Today we’d like to introduce you to Cheryl Parker.
Cheryl, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I moved to South Florida 10-yrs ago and that is when I started my company Spotlight Media Booking, As a TV news producer who has worked for CNN, BBC, ABC News and Voice of America in Washington, DC and Miami, I know what the networks are looking for when booking guest interviews. My friends and former colleagues in the news media book my clients on their programs because they trust my journalistic integrity and know that I will always provide them with the best experts that are TV ready. I’ve always been a news junkie at heart, especially “hard news” segments, so booking authors, doctors, political, legal, and business guests on all the major news outlets is what I enjoy the most. My dog has even become and avid cable news watcher! I’ve represented a lot of clients from South Florida over the years, and provide media training and talking points to help them stand out in their area of expertise. I love being able to work where the weather is warm all year round and there is such a diverse population. It’s also a quick flight to NYC and DC, which is where I travel the most.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I believe the one struggle of creating my company and being my own boss at the beginning was letting go of a steady paycheck in order to do something that challenged me in a new way. I have always been a hard worker and find immense value in collaborating with people that have unique backgrounds and stories to tell that might not otherwise be heard. I truly value that every day is different and the news cycle is always evolving, so I help my guests prepare for that by engaging with the decision-makers at the networks.
Spotlight Media Booking – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Spotlight Media Booking books guests from all over the U.S. for online, local, national and international TV news segments that can be LIVE or taped, and done on-set or remotely. We pride ourselves in working with novices to celebrities as clients who elevate their brand power as experts in their field by appearing on TV news programs and using those clips to promote themselves and their work. We want the process of media training, brainstorming soundbites, and preparing for the interview to be enjoyable, because if you’re not having fun it will show! As an Emmy award winning producer who has worked with clients whose interview was tweeted out by the President of the United States, or has become a contributor at a major news network, the possibilities are endless in what we can achieve together when pursuing your TV goals.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
When I get my clients interviewed by a certain TV anchor or on a specific show they requested, it gives me the best feeling. Helping to inform the public and represent the best guests in their field is something I never take for granted. It is important now more than ever that all different viewpoints are represented in the TV news world, and South Florida has so many strong voices that I am proud to work with when booking interviews.
Pricing:
- Online and local TV is a lower retainer per month, while national and international add more to the retainer for pro-active pitching
- Pricing is adjusted according to 1-month, 3-month, 6-month, 9-month or 1-year contracts
- Referrals get 10% of the contract if the client is added to our guest roster
Contact Info:
- Website: www.spotlightmediabooking.com
- Phone: 954-294-6399
- Email: cheryl@spotlightmediabooking.com
Video camera viewfinder – recording show in TV studio – focus on camera
Image Credit:
Werner Kiwiatkowski
