Dear Art Producer

In this special live edition of Dear Art Producer, host Heather Elder brings together agency producers Sari Rowe, Jen Lamping, and Billy Diesel, alongside renowned photographer Art Streiber, for an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation about what it takes to get noticed, earn trust, and land the job.

From standing out in a crowded field to building lasting relationships, the panel explores what art producers look for beyond a great portfolio, why fresh work and personal outreach matter, and how reputation, collaboration, and chemistry influence hiring decisions. They also get candid about the realities of bidding, the time and effort behind treatments, what makes a creative call stand out, and why asking thoughtful questions can make all the difference.

Plus, hear practical advice for navigating rejection, turning pitches into future opportunities, and building the kind of creative partnerships that keep artists in the conversation long after a single job is over.

Panel:

Sari Rowe - Freelance Art Producer Jen Lamping - VP, Director of Integrated Production at RPA Billy Diesel - SVP, Executive Broadcast Producer at Omnicom Art Streiber - Editorial and Entertainment Photographer

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In this episode we talk with Rob Haggart (founder of A Photo Editor,) and Mary Dail (President of the Artist Management Association) for a candid conversation about the fear and uncertainty AI is stirring among artists, the ethics and legality of AI training on copyrighted work, the shifting language around usage rights, and how organizations like the AMA are working to educate artists and standardize contract protections.

AI is reshaping the agency world and the way in which advertsing campaigns are concepted and created. In this episode, we sit down with Madi Nauta (Executive Producer, Anomaly) and Denise Knickerbocker (Freelance Art Producer) to talk through what the agency shift really means for working photographers and directors. From how briefs are changing to what clients are now asking for, this is a candid conversation about navigating a pivotal moment in our industry.

Heather and Kelly sit down with producers from Preacher to discuss the work, the challenges, and the changes creatives in the advertising industry are navigating: from AI and evolving client relationships to the way content is being created, consumed, and valued. Season 1, Episode 4 of Community Table.

In this special episode, Heather and Kelly sit down with two art producers from a large holding company and a creative director from an outdoor apparel sports brand to discuss how AI is reshaping creative work, shifting expectations around usage, and redefining the roles behind the work.

Heather and Kelly sit down with producers from Orchard to discuss the work, the challenges, and the changes creatives in the advertising industry are navigating: from AI and evolving client relationships to the way content is being created, consumed, and valued. Season 1, Episode 3 of Community Table.

Heather and Kelly sit down with producers from Droga to discuss the work, the challenges, and the changes creatives in the advertising industry are navigating: from AI and evolving client relationships to the way content is being created, consumed, and valued. Season 1, Episode 2 of Community Table.

In this episode of Dear Art Producer, host Heather Elder talks with Emily Cunningham, Creative Producer at JOAN Creative, about the unexpected path that led her into production and the fast-moving reality of agency life today.

Emily shares how she went from retail visual merchandising to Miami Ad School, where a chance invitation to a production meeting completely changed her career trajectory. After shifting from art direction into production under mentor Sherry Anderson, she eventually joined JOAN.

Known internally as JOAN's "queen of radio," Emily discusses producing everything from motion and audio projects to pitch rips and sizzles, while also serving as a key "historian" for client relationships and brand knowledge. She talks about the importance of bringing production partners in early as briefs evolve, how AI tools are currently being used for previs and creative exploration, and why business affairs conversations around risk matter more than ever.

Connect with our guest:

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Emily Cunningham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyherringdine/

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In this episode of Dear Art Producer, host Heather Elder talks with Lauren Wood, Senior Producer at GUT New York, about the art and reality of modern production.

Lauren shares her path from broadcast and her early days as an SNL page to agency roles at McCann and GUT, and breaks down the producer's role as the bridge between creatives, clients, and vendors and turning big ideas into executable work. She dives into the rise of social-first content, the current (and often misunderstood) role of AI in concepting, and why analog processes still matter in a fast-moving, budget-conscious world.

Along the way, Lauren offers practical insights on sourcing talent, running effective creative calls, navigating bids, and communicating with clarity, especially when timelines slip or decisions don't go your way.

This conversation is a grounded, behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to make great work happen today.

Connect with our guest:

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Lauren Wood on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-e-wood-285560a0/

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In this episode of Dear Art Producer, host Heather Elder sits down with Ali Berk, Head of Creative and Production at Billie, to talk about building a career that blends creative vision with production leadership.

Ali shares her journey from menswear design at Tommy Hilfiger to editorial, then into agency life at 72andSunny and Wieden+Kennedy, working with brands like HBO, Google, and Adidas, all before stepping into her current in-house role at Billie. She unpacks what it really means to lead both creative and production, from shaping brand storytelling across touchpoints to producing work within the realities of annual budgets.

The conversation dives into how she approaches collaboration, why strong creative partnerships matter, and how thoughtful planning sets great work up for success. Ali also offers a clear-eyed perspective on AI's practical role, how she discovers and evaluates talent, and why transparency around budgets and usage is non-negotiable.

Plus: her take on skipping unnecessary triple bids and why the best artists know how to protect spontaneity on set.

Connect with our guest:

• Website: https://www.helloaliberk.com/
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-berk-9010636/

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-berk-9010636/

In this episode of Dear Art Producer, host Heather Elder welcomes Kelly Montez (apostrophe) and Jen Jenkins (Giant Artists) to discuss AI's rapidly accelerating impact on artist representation and production, drawing on their work on the Artist Management Association's AI committee. The episode covers why slowing down to be intentional matters, the difference between walled gardens and open systems, and challenges around access, traceability, and work migrating from internal to external use. They also outline AI usage tiers and related fees (including upload fees), highlight the importance of restricting data learning, and discuss indemnification, likeness risks, and negotiating confidently without seeming difficult through checklists, collaboration, and bringing business affairs into discussions. Connect with our Guests: Giant Artists Apostrophe

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it's helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind https://notesfromarepsjournal.com/; visit http://heatherelder.com/ for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guests:

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Connect with Jen Jenkins: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-jenkins-0b25364/

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Connect with Kelly Montez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-montez-610b11/

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In this episode of Dear Art Producer, host Heather Elder interviews freelance executive producer Rue Payne, who brings over 15 years of experience in producing integrated campaigns for top global brands. They discuss Rue's unique career trajectory, starting from high school television production to her current executive role. The conversation covers the dynamic nature of the producer's role, the importance of organization and communication, and the shifting landscape of the industry with the rise of AI. They also touch on industry trends, the importance of building long-term relationships, and how creatives can effectively market themselves.

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it's helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind https://notesfromarepsjournal.com/; visit http://heatherelder.com/ for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

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Connect with Hannah Wolfert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hwolfert/

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Connect with Kim Roemer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-roemer-2026a570/

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Heather Elder's Bio

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Heather and Kelly sit down with producers from Ogilvy to discuss the work, the challenges, and the changes creatives in the advertising industry are navigating: from AI and evolving client relationships to the way content is being created, consumed, and valued. Season 1, Episode 1 of Community Table.

In this episode of Dear Art Producer' host Heather Elder sits down with Hannah Wolfert, a Senior Content Producer at Syneos Health, and Kim Roemer, a Content Production Business Manager, who have collaborated for nearly 17 years. The discussion delves into their unique career paths, spanning from art history classes to diverse roles in content production and business management. They reflect on their early professional encounters, the importance of industry relationships, and the evolving landscape marked by AI and integrated media projects. The conversation also touches on the complexities of licensing, the relevance of advances in production, and the integral role of business affairs in streamlining workflow. Tune in for insights on staying adaptable in a rapidly changing industry and the blend of creative and administrative skills required to thrive.

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it's helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind https://notesfromarepsjournal.com/; visit http://heatherelder.com/ for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guests:

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Connect with Hannah Wolfert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hwolfert/

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Connect with Kim Roemer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-roemer-2026a570/

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Heather Elder's Bio

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In this episode of Dear Art Producer' host Heather Elder welcomes back freelance art producer Kathleen Candelaria. Discussing the shifts in the art production world, including the impact of the global pandemic, the rise of AI-generated content, and the changing dynamics of work and production, the duo discuss Kathleen's extensive experience working with renowned clients and her new journey as a freelancer. Kathleen shares her insights on the evolving roles of art producers, the importance of mentoring, and offers valuable tips for artists on marketing themselves, navigating the bidding process, and the significance of creative calls and treatments. The episode also touches on the integration of AI in art production, the complexities of CGI, and trends in the industry.

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it's helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind https://notesfromarepsjournal.com/; visit http://heatherelder.com/ for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

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Connect with Kathleen Candelaria : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleen-candelaria-0a13546/

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In this episode of Dear Art Producer, host Heather Elder welcomes John Ancona, a Senior Producer at PXP Studios, who shares his decade-long journey in creative and agency operations, experience with healthcare accounts, and insights into producing groundbreaking motion media campaigns. John emphasizes the importance of communication, the evolving role of AI in creative processes, and how to effectively connect with artists and clients. He also discusses the significance of detailed treatments, budget transparency, and offers advice on landing jobs in the creative field.

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it's helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind https://notesfromarepsjournal.com/; visit http://heatherelder.com/ for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

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Connect with John Ancona:

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In this episode of Dear Art Producer, host Heather Elder is joined by freelance senior producer Jessica Mirolla. The conversation covers Jessica's extensive experience in production, her passion for art, and her insights on the ever-evolving nature of the industry. They discuss the importance of being multifaceted in today's market, the impact of AI and CGI in creative roles, and the value of treatments and creative calls in the bidding process. Jessica shares her thoughts on current trends, especially in automotive photography, and stresses the need for artists to stay culturally relevant and inspired. The episode concludes with personal reflections and aspirations in the realm of production, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in art production and the dynamic changes within the industry.

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it's helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind https://notesfromarepsjournal.com/; visit http://heatherelder.com/ for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

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Connect with Jessica Mirolla: jessica@10centdiamond.com

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In this episode of Dear Art Producer, hosted by Heather Elder, freelance art producer Sari Rowe and Julie Maxham, senior art producer at IPG Health, share their extensive experiences and unique perspectives on the ever-evolving art production industry. With backgrounds in multimedia, print, motion, CGI, experiential, and illustration, both Sari and Julie discuss their career journeys, the importance of relationships and networking in their roles, the impact of AI and CGI in modern productions, and how they adapt to industry trends. They also explore the nuances of producing treatments, staying connected with the creative community, and their predictions for the future of art production in 2025.

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it's helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind https://notesfromarepsjournal.com/; visit http://heatherelder.com/ for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guests:

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Connect with Sari Rowe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sari-rowe-06617313/

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Connect with Julie Maxham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-maxham-36ba842/

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Heather Elder's Bio

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In this episode of Dear Art Producer, Heather Elder sits down with Mary Olson, the Studio Director at Calcium + Company, to explore her multifaceted career and passion for problem-solving in the arts. Mary speaks about her journey from fine art photography to engineering cutting-edge production designs for high-profile clients like Ferrari, Sony, and Boston University. The two discuss the evolving challenges in the creative industry, the role of AI, the importance of sketch-based collaboration, and the unpredictable nature of art production. Mary also shares valuable tips for artists striving to land projects and the significance of maintaining a diverse and adaptive skill set.

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it's helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind https://notesfromarepsjournal.com/; visit http://heatherelder.com/ for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

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Connect with Mary Olson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mo-profile/

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In this episode of Dear Art Producer, Heather Elder speaks with Cleo Montagnana, Associate Art Producer at BBDO New York. Cleo shares her journey from film production student to art producer, recounting her experiences working with major clients and her start in a small production company. They discuss the evolving industry, the significance of mentorship, the role of AI in production, and current trends in creativity and client demands. Cleo also touches on the challenges and benefits of treatments, the impact of agency mergers, and her aspirations for more hands-on set experience. The episode is rich with insights into the dynamic world of art production, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and continuous learning.

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it's helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind https://notesfromarepsjournal.com/; visit http://heatherelder.com/ for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

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Connect with Cleo Montagnana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cleo-montagnana-003357171/

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Cleo's website: https://www.cleo-montagnana-portfolio.com/

More about your host:

Heather Elder's Bio

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