How To Be A... TV Producer: Talia Parkinson

This month, our “Working Girl” is Emmy Award-Winning television producer, Talia Parkinson who currently works at the nationally syndicated Wendy Williams Show in New York City.

Stats:

Name: Talia Parkinson

Age: 33

Location: New York City

Profession: Television Producer, The Wendy Williams Show

Work:

What’s an average working day like?

As Senior Producer on The Wendy Williams Show, my day-to-day varies depending on the type of segment I’m required to produce. Every day starts with a 7:30am production meeting, then a rehearsal of my segment on the studio floor. I then go in to Wendy to brief her on the segment, highlighting interview questions, blocking etc. Then I’m off to a control room meeting, making sure that our Director has all the elements needed for the segment, including any photos, graphics, etc. Usually around 9:30am our celebrity guest or expert arrives and I spend some time going over the segment with him/her. Then it’s show time! We’re Live at 10am.

After the show I head back to my office to prep for my next segment. Reviewing research, pitching segment ideas, returning emails, and writing my script for the next day. Then it’s time to do it all over again.

Why you do it?

I love it! It’s my dream job. I love having the opportunity to create content that will entertain millions of viewers.

How did you get started?

Attending Syracuse University and figuring out that I wanted to be behind the scenes, a Syracuse Alum gave me my first Production Assistant job and I’ve worked my way up.

What ups and downs do you sometimes face on the job?

The best thing about producing is watching an idea that you’ve created in your head play out on television. Watching two people have a conversation that you carefully crafted to tell a story that will entertain the audience. The downside to this business is it can take over your life. I work at least 12 hours a day leaving very little room for a personal life.

What might be next for you?

Working towards the next level. Moving from a Senior Producer to a Supervising Producer and eventually running my own show.

Hair:

What are your top 5 go-to hair tips?

I love Moroccan Oil products. I use their shampoo and conditioner on a weekly basis.
Since I don’t have much time to spend on my hair, I do a twist out on Sundays and keep it throughout the week. As the days go by, my hair gets bigger and bigger.
Find a great stylist who understands your hair texture and go to the salon every 2 months for a cut.
Mix it up, the best thing about having natural hair is its versatility; rock a straight style once in awhile.
Condition, condition, condition.

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