Introduction: Welcome to The Amber Stitt Show! In this episode, we were thrilled to have the talented Donny McGuire as a guest. Donny shared his exciting experiences in the world of reality TV and offered valuable insights into building successful relationships, adapting to different personalities, and embracing new opportunities. Let's take a closer look at Donny's fascinating journey and the lessons we can learn from it.
A Day in the Life of Donny McGuire: Donny McGuire shared that working in reality TV as a production manager and assistant director (AD) is anything but ordinary. Every day brings new challenges and adventures as he navigates the fast-paced world of television production. Donny emphasized the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication within a creative environment. Despite the short time frame and working with different personalities, Donny and his team manage to come together to create successful shows that captivate audiences.
Embracing Change and Taking Risks: Donny's path to reality TV was not a conventional one. After serving in the military and working in the railroad industry, unexpected circumstances led him to explore new horizons. Donny's willingness to take risks and embrace change eventually led him to the world of production management. He encourages others to be open to new experiences and not be afraid to start over or pursue different career paths.
The Power of Networking: Donny credits networking as a crucial factor in his career transition. Through connections made by a friend, he got an opportunity to work for MTV Networks, which eventually led him to his current role in reality TV. Donny's wife, who works in human resources, reinforces the importance of networking and building relationships. Donny's story serves as a reminder that you never know where a connection might lead and how it can open doors to new possibilities.
Overcoming Challenges: One of the significant challenges Donny faced during his career journey was discovering that he was partially colorblind, which prevented him from continuing his job as a train conductor. This setback led him to explore different options, ultimately leading him to the world of television production. Donny's resilience and determination allowed him to find his place in a new industry, emphasizing the importance of adapting and embracing alternative paths when faced with unexpected obstacles.
The Podcast: "Go For Donny!": Inspired by his appearance on The Amber Stitt Show, Donny and his friend, Jay Verkamp, are launching their very own podcast called "Go For Donny!". The podcast will delve into behind-the-scenes stories from reality TV, branded content, and film. Donny is excited to share the captivating and sometimes wild stories that occur during the production process. It promises to be a unique and entertaining podcast that provides insight into the world of television production.
Conclusion: Donny McGuire's journey in reality TV highlights the importance of embracing change, taking risks, and building strong relationships. His story serves as a reminder that even when faced with unexpected challenges, it's possible to find new and fulfilling paths. As we eagerly await the launch of "Go for Donny!", we can learn from his experiences and find inspiration in his determination to follow his passion. Stay tuned for more adventures from the world of Donny McGuire and the exciting world of reality TV.
To learn more about Donny please connect with him on LinkedIn:
and check out his new podcast which you can find at:
Timestamped Overview:
02:49 Communication skills vital for global competitiveness. 06:04 Hybrid positions provide work and play opportunities. 07:29 Importance of personal development and storytelling in communication. 11:53 Appreciating the progression of career changes. 13:22 Partial colorblindness led to unexpected career change. 19:08 "Take action today, step out of comfort zone" 20:22 Transitioning without purpose can lead to struggle. 23:03 Join The Amber Stitt Show, visit AmberStitt.com.