Conversations with Tiffany Zhao

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiffany Zhao.

Hi Tiffany, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Me and my partner started our production company back in March this year after producing 4 successful shows together. We decided that in order to maximize our creative control over projects, we needed a company so that everything will feel more structured and legit. With this company, we have produced 2 hit shows in the vertical space and is currently prepping for more future content. When we started, we were honestly su[er worried because starting a company is super intimidating, but we quickly realized that as long as we work together and work hard for each step, we will eventually get to where we want to get.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not at all—it’s definitely been a bumpy road. As two rising producers passionate about storytelling but with little business experience, we had to learn a lot on the fly. From setting up our company structure and figuring out budgeting and payroll, to navigating contracts, tax filings, and union rules, every step came with a steep learning curve. There were moments where we felt completely out of our depth—especially early on, when we were pitching projects while simultaneously Googling what terms in the contracts meant.

One of the biggest challenges was learning how to balance creativity with the realities of running a sustainable business. We knew how to get a compelling story on screen, but learning how to price that story, fund it, and build relationships with platforms and investors was something we had to grow into. There were months where cash flow was tight, and we had to make tough calls to keep things afloat without compromising our vision.

Still, every misstep taught us something invaluable. We’re not afraid to admit we asked a lot of questions and leaned heavily on mentors, accountants, and other producers willing to share their wisdom. It’s taken grit, humility, and more than a few sleepless nights, but it’s also been deeply rewarding. We’re proud of how far we’ve come—and even more excited about what’s ahead.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
We’re a production company specializing in short-form vertical content, with a focus on comedy and drama series. Over the past year, we’ve had the incredible opportunity to see our work resonate with a global audience—one of our recent shows hit over 90 million views and became the #1 most-watched series on the ReelShort app for two consecutive weeks. Moments like that are exciting, but what we’re most proud of is the work environment we’ve built behind the scenes.

In an industry where burnout and turnover are common, we’ve built a space where cast and crew not only feel safe and respected, but want to return. We hear it all the time: people are excited to work with us again because they feel genuinely supported. That culture doesn’t happen by accident—it’s something we prioritize every day.

What sets us apart is our commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices and telling stories through different lenses. We care deeply about the people we collaborate with, and we’re constantly working to make sure everyone—from the leads to the PAs—has what they need to do their best work. For us, storytelling isn’t just about views—it’s about impact, inclusion, and community on and off the screen.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
In the entertainment industry, networking doesn’t always look like formal mixers or LinkedIn messages—it happens on set. That’s where I’ve made some of my most meaningful connections. When you’re working on a production, especially one with industry veterans, you’re not just collaborating on a project—you’re building relationships in real time. I’ve met mentors, creative collaborators, and long-term industry contacts simply by being present, engaged, and open during the natural rhythm of a shoot.

My advice to anyone looking to build their network or find a mentor is: treat every job, no matter the size, as a long-term opportunity. Be someone people want to work with again. Show up prepared, stay curious, and listen more than you speak—especially when you’re around people with more experience. Ask smart questions, offer help when you can, and pay attention to how others lead, communicate, and solve problems on set.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of follow-through. If you had a great conversation with someone, follow up. Send a quick message after wrap to thank them or continue a conversation you started on set. It doesn’t have to be transactional—just authentic. In this industry, people remember how you made them feel and how you showed up as a collaborator.

For me, the most rewarding part of networking has been the organic relationships that develop when you’re focused on doing good work and being a good teammate. Over time, that trust builds into mentorship, creative partnerships, and ongoing opportunities.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiff309/?hl=en