Sam Matthews

Responsible for all logistics and story elements of Scope Out America, an experimental cross-country interactive scavenger hunt sponsored by eHarmony and broadcast on Periscope.

Produced 12 episodes of Watt’s World, for the Travel Channel. Collaborated with EPs, network, and host ever step of the way from pitch to final delivery.

Produced stories/segments for ABC News Magazines’ What Would You Do? and Nightline.

Produced (and occasionally hosted) original weekly segments in partnership with MSNBC for Ronan Farrow Daily.

Instrumental in business planning, development and launch. Maintained continuous awareness of world news and breaking events, performing complex analysis of daily briefs from diverse intelligence collection and analysis tools; swiftly developed expertise in geopolitical issues enabling development of editorial angles and production.  -Produced, wrote and edited videos, info-graphics and articles highlighting worldwide news.  -Grew freelance network, attracting high-caliber international talent. -Produced original content for MSNBC

Assisted Casting Director with casting, talent management, and office administration functions; collaborated with talent agencies, representatives, and managers to schedule auditions, submit breakdowns for release, and coordinate shooting dates. Prepared talent offer letters. Fostered relations with talent and production stakeholders. Handled audio/visual equipment for auditions; operated camera and distributed audition footage to producers; administered office IT infrastructure and provided technical support. Maintained scripts and tracked all changes. Enabled submission, receipt, and distribution of self-recorded auditions from actors unable to travel. Aligned talent contracting with union policy, partnering with unions to resolve issues. Played key role in casting of New Group’s ‘11-‘12 season and routinely attended readings and auditions. Authored internal software instruction and procedural manual.

Key player in casting for original Showtime series, “Homeland,” including audition call recommendations. Tasked with independently securing a professional news broadcaster, successfully casting Lawrence O’Donnell—journalist, television host, producer, and writer—to play himself.