Editor’s Note: Welcome to “Reel Women,” our annual tribute to dynamic women in creative industries. For the month of March, let us introduce you to some very special women like TigerLily CEO and founder, Brenda Kolb.
Brenda is a dynamic leader who has cultivated a thriving creative and production studio dedicated to serving its clients with unwavering commitment. Known for her transformative leadership style, Brenda places a strong emphasis on fostering long-term partnerships and empowering her team to unleash their creative potential. With a wealth of experience spanning various media formats, including commercials, branded content, and feature films, Brenda brings a unique blend of expertise and hands-on knowledge to every project.
One of Brenda’s defining characteristics is her passion for championing women’s issues, social justice, and environmental causes through her work. Over her extensive career, she has amassed over two decades of experience in executive producing and producing both narrative and documentary films. Her projects have garnered premieres on platforms like Showtime and have been showcased at prestigious film festivals ranging from Tribeca Festival to CineVegas.
Brenda’s ability to navigate complex projects with grace and proficiency speaks volumes about her dedication to her craft and her commitment to delivering exceptional results. Her work not only reflects her artistic vision but also her unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on society through storytelling.
Let’s meet Brenda!
What’s your origin story?
I’m a Gen Xer who grew up as the oldest of four children in a predominantly single-parent household. From an early age, I accepted responsibilities and helped my dad however I could, honing my natural inclination towards leadership. Growing up in this environment, I developed a strong sense of independence and a knack for quick thinking and decision-making.
These skills made me an obvious candidate for producing, and when I had the chance to jump into the role, I took it head-on and never looked back.
Now, 22 years later, as TigerLily’s CEO, I find myself a leader dedicated to continuous growth, learning from both successes and failures and empowering others to reach their full potential within our organization. I’ve had to navigate many challenges, whether adapting to changing market circumstances, prioritizing diversity and inclusion, or maintaining team morale during difficult times.
How did you get into Production?
I spent a lot of time in front of the TV as a kid and was inherently drawn to the business. I made my way into the industry by starting in casting and talent management and then moving into an in-house position with a local DP.
As a coordinator for him and his producing partner, I had the unique opportunity to work with their production team on America’s Most Wanted. For those of you too young to remember, the show was a series of re-enactments of crimes. It was the equivalent of making high-energy short films full of stunts, in-camera effects, pyrotechnics, and special effect makeup in a few days. It was nuts but so much fun. And the best place to learn.
They gave me an incredible foundation in filmmaking that I don’t think I would have gotten anywhere else then.
Who were your mentors?
I’ve had a few mentors over the years who have had various impacts on me based on where I was in my career journey at the time. I’ve been lucky enough to be surrounded by truly talented people who wanted to see me succeed and grow.
In particular, a very special woman named Barbara came into my life around the same time that I lost my mother. She is an old-school ad agency creative I was introduced to through a mutual friend to help with a campaign.
Unbeknownst to her, her presence became a sort of solace during a really challenging time. We initially bonded over the loss of our mothers, but she also intimately understood the nature of owning a creative agency. She offered invaluable insights into navigating the challenges of our industry. And her empathy and understanding, especially in the wake of our shared experiences of loss, were profoundly meaningful. She was also incredibly encouraging. She just had this way of very matter-of-factly saying, “You can do it,” and I couldn’t help but believe her, believing in me. It felt truly special.
Through her mentorship, I not only gained valuable skills and knowledge but also discovered the power of compassion and connection in overcoming adversity. Barbara’s impact on my life and career is immeasurable; a testament to the profound influence mentors can have in shaping our journey of growth and self-discovery.
While there will be others, what do you consider your biggest achievement to date?
By far, my biggest professional achievement has been leading TigerLily to thrive in our industry’s ever-changing landscape for over two decades. Despite enduring formidable challenges, including the financial crisis of 2008, the unprecedented disruptions caused by the recent pandemic, and numerous market shifts, TigerLily has remained resilient and resolute.
Our journey is exemplified by our expansion from documentary and narrative filmmaking into design and animation and comprehensive 360 content for events. This diversification of our capabilities has not only broadened our scope but also enabled us to adapt and seize new opportunities. We’ve been able to utilize the shift in the marketplace as an opportunity to double down on our creative endeavors.
We’ve weathered the storm by focusing on creativity and innovation and saw substantial growth during the pandemic. We’ve emerged stronger and more resilient than ever before. As we continue to evolve and push the boundaries of creativity, I am confident our best days are yet to come.
What drives you to create?
What drives me to create is the pursuit of a vision, often drawn to challenges that push the limits of what’s possible. I thrive on overcoming obstacles and proving doubters wrong. The word ‘no’ only fuels my determination further. I’m driven by the belief that anything is achievable with persistence and creativity, and I’m constantly motivated to turn vision into reality.
What is a product or service you dream of doing a campaign for?
Oh, wow. What a question. There are so many amazing brands out there that it’s hard to choose. The campaign work of tech companies like Apple and Google forever inspires me. They manage to humanize technology in their storytelling, which we often associate with isolation.
Who are you dying to work with?
I’ve never directed a feature film, but who knows what the future may bring? If I were lucky and crazy enough to do so, I’d want to work with Thelma Schoonmaker. She’d be my first and only choice as an editor.
Award you crave, but haven’t won
I don’t think there is a specific award I’m vying for, although there are a few that would be nice, like an Academy Award for documentary filmmaking or, even better, a Pulitzer Prize. But mostly, I’d just like to be recognized for my integrity and persistence, so whatever award they give for that, I’ll take it.
Female-directed franchise films such as Star Wars or MCU constantly get called “woke” by Internet trolls. Why?
I think there are a lot of misconceptions about feminism and its goals. The “trolls” incorrectly perceive feminist themes, such as female empowerment and representation, as attempts to push a particular agenda rather than seeking equality and inclusivity.
Some people also feel threatened by the diversification of popular franchises, fearing that it diminishes their own sense of identity or representation within the fandom.
It’s silly, really. At the end of the day, we all have a point of view that we want to express. There is ample room for diverse voices, and the trolls just get in the way and highlight the fear that has been slowly spreading over the past 30 years.
Coffee, Lunch or Happy Hour
- Coffee: Fran Lebowitz
- Lunch: Meryl Streep
- Happy Hour: Hillary Clinton. I have questions, and I think a few drinks might be the way to get my answers.
It’s an election year; what is keeping you up at night?
All of it. It’s just a mess. As a nation, we have become so polarized by bad leadership and bad information. I’m worried about our rights as women. I’m worried about the threat to our democratic institutions, and I am beyond tired of worrying about my friends and family falling victim to gun violence.
Favorite movie and TV show of 2023.
Have you seen Suits?
Song you absolutely go feral for.
“Ray of Light” by Madonna
What’s your theme song for 2024?
My husband and I are thinking about buying a small farm on the outskirts of town. In my version of the future, I’m wearing cowboy boots and rhinestones like Beyoncé. Texas Hold ‘Em is playing on repeat.
To see who else is a Reel Woman, click here.
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