Inspirational Women In Hollywood: How Charlie T. Savage Of Charlie Bit Me Joints Is Helping To Shake Up The Entertainment Industry
An Interview With Eden Gold
Everyone is not your friend so stop talking so much to folks. Instead, listen to how people talk about others. Watch how people treat those they don’t think they need. It’s easier than you think to know who is genuine and who isn’t. Just watch what company you keep because it may ultimately be your demise.
As a part of our series about Inspirational Women In Hollywood, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Charlie T. Savage.
Charlie T. Savage (she/her) is a Navy Veteran, screenwriter, producer, and founder of Charlie Bit Me Joints, where she creates and develops content that highlights the Black female experience. A passionate advocate for diversity in film and television, Charlie focuses on inclusive storytelling, with an emphasis on LGBTQIA+, people of color, and women. She actively supports the California Film Commission and is a member of Veterans in Media & Entertainment. The New Orleans native is a former fellow of Collective 5 Entertainment’s Showrunner’s Mentorship Academy, Charlie has played a significant role in advocating for inclusivity in the entertainment industry. She has also been a Writer’s Guild Foundation Veterans Project fellow and was a finalist in the Prince William Little Theatre’s Original Works Festival. With a postgraduate degree in Management and a foundation in Journalism and Mass Communications, Charlie seamlessly blends creative vision with strategic expertise. A devoted mother, she resides in Inglewood, CA.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us the story of how you grew up?
I was born in Oakland, CA, but I grew up in New Orleans, raised by my grandparents after my biological mother joined the Army shortly after I was born. Being the eldest of five girls but growing up in my grandparents’ home shaped a unique perspective for me. My grandparents were loving but protective — especially since their daughter had me at a young age. As a teenager, I was on lockdown to “protect me from the world,” but it often felt more like a prison.
Living in a house where my grandfather struggled with a gambling addiction brought its own challenges, but I found my escape through movies and TV. I would immerse myself in those stories, imagining myself as the forgotten child on The Cosby Show, the neighbor no one knew about on Living Single, or even the mail carrier on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Those shows became my sanctuary, and I realized early on that I wanted to create stories of my own.
I started writing short stories and novels, dreaming of a future where I could bring those creations to life. But I also knew that to make those dreams a reality, I’d have to leave New Orleans. Eventually, I decided to join the Navy as a way to escape Louisiana and start building the life I’d always imagined. That decision not only took me far from home but also taught me the resilience and discipline I needed to pursue my dream of becoming a storyteller.
Can you share a story with us about what brought you to this specific career path?
This is a wild story, but it’s one of the moments that set me on this path. When I was in middle school, I attended one of the worst schools in Louisiana — and that’s saying something, considering the state of the public education system there. On top of that, I wasn’t a strong reader. Words were hard for me, and for a long time, they hurt more than they helped. But even then, I knew I was meant to write stories. Writing was my escape from everything going on at home and in my neighborhood.
One day, our school announced a short story competition. I don’t remember what the prompt was, but I do remember pouring my heart into that story. I wrote it over and over again, refining it the best I could. My best friend, who’s still my friend to this day, helped me with it. When she said, “I think it’s good,” I took her word for it. We were on the same level, so her stamp of approval was enough for me.
I submitted the story, along with a bunch of other seventh graders, and waited. The prize was $50, which, to a seventh grader, felt like a fortune. The day the winners were announced, I was sitting in my science class, and everyone hushed to hear the principal’s announcement over the PA system. They started with the seventh-grade winners: third place, second place, and then first place. None of the names called were mine. In that moment, I felt crushed. I thought, Maybe I’m not built for this. At 13, hearing that kind of rejection hit hard, especially when it was something I felt so deeply meant for me.
Then they moved on to the eighth-grade winners. Third place, they called a name. Second place, another name. And then first place — they said my name. My entire class turned to look at me, like, Is she in the wrong class? I should’ve been in eighth grade but was held back a year, so everyone was stunned.
A few minutes later, the vice principal came into my classroom, pulled me out, and took me to the principal’s office. They handed me my story, full of red-ink corrections for all the misspellings, and said, “You have a knack for storytelling.” That moment stuck with me. It was the push I needed to keep going, to see that despite the flaws, I had something special to offer.
Looking back, I realize we often know who we’re meant to be long before we know who we are, you know? Long before spell check and all. That experience gave me the courage to keep pursuing my dream, no matter how hard the journey seemed.
Can you tell us the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?
One of the most impactful moments in my career happened when I had the privilege to attend a conversation titled Careers in Music: The Making of the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Soundtrack. It featured Archie Davis, Ryan Coogler, and Ludwig Göransson discussing the creative process behind the music for the film. I went knowing it was centering music not film but I didn’t care. I just wanted to smell the air Coogler was breathing. A bit stalker-like but it’s a creator thing I guess.
I made sure to arrive early and found myself seated in the front row, slightly off-center but close enough to feel immersed in the discussion. Ryan has long been a hero of mine because of his powerful storytelling and the deeper meaning he infuses into his work.
One moment from that conversation will stick with me forever. Ryan spoke about the passing of Chadwick Boseman, and though I don’t want to misquote him, he said something to the effect of, It was like cold water hitting his face. It was a sobering reminder of what is real and why they do what they do. He shared how that loss stripped away the pressure to outdo his previous work or chase accolades. Instead, it brought him back to the core of his purpose: to create meaningful films that impact people’s lives.
He wasn’t driven by the Oscars, the Grammys, or any of those heavy pieces of metal at that moment. What mattered most to him was making the best film he could with the skills and resources he had, staying true to the purpose that drives his team’s work.
You know as a writer and creator in Los Angeles, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly competing — not just with others, but with yourself. LA can feel like a machine designed to chew you up, and Ryan’s words were a grounding reminder to step back and remember why I do what I do. It’s not about chasing awards or approval but about putting my whole heart and effort into creating the best stories I can.
The conversation left me inspired, not just because of the incredible work behind Black Panther: Wakanda Forever but because of the ethos that drove it. They didn’t create the soundtrack or the film to chase dollars or awards. They did it because they wanted to honor their craft and the legacy of someone they loved.
It has been said that our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
Ha! I’ve never been a big fan of the word mistake. I’m very much in the Bob Ross camp of thinking… we don’t make mistakes but instead we have happy accidents. But if I had to choose, the funniest “happy accident” from when I was first starting out has to be, and still is, my ongoing struggle with names.
There was this one time I spent an entire afternoon calling a gentleman Brandon, only to find out later that his name was Timothy. He didn’t even correct me! He just nodded and listened politely the whole time. When I realized what I was doing, I was mortified. He thankfully had a good sense of humor about it, but to this day, I still cringe when I think about it.
The lesson I learned? Always double-check names! If I’m unsure, I’ll write it down, ask again, or even sneak a peek at a name tag if they’re wearing one. If you have any foolproof tips for remembering names, I will take them!
I’m so sorry Tim!
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?
Okay, this is a tough one because so many people have helped me both directly and indirectly along the way. But if I had to choose one person I’m truly grateful for, it would be my son, Ja’Mauri. He’s the strongest kid I know.
He’s been my rock through late night writing sessions, countless trips to the movies so I can analyze films for work, and all the ups and downs of this journey. But what means the most to me is how proud he is of me. How he looks at me when I’m explaining what I do. And every night when he hugs me goodnight and tells me he loves me, I know he truly means it. He’s a constant source of motivation and joy in my life. I love my kiddo.
You have been blessed with great success in a career path that can be challenging. Do you have any words of advice for others who may want to embark on this career path, but seem daunted by the prospect of failure?
I’m going to hold your hand as I say this: You will fail. You will mess up. You will write terrible first, second, and even third drafts. But you can’t let that stop you. Failure is part of the process. But fear is not.
Think about this. Steven Spielberg was rejected from USC’s film school not once, twice. Ava DuVernay’s debut film made only $11,000 on its opening weekend. And Oprah was fired from her job as an evening news anchor in Baltimore. Just imagine how different the world would be if they had quit after their first, or their 50th, failure.
The truth is, failure isn’t the end; it’s just another step in the journey. The key is to turn every loss into a lesson. If this is the path you feel called to follow, don’t let the fear of failing hold you back.
Every industry iterates and seeks improvement. What changes would you like to see in the industry going forward?
I’d like to see more room for risk-taking and creative freedom. The industry has become increasingly driven by franchise films and marketable content, which often results in the same types of stories being told over and over. I’d love to see more spaces where innovative, unique ideas are given a chance to thrive, especially for up-and-coming writers and creators who may not have the traditional industry connections. I’m tired of remakes of films from my childhood. Let the little kid in me stay satisfied!
You have such impressive work. What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now? Where do you see yourself heading from here?
Thank you so much for the kind words! Right now, I’m working on some really exciting projects that I can’t wait to share.
I’m currently a writer for Season 3 of the Forties AF Podcast created and produced by Tangible Films & Entertainment, which will be hitting your favorite podcast streaming services in early 2025 — so keep an eye out! I’m also in post-production on a short film I produced called Glory Obscured where a fallen angel walks into a bar…run by a demon. It will hopefully be hitting the festival circuit soon. It’s been an incredible journey bringing this project to life, and I can’t wait to see where it goes. I’m also producing my first full feature film, which I co-wrote with a close writing partner. It’s been an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience. It’s definitely giving me a bit of anxiety, but in a good way!
And of course, there are always a few other projects in the works that I’m keeping under wraps for now. Still a few little secrets up my sleeve!
We are very interested in looking at diversity in the entertainment industry. Can you share three reasons with our readers why you think it’s important to have diversity represented in film and television? How can that potentially affect our culture and our youth growing up today?
Oh my favorite topic next to screenwriting! Diversity in film and television is crucial for a number of reasons.
First and foremost representation matters. When people see themselves reflected on screen, it validates their experiences and identities. For marginalized communities, seeing diverse characters in leading roles can boost self-esteem, foster a sense of belonging, and even help combat harmful stereotypes. It’s not just about having a “token” character, but having authentic, complex representations that speak to the full spectrum of human experience.
Then there’s broadening perspectives. Diverse storytelling introduces audiences to different cultures, experiences, and worldviews. This exposure helps break down ignorance, fosters empathy, and encourages people to see the world through others’ eyes. When we hear stories from different backgrounds, it challenges narrow perspectives and promotes understanding across racial, ethnic, gender, and socioeconomic lines.
Ultimately, diversity in entertainment doesn’t just change the way we see others. It transforms how we see ourselves, shaping culture and fostering a more inclusive, empathetic society.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why?
First, everyone is not your friend so stop talking so much to folks. Instead, listen to how people talk about others. Watch how people treat those they don’t think they need. It’s easier than you think to know who is genuine and who isn’t. Just watch what company you keep because it may ultimately be your demise.
Second, when you’re starting out, it’s easy to get caught up in comparing your journey to others, especially in an industry like this where everyone’s success looks different. I spent a lot of time early on wondering why my path didn’t look like someone else’s. But there’s no one-size-fits-all formula for success. Embrace your own pace and learn what works best for you. I had to stop looking at others and focus on figuring out how I learn, grow, and create in my own way.
Third, be kind to yourself. It will get hard. It will get dark. You will have moments where you want to give up but you have to remember why you are doing what you are doing. Remind yourself over and over. Find your mission statement and remind yourself each day. Put it on a sticky note and stick it to your bathroom mirror if you have to. Do what you gotta do but always be kind to yourself.
Fourth, I cannot emphasize this enough. That book you’re reading or that script or that shot list. Whatever it is, just get it across the line! The reality is, 99% of people who don’t make it in this industry don’t fail because they’re not talented, but because they don’t finish what they start. It doesn’t need to be perfect, just done. If you want to be in this industry you have to realize that you will never be perfect because there is no such thing.
Lastly, Never stop being you. For no one. Period.
Can you share with our readers any self-care routines, practices or treatments that you do to help your body, mind or heart to thrive? Please share a story for each one if you can.
One of the most important self-care practices I’ve adopted is learning to say “no.” As someone who used to be a notorious people-pleaser, I mean it was bad, I’ve realized I can’t be everything to everyone. Setting boundaries is crucial for my mental health and helps ensure that I’m giving my best energy to the things that truly matter.
And listen, in a place like LA, especially in Hollywood, it feels like you have to say “yes” to everything. Favors, parties, movie screening, premieres, brunches… Oh, the brunches! It can feel like you’re constantly expected to be social, and it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of networking and events. But I’ve take it from me, it’s okay to step back. Saying no doesn’t make you less ambitious or connected. It’s actually a way to protect your time and energy.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
One of my favorite quotes is “I am deliberate and afraid of nothing.” Words of Audre Lorde who was a renowned poet, essayist, and civil rights activist known for her work on social justice, feminism, and the Black experience. I just love her.
This quote resonates deeply with me because it speaks to the power of intentionality and courage. As a writer and producer navigating a tough industry, there are many opportunities to invite doubt and fear. But Lorde’s words remind me not to shrink back from challenges. Embracing deliberate action and not letting fear hold me back has helped me step confidently into my truth. It’s a lesson I carry every day.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be?
In a world that is increasingly divided, I believe that fostering a culture where people listen deeply, seek to understand one another’s experiences, and embrace their true selves without fear of judgment could create massive positive change.
This movement would encourage individuals to express their unique voices, celebrate their identities, and show compassion for those who may not share the same experiences or perspectives. It would focus on breaking down barriers — whether racial, gender-based, or societal — and uniting people through the shared human experience.
Is there a person in the world whom you would love to have lunch with, and why? Maybe we can tag them and see what happens!
Besides Ryan Coogler? I would have to say Misha Green! She is an incredible writer, producer, and showrunner best known for her work on Lovecraft Country and Underground. Her ability to merge historical narratives with genre-defying elements while addressing important social issues is something I deeply admire. But please feel free to tag both!
Are you on social media? How can our readers follow you online?
Yes, of course! You can find me on IG at @charlie.t.savage, or feel free to reach out to me directly through my website at www.Charlie-Savage.com. I’d love to connect!
This was so informative, thank you so much! We wish you continued success!
Always a pleasure!
About The Interviewer: Eden Gold, is a youth speaker, keynote speaker, founder of the online program Life After High School, and host of the Real Life Adulting Podcast. Being America’s rising force for positive change, Eden is a catalyst for change in shaping the future of education. With a lifelong mission of impacting the lives of 1 billion young adults, Eden serves as a practical guide, aiding young adults in honing their self-confidence, challenging societal conventions, and crafting a strategic roadmap towards the fulfilling lives they envision.
Do you need a dynamic speaker, or want to learn more about Eden’s programs? Click here: https://bit.ly/EdenGold
Inspirational Women In Hollywood: How Charlie T Savage Of Charlie Bit Me Joints Is Helping To… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.