A behind the scenes look into working on a major tv show @NBCThisIsUs, the nuances of creativity, and not falling to the pressures of your society.
Ken Olin is a Writer, Executive Producer, Director and actor who has directed many episodes of television for shows including the blockbuster TV show THIS IS US, as well as Brothers and Sisters, The West Wing, Alias and many more.
In this conversation although this was our first time speaking together Ken and I had such a great flow, he is a great guy and you are going to love this chat it was as if I was catching up with a long time friend.
Ken shares a lot about the nuances of his creative process and working as a major player in the show THIS IS US, which is one of my favourite shows so it was such a honour to speak with him about this.
He shares about how he started out, and the differences between acting and directing, working with creative people and creating a healthy work culture.
This conversation is for any who love creativity, has an interest in film and television, and great advice for working in your element and not falling to the pressures that your culture may expect from you.
Ken also is vulnerable about raising his kids as well as managing his ambitions. And some great conversation about the hidden gifts of the pandemic.
Questions I ask Ken…
4.32 - Where did the idea of the show THIS IS US come from?
6.20 - How do you think the views perceive the show?
9.30 - Where does the sense of connectivity come from with the show? It feels like a therapy session.
13.30 - Milos character and the nuances.
15.34 - Do actors decide certain parts of a role or is that scripted?
17.58 - How did you find such an amazing cast?
20.15 - Do you think being an actor makes you a better director, if so why?
23.54 - Do you miss acting?
26.36 - A common thread in your life that you can track, that took you into this world?
31.19 - The emerging generations observations of wanting to work in their calling, what’s your thoughts on this?
37.08 - This is us is speaking to human needs - loneliness, depression, racism…
38.33 - How do you switch off, hobbies, interests?
42.44 - Do you enjoy being a Dad?
46.30 - Quick fire questions…
Something people often get wrong about you?
Last tv show you binged watched?
Favourite movie?
Concert or show you’ll never forget?
Favourite meal?
What books are you reading?
What would you like on your grave stone?
An ordinary moment that lights you up?
Last time you wrote a hand written note or letter?
What are you most grateful for this past year?
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Let me know when you are listening/watching this conversation tag me in it @PaulScanlonUK and be sure to watch This Is Us as well as connect with Ken on twitter/instagram @KenOlin1.
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