From Talkative Kid to CEO; Cheldin Barlatt Rumer
Growing up, I always talked too much in class, eager to share stories and connect with those around me. Little did I know that this “talkativeness” would turn into a career—one I would come to love deeply. I didn’t know media could be a job, that storytelling could be a profession, until one fateful day when I was just nine years old.
I remember it vividly. I was watching the Oprah Winfrey Show on television, and it was as if a whole new world opened up before me. I saw myself reflected on the screen—not just in Oprah, but in the power of storytelling she wielded. Through her, I witnessed the incredible art of educational entertainment. I saw how meaningful conversations could inform and transform, how they could foster curiosity and inspire action. Her direct communication style, ability to listen, and empathy were awe-inspiring. Even at that age, it was clear that I had found my calling.
My love for talk shows only deepened as I watched other legends—Phil Donahue, Sally Jessy Raphael, Ricki Lake, and Montel Williams. These icons showed me the profound impact of engaging conversations, each demonstrating how this unique genre of television could encourage change, foster useful communication, and connect people across experiences. Talk shows introduced me to new perspectives, challenged my thinking, and ignited a fire in me to connect, share, and tell stories.
Fast forward to today, and that dream is my reality. I’m living my life’s work as CEO and Executive Producer of THIS IS IT NETWORK™, a platform built on the same principles I fell in love with as a child. Through our SCREAM YOUR DREAM™ mission, we connect remarkable women to inspiring stories, offering captivating campaigns, digital production, engaging events, and professional development opportunities.
Recently, I had the privilege of moderating a panel for The Female Quotient during Advertising Week in New York. Being part of The Female Quotient Equality Lounge, surrounded by strong, talented women, reminded me why I do this work. Events like these provide women with a safe and welcoming environment to connect, share, and promote their expertise. These spaces are critical, allowing us to foster collaboration and drive change.
At THIS IS IT NETWORK™, whether online or offline, you’ll find me telling stories, creating conversations, and building relationships through educational entertainment. I feel fortunate to have discovered my passion early, to have been able to dive into my strengths, and ultimately to have built a career I love. The dream of that nine-year-old girl lives on now in the heart of a 47-year-old woman who continues to connect, inspire, and share stories with others. Here’s to knowing yourself, diving into your strengths, and turning dreams into reality. Let’s keep screaming our dreams together. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me.
