We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Charlie T Savage a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Charlie T, appreciate you joining us today. Do you have any thoughts about how to create a more inclusive workplace?
As a young woman, there were instances where my voice wasn’t given the attention it deserved simply because I wasn’t a man. This made me feel marginalized within the team, as if my contributions were considered less significant and easily dispensable. It took me some time to assert myself as a Black woman in the corporate landscape, but when I did, I noticed a tangible shift in the dynamics.
Once I found my voice, I realized that my insights and advice were more valuable than initially perceived by my all-male leadership. It became evident that embracing diverse perspectives, including those of women and people of color, significantly improved project outcomes. The experiences of being dismissed initially due to my gender and ethnicity fueled my commitment to promoting inclusivity. It highlighted the importance of recognizing and valuing the unique perspectives that individuals from different backgrounds bring to the table. Inclusive workplaces not only empower individuals but also enhance overall team effectiveness and success.
Charlie T, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m Charlie T. Savage, a Navy Veteran and Founder of Charlie Bit Me Joints. Through my work, I create visually engaging literature that highlights the black female experience.
In my career, I’ve served as Executive Producer for “URIEL” at Nikky Productions and led the production of “ALL THINGS CONSIDERED,” a compelling play exploring a black woman’s healing journey. I’ve also as the screenwriter have collaborated on the spine-tingling audio thriller “THE NIGHT I ALMOST DIED.”
Beyond creativity, I’m the Producer of “THE P.I.O.V.T PANEL,” a professional discussion series featuring notable guests. I’m proud to be a 2023 Collective 5 Entertainment’s Mentorship Academy Showrunner and a finalist for The Universal Women Network’s “Woman of Inspiration Award” in Toronto.
With a postgraduate degree in Management and a background in Journalism, I bring creative brilliance and intellectual prowess to my pursuits. As a devoted mother, I currently reside in Los Angeles.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
I am committed to using my creative strengths to amplify the voices of Black women and showcase the intricacies of our daily experiences. Through my work, I aim to shed light on the diverse narratives within the Black female community, offering insights into their lives, challenges, and triumphs.
My mission includes injecting humor into these narratives. I believe that laughter is a powerful tool for connection and understanding. By infusing humor into my creations, I want to break down stereotypes, foster empathy, and create a space where people from all walks of life can share in the joy and resilience of Black women.
I want to be a storyteller who not only entertains but also educates and sparks meaningful conversations. I want my audience to laugh, reflect, and gain a deeper appreciation for the fabric of the Black female journey. Through storytelling, I aim to contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic world.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
Being a creative is deeply rewarding for me. First, there’s the joy of entertaining others, crafting narratives, and creating content that brings smiles, laughter, and enjoyment to audiences. The ability to evoke emotions and offer moments of escapism through my work is an immensely gratifying experience.
Then there is the opportunity to inform those who may not be well-informed about those who look like me. I strive to shed light on various topics, spark curiosity in the Black community, and provide insights that might be eye-opening. Whether it’s addressing societal issues, sharing personal experiences, or delving into unexplored perspectives, the process of informing through creativity adds depth and purpose to my artistic journey.
Then there is the chance to always learn and grow. Each project becomes a learning experience, whether it’s mastering new techniques, exploring different genres, or gaining insights into the diverse perspectives of my audience. This ongoing learning process not only enhances my creative skills but also keeps my work fresh, dynamic, and relevant.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.charlie-savage.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlie.t.savage/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlieisavage/