What made you start your own media business?

I’ve been involved in entertainment to some degree forever. I’ve ran my own magazines, newspapers, I’ve been in the music business and movie and TV industry. I’ve seen first-hand how the industry in designed for some to succeed while making it hard for others. I decided I didn’t want to fight for a seat at the table, when I could build my own table. I was also inspired by Oprah Winfrey, but not in the way you would think. When she started OWN, the content was lacking, and she turned down the chance to pick up All My Children and One Life to Live. Two shows that would have brought millions of loyal viewers and that was the moment it snapped to me, that I wanted my own channel. That’s when the process began.

What was the most difficult process to do this?

For me it was getting it into my head that it wasn’t an impossible dream or venture. I didn’t have Oprah’s money, nor her connections, and it was easy to make myself believe it couldn’t be done. It took me five to six years before I forced myself to believe this and begin. Beginning and believing is always the hardest. The rest was about figuring out.

Are there any organizations you have to or choose to be a part of?

I was never much of a joiner, (laughs) but I have begun building relations with movie academy and broadcast organizations. That being said, they aren’t what’s important to me. I’m more interested in customer feedback. Organizations can’t do for me what a person can through their actions.

You are in New York City, do you have a special relationship with local artists there, and if so how does it tie into your programming?

I do. I have a special love for New York writers, directors, and actors. I am one.  It’s important to nurture the creativity that can be found in the city.  I’m a graduate of Art and Design, and I’ve worked in the music , publishing and film and tv business. there is so much talent here and although I am very selective with programming, I get excited when dealing with New York creatives.

Which of the types of programming that you offer excite you most and why?

It honestly all does. I love all our  series. We have some really entertaining reality shows, LGBTQ content, and content from creators from all backgrounds and walks of life. What I truly love is how diverse and inclusive our content is.  There is nothing like it anywhere in the industry.  We believe almost anyone can feel represented while watching ON! programming.

What do you watch when you watch TV?

My tastes are very diverse. I love The Walking Dead, all the CW superhero shows, This is Us, The Connors, Station 19 and Grey’s Anatomy, How to Get Away With Murder, Homeland, Masked Singer, 90 Day Fiance -don’t judge- Young and the Restless, Naked and Afraid, and so much more.  I definitely have watched everything on The ON! Channel.  I also like Netflix and I’m hooked on Picard and Star Trek Discovery.

What television shows were your favorites growing up and what drew you to them?

As a kid growing up in the projects, The Cosby Show changed my life and probably had the biggest impact on me and how I saw the world.  It truly opened my eyes to so much. I also  loved Roseanne,  The Twilight Zone, The Jefferson, Mash, and Soul Train.

Off the top of your head, what are a couple of films that influenced you?

Citizen Kane is my number one followed by Aliens, Star Wars and any film from Alfred Hitchcock.

I know it must be a lot of pressure keeping this up solo—how do you stay motivated and keep your momentum going?

Rent, food…(laughs)  I knew the challenges going in, however I truly believe in what I’m building.  I draw motivation from that.

What do you see going on with the ON Channel five years from now?

I’m hoping to truly be competitive with the Netflixs and Disney Pluses of the world. I want ON! to be a place that people go when they want to be entertained, and where they know they can find  quality programing that  they can relate to and feel represented.  I want ON! to be the entertainment choice of million