Control Room Conversations

What does it actually take to become a Technical Director? Julia Boesch knows. She wanted to become a Technical Director, and she didn’t wait until graduation to make it happen.  Julia is a Technical Director and Control Room Operator at Warner Bros. Discovery in New York City, while also serving as a Production Leader and Technical Director for Hofstra Sports Media and pursuing her degree in Television and Film at Hofstra University. In this episode of Control Room Conversations, Julia shares how she discovered technical directing, the steps she took to develop her skills and build professional experience, and what she has learned since taking a seat at the switcher. We talk about what defines a great Technical Director beyond knowing the equipment, the realities and pressures of the position, and the advice Julia would give to others who want to pursue the role. We also discuss some of the more difficult parts of building a career in live production, including her experiences with discrimination and how she has navigated those challenges. It’s a conversation about finding the role that fits you, developing your craft, earning trust in the control room, and building a career as a Technical Director.

In this episode of Control Room Conversations, we sit down with freelance replay operator and Replay Row co-founder Tom Wadsworth to explore the finesse behind replay. Since beginning his career in 2016, Tom has worked across broadcasts and live productions for Fox Sports, ESPN, NFL Network, Riot Games, Van Wagner, AEG, and others. His work has taken him from major Los Angeles sports venues to national broadcasts and esports productions, including being part of the team recognized with a 2024 Sports Emmy Award for Outstanding Esports Championship Coverage. Tom breaks down what a replay operator is actually doing during a live show: watching multiple cameras, anticipating what matters, quickly organizing clips, and understanding what a producer or director may need next. We talk about working across EVS, DreamCatcher, 3Play, and Mira systems, and why mastering the equipment is only one part of mastering replay. We also explore the differences between national broadcasts and in-house productions, the importance of knowing the sport, learning to think like a producer, and developing the instincts that allow an operator to find and deliver the right moment at the right time. Tom shares the story behind Replay Row, the community he co-founded with Logan Bierman to celebrate the craft of replay and share knowledge among operators. That leads to a larger conversation about collaboration and why technical ability alone doesn't build a career. Being someone others trust, enjoy working alongside, and want back in the control room matters just as much. From maintaining focus through marathon broadcasts to finding ways to mentally switch off when the show is finally over, Tom offers a look at both the technical and human sides of a job that can fundamentally change how an audience experiences a moment. Whether you're an aspiring replay operator, already working in live production, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes of a sports broadcast, this conversation explores the skill, instinct, and finesse behind the replay. Find Tom & Replay Row Instagram: @replayrow LinkedIn: Thomas (Tom) Wadsworth

This week on Control Room Conversations, I sit down with video producer and creative storyteller Courtney Keeler. From running local commercial shoots as a one-woman film crew to working the NBC control room during the Iowa Caucuses, Courtney brings a rare mix of production grit, newsroom instincts, and digital-marketing strategy. We talk about adaptability, creativity under pressure, the unexpected paths careers take, and her passion for preserving the Silent Film era through TalkingSilents.com. A great episode for anyone navigating multiple lanes in media and looking for ways to make all those skills add up to a meaningful career.

In this episode of Control Room Conversations, we’re joined by Madeleine Falk an actor, dancer, writer, producer, and circus/variety performer who’s built a career connecting on camera artistry with behind-the-scenes precision. Originally from Sweden, Madeleine began as a classically trained dancer before studying acting at The Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute and touring the world as part of The Rebel Ropers. These days, she runs CaliStilts Entertainment bring joy and theater to events.She brings that same artistry behind the scenes as a graphics operator working live broadcasts with poise and creativity. We talk about what it takes to move seamlessly between performing and supporting performers, how she stays grounded under pressure, and how she brings her signature grace and calm to every control room she steps into.

In this episode of Control Room Conversations, John sits down with veteran news executive Sarah Walters, whose career has taken her to news Markets from Des Moines to Seattle, Chicago, New York. With decades of experience leading teams in high-pressure news environments, Sarah shares how she’s guided content strategy, managed breaking news, and kept newsroom operations running smoothly when every second counts. They talk about what it means to lead with integrity in a deadline-driven industry, the importance of mentorship and representation for women in media, and how newsroom culture thrives when collaboration and trust are at the core. Now back in her home state of Iowa, Sarah reflects on finding balance and perspective after years in top markets.

Michael Sanchez is a multimedia professional with 20+ years of experience in live event production at AEG, working as a Replay Operator, Technical Director, and Camera Operator.    Currently an Instructional Designer at Cal State Fullerton.   Michael combines technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and strong communication skills with a passion for music and collaboration.   You can find him here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sanchez-20b25384/    

Welcome to Control Room Conversations! The podcast where we go behind the scenes of live production and creative storytelling with the creators.