Andrew Cannizzaro
Hello! About me sections tend to be formal. But that's not me. So instead let's just talk.
I work as a director, producer, and writer for A+E Networks creating digital video content. Equally as important to me is what I do as a mental health advocate.
I've produced & directed numerous digital videos for BIO and the History Channel. At BIO I created over 100 documentary and educational videos for BIO.com’s profiles, including this series about the civil rights movement in Alabama. I now produce a wide range of show support and documentary content for History’s digital platforms and broadcast channel. Anything from an animated video about Washington's vision for America, an explainer on how the Spanish Flu was deadlier than WWI, a six part series on a wild bison rancher, to the story of Deb Haaland, one of the first Native American Congresswomen.
Telling stories is at the heart of what I do. Especially those that otherwise may never have been told.
Here's something else you should know about me: I have anxiety, depression, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I speak openly online about these challenges in order to help demystify and lift the stigma around these conditions. I also founded Open Minds, A+E Network's first employee resource group dedicated to destigmatizing mental illness in the workplace. I serve on our ERG council and work within our Diversity Advisory Council group to further DEI initiatives in all areas.
I've had people tell me not to mix my mental health challenges with my professional life. But I know what it's like to suffer in silence and I won't live in a world that perpetuates that notion. So, this is who I am. A creative director and producer living with mental health challenges, doing whatever he can to help dispel stigma and tell stories.
It's nice to meet you. Let's talk.
Proficiencies: Directing, Producing, Editing, Skilled Interviewer, Creative Writing, Story Research, Idea Development, Budgeting, Editorial and Brand Strategy
Technical Skills: Adobe Premiere, Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft Office, Proficient with Sony FS7/Canon c300/DSLRs