Written in Partnership with Joey Lee
1 – Chris Tardiff
An entrepreneur of the highest caliber, Christopher Tardiff, has made an indelible impact on event production and design. From humble beginnings and a mountain of student loans, Christopher’s journey to success is a testament to his unwavering determination and dedication. Upon graduating from Emerson College with a degree in audio engineering, his initial goal was to produce albums for aspiring musicians. A lackluster job market led him to live with his father, struggling to make ends meet.
Despite setbacks, Christopher’s entrepreneurial fire was ignited when he was offered a low-paying position in a hotel’s audiovisual department. The opportunity he received would serve as a springboard for his career. With the help of a fellow visionary from the hotel, he and Josh Bachman established Benchmark Productions, a pioneering audiovisual production company that quickly gained acclaim for its innovative productions. In a harmonious fusion of cutting-edge technology, stunning visuals, and flawless execution, he and his team created immersive event experiences that exceeded all expectations. A decade later, Christopher founded Hit Play Agency, driven by an insatiable desire to push boundaries. Known for its ability to bring stories to life, this groundbreaking event agency transcended the confines of audiovisual production. His creative vision and meticulous planning solidified his reputation as a luminary in the industry, from projecting mesmerizing videos on the ‘LA Clippers’ court to organizing unforgettable Grammy after-parties.
Throughout Christopher’s distinguished career, he achieved many notable achievements. A unique feat was achieved in Singapore, where he orchestrated a spellbinding spectacle for a technology giant, captivating an audience of 3000. The crypto.com arena witnessed him at his artistic best when he brought to life an open video projection for the Lakers, a spectacular feat that continues to captivate the audience. Even amidst the challenging times of the pandemic, his collaboration with Meta on the groundbreaking @Scale digital conference series showcased his adaptability and versatility. With an eye to the future, Christopher envisions expanding his business and exploring the untapped potential of the event industry. Dedicated to leaving a lasting impression on the global stage, he aspires to produce the opening ceremony of the Olympics.
2 – Luke Oberholtzer
Luke Oberholtzer, a magnetic force in the entertainment industry, has gained prominence as a brilliant storyteller. As the owner and prolific screenwriter of Legacy Entertainment, an independently owned script, and project development company, Luke has established a reputation for unrivaled creativity and commitment to excellence. Within his identity as a writer and creator lies a deep appreciation for the entertainment industry as a whole. An ardent fan of television and film, with a keen understanding of their social reverberations, he strives to create works that uplift and enthuse audiences, creating a lasting impression that they wish to revisit time and time again. Knowing the transformative power of entertainment, he believes that if his creations can evoke such emotions within himself, they will undoubtedly resonate with others as well.
Luke’s proudest accomplishments are anchored in his unwavering commitment to nurturing client relationships and delivering meticulous attention to every person and script, leaving no room for oversight. At the heart of his company’s success lies the ability to forge a profound connection with clients, ensuring their utmost satisfaction and guaranteeing that no detail goes unnoticed. Renowned for his expertise in crafting impeccable pitch decks, Luke’s presentations serve as a testament to his business acumen and uncompromising pursuit of excellence. With an innate understanding of the industry’s intricacies, Luke’s pitch decks captivate producers and investors, weaving a compelling narrative that resonates long after the meeting concludes. Also, Luke draws inspiration from the late Kobe Bryant, who celebrated the journey despite its bumps, obstacles, and occasional setbacks. Similarly, he instills perseverance even when motivation wanes, understanding that these moments of steadfast determination are catalysts for achieving the overall goal.
In the future, he envisions bringing to life many films and television shows that audiences can trust and cherish. Aiming to be among the best writers and producers in the industry, Luke looks forward to working with A-list talent and reputable production companies to create cinematic magic that leaves a lasting impression. With his insatiable thirst for storytelling, Luke is also deeply committed to his ongoing project—a series of young adult novels—that reflects his deep-rooted passion for touching the hearts of readers from all walks of life.
3 – Jill Hoppenheim
Jill Hoppenheim, the visionary founder of Bagg Street Productions, has made an enduring impact on entertainment. Her journey as a Canadian immigrant to the US fueled her passion for hard work and unwavering determination. With a name inspired by the street where Hoppenheim’s grandparents once resided, Bagg Street Productions was established initially as a creative content agency and production company focusing on entertainment marketing, branded content, and unscripted programming. Over time, the agency has evolved beyond these domains, now encompassing scripted television, film, social impact, and experiential content.
As Creative Director, Hoppenheim’s leadership at Bagg Street Productions has consistently garnered prestigious awards and accolades, solidifying its position as a leading force in the field. Notably, some of the company’s accomplishments include Clio Key Art Awards for work on campaigns for award-winning shows such as Homeland and Family Guy, as well as an esteemed Hollywood Reporter Key Art Award for an interactive feature produced for Cosmos: A SpaceTime Odyssey. In addition, Bagg Street’s impressive portfolio encompasses a wide range of acclaimed films, television, and social impact campaigns such as The Handmaid’s Tale for Hulu, Where the Crawdads Sing for Sony, and “Let Girls Learn,” an initiative launched by Michelle Obama, Former First Lady of the United States.
Hoppenheim firmly believes in the importance of courage and resilience for budding artists and entrepreneurs. She notes that success in these fields is not solely dependent on talent or intellect but rather on one’s ability and willingness to be vulnerable enough to take risks, and courageous enough to have the resilience to keep going.
Looking ahead, Hoppenheim recognizes that we have entered a challenging yet exhilarating era in our industry. With the emergence of streaming platforms, the advent of AI and the widespread popularity of digital content on social media platforms like TikTok, the way in which we consume and produce content has been revolutionized, which has left us in uncharted territory. However, within this dynamic landscape, Hoppenheim envisions a future where the integration of storytelling and new technology come together seamlessly and open up exciting possibilities for innovative ideas, diverse formats, and more efficient approaches to content creation. Hoppenheim’s ambitions extend to producing original film and television content while also exploring experiential projects, positioning herself at the forefront of this evolving industry.
4 – Xinwen Chen
Xinwen Chen, a name that echoes through the entertainment industry, is a beacon of talent and innovation. Xinwenhas made an indelible mark in production consulting and production due to her outstanding achievements and dedication as a Production Consultant and Producer. Her seamless blend of artistic ability and business acumen has established her as a true luminary of the cross-cultural communication industry. As a fluent English and Chinese speaker, she is uniquely qualified to bridge the cultural divide between these two distinct cultures. Through her professional experiences in China and the United States, she has gained a deep understanding of the power of diversity and the importance of cultural exchange. Over the course of Xinwen’s career, she has led a multinational team of artists in delivering art for several game titles, including Diablo Immortal, PUBG, Call of Dragons, and Rise of Kingdoms.
Beyond Xinwen’s breathtaking visuals and captivating storytelling, her impact extends beyond her aesthetics. With meticulous research and a keen eye for detail, she and her team have revolutionized game art strategies, assisting clients in improving conversion rates and propelling projects to new heights. The tireless efforts of her team have not only enhanced the quality of game art but have also contributed to a deeper understanding of Chinese culture among a global audience. Before entering the gaming industry, her creative talents were demonstrated in film and television. Xinwen’s exceptional versatility and unwavering dedication to artistic expression in its diverse forms were evident during her tenure at the American Film Institution, where she played a crucial role on the programming front. Simultaneously, she showcased her remarkable skills as a project manager and programmer at the prestigious Los Angeles Chinese Film Festival.
Xinwen’s greatest accomplishment comes from her ability to bridge the dots of her diverse experiences and apply them to the gaming landscape. Having a varied background that encompasses painting, piano, calligraphy, gymnastics, scriptwriting, and even robotics, has allowed her to bring a unique perspective to her projects. In the face of challenges, it has provided her with an unshakeable calmness resulting from her kaleidoscope of perspectives. As she looks toward the future, she hopes to develop games that foster cultural understanding and collaboration. It is Xinwen’s ambition to see more women represented and celebrated in the gaming industry that transcends boundaries and gender norms.
5 – Mon Castro
Mon Castro is a talented and driven producer who has significantly contributed to the film industry through her accomplishments and unwavering dedication. Born and raised in Mexico City, Mon’s passion for film was nurtured by her grandfather’s passion for the medium. Her fascination with cinema began when she first saw Hitchcock’s “REAR WINDOW” with her grandfather, leading her down the path she knew she was meant to follow. As Mon nears the culmination of her MFA in Producing at the renowned American Film Institute Conservatory, she remains dedicated to honing her craft and perfecting her artistic perspective.
A highly talented individual at the age of 25, Mon has worked on more than 100 film sets in two countries. As a result of her outstanding work, she has been recognized at more than ten prestigious international film festivals. Notably, her critically acclaimed work, “Boca Punk,” was an Official Selection at the esteemed CINEQUEST Film Festival in 2022 and a member of the SDLFF 2023 Official Selection. Her artistic endeavors extend beyond conventional entertainment to empower women, emphasize LGBTQIA+ narratives, and highlight the often-neglected experiences of individuals with chronic pain.
Mon has faced many challenges throughout her journey, but her resilience and determination have propelled her. Through her ability to overcome gender biases and carve out a career path that she loves, she stands as an inspiration to others and as a role model for young women. Looking into the future, she envisions a landscape brimming with her prodigious accomplishments. With determination, she sees herself as having already produced a series of gripping feature films, each bearing her unmistakable imprint in the realm of horror. An individual without limitations, she also aspires to create a compelling television show that captures her enthralling and original ideas. Mon’s vibrant energy, relentless work ethic, and boundless optimism continue to make an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring aspiring filmmakers to pursue their passions without hesitation.
6 – Toni-Ann Lagana
Toni-Ann Lagana, a name that resonates with passion and creativity, has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Hailing from Staten Island, New York’s vibrant landscapes, and finding her artistic home in New Jersey, Toni’s journey as a supervising producer and writer is nothing short of extraordinary. Growing up near Philadelphia and New York City and now residing in Los Angeles, California, she was immersed in the vibrant creative cultures that thrived in these metropolises. Attending The Art Institute of Philadelphia, specializing in Visual Effects and Motion Graphics, she emerged as a shining example of talent and ambition. Through her relentless drive, she has secured internships at renowned institutions such as Nickelodeon, The Tribeca Film Festival, and The NYC Mayor’s Office of Media & Entertainment.
Toni’s illustrious career has traversed the grand stages of entertainment powerhouses, including Discovery, NBC Universal, Disney, FOX, ABC, and Netflix. From the captivating realms of “American Idol,” “Battlebots,” “The Masked Singer,” “Masterchef,” “Crime Scene Kitchen,” to the mesmerizing allure of “Dancing with the Stars,” each project showcases Toni’s creative genius. Through working on various travel docu-series shows, she was able to travel throughout Central America and Europe. Her contributions have enthralled audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts and minds. Amidst her journey, Toni achieved a significant milestone by graduating from the University of Cambridge, earning a master’s degree in Creative Writing. This dedication is further evidenced by her postgraduate certificate in teaching creative writing, also awarded by the prestigious university. Additionally, her talent as a screenwriter has been recognized at esteemed film festivals, including the Nashville Film Festival, Canada International Film Festival, Beverly Hills Film Festival, Sacramento World Film Festival, Dallas Movie Awards, and Marina del Rey Film Festival.
Beyond her accomplishments, Toni imparts invaluable wisdom to those who follow their dreams. In her work, she promotes the acceptance of change and the fearless adaptation to new opportunities, while advocating for on-set safety awareness and the recognition of fundamental equal rights for Television Producers, as highlighted in her thought-provoking articles published in The Hollywood Reporter. Recognized for her exceptional work, Toni has garnered praise from esteemed publications such as Vanity Fair, LA Times, The New York Post, and many more for her feats. Toni envisions a future where she can wield increased creative control and effect positive change within the industry, seamlessly exploring scripted and unscripted content across various genres. Her ultimate objective lies in weaving meaningful narratives, be it for the realm of television, film, or even the illustrious stage of Broadway. Brimming with delightful anticipation, Toni eagerly awaits the imminent publication of her debut illustrated children’s book, marking an exciting new frontier in her ever-expanding creative ventures.
7 – Justin Michael Canel
Justin Michael Canel, renowned screenwriter, and author, reverberates through the entertainment industry. In a world brimming with anticipation, Justin’s work was set to ignite audiences’ imaginations before the arrival of COVID. Unfazed by the challenges ahead, he embarked on a resolute journey to reclaim what was rightfully his. Today, his unwavering spirit has paved the way for remarkable triumphs. With three feature films and a television series in development on the horizon, his storytelling prowess shines through, captivating hearts and minds with each narrative woven.
The artistic brilliance of Justin goes beyond the silver screen; his imagination also shines brightly in the world of literature. “The Bully,” a children’s book he wrote and illustrated focusing on empathy and compassion will be available soon, demonstrating his multifaceted creative abilities. His work has resonated far and wide, leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. Delicious Ambiguity, the award-winning short film he wrote, directed, and co-produced, with an ensemble cast of acclaimed actors, has captured the hearts of critics and film festivals around the globe. From the prestigious Cannes Film Festival to the vibrant Florida Film Festival, his work has been embraced and celebrated with enthusiasm.
Through his experiences in overcoming obstacles and challenges, Justin imparts a valuable lesson for aspiring writers and creators. While inspiration may be elusive, he urges them to persevere relentlessly, to sit in that chair, and pour their hearts into the pages. In this way, his story reminds us that chasing dreams need not be a source of anxiety. Having a keen eye on the future, he sees a lot filled with limitless possibilities. A dreamer at heart, Justin aspires to showrun his own television series, masterfully weaving narratives that resonate deeply with audiences. Moreover, he plans to explore the realm of directing, harnessing the visual medium to bring his imaginative visions to life. Amid all this, he remains devoted to the series he launched with his children’s book, embracing the joy of telling stories through different mediums that touch the hearts of both young and old.
8 – Allan S. Gold
A leader in the entertainment industry, Allan S. Gold has left an indelible mark on the industry as a film producer and artist manager. Through his career spanning both the United Kingdom and the United States, Allan has contributed to the shape of the industry through his triumphs and influential contributions. Among his strengths is his commitment to the industry’s business and creative facets. Having worked primarily under non-disclosure agreements, he has developed astute insights and boundless empathy for the intricate landscapes of the music business and the film industry. As a skilled negotiator and exemplar of profound integrity, he is well known for protecting his artists’ interests.
Allan’s impact on the industry shines through his remarkable accolades and recognition. Both in 2021 and 2022, he was awarded the title of Best Artist Manager in Southern California at the prestigious Global Business Excellence Awards, an honor that reflects his exceptional ability to cultivate talent and forge successful partnerships. The impressive range of projects in his extensive portfolio includes projects with major corporations such as NBC, ABC, Paramount Studios, and DreamWorks Pictures. Notably, he has collaborated on renowned shows such as American Idol and America’s Got Talent, solidifying his position as a sought-after industry figure. Recently, Allan embarked on an exciting venture alongside Chris Degner, the esteemed West Coast Beverage Consultants owner, aiming to pioneer groundbreaking initiatives in brand placement, concert sponsorships, and more. With this partnership, he showcases his relentless drive to explore new horizons and elevate the industry to unprecedented levels.
Life is all about imagination and audacity for Allan. Taking a shot at greatness even when others may see limits, he encourages individuals to dream beyond their wildest aspirations. Additionally, he embodies tenacity, reminding us that perseverance and determination are the keys to extraordinary success. In the future, Allan envisions Allan S. Gold Entertainment continuing its prospering journey and solidifying a position as a globally powerful entertainment company. His ambitions, however, go beyond commercial success. Ultimately, he wants to create an environment where artists, partners, and investors can find solace, knowing they are in a nurturing and rewarding environment.
9 – Matteo Della Putta
Matteo Della Putta, a native of Cremona, Italy, has always been passionately drawn to the arts and deeply moved by humanitarian issues. Under the guidance of an inspirational English teacher, Matteo began his linguistic journey in high school, immersing himself in the beauty of English, French, and German languages. At the age of 16, he joined a local theater group, embarking on a transformative journey into the world of acting. Following his studies at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Matteo returned to Italy during the pandemic and continued his artistic growth by enrolling in the New York Film Academy. He has since made a name for himself in the industry, securing leading roles in short films and landing his first role in a feature film. From Cremona to Hollywood, Matteo Della Putta’s journey highlights his resilience and dedication to his craft, as he combines his love for languages, cultures, and the arts to tackle humanitarian issues through the medium of cinema.
10 – Polyna
Polyna, Europe’s most cryptic artist, emerges from a mysterious Siberian enclave, crafting an intoxicating blend of Arctic, frosted art-pop that defies classification. Inspired by the ethereal chants of Siberian throat singers and the wanderlust-evoking melodies of gypsy music, Polyna’s music engulfs listeners in captivating soundscapes. Her forthcoming debut album promises an emotional rollercoaster of intimately raw compositions that leave an enduring impression on the soul. Collaborating with visionary producer Jonas Quant and Grammy-winning virtuoso Phil Tan, Polyna seamlessly merges modernity with her Siberian heritage, weaving haunting melodies and rhythmic beats inspired by throat singers and the frozen expanse of Lake Baikal. Her influence extends beyond her own music as a member of the Ovation Award committee, applauding extraordinary talent and reshaping the soundscape as a coveted songwriter for distinguished brands and top-tier artists. Polyna’s enigmatic presence resonates with a global audience, inspiring others to embrace their unique paths through her online platform. As the world gradually emerges from the pandemic, Polyna eagerly anticipates returning to the stage, where her artistry truly sparkles, forging profound connections with audiences worldwide and redefining the live music experience.
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