This week on Control Room Conversations, I sit down with video producer and creative storyteller Courtney Keeler. From running local commercial shoots as a one-woman film crew to working the NBC control room during the Iowa Caucuses, Courtney brings a rare mix of production grit, newsroom instincts, and digital-marketing strategy.

We talk about adaptability, creativity under pressure, the unexpected paths careers take, and her passion for preserving the Silent Film era through TalkingSilents.com. A great episode for anyone navigating multiple lanes in media and looking for ways to make all those skills add up to a meaningful career.

In this episode of Control Room Conversations, we’re joined by Madeleine Falk an actor, dancer, writer, producer, and circus/variety performer who’s built a career connecting on camera artistry with behind-the-scenes precision.

Originally from Sweden, Madeleine began as a classically trained dancer before studying acting at The Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute and touring the world as part of The Rebel Ropers. These days, she runs CaliStilts Entertainment bring joy and theater to events.She brings that same artistry behind the scenes as a graphics operator working live broadcasts with poise and creativity.

We talk about what it takes to move seamlessly between performing and supporting performers, how she stays grounded under pressure, and how she brings her signature grace and calm to every control room she steps into.

In this episode of Control Room Conversations, John sits down with veteran news executive Sarah Walters, whose career has taken her to news Markets from Des Moines to Seattle, Chicago, New York. With decades of experience leading teams in high-pressure news environments, Sarah shares how she’s guided content strategy, managed breaking news, and kept newsroom operations running smoothly when every second counts.

They talk about what it means to lead with integrity in a deadline-driven industry, the importance of mentorship and representation for women in media, and how newsroom culture thrives when collaboration and trust are at the core. Now back in her home state of Iowa, Sarah reflects on finding balance and perspective after years in top markets.

Michael Sanchez is a multimedia professional with 20+ years of experience in live event production at AEG, working as a Replay Operator, Technical Director, and Camera Operator.

Currently an Instructional Designer at Cal State Fullerton.

Michael combines technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and strong communication skills with a passion for music and collaboration.

You can find him here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sanchez-20b25384/

Welcome to Control Room Conversations! The podcast where we go behind the scenes of live production and creative storytelling with the creators.