Have you ever wondered what it takes to start and run your own production company? How do you balance being a creative with running a business? What even is an LLC? Join us as we sit down with several animation production company founders and learn what it takes to run your own studio, and if ice cream can be a tax write-off it you were working while you ate it. Panelists include Dave Peth (Mighty Picnic), Jennifer Oxley (Snowflake Films NYC) and Aaron Augenblick (Augenblick Studios), and will be moderated by CMA's own, Ana Voci and Stacey Greenberger!

Dave Peth - Mighty Picnic

Dave Peth is an Emmy winning producer and creator of Lyla in the Loop. Previously, he helped create digital suites for projects including PBS KIDS Odd Squad, Peg+Cat, Scribbles and Ink, and Design Squad. He holds degrees from Cornell and Harvard in things having to do with art, technology, and learning.

Jennifer Oxley - Snowflake Films NYC

Jennifer Oxley was born in Hollywood, California and caught the filmmaking bug early – she made her first film at the age of seven. Since then, she’s created loads of short films with her production company SNOWFLAKE FILMS NYC, including segments for Sesame Street and an adaptation of Spike Lee’s children’s book, Please, Baby, Please. The Museum of Modern Art acquired her latest film, The Music Box, for their permanent children’s film collection. In the kids TV world, Jennifer won her first of 4 Emmy awards for her role as director on Little Bill. She later went on to create the look and animation style of the critically acclaimed Nickelodeon series The Wonder Pets. She also co-created the hit PBS Kids animated series Peg + Cat! And is the EP/Show Runner of the Spin Master series Vida the Vet, now airing on Netflix and the BBC! Most recently Jennifer revisited a beloved project from her past and developed The Wonder Pets: In the City spin-off for Apple Tv+.

Aaron Augenblick - Augenblick Studios

Aaron Augenblick is an animator, writer, director, and founder of Augenblick Studios in Brooklyn, NY.

His independent studio has been open since 1999, producing notable adult animated content, including Ugly Americans, Superjail, Wonder Showzen, The Jellies, and Death Hacks. His award-winning short films have screened at Sundance, SXSW, Ottawa, and Annecy.

Recently, Aaron has been delving into children’s entertainment with his sister company Future Brain Media. Aaron is the creator and executive producer of City Island on PBS KIDS. In 2024, City Island premieres its second season, music videos, merchandise, and video games. 

Through his commitment to hand-drawn animation and his unique vision, Aaron has established himself as one of the most important artists in his field.