Creative Solutions: How to Turn Big Problems Into Wins Like a Hollywood Pro (feat. Bob Boden)
Ready to rethink what creative leadership means? In this episode, you’ll hear my guest Bob Boden, an Emmy-nominated producer with decades of experience, who knows how to turn creativity into real results. He’s here to share what Hollywood’s top producers and storytellers can teach you about unleashing your creative prowess and building teams to realize your vision.
Bob Boden is an Emmy nominee with decades of experience in unscripted TV. He has produced, created, or consulted on over 100 shows, including game and reality hits. Bob helped launch three TV networks and has held top roles at CBS, ABC, FOX, GSN, and Disney. Right now, he’s executive producer of "Funny You Should Ask" and serves as EVP of Production and Development at Allen Media Group. He’s on the board of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, co-founded the National Archives of Game Show History, and once gave a TEDx talk on life lessons from game shows.
If you’re looking to take your career and leadership skills to the next level, you’ll want to tune in to catch Bob’s thoughts on how creative thinking gives you a lasting edge. You’ll hear stories from inside Hollywood, get tips for leading in any industry, and learn how to use creative intelligence to stand out and spark innovation when it matters most.
Interview timestamps:
[00:05:13] Bob’s origin story: game shows
[00:10:20] The advice Lucille Ball gave that left an impression on Bob
[00:14:36] The importance of a preparation and a research mindset in success
[00:18:19] The key to developing a curiosity and growth mindset
[00:23:50] Why supportive leadership pays dividends
[00:27:52] Intimidation vs supportive management
[00:31:04] How to balance structure and creativity
[00:33:39] Motivation, food, and 24/7 shows
[00:36:14] How to overcome impostor syndrome and support your team
[00:38:41] The importance of speaking up and challenging ideas
[00:41:12] Be smart about power dynamics
[00:41:12] How to craft content from a place of sensitivity and audience awareness
[00:45:11] Managing up, vision, and purpose
[00:48:49] REACH: go beyond your role and let your creativity flourish
[00:59:57] Pitfalls of narrow career tracks
[01:01:14] Think beyond boxes (and build a bigger box)
[01:02:35] How to be confident and know your worth when facing risk and rejection
[01:16:09] PRIMP: Bob’s career success framework
[01:21:02] Legacy and game show history
[01:24:39] Bob’s key to success: follow your passion and seize chances
[01:29:48] Bob’s creative process and habits
