Episode 136: Megha Tolia Talks Shondaland
We're back! It's the new year and we hope everyone had a safe and peaceful holiday....and we also hope you're ready to get Tuckered Out this year! And what a way to start off 2024...
Megha Tolia is the President and CEO of Shondaland as well as a beacon of ingenuity and leadership. Her professional journey began at Neutrogena and spanned over 20 years, where she honed her expertise in building mission-driven, consumer-centric brands. Her trajectory took a thrilling turn when she leaped into the media universe, bringing her strategic prowess to Shondaland, the brainchild of the legendary Shonda Rhimes. Megha shares her transition from the structured world of consumer goods to the vibrant and unpredictable realm of television production. It's a narrative of embracing new challenges and the excitement of stepping into the unknown.
In our conversation, Megha delves into her personal journey, reflecting on her rich Indian heritage and the influence of her family’s immigration story. We also discuss navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry, her role in supporting Shonda Rhimes’ vision, and her efforts to implement structure and strategy in a creative powerhouse.
As we reflect on the year and look ahead, Megha's journey provides an inspiring example of balancing tradition with innovation, and structure with creativity.
We talk about:
Moving to Dallas, Texas + adjusting to a new city (2:41)
The learning curve of shifting from CPG to the entertainment industry + discovering the initial opportunity (8:52)
Megha's favorite Shondaland shows to watch and work on (20:11)
How their team has grown + what it's been like working so close with Shonda Rhimes (28:59)
Becoming a co-founding director of the William S. Spears Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership and SMU Cox School of Business (35:57)
Magha's family immigration story + how she nurtured her love of dance growing up (40:45)
Rapid Fire Questions (52:09)
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