Run-A-Muck, a media startup co-founded by Condé Nast alum Pamela Drucker Mann, is making a bold move into the world of short stories, with a focus on adaptation and a potential cultural impact. This strategic shift comes as the company aims to monetize its content and tap into a new source of intellectual property, particularly for film, television, podcasts, and other multimedia projects.
The company's approach is unique, starting with the story itself rather than a predetermined medium. As Drucker Mann explains, "Rather than starting with a medium and searching for an audience, we start with the story we want to tell and then determine the format that best serves that story."
This strategy is already paying off, with several notable writers signing up to publish on the platform. Among them are Cody Behan, whose short story "The Decorator" is set to be adapted for Netflix, and Brittani Nichols, a writer and director known for Abbott Elementary. However, adaptation is not the sole goal; some stories will remain in their original form, showcasing the versatility and appeal of short fiction.
Drafting, Run-A-Muck's Substack publication, has been attracting a substantial readership of over 50,000 monthly readers. The publication's success is further bolstered by its advertisers, including luxury brands like Hermès, Moncler, and eBay. The hiring of Kimberly Diaz, a former sales executive at Wondery and Google, as Run-A-Muck's head of advertising and brand partnerships, further strengthens the company's position in the market.
The first short story to be published on Drafting is a 1,800-word piece based on Showtime's series "The L Word," written by Run-A-Muck co-founder Ilene Chaiken, who co-created the iconic queer series. This story not only showcases the company's commitment to quality content but also hints at the potential for a deeper exploration of the LGBTQ+ community.
In addition to its short story venture, Run-A-Muck is also launching a podcast under the Drafting banner. The podcast will feature Chaiken interviewed by another Run-A-Muck co-founder, Jennifer Beals, an actor known for her role in "The L Word."
The company's recent funding success is a testament to its potential. With a seed funding round of $10 million led by Atreides Management and a previous pre-seed round of $6 million, Run-A-Muck's valuation has reached $80 million. This financial backing will enable the company to expand its staff, develop its audience, and further explore its intellectual property.
In conclusion, Run-A-Muck's venture into short stories is a strategic move that could have a significant impact on the entertainment industry. By starting with the story and adapting it to various platforms, the company is not only creating engaging content but also opening up new avenues for storytelling and cultural exploration. As the company continues to grow and innovate, it will be fascinating to see how it shapes the future of media and storytelling.
