Metal Flowers Media

The Beginning of Metal Flowers Media

Kristi’s journey to founding Metal Flowers Media began in the summer of 2000 when she arrived in Los Angeles and stepped onto Venice Beach. With sand between her toes and sunshine on her face, Kristi embraced the laid-back California vibe, quickly diving into entrepreneurial endeavors. She invested in a wholesale wax factory and spent weekends selling handmade candles on the boardwalk. Although it started as a romantic bohemian venture, it quickly became clear that candle making wasn’t as lucrative as she hoped. Kristi then moved on to working behind a bar, but her time there was short-lived—she was fired for prioritizing a snowboarding day over a mandatory meeting.

A Journey of Learning and Talent Discovery

During her time in Los Angeles, Kristi found herself broke but surrounded by colorful characters, unknowingly honing a critical eye for talent. She may not have realized it at the time, but this experience would later prove invaluable. Despite feeling like an embarrassment to her peers, Kristi reluctantly interviewed for a “real job” at Rocket Science Laboratories. Hired as a Production Assistant, Kristi found herself immersed in the production world, quickly climbing the ranks. She was promoted to Casting Producer and became an essential part of the team, setting up systems, managing teams, and slashing budgets.

Rising Through the Ranks

As a Casting Producer, Kristi’s ambition and work ethic shone through. She became indispensable within the company, playing a crucial role in the development of reality television shows. Alongside Tyler Ramsey, Kristi built an in-house casting department and oversaw the casting of some of the most memorable characters in reality TV. Her passion for story and production led her to become Senior Director of Talent Development, where she created content and pitched shows. In less than a year, four of Kristi’s pitches were on air with other production companies.

The Birth of Metal Flowers Media

In 2008, with Rocket Science Laboratories closing its doors, Kristi felt empowered to take the leap and plant the seeds of her own company, Metal Flowers Media. What began as a small venture quickly grew into a well-established casting and talent resource for unscripted projects. In a short time, Metal Flowers Media became known for its cutting-edge casting and talent strategies. Kristi and her team revolutionized the industry by rewriting the traditional “pay for play” casting services deal memo, allowing clients to receive casting and talent development services even before shows were green-lit. Today, Metal Flowers Media has expanded, with offices in Los Angeles and Boulder, Colorado.

Pioneering New Paths in Talent-Driven Programming

Under Kristi’s leadership, Metal Flowers Media has become a leader in the world of unscripted, talent-driven programming. The company has an impressive roster of credits and a growing slate of development projects. Kristi and her team continue to break new ground in casting and talent development, shaping the future of unscripted television with innovative strategies and fresh approaches.

Kristi’s Personal Growth

Kristi’s journey has taken her from Venice Beach to the heights of the entertainment industry. When she’s not managing her thriving business, she can be found climbing 14ers, skiing powder, or seeking out exceptional food. Kristi is proud to report that her financial struggles are behind her—there’s no more Ramen in her cupboard. From humble beginnings to becoming a pioneer in the world of unscripted television, Kristi’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and growth.

The Metal Flowers Media Legacy

Today, Metal Flowers Media continues to push boundaries, providing unmatched talent and casting services to the entertainment industry. Kristi Russell and her team remain at the forefront of unscripted television, committed to developing new talent and shaping the future of reality programming.