Trusting My Gut & Taking the Leap.
Lessons from My Own Pivot
(Repost from LinkedIn)
In 2023, I had the joy of sitting down with Kimberly Godbolt of Talented People on her brilliant podcast, The Imposter Club (link to the pod in the pic). Kimberly has been a stalwart and beacon through the bleakest moments of this time in our industry as we haemorrhaged freelancers in response to dwindling opportunities.
I can only imagine her potential horror at my pivot from commissioner to freelancer during these challenging times.
In the podcast blurb, I was described as UKTV's Scripted Comedy Commissioner, formerly the BBC's first Black female commissioning editor of comedy, and a force of nature. People later told me the conversation crackled with energy and wisdom. My journey from advertising to TV in my 30’s by smashing barriers (from assistant to commissioner), without letting imposter syndrome dim my light, was a masterclass in self-belief.
What resonated most with listeners was my insistence that great storytelling thrives when we champion underrepresented voices. Which in turn, gave me a purpose and drove that determined self-belief.
Now, as I step back from a decade as a commissioner and 20 years in broadcasting to launch The Asante Space - a creative scripted TV consultancy, I see it as an opportunity to pass along my learnings by working directly with brilliant writers (new and seasoned) and producers to shape stories that actually reflect our world.
I asked AI to help me pull out the most helpful points from the conversation, and I hope these lessons serve as a roadmap:
1. Your "Unconventional" Background is a Superpower
I didn't follow a traditional TV path. I've seen how diverse experiences in my case, being born in Ghana and not being a straight-A student in state schools fuelled my fresh perspective. Now as a consultant, I'm drawn to writers and producers who bring unexpected voices to the table, because that's where the magic happens. I'm doubling down on this by mentoring writers from ALL underrepresented backgrounds and helping producers avoid "diversity debt" (that gap between intention and execution).
2. Commissioning Isn't Just About Taste, It's About Trust
My success wasn't just about spotting hits; it was about creating space for outsiders and underdogs. In my new role mentoring emerging writers and collaborating with producers, I'm doubling down on this approach, helping talent trust their instincts while navigating an industry that often feels gatekept. Now, I'll help creators polish those overlooked gems, whether it's a comedy pilot or a drama with teeth.
3. Leaping is Scary, but Do It Anyway
Walking away from a "secure" role after 20 years? Terrifying. But my refusal to let fear dictate my choices reminded me that growth lives outside the comfort zone. Now, I'm channelling that energy into building something new, a consultancy designed to bridge gaps for creators who, like me (and maybe like you), have stories the world needs to hear. Staying where I'd stopped growing? I think that's the real risk.
If I've learned anything, it's this: The industry needs fewer gatekeepers and more bridges. That's what I'm building now.
So, What's Next?
I'm partnering with writers and producers who:
Have a bold scripted idea but need strategy to get it seen and sold
Want honest, no-bullshit feedback from someone who's been in the room
Believe that comedy and drama should challenge, not just entertain
And if you're a network or streamer looking for fresh voices? Let's talk too!
Now over to you, dear reader: What's the leap you've been hesitating to take?
Or the untold story you're burning to tell?
DM me, I'd love to hear it.
To Everyone Who's Supported Me So Far: Thank you. The best is yet to come.
#NewChapter #ScriptedTV #Commissioning #DiversityInStorytelling