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 Entropico Executive Producer, Katie Zakula.
Katie is a seasoned producer known for her expertise in creating captivating content across television and digital platforms. Her career took off at Kinetic Content, where she made significant contributions by adapting and developing international formats. Notably, she played a role in the success of hit shows like Lifetime’s Married At First Sight and ABC’s The Taste, featuring renowned figures such as Anthony Bourdain.
Building on her early successes, Katie has diversified her portfolio by taking on various projects. She has led the production of acclaimed competition series like Dancing with the Stars, showcasing her ability to manage high-profile productions with precision and creativity. Additionally, she has demonstrated her versatility by producing the NBPA’s feature documentary Vince Carter: Legacy, delving into the captivating story of the iconic basketball player.
Katie’s expertise extends beyond television programming, as she has also crafted commercial content for prominent brands such as Google, Amazon, Square, Kia, Starz, Samsung, and NBA2K. Her ability to blend creativity with strategic brand messaging has made her a sought-after producer in the industry.
With her proven track record and diverse skill set, Katie continues to be a driving force in the world of content production, consistently delivering engaging and impactful projects across various platforms.
Let’s meet Katie!
What’s your origin story?
My first paid job was as an executive assistant to the CEO of an unscripted production company. I learned so much on that desk, listening in on calls developing and selling shows, navigating production obstacles for current programming, and negotiating contracts with talent and showrunners. I got so much exposure to all the different phases of the production process and the many people needed to bring each unique concept to life.
That network of people ultimately afforded me my early opportunities in the industry and in observing the process, made me acutely aware of how important having strong and reliable people involved in every stage of production is to make successful content.
How did you get into entertainment?
I’ve always wanted to work in entertainment. Ever since I was a kid, I loved putting on shows for my family and coercing my siblings and cousins to perform. Long before TikToktik tok or social media in general for that matter, I would hijack my parents’ camcorder and edit together music videos recreating Spice Girls choreography, a runway show featuring the most elegant women’s attire from my mom’s closet, or a dramatic short film about a fractured friendship over a shared schoolyard crush.
In high school, I was on the news team and took editing classes at the local community college, intensifying my enthusiasm for production. Throughout college, I pursued internships across various sectors of the industry, from film distribution to commercial production to unscripted development, each experience deepening my understanding while simultaneously revealing the vastness of the field. The more I learned, the less I knew, but one thing was for sure, I loved it and wanted more.
Who were your mentors?
My family, EPs I’ve worked for, and Amanda Bynes.
While there will be others, what do you consider your biggest achievement to date?
So cliché, but becoming a mom and balancing a career. Candidly, it’s still very much a work in progress.
What drives you to create?
The fear of boredom and the satisfaction of bringing ideas to life.
What is a product or service you dream of doing a campaign for?
The Olympics.
Who are you dying to work with in the film/tv arena?
Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi would be at the top of my list.
Award you crave, but haven’t won:
I’d rather collect experiences than awards.
Coffee, Lunch or Happy Hour
Issa Rae, Ayn Rand, and Cleopatra.
Favorite movie and TV show of 2023
The Bear was easily my fave tv show. I really enjoyed Leave the World Behind, I just wish they finished the second half of the movie…
Band or singer you would ditch your career and go perform with:
Spice Girls.
What’s your theme song for 2024?
Just a Girl – No Doubt
To see who else is a Reel Woman, click here.
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