TV Agent Tips: Standing Out in Interviews & On Screen | Kenicia Cross

What does it actually take to land interviews on broadcast television — and when does it make sense to work with a talent agent?In this episode of Unknown to Known, TV news veteran Jamie Maglietta sits down with Kenicia Cross, a dynamic talent agent and former television news producer at OTA Talent Agency.Kenicia brings a rare dual perspective — having worked on both sides of the camera — and breaks down what producers and bookers look for when selecting guests. From crafting a compelling pitch to understanding when representation can elevate your career, this conversation offers real-world guidance for professionals navigating the competitive broadcast landscape.In this episode, you’ll learn:The five must-haves every strong media pitch should includeWhen and how to pitch the press effectivelyWhy your “why” matters before you ever step on cameraHow social media influences booking decisionsWhen you actually need a talent agent — and when you don’tWhy agents negotiate contracts and how they advocate for clientsWhat to include in a strong on-camera reelHow contributors and paid TV guests position themselves across networksThis episode is essential listening for business leaders, legal experts, political analysts, journalists, influencers, and professionals who want to appear on broadcast television — and do it strategically.🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast platform.🔗 Learn more about Kenicia Cross:https://otatalent.com/team-members/kenicia-cross/00:00 – Intro00:05 – Five things to include in a media pitch04:00 – Meet Kenicia Cross04:22 – When to pitch & how to approach the press05:00 – Five tips for experts (lawyers, analysts, business owners)08:00 – What guests need to do on social media09:30 – Refining your pitch strategy13:15 – Why knowing your “why” matters on camera16:00 – Kenicia’s pivot from broadcast producer to talent agent21:20 – Do you need a talent agent to appear on TV?22:00 – Why agents negotiate contracts25:00 – How agents bet on their clients29:00 – What makes a strong reel (MMJs, journalists, creators)30:00 – Motivation for pushing through industry challenges31:00 – When you need representation as a contributor or paid guest32:00 – Earned media & appearing across networks33:30 – Two questions Kenicia asks prospective clientsUnknown to Known is hosted by Jamie Maglietta — a veteran TV news producer with over 20 years of experience helping anchors, reporters, and experts deliver with impact. Today, she helps leaders, authors, and entrepreneurs show up with clarity, credibility, and confidence across podcasts, YouTube, social media, and television.Resources:Website & Visibility Program:Visibility Program: https://www.oncamready.com/Resources + Links:(ON CAM) Ready: Checklist: https://www.oncamready.com/waitlist Substack:The Scroll Newsletter: https://oncamready.substack.comRiverside (Affiliate):Record your content with Riverside:  https://riverside.sjv.io/09VWrEDiscount Code: OCR15Brand Builders Group (Affiliate): https://ro474.infusionsoft.app/app/form/web-form-submitted121VidIQ (Affiliate): https://vidiq.com/oncamreadyYouTube Channels:Main Channel (ON CAM Ready Media): https://www.youtube.com/@oncamreadyPodcast Links:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unknown-to-known-presented-by-on-cam-ready/id1707162005Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5yEIQWeK7aLHtPSBBbSPcz?si=61b241d434f84578Think Like a Producer:  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5w84zVVaquAcIDaes41NoMHDjtllgkCW