By Josie Goldberg
(The Hollywood Times) – August 21, 2025
I know that sometimes life can be unfair but then there is that split second where you meet someone that changes your life forever. Regardless of Race, Religion or Political affiliation, life in the entertainment industry seems to overshadow all those agendas. We as artists seem to see through that layer and get to the soul of art and create hits worldwide, well some of us. I thought about it and everyone who has ever given me a BIG shot in the industry has been someone who sees the world completely differently than me, or do they? I started to really think about it and realized, the common denominator, is really woman empowerment and I see that regardless of all agendas in the world, Female Empowerment is something unique, special and that should be more shared and celebrated.
I would like to introduce you to a producer that I worked with back in the day that was responsible for my successful run on the Dr. Phil Show from 2010-2017 that opened doors for me worldwide and I mean worldwide. I remember her being able to execute my big personality and helping me when I had my mini breakdowns while filming and walking me through them. I remember sitting on the steps at Paramount Studios having a MAJOR meltdown. I said Keya, why do I get treated like this, when others get an easier break in life? She said now you know how I feel as a Black woman making my own way. People think because I am White and Jewish, I had breaks from my own people. Keya knew that that was not the case for me, she told me to keep working and just know that some must work harder than others, but she assured me that my time will come and when it does, it will feel amazing. She was right! I found my dream job as an Entertainment Reporter at The Hollywood Times and would like to introduce Keya Mason to you my readers, and she too can help you make your dreams a reality in the entertainment industry.
Meet Keya Mason
A Three-Time Emmy-nominated casting director and producer and development executive with over two decades of experience. Known for developing & producing captivating stories, finding exceptional talent & creating unforgettable TV moments.
We have Keya Mason doing a Q&A with THT (The Hollywood Times) “Only Josie Knows” style, so you know.
THT: Who is Keya and what does she do?
KEYA– I am a twenty-year tv vet. I have been a tv producer for network television and also a casting director for every platform you can think of (The Real, Dr. Phil, Queer Eye, Love Island, Pawn Stars)
THT: What Reality tv shows are you currently casting and where does one apply?
KEYA, I just wrapped a show that I was producing for CBS Paramount, but recently I cast, Belle Collective on OWN Network, Somebody’s Son also on OWN Network, Love Island on Peacock, and Queer Eye on Netflix, stay tuned for future casting through my social media website.
THT: How does one make it to their dream show? (Does one need the right headshot, social media profile presence or what else?
KEYA: See the slideshow of photos below:
THT: Does no really mean no, is it psycho to send an email to the casting director and ask why they did not make it?
KEYA: No never means no, it means “no” right now. However, don’t be afraid to follow up, but think to yourself what made them say no?
See the slideshow of photos below:
THT: Any other tips?
See the slideshow of photos below:
I would like to thank Keya Mason for giving The Hollywood Times an interview, because it very rare to get insider information as this is the business of the “Wizard of OZ”, “Pulled Strings” in the sense behind the scenes manipulation or control, which our entertainment industry is honesty, but it never hurts to have an Ace up your sleeve like KEYA OUR KEY TO GETTING ON TV. Stay tuned for Packaging Oneself and getting a real chance to get booked!! Coming soon to “The Hollywood Times” I am ONLY JOSIE KNOWS.
