Imagine being a child in the hospital, feeling unwell, and suddenly being offered the chance to talk to a beloved celebrity like Justin Bieber. This is the reality for patients at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, where Full Sail graduate Anthony Grier works as a Broadcast Coordinator for Seacrest Studios. Grier's role involves hosting a closed-circuit TV and radio program that frequently features A-list celebrities and television personalities, bringing joy and entertainment to the young patients.

Transforming Hospital Stays into Unforgettable Experiences

Harnessing the Power of Creativity and Positivity

Creative problem-solving is one of the most crucial skills that Anthony Grier utilizes in his role. Managing a constantly changing schedule and a revolving door of celebrities can be a significant challenge, yet Grier approaches each day with a smile and a positive attitude. His time at Full Sail University, where he enjoyed fast-paced recording arts classes that allowed him to wear many hats and practice new skills, such as recording voiceovers and balancing sound effects for films, has prepared him well for the dynamic nature of his current position.

Engaging Patients through Interactive Broadcasts

The closed-circuit television show that Grier produces is broadcast directly to patient rooms throughout the hospital, enabling the children to easily watch and participate. From playing bingo with a group of volunteering Full Sail students to meeting celebrities like Simone Biles, Terry Crews, or even Justin Bieber, the patients are actively involved in the studio's programming. Local weatherman Bryan Karrick has also stopped by to host a segment where patients presented the seven-day forecast, all of which are hosted by Grier, who runs the audio board and produces the show.

Fostering a Positive and Inclusive Environment

In his search for his on-camera persona, Grier has found that one thing is most important while interacting with the patients and celebrity guests: positivity. "I try to be that positive person all the time. As soon as I'm walking through the door, it's 'good morning' to everyone here. And then when that light turns on saying that you're on-air… I'm locked in," he explains. Engaging with the patients and making them feel seen is the primary focus of the show, and Grier goes to great efforts to ensure that all patients are included, regardless of their situation.

Empowering Patients through Participation

Monday through Friday, patients can call into the broadcast, where they can engage with guests or simply express their own thoughts. If a child isn't particularly interested in the current topic, Grier will research their interests and frame the broadcast around that, as engaging with the patients and making them feel seen is the most important part of the show. Despite their medical challenges, the patients often surprise Grier with their on-air bravery and enthusiasm. "My favorite part is all these kids have no fear and they're just excited. And they're just like, 'I want to do this,' and they're just being a kid… It's great because sometimes I even forget that I'm in a hospital because of that, because of all the positivity that's going on."

Adapting to Patients' Needs with Compassion

Grier goes to great lengths to ensure that patients are included, no matter their situation. If a patient is unable to come down to the studio, they can watch the broadcast from the comfort of their room and use Zoom to call in and participate. Grier also arranges for bedside visits with celebrities, ensuring that every patient has the opportunity to engage with the program and feel seen and heard.

Inspiring Future Dreamers and Creatives

To current Full Sail students, Grier offers a powerful message: "Keep dreaming while you're [at Full Sail] and keep dreaming when you leave. Never stop dreaming." His own journey from a student at Full Sail to a successful professional in the field of broadcast coordination serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of one's passions.