Tanya Wright

Tell us about your career journey and how you ended up here.

What a windy road it's been! I am from the Bronx and have been an actor most of my life-- my most recent role was appearing on the Netflix show Orange is the New Black for 7 seasons as Crystal Burset. But I was a writer first! I have authored 2 books (and have written 30 children's books). I ended up here as a result of...my hair! I have had a love/not-so-love (I don't 'hate' anything) relationship with it for many, many years. I created an entire children's franchise around what has been the bane of my existence most of my life...my hair!

Describe yourself in 5-7 words.

Spirited

Curious

Explorer

Independent

Fiesty

Introverted Extrovert

Tell us about a time when you thrived at work, and what you learned about yourself from that experience.

I wrote, directed, produced and starred in a film called New Hope-- we were in Columbus, Mississippi and we had 21 days to shoot. I had to fire a man 17 days into the 21 day movie shoot! It was a bit dicey, because he also owned most of the equipment we were using to film. I shut down production for 2 days, got new equipment and finished the movie without a hitch. I learned a lot about belief in myself, protecting my crew and doing what was right.

What is your favorite part of your job?

Creating and creating. Did I mention I love to create?

How about when you "turn off" and go home? Any hobbies or fun activities you are involved in?

Well, my 16 year old Black lab Macarena died 2 days ago. She was who I spent time with most, playing--she and I-- after long work days. I will have to figure out a New Way, while continuing to incorporate her in all that I do while she is on another plane.

Any must-read, must-watch or must-follow recommendations?

At the moment I am obsessed with anything and everything Seth Godin. Period.

Anything else you want to share with the WIT Community?

I am happy to be here. Thanks so much for having me!