Tori Tait 1 July 2009 Resources > Events/Opportunities 511 views No Comment Print This Post  Email This Post

A new inventor’s series is casting women with fabulous ideas from across America. TLC is teaming up with Mark Consuelos and Kelly Ripa’s, Milojo Productions are traveling from state to state looking for women with the “next” big idea and plan to help her through the journey of realizing her dream. A great opportunity for any Mom Entrepreneur, they will help you from product development, through manufacturing, marketing and finally selling on The Home Shopping Network.

Recently, I had the pleasure of interviewing Danielle Wilkinson, a casting director for Milojo Productions. She generously shared some insight on what they are looking for in applicants and also shares some advice for women interested in applying. Q:  What are the casting directors looking for in an applicant? What factors determine if an applicant will be considered? 
 Danielle: There isn’t any one thing we are looking for. It is a hard thing to pinpoint as sometimes someone just has that certain, “something”. That said, a great personality and a great product get you to the top of the list. We are also looking for personal stories. What would this opportunity mean to the inventor? Maybe they are a single mom and this would be a chance for them to finally get ahead. Maybe they have put their dreams on hold to raise a family but now they are empty nesters and it is their time to shine. A healthy combination of personality, passion and product is your best bet!
 
Q:  What has been most surprising so far in searching for show participants?
Danielle: Two things: First, people are really innovative. They are clever and it is amazing to see creativity come to life. Second, watching people turn tragedy into triumph. A woman who is losing her hair inventing a headband that won’t hurt your head is inspiring. Or a woman who has a special needs child designing a special drinking container for them and realizing all children could benefit from it.
 
Q:  Any tips for women inventors who would like to participate in this new show?
Danielle: Whether you are coming to an open call or submitting an online video- HAVE FUN. Be yourself and show us your personality. I always tell people, “We are rooting for you.” We are sitting on the other side of the camera hoping you do an amazing job. So relax, have fun, be yourself. And not matter what, KEEP INVENTING because you are all an inspiration and just because this show may not be a match for you, it does not mean you don’t have a great idea or product.

If you are interested in applying for TLC and Kelly Ripa’s new inventor’s series you can attend a local casting call in person or submit a video application online. Visit the official casting page for more details and instructions on how to apply.