[Franco-Aceto] I’m a writer/director, storyteller, and entrepreneur. My company creates content, including commercials, webisodes, web spots, TV, miniseries and films. I am convinced that every company, every entity, has a story worth telling which will enhance their brand and position in the market.

[NAPW] Tell us a little bit about your career journey:

[Franco-Aceto]  My career journey has been filled with unexpected twists and turns, as is the case for many people in life. I guess you could say I have had a right brain/left brain career. On one hand, I had a successful career in marketing and branding. On the other hand, I have always had a passion for the creative process, and began my creative career in front of the camera as a recording artist and songwriter. I then moved behind the camera in a journey that began with producing and eventually led to writing and directing, then establishing my own company.

[NAPW] When did you know this is what you wanted to do? Did you have an ‘ah ha’ moment?

[Franco-Aceto]  When I began producing, I realized that in an industry where a very small percentage of women hold decision-making positions, I am convinced that women are exceptionally well suited to juggle the demands and responsibilities required in multi-tasking roles. My ‘ah ha’ moment was when I realized that as a woman of color, I could bring a valuable and additive perspective to my industry.

[NAPW]  What are some of your greatest accomplishments and/or accolades?

[Franco-Aceto]  My greatest accomplishments are seeing my former assistants excel, grow, and move on to jobs where they are being recognized for their talent. As women, I feel we have a unique responsibility to nurture the next generation of women who have goals to make a difference in our industries.

[NAPW]  Do you have a mantra?

[Franco-Aceto] “It’s never too late to be what you might have been.” –George Elliot This quote is on my office wall.

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us” –Ralph Waldo Emerson

This quote is in my heart.

[NAPW]  What inspires you on a day-to-day basis?

[Franco-Aceto]  First, my faith in God. Second, my incredible husband, and finally, the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others by sharing inspiring stories through my craft.

[NAPW]  What is on your iPod?

[Franco-Aceto] Black Eyed Peas, John Legend, Yo-Yo Ma, Coldplay, Van Morrison and too many others to name.

[NAPW]  Tell us a funny story about you.

[Franco-Aceto]   When we were recording my first music video, I was extremely self-conscious of my Latina butt. I asked the cinematographer to please not shoot my backside. A few minutes later, before we began filming, I heard the cinematographer say very loudly in front of the crew “That’s so Phat!” Embarrassed, I said, “I told you not to film my butt!” The director quickly walked over to me and whispered “P-H-A-T, P-H.”