KAT O'BRIEN is an award-winning

WRITER, PRODUCER, PROFESSOR, and FOUNDER of KOB MAGIC.
 

As a writer and producer, I work in film, television, and am publishing my debut novel.

As a professor and Founder of KOB Magic, I help writers and artists find their voice, and tell their story -- from page to stage and screen, to publish and produce across platforms. I teach interdisciplinary Cinematic and Theater Arts at The University of Chicago, DePaul University and coach clients through KOB Magic to develop their projects for film, TV, digital media and theater production, as well as publication.
 

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HI, I'M KAT! 
As a writer, producer, professor, story coach, consultant, and mom -- I'm the person people go to when they want to make things happen. What's the dream? What's the project? How do we get it done? We'll figure it out together. I love to write, develop and produce stories that need telling, and help them find their way out into the world.

 

For over 20 years, I’ve worked in Hollywood, Chicago, and the international film and television industry, in digital media, theater, academia, political and social impact spaces helping artists and organizations develop work that’s authentic, resonant, relevant, and reflective of their voice and values. 

My clients span A-list, critically acclaimed, award-winning professional storytellers to ambitious creatives just starting out, who want to take their writing and art more seriously. My students are MFA and BFAs specializing in screenwriting, producing, or acting -- as well as undergrads and grads across disciplines from diverse fields of study who want to experience the thrill of seeing their idea realized for film, television, stage, and/or published for others to read.

My super power is taking anyone, at any level of writing experience -- to the next level of their creative refinement in practicing their craft, or producing and publishing their work. I transform dreamers into doers by strategically aligning your purpose with your process and practice to make your dream a reality. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, whether you're exploring something new or ready to hit the ground running, start here. 

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WHAT I DO

• Writer | Producer — I write & produce for film, television, digital media, stage, and am a debut author. 

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• Founder KOB Magic — As a coach, editor, and consultant, I work with writers, directors, and producers to develop their stories at every stage in the process: idea, outline, draft, as well as completed scripts and manuscripts. I also facilitate creativity and writing workshops for teams and organizations, and am available for hire as a speaker or emcee for creative, corporate, charitable, and political events. 

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• Professor — I teach & design courses, programs, guest lectures, and artist residencies in Arts & Communication.

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• Community Leader — I'm an advocate & policy consultant for public education, arts education, and public health initiatives, in support of non-profit organizations, government agencies, elected officials and political candidates, organizations, and movements.

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FEATURED WORK

New York Times • PBS • Fox32/My50 • Cinema Femme • Constellation Incubator • The Film Student Podcast 

The 5 Q Interview • Leadership Lounge Live "Write It Like You Mean It" • Creativity Everyday 365 Challenge  ​​

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CURRENT ACADEMIC APPOINTMENTS

The University of Chicago • DePaul University 

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Ready to tell your story?