Karen Flishel

EVP and GM, Here

WHY WE’RE WATCHING: Targeting the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities, Here is making its mark with original programming and has built solid distribution. Under Flischel’s leadership, the network must further differentiate itself from competitors Logo and Q Television Network with viewers and affiliate executives.

HIGH ’05s: “In 2005 we managed to get Here firmly into the game, and into the hearts and minds of a massive and affluent base of consumers with relevant characters and stories that had rarely been visible on television. We touched thousands through grassroots marketing with local operators and secured carriage, making Here available to 43 million U.S. homes. Personally, being part of a company that serves the LGBT community has had a profound impact on me. And so after 13 years with my partner, Bunni Luck, we made our vows to one another in September. It was a rewarding year all around.”

PICKS IN ’06: “We need to drive subscriptions, and continue to add subscription VOD affiliates. We are in production with several original films, along with new and returning series. We’re also focusing on driving usage on our new IPTV platforms, such as Movielink, Akimbo and others.”

MY TIME: “Bunni and I do New York City: theater, restaurants music. I loved living abroad when I was with Nick International, but at this point in my life I’m delighted to be back. We also enjoy spending time at our house in the Poconos — our 'yin’ to the city’s 'yang.’”