping into their own advertising experience to beautifully capture this world and the pressure that comes with it.
FEATURES
FROST/NIXON
Did you see this OUTSTANDING movie? If not, you MUST see it! If for no other reason than to watch the scene when Nixon, played by Frank Langella in a mesmerizing performance, calls Frost - played brilliantly by Michael Sheen - the night before their final interview; for my money, this was one of the best scenes I've seen in a movie in a very long time. It was absolutely riveting! The final moment between Frost and Nixon was poignant and thought provoking as well. The story is satisfying on every level. It is writing, directing and acting at their BEST.
GREAT BOOKS
BUSINESS
THE BIG IDEA - HOW TO MAKE YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL DREAMS COME TRUE FROM THE AHA MOMENT TO YOUR FIRST MILLION
Written by Donny Deutsch with Catherine Whitney
This book is inspirational on every level. There are so many real life stories about how people rose above challenging life circumstances to find great success that the book makes it seem easy. I particularly LOVE the chapter, "Why NOT Me?" The book provides website, additional books and organizations that support you in going after your dream.
ENTERTAINMENT
THE 101 HABITS OF HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL SCREENWRITERS
Written by Karl Iglesias
This book came highly recommended to me, and while reading it, I could see why; it's organized in a clear, compelling manner that keeps the reader glued to the page and on point. Karl achieved this by interviewing top-level writers and organized the book by the interviewees' responses to specific questions that writers can easily turn to for guidance in their own careers. It was inspirational for me to hear the stories behind some of these tremendously successful writers and see that their openness to their own stories rich with challenges and obstacles contributes to their success.
WRITER/YOGA RETREAT
Jen Grisanti Consultancy Inc. is putting together a Writer/Yoga Retreat in Oahu from August 23-28. I am doing this with one of LA's top yoga instructors, Meaghan Townsend. You can read more about Meaghan at www.meaghantownsend.com. For me, there is no greater practice than yoga to find clarity.
The concept is to create a community experience to help accomplish your professional goals while taking care of yourself. Once the writers are assembled, they will exchange scripts; either television or features. There will be daily group and one-on-one sessions with me and daily yoga classes. By deepening your yoga practice, you get in touch with what is going on at your core. This is a tremendous exercise for your creative process. At the end of the trip, you'll feel more confident about your script, have a group that supports you and be refreshed from your yoga practice. The icing on the cake is you can write it all off!
If you are interested, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
THINKING OF STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS?
I recommend the following resources who helped me;
Business Consultant - Alan Weiss - Summit Consulting at www.summitconsulting.com
I referred to Alan's books, which are all available on his website, to set up my business.
Website Designer - Suzie Roth at www.suzieroth.com
Copywriter - Robyn Dale Meyers - www.writingtotherescue.com
Photographer for Website - Michael Hiller - www.michaelhillerphotography.com
COOKIES
DeLuscious Cookies
If you're like me, you LOVE cookies. Well, I recently discovered one of the best cookie places in Los Angeles, DeLuscious Cookies + Milk. I had an oatmeal, cranberry, white chocolate and pecan cookie that was probably one of these best cookies I've ever tasted!
At DeLuscious, you'll find 24 flavors that will satisfy your desire for something extraordinary and keep you coming back for more. But you won't find any fillers, hydrogenated oils or corn syrup in their cookies.
You can order them at http://delusciouscookies.com.
RESTAURANTS
The Foundry on Melrose
7465 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 651-0915
Chef Eric Greenspan creates a chicken entree that melts in your mouth and the cozy ambiance is fantastic. You can either eat on the patio out back for a more romantic/intimate setting or up front where it's more casual. And jazz music on the weekends is a fabulous bonus.
NETWORKING
Friday Night Drinks is a networking group I started that meets the first Friday of every month at the X Bar at the Century Plaza Hotel at 2025 Ave. of the Stars.
The February mixer was INCREDIBLE! It was one of the biggest turn outs for this event despite the rain, making it clear just how important networking and cultivating relationships are right now. It's time to ban together. This provides you with the opportunity; it's up to you to take it!
The next Friday Night Drinks is Friday March 6, 2009 from 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. at the X Bar.
I would like to recommend another event called;
Strategy for Actors and Filmmakers February: Building Your Network of Supporters
DATE: Thursday, February 12th (Van Nuys)
TIME: 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Kimberly Jentzen's Studio in Van Nuys
RSVP: www.strategycoaching.info
Check out the website. This promises to be a terrific group experience about inspiring you to move past your barriers and make your dreams a reality.
EVENTS
I went to an event last week put on by the Writers Guild Foundation called Beyond Words. It was PHENOMENAL. The moderator was Judd Apatow with panelists, Simon Beaufoy (SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE), Dustin Lance Black (MILK), Tom McCarthy (THE VISITOR), Jonathan Nolan (DARK KNIGHT) and Eric Roth (THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON).
The Writers Guild Foundation has a program called Writers on Writing. Their next event is
DIABLO CODY (THE UNITED STATES OF TARA, JUNO)
Thursday February 26, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. at the WGAW (7000 W. Third St.)
I got to hear Michael Patrick King (SEX AND THE CITY) speak via this program and he was HYSTERICAL. I loved it!
To order tickets for Diablo Cody and other events, go to www.wgfoundation.org
Have a GREAT month!
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
Let the beauty we love be what we do.
Rumi
Love,
Jen
www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com
Developing From Within
website by Suzie Roth Design
Saturday, January 10, 2009
January Newsletter for Jen Grisanti Consultancy, Inc.
Hello,
Happy New Year and welcome to the January newsletter for Jen Grisanti Consultancy, Inc.
There is so much about the beginning of a new year that is inspiring. Apropos of this, I'd like to talk about branding, and identifying the inspiration behind doing what we do. I am inspired by the positive results that individuals and corporations alike achieve through successful branding, giving the public a crystal clear sense of the product or service it can expect. The philosophy of branding one's self for the purpose of clarity and focus is like a breath of fresh air. And the idea of merging your personal and professional values and identifying words that reflect your message is something we could all benefit from exploring.
David McNally and Karl Speak assert in their book BE YOUR OWN BRAND, "Everybody already has a brand. Your brand is a reflection of how you are and what you believe, which is visibly expressed by what you do and how you do it. It's the doing part that connects you with someone else, and that connection with someone else results in a relationship. In reality, the image of your brand is a perception held in someone else's mind..." The writers later state, "When your actions and your behavior reflect your values, the result is integrity. The pieces fit. The picture you present to others is in focus, not blurred around the edges or incomplete."
To successfully brand yourself, as mentioned in another great book THE ART OF THE START by Guy Kawasaki, you should think of a three-word mantra to describe what you do in your business. It should identify who you are and what you hope to accomplish. For example, Starbuck's mantra is "Rewarding everyday moments." I think this is a great exercise for everyone. I came up with several phrases for my company and ran them by many writer friends as well as people outside of the business. The phrase I like the most and one that resonated with the people I asked is "Developing From Within." In my experience, the best writing comes from people who do the personal work inside and are able to access their emotions and get them on the page. I believe that in developing inside, you enhance the development of your story. I also believe in the inextricable ink between spirituality and writing. "Developing From Within" reflects who I am and how I approach my work for Jen Grisanti Consultancy, Inc.
As part of this brand identification, I am now including a wellness section to my newsletter (see below). In it, I will promote events that contribute to developing on the inside.
Also what's brewing and something to keep an eye out for -- I'm currently organizing a writer/yoga retreat in Hawaii from August 18-22 2009 with one of my favorite and top LA yoga instructors, Meaghan Townsend, on board for this. The idea is to intertwine personal growth and inspiration to write. Once we have a group of writers assembled, all the writers will distribute their scripts to me and to each other before the trip. Everyone who is attending will read the other participants' material. Then, we'll do group sessions as well as daily one-on-one sessions to go over each story. There will also be daily yoga classes with Meaghan Townsend. Meaghan is not only an outstanding instructor, she has a very unique and challenging practice. Combining the two practices of yoga and writing will make for a very pleasurable and productive experience. By the end of the trip, you will feel stronger and more confident about the television or feature script you worked on during the retreat. If you are interested in this, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
If you're looking to advance your writing and move forward with your writing career you can contact me to set up a free initial consultation at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com. If you would like to see my list of services, please visit my website at www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
FEATURES
As you know, it's that time of year when all the films nominated during the award season get released. And there were definitely some films that really resonated and certainly blended personal and professional to create inspiring stories. I applaud everyone involved for their achievements and I want to congratulate all the nominees! From everything I've seen so far (haven't seen FROST/NIXON, but I hear it's great), the following left a lasting impression;
MILK
Writer - Dustin Lance Black Director - Gus Van Sant
Overall, I loved this film. It stuck to the classic structure. I understood the goal and the obstacles that got in the way. The story was moving. The performances, especially by Sean Penn, were phenomenal and Gus Van Sant did a BEAUTIFUL job of bringing you into the story through superb performances and evocative visuals. Other standout performances were given by Josh Brolin, James Franco and Emile Hirsch.
THE READER
Writer - David Hare Director - Stephen Daldry
This film really moved me. I love the story and the way the power of reading books was incorporated. Kate Winslet was fantastic. Stephen Daldry's directing was brilliant and the dilemma faced by the young boy, performed flawlessly by David Kross, was very strong. It was truly a piece where the connection to the word allows your imagination to run wild.
THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON
Writer - Eric Roth (screenplay by) Director - David Fincher
I was swept away by the idea brought to life in this film of what we might learn and how it could affect our choices if we were to go through life from the end to the beginning. Brad Pitt did a great job, compelling throughout his character's journey. While the film definitely could have been trimmed length-wise at the beginning, it holds together thematically and created an emotional experience for me; especially in its exploration of all good things coming to an end, the importance of learning to let go and recognizing that it's never too late to begin something. I also loved seeing Mahershalalhashbaz Ali (he played "Tizzy"), who I worked with on 4400, make the jump to the big screen. He is brilliant!
Other standout films of the past year include VICKY CRISTINA BARCELONA, SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE, MAN ON WIRE, TRANSSIBERIAN, TELL NO ONE, DARK KNIGHT, IRON MAN and MARLEY AND ME.
PROFESSIONAL/SPIRITUAL BOOK
BE YOUR OWN BRAND - A BREAK THROUGH FORMULA for Standing Out from the Crowd
Written by David McNally and Karl D. Speak
This book definitely inspired me to understand what branding is, identify my personal values and strategically put them into my business model as a way to build Jen Grisanti Consultancy, Inc. I recommend it to anyone interested in combining the personal and professional as a way to better reflect who they are and what they aim to accomplish.
THE ART OF THE START
Written by Guy Kawasaki
This is a great book because Guy not only informs and educates about branding, he also guides readers through exercises about how to identify the best way to create their brand.
INSPIRING ARTICLES
I want to highlight Patricia Handschiegel, who is writing a series of articles for THE HUFFINGTON POST called "The New Power Girls."
I asked Patricia what inspired her to do this series, "I became an entrepreneur in 2004 and there were women founders but not many," she said, "Five of us banded together, all were alike in the sense that we had really big, multimedia type of goals -- like turning ideas into large, cross platform concepts, etc. Over the course of time more women started to come into the fold. I had wanted to create some kind of book or project about it and had brainstormed with a friend and fellow entrepreneur, who inspired The Huffington Post series. I've always wanted to create media that inspires people to think differently, aim big, etc. especially women, and to show media business that something like this could sell and potentially be big ticket.
A manager, Geoff Silverman, introduced me to Patricia and she asked if I would participate in the series by being one of the female entrepreneurs she interviews. You can read her articles in The Huffington Post at
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/patricia-handschiegel/the-new-power-girls-how-t_b_154728.html
Her blog is www.dailypatricia.com
NEED TO NETWORK?
Networking is what builds relationships. Relationships are key in getting hired.
As many of you know, I host a networking night the first Friday of every month for entertainment professionals at the X Bar in the Century Plaza Hotel. Located at 2025 Ave. of the Stars, the X Bar is a fantastic venue with a beautiful restaurant and an outside patio with a ton of seating.
The next networking night is Friday, February 6, 2009. It starts at 7:00 p.m. and goes to 11:00 p.m. If you know people who would benefit from this experience, please have them e-mail me. at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com and I will add them to the evite list. I also have the event listed on Facebook.
WELLNESS EVENTS
In line with my approach of mixing writing with spirituality and the acknowledgement that if you take care of and draw from what is going on inside, you will be stronger on the page, I recommend the following events;
Yoga Retreat
Top Los Angeles yoga instructor (and another one of my favorites), Joseph Van Arsdale invites you to a much needed post holiday and NEW YEAR Yoga Retreat in Palm Springs on January 23 -25 2009 at Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa.
Come for a 2 night/3 day yoga relaxation getaway in Palm Springs for a weekend of growth, stress reduction and just great fun. The weekend includes 11 yoga classes. Ideal for beginners to get special attention and for advanced students to take their practice further.
Joseph is a phenomenal instructor. He is all about promoting healing and bringing peace. He is very SPECIAL and a gift to anyone who has the good fortune to practice with him.
If you're interested in this retreat, go to
http://www.josephvanarsdale.com/retreatpalmsprings09.html
Teleseminar
Break UP, Break THROUGH & BEYOND is being given by Eris Huemer author of Break-up Emergency. She is a Counselor and Life Coach and holds a Masters degree in counseling psychology.
I believe that as difficult as break-ups are, they present rich opportunities to get in touch with what you're feeling and to put it on the page.
In this six week teleseminar you'll access the deep, dark stuff AND move past it creatively and powerfully, healing your broken heart and beginning to date again.
Eris has clients worldwide and is excellent at what she does.
If you are interested in participating in this teleseminar, please go to the following link -
http://www.1shoppingcart.com/app/?af=898541
Have a GREAT month!
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
Believe that with your feelings and your work you are taking part in the greatest;
the more strongly you cultivate this belief, the more will reality and the world go forth from it.
Rainer Maria Rilke
Warmest regards,
Jen
www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com
Happy New Year and welcome to the January newsletter for Jen Grisanti Consultancy, Inc.
There is so much about the beginning of a new year that is inspiring. Apropos of this, I'd like to talk about branding, and identifying the inspiration behind doing what we do. I am inspired by the positive results that individuals and corporations alike achieve through successful branding, giving the public a crystal clear sense of the product or service it can expect. The philosophy of branding one's self for the purpose of clarity and focus is like a breath of fresh air. And the idea of merging your personal and professional values and identifying words that reflect your message is something we could all benefit from exploring.
David McNally and Karl Speak assert in their book BE YOUR OWN BRAND, "Everybody already has a brand. Your brand is a reflection of how you are and what you believe, which is visibly expressed by what you do and how you do it. It's the doing part that connects you with someone else, and that connection with someone else results in a relationship. In reality, the image of your brand is a perception held in someone else's mind..." The writers later state, "When your actions and your behavior reflect your values, the result is integrity. The pieces fit. The picture you present to others is in focus, not blurred around the edges or incomplete."
To successfully brand yourself, as mentioned in another great book THE ART OF THE START by Guy Kawasaki, you should think of a three-word mantra to describe what you do in your business. It should identify who you are and what you hope to accomplish. For example, Starbuck's mantra is "Rewarding everyday moments." I think this is a great exercise for everyone. I came up with several phrases for my company and ran them by many writer friends as well as people outside of the business. The phrase I like the most and one that resonated with the people I asked is "Developing From Within." In my experience, the best writing comes from people who do the personal work inside and are able to access their emotions and get them on the page. I believe that in developing inside, you enhance the development of your story. I also believe in the inextricable ink between spirituality and writing. "Developing From Within" reflects who I am and how I approach my work for Jen Grisanti Consultancy, Inc.
As part of this brand identification, I am now including a wellness section to my newsletter (see below). In it, I will promote events that contribute to developing on the inside.
Also what's brewing and something to keep an eye out for -- I'm currently organizing a writer/yoga retreat in Hawaii from August 18-22 2009 with one of my favorite and top LA yoga instructors, Meaghan Townsend, on board for this. The idea is to intertwine personal growth and inspiration to write. Once we have a group of writers assembled, all the writers will distribute their scripts to me and to each other before the trip. Everyone who is attending will read the other participants' material. Then, we'll do group sessions as well as daily one-on-one sessions to go over each story. There will also be daily yoga classes with Meaghan Townsend. Meaghan is not only an outstanding instructor, she has a very unique and challenging practice. Combining the two practices of yoga and writing will make for a very pleasurable and productive experience. By the end of the trip, you will feel stronger and more confident about the television or feature script you worked on during the retreat. If you are interested in this, please contact me at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
If you're looking to advance your writing and move forward with your writing career you can contact me to set up a free initial consultation at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com. If you would like to see my list of services, please visit my website at www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com.
FEATURES
As you know, it's that time of year when all the films nominated during the award season get released. And there were definitely some films that really resonated and certainly blended personal and professional to create inspiring stories. I applaud everyone involved for their achievements and I want to congratulate all the nominees! From everything I've seen so far (haven't seen FROST/NIXON, but I hear it's great), the following left a lasting impression;
MILK
Writer - Dustin Lance Black Director - Gus Van Sant
Overall, I loved this film. It stuck to the classic structure. I understood the goal and the obstacles that got in the way. The story was moving. The performances, especially by Sean Penn, were phenomenal and Gus Van Sant did a BEAUTIFUL job of bringing you into the story through superb performances and evocative visuals. Other standout performances were given by Josh Brolin, James Franco and Emile Hirsch.
THE READER
Writer - David Hare Director - Stephen Daldry
This film really moved me. I love the story and the way the power of reading books was incorporated. Kate Winslet was fantastic. Stephen Daldry's directing was brilliant and the dilemma faced by the young boy, performed flawlessly by David Kross, was very strong. It was truly a piece where the connection to the word allows your imagination to run wild.
THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON
Writer - Eric Roth (screenplay by) Director - David Fincher
I was swept away by the idea brought to life in this film of what we might learn and how it could affect our choices if we were to go through life from the end to the beginning. Brad Pitt did a great job, compelling throughout his character's journey. While the film definitely could have been trimmed length-wise at the beginning, it holds together thematically and created an emotional experience for me; especially in its exploration of all good things coming to an end, the importance of learning to let go and recognizing that it's never too late to begin something. I also loved seeing Mahershalalhashbaz Ali (he played "Tizzy"), who I worked with on 4400, make the jump to the big screen. He is brilliant!
Other standout films of the past year include VICKY CRISTINA BARCELONA, SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE, MAN ON WIRE, TRANSSIBERIAN, TELL NO ONE, DARK KNIGHT, IRON MAN and MARLEY AND ME.
PROFESSIONAL/SPIRITUAL BOOK
BE YOUR OWN BRAND - A BREAK THROUGH FORMULA for Standing Out from the Crowd
Written by David McNally and Karl D. Speak
This book definitely inspired me to understand what branding is, identify my personal values and strategically put them into my business model as a way to build Jen Grisanti Consultancy, Inc. I recommend it to anyone interested in combining the personal and professional as a way to better reflect who they are and what they aim to accomplish.
THE ART OF THE START
Written by Guy Kawasaki
This is a great book because Guy not only informs and educates about branding, he also guides readers through exercises about how to identify the best way to create their brand.
INSPIRING ARTICLES
I want to highlight Patricia Handschiegel, who is writing a series of articles for THE HUFFINGTON POST called "The New Power Girls."
I asked Patricia what inspired her to do this series, "I became an entrepreneur in 2004 and there were women founders but not many," she said, "Five of us banded together, all were alike in the sense that we had really big, multimedia type of goals -- like turning ideas into large, cross platform concepts, etc. Over the course of time more women started to come into the fold. I had wanted to create some kind of book or project about it and had brainstormed with a friend and fellow entrepreneur, who inspired The Huffington Post series. I've always wanted to create media that inspires people to think differently, aim big, etc. especially women, and to show media business that something like this could sell and potentially be big ticket.
A manager, Geoff Silverman, introduced me to Patricia and she asked if I would participate in the series by being one of the female entrepreneurs she interviews. You can read her articles in The Huffington Post at
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/patricia-handschiegel/the-new-power-girls-how-t_b_154728.html
Her blog is www.dailypatricia.com
NEED TO NETWORK?
Networking is what builds relationships. Relationships are key in getting hired.
As many of you know, I host a networking night the first Friday of every month for entertainment professionals at the X Bar in the Century Plaza Hotel. Located at 2025 Ave. of the Stars, the X Bar is a fantastic venue with a beautiful restaurant and an outside patio with a ton of seating.
The next networking night is Friday, February 6, 2009. It starts at 7:00 p.m. and goes to 11:00 p.m. If you know people who would benefit from this experience, please have them e-mail me. at jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com and I will add them to the evite list. I also have the event listed on Facebook.
WELLNESS EVENTS
In line with my approach of mixing writing with spirituality and the acknowledgement that if you take care of and draw from what is going on inside, you will be stronger on the page, I recommend the following events;
Yoga Retreat
Top Los Angeles yoga instructor (and another one of my favorites), Joseph Van Arsdale invites you to a much needed post holiday and NEW YEAR Yoga Retreat in Palm Springs on January 23 -25 2009 at Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa.
Come for a 2 night/3 day yoga relaxation getaway in Palm Springs for a weekend of growth, stress reduction and just great fun. The weekend includes 11 yoga classes. Ideal for beginners to get special attention and for advanced students to take their practice further.
Joseph is a phenomenal instructor. He is all about promoting healing and bringing peace. He is very SPECIAL and a gift to anyone who has the good fortune to practice with him.
If you're interested in this retreat, go to
http://www.josephvanarsdale.com/retreatpalmsprings09.html
Teleseminar
Break UP, Break THROUGH & BEYOND is being given by Eris Huemer author of Break-up Emergency. She is a Counselor and Life Coach and holds a Masters degree in counseling psychology.
I believe that as difficult as break-ups are, they present rich opportunities to get in touch with what you're feeling and to put it on the page.
In this six week teleseminar you'll access the deep, dark stuff AND move past it creatively and powerfully, healing your broken heart and beginning to date again.
Eris has clients worldwide and is excellent at what she does.
If you are interested in participating in this teleseminar, please go to the following link -
http://www.1shoppingcart.com/app/?af=898541
Have a GREAT month!
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
Believe that with your feelings and your work you are taking part in the greatest;
the more strongly you cultivate this belief, the more will reality and the world go forth from it.
Rainer Maria Rilke
Warmest regards,
Jen
www.jengrisanticonsultancy.com
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