Gina Hemphill Strachan

I attribute some of my success to the inspiration and example of my grandfather, Olympic champion Jesse Owens, who instilled in me a lifelong passion for sports and storytelling. My career in talent booking developed organically, shaped by early experiences that taught me to find the unexpected voice in a room and let the story lead. This journey began at AM Chicago, which would later become The Oprah Winfrey Show. I often joke that I learned about the Production Assistant role simply by being in the ladies’ room at the right time—proof that networking and opportunity can come from the most unexpected places. From those early days to working on major documentaries and shaping the way we tell sports stories, my path has been anything but conventional. A brief stint on The Tonight Show through a temp agency helped me refine my ability to connect with talent and curate moments that resonate. I often recall working with Nick Swisher, whose insights were more compelling than even the more famous Derek Jeter—a reminder that a human-centered approach has always guided my work. Beyond booking talent, my documentary projects have been meaningful milestones. I’ve had the privilege of working on a documentary about the 1960 Rome Olympics featuring Muhammad Ali, as well as a COVID-era social justice documentary with the NBA—projects that combined history, sports, and storytelling in ways that continue to inspire me. Outside of media, I cherish time with my grandchildren, lots of travel adventures, and giving back to my community through Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and board memberships, including the International Athletic Association and the Sport Knowledge Institute at Manhattanville University.

The best career advice I’ve ever received can be summed up in three guiding principles: Let the Story Lead. Always focus on the substance and authenticity of a story, not just the fame or popularity of the person involved. The most compelling voices aren’t always the most well-known, and staying true to the story creates lasting impact. Be open to opportunities. Embrace organic career paths. Temporary roles, unexpected projects, or shifts in direction often open doors to major growth and experiences you couldn’t have planned. Prioritize human connection. Building genuine relationships with colleagues, talent, and collaborators is just as important as technical skills. Understanding people, listening deeply, and fostering trust are what make professional and creative endeavors truly successful.

For young women entering this industry, one of the most important lessons I emphasize is the value of follow-through and follow-up. Whether you are the talent booker or the talent, the Producer or the publicist, responding promptly and professionally—rather than “ghosting,” as the term is often used today—demonstrates integrity and respect. I’ve learned that the answer is usually simple: either yes or no. Communicating clearly not only reflects professionalism but also saves everyone time and builds stronger relationships.

One of my mentors asked me during a challenging time in my life if I was "Playing to win, OR playing not to lose"? I realized that playing not to lose is wrapped up in the need to look good, to be accepted, and to do just enough to be above average, but when you’re playing to win, you’re alive, you’re fully engaged, you’re living your purpose.

One of the biggest challenges I’ve observed in the industry today is that many organizations aren’t hiring producers like me with the experience they truly need—sometimes due to budgetary constraints or "generational" reasons. Yet experienced producers play a critical role in ensuring that production in many industries runs smoothly, from managing time and budgets to coordinating lighting, schedules, and overall workflow. Without that expertise, the quality and efficiency of production can suffer. At the same time, this challenge presents an opportunity: it’s a chance to recognize and highlight the value that skilled producers bring to every project. As media continues to evolve, producers are increasingly essential for navigating the complexities of modern storytelling, ensuring that both creative vision and logistical execution are aligned.

I've also learned that if you're trying to figure out how to tell your story—what comes next—figure out WHO you are telling that story to and WHAT you want them to do. See your value! Hire you!

The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are hard work, persistence, and resilience. Meeting challenges head-on not only leads to greater achievement but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the journey. In my approach to talent and storytelling, I’ve always prioritized authenticity over fame. Early in my career as a Feature Producer at NBC, I noticed that while some talent might say no to others, they often said yes to me because they felt an organic, genuine connection. Keeping the human aspect at the core of every interaction has always been central to how I work and build relationships.