Lessons from the Media: What gives Fiona Forbes “the feels”

Fiona Forbes is an award winning television host, producer and much more. She currently hosts a show, Fiona Forbes, on Shaw TV. Here’s a glimpse into her professional life.

1) What do you do?

I’m a TV talk show host and have my own self-titled show on Shaw TV where I get to interview amazing people and have lively discussions about topical issues, headlines, trends and pop culture buzz. I’m also Co­Founder, Creative Director and Producer of a production company called LadyPants Productions that I started last spring with my BFF Mary Zilba. We have been having an absolute blast developing and producing concepts for TV and Web-based series. Our first show is in the can and will be launching soon ­so stay tuned!

2) What stories do you like?

I like stories that make me laugh, cry or just give me “the feels”. When I’m in front of the camera doing an interview, I feel privileged to ask people questions, have a great conversation and get their stories out there. When it comes to the shows that I’m creating and producing with LadyPants Productions, I want to make shows that are different, make a difference and make people think. Don’t get me wrong, we’ve got some fun and funny stuff in the hopper too!

3) What do you love about your job?

I love everything about what I do for a living ­no day is ever the same and it’s never boring! One of the best parts is the incredible people I get to meet and share their stories. I love being creative and creating…as crazy as the TV world is, it’s my home!

4) What is the biggest challenge you face or have dealt with in your career? 

Oh so many! Life would be boring without challenges and I’ve learned to roll with the punches, duck and cover when necessary and that there’s always a solution to (almost) every problem. And there’s nothing more humbling than being in front of the camera. You definitely learn your strengths and your weaknesses when you put yourself out there like that!

5) What advice would you give to people coming to you with pitches?

Know your audience. If you’re pitching an idea to a TV show make sure you watch the show and figure out how you can make your segment stand out to the producers and fit their format. There’s nothing that will get deleted more quickly than a blanket, generic email that is obviously blasted out to every media outlet in town. Personalize it and create a relationship to who you’re pitching ­ it’ll make every pitch get easier. It’s a great idea to start any pitch off with a one­liner that will grab someone’s attention right off the bat. Chances are you’re dealing with someone with a very full inbox and you always want to make yours stand out and get noticed!

6) How do you handle failure?

Every time we fail, we get stronger ­ it’s how we learn. And wine, lots and lots of wine.

7) How do you measure success?

If I love what I’m doing and am proud of what I do, then I’m doing it right.

8) If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?

It would have to be something creative with people who inspire me. Or I’d be lying on a beach with an icy cold drink contemplating life.

9) If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

I’d buy a ticket around the world and go everywhere!