Totally Booked with Zibby: Episode Summary Featuring Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas and Climbing in Heels

In this engaging episode of Totally Booked with Zibby, host Zibby Owens sits down with acclaimed author and former talent agent Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas to discuss her latest novel, Climbing in Heels. The conversation delves deep into Elaine's illustrious career, the inspiration behind her novel, the intricate themes woven throughout the story, and the exciting news of its adaptation into a television series.

1. Introducing Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas

Zibby Owens opens the episode by introducing Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas, highlighting her impressive career trajectory. Elaine transitioned from a senior vice president at the William Morris Agency and later ICM, where she managed prominent talents such as Julia Roberts, Jennifer Lopez, Nicolas Cage, and Madonna, to becoming a successful author and producer. Her extensive experience in the entertainment industry provides a rich backdrop for her storytelling in Climbing in Heels.

2. From Talent Agent to Storyteller

Elaine shares her journey from the bustling corridors of major talent agencies to the creative realm of writing. Reflecting on her early days, she recounts:

“I was in love with a boy who wanted an agent. And I did go agency to agency to try to get him just to deliver... and I got him an agent. Nothing felt as good as convincing that agent that he was talented.”
[06:41]

This anecdote underscores Elaine's passion for nurturing talent and her innate drive to turn aspirations into reality—a theme that resonates throughout her novel.

3. Inspiration Behind Climbing in Heels

Elaine delves into the genesis of Climbing in Heels, explaining that the novel is a fictional narrative inspired by her personal experiences and observations within the entertainment industry. She emphasizes:

“90% of this is imagined, maybe 80% is imagined. And some of it is based on things I saw, people I knew, crazy experiences I had.”
[08:37]

This blend of fact and fiction allows her to craft a compelling story that captures the essence of ambition, resilience, and the complexities of climbing the professional ladder.

4. Exploring Themes and Characters

Zibby Owens and Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas explore the rich tapestry of characters in the novel. Elaine discusses how each character embodies different facets of ambition and self-worth:

“It's about background people. People who maybe stood close enough to fame and got a little bit of fame themselves.”
[25:41]

Characters like Beanie Rosen, Ella Gaddy, Mercedes Baxter, Sheila Day, and Jamie Garland navigate their careers and personal lives, grappling with issues such as self-worth, legacy, and the relentless pursuit of success. Elaine highlights the importance of maternal influences on these women:

“All of my characters were kind of formed and informed by mothers who either had their own dreams or their fears. They were their fuel and their kryptonite.”
[13:55]

5. The Writing Process and Publishing Journey

Elaine provides an insightful look into her writing process, detailing how the COVID-19 pandemic became a catalyst for her literary aspirations. She recounts:

“In March of 2020 till October of 2021... I had my very first draft and then I kept rewriting and rewriting.”
[17:55]

Facing the uncertainty of the pandemic, Elaine channeled her experiences into creating a novel that reflects the tumultuous times and the unwavering spirit of its protagonists. Her dedication paid off when she entered a bidding war for her manuscript, eventually leading to a publishing deal with St. Martin's and a successful partnership with literary agents.

6. From Page to Screen: Adaptation News

A significant highlight of the conversation is the announcement of Climbing in Heels' adaptation into a television series. Elaine shares the exhilarating journey of seeing her work translated for the screen:

“Peacock read it, and they gave us an order direct to series.”
[30:07]

This development marks a significant milestone, promising to bring the vibrant characters and their intricate stories to a broader audience. Elaine expresses her excitement and nervousness about the adaptation:

“I was optioning it. And really, I was gobsmacked. It is nutty.”
[30:14]

7. Personal Reflections on Dreams and Self-Worth

The conversation takes a reflective turn as Elaine discusses the interplay between professional ambition and personal fulfillment. She emphasizes the importance of embracing multiple roles and not limiting oneself to a single path:

“You can be an agent or a producer or a writer... you don't have to just stay in one lane.”
[08:05]

Elaine encourages listeners to pursue their diverse interests and to recognize that self-worth isn't solely tied to professional success:

“The only thing stopping you in life sometimes is you.”
[31:44]

8. Concluding Thoughts and Future Endeavors

As the episode wraps up, Elaine and Zibby share mutual admiration, reflecting on the meaningful exchange and the journey ahead for Climbing in Heels. Elaine conveys her gratitude and optimism:

“It's a reminder that the only thing stopping you in life sometimes is you.”
[31:50]

Zibby echoes this sentiment, celebrating Elaine’s accomplishments and the heartfelt messages embedded within the novel.

Final Reflections

This episode of Totally Booked with Zibby offers listeners an in-depth look into Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas's transition from a powerhouse in the talent agency world to a storyteller capturing the nuanced lives of ambitious women. Through Climbing in Heels, Elaine invites readers and viewers alike to explore themes of self-worth, legacy, and the relentless pursuit of dreams, all while maintaining a human and relatable narrative.

Listeners are left inspired by Elaine's journey and the powerful messages conveyed in her work, making this episode a must-listen for book enthusiasts and aspiring creatives alike.

Notable Quotes:

• Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas (06:41): “Nothing felt as good as convincing that agent that he was talented.”

• Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas (08:37): “90% of this is imagined, maybe 80% is imagined. And some of it is based on things I saw, people I knew, crazy experiences I had.”

• Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas (25:41): “It's about background people. People who maybe stood close enough to fame and got a little bit of fame themselves.”

• Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas (31:44): “The only thing stopping you in life sometimes is you.”

Stay Connected:

For more insights and updates, visit zibbymedia.com and follow Zibby Owens on Instagram @zibbyowens.