Mid-West Mom Cracking Code to Hollywood's "Closed Door"

The purpose and spirit of the Television Writers Vault has always been to provide a protective measure of exposure and guidance to new writers breaking into the industry. We hold great pride in one very persistent writer, Jennifer Rowlett of Rockton, IL. who was most recently discovered by Kingfish Productions, engaging her in collaboration on one of her original reality series projects.

Jenny sat down with us to share her experiences during this process and provide some terrific insight for other writers working to gain access to Producers via the TV Writers Vault.

---

Scott Manville: What's your background, and what first brought you to using our service?

Jenny Rowlett: I am from Rockton, IL, and up until two years ago, I was a hairstylist and a massage therapist. My husband and I then decided that I would stay home with our two children who are four and five. I've always been interested in writing, but never found time. I finally got myself to sit down and I've since written two children's books, two short stories, and a concept for a reality show. I came across your service by searching the internet to learn how to protect my project, and that's when I discovered TV Writers Vault.

Scott Manville: How long were you a member of the TV Writers Vault before being discovered by Kingfish Productions? 

Jenny Rowlett: I was a member for one or two months before Kingfish Productions had reviewed my project. Then it was another month before they requested contact with me.

Scott Manville: How many companies in total reviewed your project?

Jenny Rowlett: Four. Kingfish and I then made contact with each other, but ultimately the project just wasn't what they were looking for. I then decided to contact some other production companies. Many said no, until I had one reply. I then sent in a submission form but they declined it. Finally, Five Star had some interest. They've been very nice throughout the whole thing. They have been the closest to making an offer.

Scott Manville: It's been a wonderful process seeing your progression from first creating concepts for television, to now being a more savvy writer dealing with a multitude of producers. What was it like first making contact with the production company? 

Jenny Rowlett: Amazing! My heart just sank, and I knew it was not over. I had come a long way, but I still have a long way to go.  Companies have told me no, but I'm still happy that I got this far. It only takes one person to say yes, and your whole career can change.

Scott Manville: Did finally making contact with real production executives change your perspective on the process and struggles of marketing your projects?

Jenny Rowlett: Yes. I never really knew how much of a challenge this industry was until I actually got involved. It takes a lot of time, but it can be rewarding in the end. 

Scott Manville: What can you tell us about your project, and what was the process like in developing it?

Jenny Rowlett: My project is a reality show based on ex Playboy playmates and how they struggle with their life now, compared to when they were in Playboy. It took some research. First I had to find girls that had unique current  lives. Then I  had to try to find their contact information, {which was not easy}. I have four that are involved now, and all of them seem like sweethearts. The whole process is difficult and  it takes a while just to have one production company give you any interest at all.

Scott Manville: What elements of the project are producers most concerned with?

Jenny Rowlett: Talent, money, and what the network would want your project to be. If you approach a producer and tell him you have an idea for a show, that's wonderful, but what else do you have involved with it?  The producers that I have talked to want a packaged deal. 
Scott Manville: Those who don't know the TV Writers Vault, or myself, may be interested in knowing your experiences in dealing with me directly. Care to share? 

Jenny Rowlett: You have been wonderful throughout the entire process. Actually, when I came across your website I emailed you some questions, not only about your service, but for some advise. You emailed back right away with answers. I wasn't even a member, and that's what made me join. I knew you had time for people, and you didn't push them away like most companies do. 

Scott Manville: Thank you for that. I have fun with it, and it's rewarding to see a new writer break through. Just to this point you've found more success and results than most struggling writers. What qualities do you feel you have that helped your project rise to the surface?
Jenny Rowlett: I try to look at life and see what really sells in this world. What are people interested in seeing. You need things that will grab everyone's attention. Men ,women, young and old. What kind of drama are people fascinated by. 

Scott Manville: What blunt advice can you give to new writers that are considering marketing their projects?

Jenny Rowlett: Patience, go with your instinct, and have dedication for your project.  My family thought I was crazy to try this, but because some told me to give it up, it made me try harder and focus more. That made me more determined to make this work. The worst that could happen would be having producers tell you no. You really won't know until you try. I didn't want to spend my whole life wondering if it really would have worked.

Scott Manville: Would you recommend the TV Writers Vault as a tool for writers pitching television projects? 

Jenny Rowlett: Of course! Producers would have never given me a chance. They don't like "unsolicited" material. TV Writers Vault is an excellent gateway through the industry, especially if you are new and don't know where to begin. 

Scott Manville: Were you concerned with the risk of exposing your project to third parties, and did you take any measures beyond what we already provide with electronic record to protect your creation? 

Jenny Rowlett: I was very concerned with the risk, but I also knew that  if I never talked to third parties, I would never advance to the next step. There is always a possibility that someone else may say "I had that idea", but risks are a must in order to further your project. Your service also helps protect projects. 

Scott Manville: On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate our service, and why?

Jenny Rowlett: 10. Your service has respect for members. This industry can be very cruel, and producers can intimidate you. You find the time to help, even if your schedule is very busy. You even emailed me back when you were on your honeymoon! Some companies don't even want to give new writers a chance, but new writers have a lot of good ideas. Your doors are open to everyone.

Scott Manville: Do you believe Hollywood is a closed door to new writers with "ideas"?

Jenny Rowlett: To a certain extent. I think you need services like yours to open the door. Producers are willing to listen, but they don't always want people to have their information. Your service is wonderful because the producers can look at the writers work, if they have any interest, then they give you their direct information. They need to be protected too. You not only help us, you help the producers too.

Scott Manville: What has been your key inspiration for pursuing your goals with Writing?

Jenny Rowlett: Probably my children, and just having dreams. I want to show them that if you put your mind to something, you can do anything. You may mess up along the way, but you pick your feet back up and try harder. As far as dreams, if you don't dream, you don't have anything to look forward to in life.