The Key to a Successful TV format

As I speak to experts everyday, I have more programme ideas now than I did when I was working in production. And if you want to know what the key to a successful, re-commissionable TV format is, I'll tell you. In a word: simplicity. Think of Property Ladder, Escape to the Country, Cash in the Attic, 60 Minute Makeover, Changing Rooms, Wife Swap, Would Like To Meet, How Clean is Your House, etc. The format is so straightforward that you could almost watch it without volume. Because the pictures do the talking and engage you. So if you've got an idea for a TV series, think about whether it would pass the 'low volume' test. And good luck!

The Expert Academy Media Training Day

It's great to see another part of my business plan taking shape. Teaming up with Media Trainers was always part of the plan - and it's happened. Today's the first Expert Academy Media training day with Alfi Media. It's designed to help prepare experts for TV&Media interviews and develop their x-pert factor - and is packed with practical exercises, tips, mock interviews, etc.

The best thing about running your own business

There are so many great things about running your business but one of them has to be this: at the end of a long day you can walk out of the office and go for a long run - instead of a long commute home on a crowded tube.

And you don't have to take a day off work to wait for the delivery man who can only narrow it down to 'between 8am and 5pm'!

Meet the TV Experts

I've just got back from a meeting with the head of development at a TV production company. We're going to organise a 'meet the experts' day - speed dating style. Each expert will have 15 minutes to pitch themselves/their programme idea. Watch this space.