We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Rae Benjamin a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Rae, thanks for joining us today. Alright, so you had your idea and then what happened? Can you walk us through the story of how you went from just an idea to executing on the idea
I am someone who did not go to film school, had zero connections to the entertainment, yet had dreams of being a TV writer. It was near impossible to find affordable, accurate, and relevant information on becoming a professional screenwriter. Through a combination of diligent work and sheer luck, I was able to eventually find my way into a writers room, but not without missteps and mistakes. I founded In the Cut (ITC) because it was the resource I wished I had when I was starting out. My company provides low to no cost training, resources, and networking opportunities for Black writers, filmmakers, and other people of color. What sets ITC apart from similar companies is our commitment to proving actionable and up to date info specifically for BIPOC artists. My classes are taught by diverse writers and producers who are currently working in the industry. We focus on giving relevant information to help people improve skills and get jobs.
I started ITC while I was still an assistant on season 1 of Bridgerton. I had to book a venue, schedule panelists and plan an event for 50 people which unexpectedly sold out in 10 minutes! After that I was energized — I knew the need for this information was real.
I actually intended for ITC to be a live event series but Miss ‘Rona showed up in 2020 and had other plans. After I had to cancel an event due to COVID lockdowns, I created a free webinar for attendees as a substitute. It went so well, I decided to change my entire business model and create online classes. What started as a one-time solution became my primary product.
Rae, 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 am a TV/FIlm writer. Most recently, I was a co-producer on season 5 of THE WITCHER (Netflix) and have an animated feature (SIRENS OF THE DEEP) set to debut on Netflix at the end of 2024. I saw a need to provide straightforward and practical information for aspiring creatives entering the entertainment industry and started my company, In the Cut. Since 2020, ITC has hosted well over 100 events, both online and live, featuring diverse writers and producers from hit shows like ABBOTT ELEMENTARY, THE MANDALORIAN, BRIDGERTON, INSECURE and more. I have also been an advisor and panelist for organizations like Sundance Collab, Ghetto Film School, New Filmmakers LA, and more.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
Social media has been the lifeblood of my business, specifically Instagram. I’m not an influencer by any means, but I had to learn and be consistent in posting and engaging with my audience to promote new classes and events.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
My advice is consistency! And I need to take my own advice. On Instagram specifically, the algorithm rewards your account when you post daily, on both stories and your feed. I can see huge differences in numbers when I post regularly versus when I lag. It’s important to build a cohesive visual identity and create relevant, engaging content from my followers. I post tips, info, and inspiration, not just products to sell.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Inthecutla.org
- Instagram: Inthecutla
Image Credits
Brandon Hicks