And we're back for another round of Hollywood Speed Networking! We're putting together a lineup of industry names for you to connect with. Think speed dating, but in this case you're networking with industry reps. Seven minute speed networking sessions.
All ages welcome.
1-3pm speed networking with special guests:
1. Mary Cherrywood, talent manager, Venture Entertainment Partners
2. Ryan Luevano, founder/talent manager, Skyfire Artists
3. Nikai Johnson, theatrical and voiceover, The Savage Agency
4. Anna Rocio Mendoza, Carla Hool Casting
5. Rachel Paulson, writer/director/producer/actress
6. Erman Baradi, founder, Ermantourage
& more to be announced!
3pm Q&A with Anna Rocio Mendoza, Carla Hool Casting
Special Guest Bios:
Anna Rocío Mendoza
Born and raised in the suburbs of Los Angeles, Anna Rocio Mendoza has always harbored a deep-rooted passion for the entertainment industry. Immersed in telenovelas and Spanish-language programming from a young age, she developed a keen interest in television production. Initially aiming for a career at Univision, Anna's path took an unexpected turn when she secured an internship that introduced her to the world of casting, under the mentorship of industry legend Mary Jo Slater.
Throughout her career, Anna has contributed to various projects, including TNT's Perception, ABC's The Middle, Netflix series Griselda, as well as several indie films and a web series. Currently, she lends her expertise to Carla Hool Casting, where she continues to make significant strides in the industry.
As a female first-generation Mexican-American from a family of farmworkers, Anna is deeply committed to advocating for diversity in casting. Her unique background and experiences drive her passion for promoting representation and inclusivity within the entertainment industry.
Rachel Paulson
The youngest sister in the Paulson clan, (Sarah Paulson “American Crime Story” and Liz Paulson, SVP of casting at NICK) , acting and writing is in her blood, as she grew up acting in plays with her older sisters. Rachel attended a high school for the performing arts in Florida and then went on to earn a B.F.A in Theater from Florida State University. After graduation she relocated to LA where she continued acting and finally dipped her feet into writing and producing in 2014 when she made her first short film. In 2015, her film “The Chest” was selected for the Short Film Corner at CANNES Film Festival. Rachel wrote, produced and acted in the film, and was given many accolades for doing so. She finds it most important to augment unique female perspectives in her writing, priding herself on telling stories from alternative points of view. Her voice is authentic and real with a twist of darkness. She has acted in films like “Good Kisser”, (SIFF, Outfest, InsideOut), “The Dinner Parting” (Cinequest) and “Babysitter 2: Killer Queen” (Netflix) and TV shows like “Super Pumped”, “Welcome to The Chippendales” and “Reasonable Doubt”.
She finished directing her first short in March 2023 called “Fire, Fucking Fire!” And is slated to direct two features next year. Rachel was also a significant contributor to “Shewired”, the now defunct online magazine, which featured dozens of Rachel Paulson celebrity interviews.