Producing 101

Hosted by Sam Sokolow

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Sam Sokolow

Webinar hosted by: Sam Sokolow

2-Time Emmy Nominated Producer (Nat Geo's GENIUS series)

Sam Sokolow is a two-time Emmy-nominated producer, perhaps best known for his work in developing and producing the Emmy nominated limited series GENIUS for National Geographic Channel and Disney+, one of the first prestige limited series to find a wide audience. In his career, Sam has executive produced 18 original TV series and set up dozens of television and film projects at major studios and distributors in Hollywood and is well-versed at finding success developing, pitching, and selling his projects. Previously, he co-wrote, produced, and directed the award-winning independent feature film THE DEFINITE MAYBE, starring Josh Lucas, Roy Scheider, and Bob Balaban. Sam is currently the Head of Education at Stage 32. Full Bio »

Webinar Summary

Learn the essential fundamentals of producing from the 2-time Emmy-nominated producer of GENIUS: MLK/X, which premieres on Nat Geo and Disney+ on February 1st, 2024.

PLUS! You’ll receive the pilot script to Sam’s Emmy-winning series GENIUS: EINSTEIN, a shopping agreement template and an option/purchase agreement template to use on your own projects.

The entertainment business is built around content. Movies, TV series and digital content are all pieces of entertainment that are "produced" and while technology continues to evolve in so many ways the fundamental process of producing has remained largely the same - meaning you can learn it. Stage 32 is here now to teach that process to you. 

No matter what you choose to do in the entertainment business, having a basic understanding of producing is invaluable. In this exclusive Stage 32 webinar, you will learn the basic principles and processes of producing from start to finish. We will delve into the entire process including creative development, talent packaging, budgeting, scheduling, physical production, post-production and final delivery.

Teaching you everything you need to know to become a successful producer is Sam Sokolow, a 2-time Emmy nominated executive producer and Stage 32 Director of Education. Sam has put almost 20 original shows on television, including the 20-time Emmy-nominated limited series GENIUS for National Geographic Channel and Disney+. The fourth season of GENIUS – GENIUS: MLK/X – will premiere on February 1, 2024. Sam is currently in development on several films and television series based on real people or true events from history.

Over 90 information-packed minutes, you will learn the art and business of producing, an invaluable skill, which is critical for those who want to create or be a part of making movies, TV shows, and digital content. You will walk away from this webinar with a comprehensive understanding of producing, which will empower you to navigate the challenges and contribute effectively to the creation of compelling content in the entertainment industry.

Whether you’re a veteran producer or looking to make your first project, this webinar is a must!

PLUS! You’ll receive exclusive handouts to help you become a better Producer.. Downloads include:

  • The pilot script to Sam’s Emmy-winning series GENIUS: EINSTEIN
  • A shopping agreement template
  • An option/purchase agreement template

Praise For Sam's Teaching on Stage 32

"I'm so glad I got to work with Sam. His knowledge is very evident in his teaching and I'm better for it! After taking this course, I feel much more confident in pitching." -- Carolyn R.

"There's a lot of info I learned here that I had no idea I didn't know. The pitch can really sink or swim your project, so I can't express the importance of learning this material enough!" -- Amanda H.

What You'll Learn

  • Development
    • How to choose the right projects for you to produce.
    • Intellectual Property rights, options and purchases
    • Fundamentals of story development and its impact on the production process
    • Balancing creative vision with practical production considerations
    • Talent packaging
  • Understanding the role of physical production
    • Importance of physical production in the content creation process
    • Overview of the symbiotic relationship between content creation and other aspects of the industry
  • The Entire Production Process
    • Pre-Production Phase:
      • Budgeting essentials for film and television projects
      • Creating effective production schedules
      • Securing necessary resources and personnel
    • Production Phase:
      • Execution strategies for a smooth production 
      • Managing on-set challenges and problem-solving
      • Collaboration and communication within the production team
    • Post-Production Phase:
      • Overview of post-production processes 
      • Importance of editing, sound design, and visual effects
      • Delivering a finished product to a distributor
  • Case Studies and Practical Insights
    • Examining real-world examples of successful productions
    • Learning from challenges and successes in the industry
    • Practical insights and tips to be the most effective producer

Q&A with Sam Sokolow

About Your Instructor

Sam Sokolow is a two-time Emmy-nominated producer, perhaps best known for his work in developing and producing the Emmy nominated limited series GENIUS for National Geographic Channel and Disney+, one of the first prestige limited series to find a wide audience. In his career, Sam has executive produced 18 original TV series and set up dozens of television and film projects at major studios and distributors in Hollywood and is well-versed at finding success developing, pitching, and selling his projects. Previously, he co-wrote, produced, and directed the award-winning independent feature film THE DEFINITE MAYBE, starring Josh Lucas, Roy Scheider, and Bob Balaban. Sam is currently the Head of Education at Stage 32.

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Other education that may be of interest to you:

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How to Develop, Pitch and Sell Your Limited Series to a Network or Streamer - Includes a Pitch Document Case Study

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How To Develop, Package, Pitch and Sell Your Limited Series To A Streamer or Network

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