Ever wondered what it takes to leave a prestigious career, like working in a stable job at the U.S. Federal Reserve Bank, to pursue uncertain dreams in Hollywood? Nkechi Okoro Carroll’s inspiring journey proves that with determination and strategic planning, amazing pivots are possible. As the executive producer of hit shows like Found on NBC and the CW’s All American, she transformed her career from working as an economist to becoming an entertainment powerhouse, defying her family’s expectations.
“I always loved entertainment, but I come from a very traditional Nigerian family. So you all know what that means: doctor, banker, or lawyer. So, I chose banking and I genuinely loved economics. But I wanted to work for the Federal Reserve Bank of New York because it put me in New York with New York theater,” explains Nkechi.
In a new episode of the Glow Stream TV podcast More to the Story with Markette Sheppard, Nkechi shares more about how she masterfully crafted her transition, using vacation days to work as a background actor on sets and teach herself TV writing.
“I would sit in the back of an acting class, meet actors, and ask them if they wanted to shoot a short film on the weekend; and that was how I taught myself TV,” she said. “Eventually those short films got me my literary manager who got me my first job, and then I quit my job as an economist.”
Under Nkechi’s leadership, All American has become more than simply entertainment – it’s a platform tackling crucial issues like mental health and financial literacy, while celebrating Black culture through vibrant storytelling and dance sequences.
Ready to be inspired to chase your own dreams, no matter how impossible they seem? Listen to this episode and subscribe to the podcast to discover how determination and passion can transform your career path in unexpected ways.
