Crooked Media taps former Netflix exec for creative development post

Crooked Media, the company founded by former Obama staffers, has hired Sarah Geismer as its head of creative development and production. Geismer will spearhead development for all active and upcoming projects at the company, including podcasts, television, and film. Geismer’s roots are in video, including past executive posts at Netflix and Fox TV.

“Throughout her career, Sarah has demonstrated an incredible ability to champion and shepherd a diverse slate of shows, and has consistently identified stories and talent that resonate with audiences and compel them to keep tuning in,” Crooked Media COO Sarah Wick said. “We’re thrilled Sarah is bringing that wealth of experience to Crooked, as the company continues to expand and grow in new directions.”

The company’s flagship Pod Save America show was one of multiple podcasts to make the leap from audio project to television special last year thanks to a deal with HBO. The four-part TV special covered the 2018 midterm elections. Tapping an exec with experience in television and streaming video seems to confirm that Crooked Media will continue to explore options beyond just audio.

Anna Washenko