Hollywood Editing Mentor

In episode 78, I share the replay of a recent HEM Connect live Q&A and networking session from July 23, 2025. It was an open conversation about the current state of the film and television industry and what editors can do to keep moving forward. Topics covered include: Networking strategies that actually work The state of the film & TV job industry How to grow your network and build lasting relationships How AI may impact editing jobs Major cities for scripted editing and whether remote work is sustainable Post-strike realities and how the industry is recovering Practical tips for finding work How to follow up and stay connected with people Smart questions to ask editors and mentors Is DaVinci Resolve replacing Avid? How to break into marketing and promotions for films and TV shows Whether you’re job hunting, building your network, or just trying to stay motivated, this episode offers insights and tools to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. 👉 Want to attend the next HEM Connect session? Sign up at https://www.hollywoodeditingmentor.com/connect Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

After a short break from releasing new podcast episodes and YouTube videos, I’m back with an important update on what’s been happening behind the scenes and the future of Hollywood Editing Mentor.  In this episode, I share why I stepped away, how I’ve been investing my energy into my editing career, and what you can expect moving forward. Hollywood Editing Mentor is here to stay, and I’m still committed to helping you navigate this industry. Whether you’re working to level up your skills, land your next gig, or stay motivated during uncertain times, this platform is built to support you with real-world insights from someone who’s in the trenches, just like you. Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

Navigating the film & TV industry during tough times of unemployment can be challenging, but it's not impossible. In this video, I share practical tips and strategies to help you deal with unemployment, so you can get through these difficult periods and keep moving your career forward. Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

In this episode, I dive into the world of cold outreach and explore the common mistakes that can hinder your chances of getting replies. As competition increases in the industry, building a strong network is more crucial than ever. Whether you're looking to connect with potential collaborators, mentors, or industry peers, avoiding these pitfalls can significantly improve your outreach effectiveness. Join me as I break down the biggest mistakes and provide actionable tips to enhance your cold outreach strategy! RESOURCES MENTIONED • Level up your networking, improve your productivity, learn how to write effective cold outreach messages, and much more with the All Access Pass to the HEM Community: https://hollywoodeditingmentor.com/community/ • Watch the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/HRy0iJv9DBs Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

I sit down with Emmy-nominated editor Roger Nygard, ACE to explore his new book The Documentarian: The Way to a Successful and Creative Professional Life in the Documentary Business. We dive into the essential steps for making and selling documentaries, from concept development to securing deals with major studios. Roger shares his own journey in the film industry, including the story behind his hit documentary Trekkies, and offers advice from top filmmakers like Ken Burns, Davis Guggenheim and Errol Morris. This episode is packed with insights to help you succeed in the documentary world! SHOW LINKS Click here to purchase The Documentarian: The Way to a Successful and Creative Professional Life in the Documentary Business (affiliate link)  Click here to purchase Roger's first book, Cut to the Monkey: A Hollywood Editor’s Behind-the-Scenes Secrets to Making Hit Comedies (affiliate link) Level up your editing career with the All Access Pass to the Hollywood Editing Mentor Community: https://hollywoodeditingmentor.com/community/ Watch the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/F9tRrJ0jR-U Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

In this episode, we’re diving into the realities of the ever-changing film and TV industry and how editors and creatives can adapt to the new landscape. As the industry continues to face challenges, it’s essential to embrace change and adjust our expectations. Whether you’re just starting out or have been in the business for years, I’ll be sharing strategies that have helped me accept these shifts and keep pushing forward, even when everything seems to be on pause. Tune in to learn how to navigate these uncertain times, avoid unnecessary stress, and continue your growth as an editor. SHOW LINKS Level up your editing career with the All Access Pass to the Hollywood Editing Mentor Community: https://hollywoodeditingmentor.com/community/ Watch the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/L-W7ALCdpHA Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

Episode 72 features editor Jamie Kirkpatrick, ACE and assistant editor Amanda K. Romero (a former student of the Hollywood Editing Mentor program), discussing their work on the feature film Greedy People, directed by Potsy Ponciroli and starring Himesh Patel, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Lily James. In this insightful conversation, Jamie and Amanda share valuable advice for aspiring editors and assistants in the film industry. They discuss strategies for assistant editors to gain cutting opportunities, effective ways to network with established editors, and methods for building confidence when faced with career-defining moments. The episode looks at the creative process behind Greedy People, exploring how Jamie prepared to work on the project and how he balanced the film's varying tones during the edit. Listeners will gain insights into the use of Adobe Premiere for feature film editing and learn about the importance of communicating goals. Jamie and Amanda offer practical tips on standing out in the competitive post-production landscape and provide guidance for those looking to break into feature film editing. This episode is packed with actionable advice for editors at all career stages, making it a must-listen for anyone aspiring to succeed in Hollywood's editing rooms. Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

A conversation with the Emmy-nominated editors of ESCAPING TWIN FLAMES (Mimi Wilcox, Martin Biehn) and WELCOME TO WREXHAM (Michael Anthony Brown, Michael Oliver)! Thank you to Impact 24 PR for putting this panel together! 👀 Take a look at some of our other content & resources: https://hollywoodeditingmentor.com/learn-with-joaquin/ 👨🏽‍💻 Improve your editing skills with the All Access Pass to the Hollywood Editing Mentor Community: https://hollywoodeditingmentor.com/community/ Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

A conversation with the Emmy-nominated composers of BECKHAM (Anze Rozman, Camilo Forero) and editors of RESERVATION DOGS (Patrick Tuck, Varun Viswanath, ACE)! Thank you to Impact 24 PR for putting this panel together! 👀 Take a look at some of our other content & resources: https://hollywoodeditingmentor.com/learn-with-joaquin/ 👨🏽‍💻 Improve your editing skills with the All Access Pass to the Hollywood Editing Mentor Community: https://hollywoodeditingmentor.com/community/ Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

In this episode, I dive into practical strategies that can elevate your editing skills. Drawing from over 20 years of professional editing experience, I share ten key practices that have significantly enhanced my own work and can do the same for you. From mastering storytelling and analyzing content to seeking feedback and using keyboard shortcuts, these insights are designed to help you improve your overall editing abilities. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills, this episode offers valuable advice to boost your editing game. Plus, stay tuned for a special bonus tip inspired by a quote from world-famous sushi chef that has profoundly influenced my approach to editing. Tune in to discover how these strategies can transform your editing process and help you achieve new levels of success in the post-production world. SHOW LINKS Improve your editing skills with the All Access Pass to the Hollywood Editing Mentor Community: https://hollywoodeditingmentor.com/community/ Watch the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/2Wmupzrl0mQ Some of my favorite books about storytelling (affiliate links): • The Science of Storytelling • Save The Cat! • Pixar Storytelling • Creating Character Arcs  Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

Curious about how a film & television editor stays productive and creative? In this episode, I’ll guide you through my daily routine and share the strategies that kept my workflow efficient and inspiring on such projects as GRISELDA, DARK WINDS, and NARCOS: MEXICO. Learn practical tips for structuring your day to enhance creativity, boost productivity, and achieve a healthy balance between work and personal life. From morning habits to evening rituals, this episode provides valuable insights for developing an effective routine that leads to a more fulfilling and balanced lifestyle. We have the power to shape our routines and create an environment that supports our creativity and productivity. Discover how to stay energized, unleash your creativity, and enjoy life beyond work with the All Access Pass to the HEM Community: https://hollywoodeditingmentor.com/community/ Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

A HEM Community member asks a tough question: "Is it worth staying in an expensive city like Los Angeles while waiting for the film & television editing job market to pick up, or should I move somewhere cheaper temporarily?" In this episode, I explore the pros and cons of both options and share some surprising insights. Plus, I'll reveal practical tips on managing your finances and navigating these uncertain times, whether you're solo or with a partner.  Tune in to find out why staying in LA might be the best move for your career and how you can make it work financially. Don't miss this essential advice for film & television editors and creatives! SHOW LINKS: Watch a video version of this episode on the Hollywood Editing Mentor YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/ptLK4iZTaPg Learn more about the All Access Pass to the HEM Community: https://hollywoodeditingmentor.com/community/ Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

Joaquin Elizondo and Chris Cavanagh - two editors from the Netflix limited series Griselda - share their collaborative process for editing episode 103 "Mutiny," which they have submitted for competition for the 2024 Emmy Awards. Join us as we explore how Chris, originally Joaquin's assistant editor on Griselda, had the chance to co-edit this pivotal episode. This collaboration was a significant effort to advance Chris's editing career. Joaquin and Chris talk about their experiences and the impact of mentorship in the editing room, emphasizing how it fosters continuous learning and provides essential guidance and support in the editing profession. Additionally, they cover practical strategies for obtaining a co-editing credit on a scripted TV show, offering valuable insights for aspiring editors looking to make their mark in the industry. Whether you're an established editor or just starting out, this video offers a wealth of knowledge on the power of collaboration and mentorship in crafting compelling narratives. Don't miss out on these expert tips and personal stories from the editing room of Griselda. Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

Join editors Joaquin Elizondo and Chris Cavanagh as they discuss the techniques used to edit action scenes and build suspense in the Netflix limited series GRISELDA.  Using episode 103 "Mutiny," as a focal point—Joaquin and Chris's submission for the 2024 Emmy Awards competition—they break down their approach to crafting intense and gripping sequences.  Learn how they use pacing, timing, and cutting techniques to create thrilling action and maintain high suspense throughout the episode. Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

Alex Trudeau-Virato, editor and producer of the documentary series, Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story,  joins us to discuss the critical importance of balancing work and personal life in the demanding world of editing. Drawing from his extensive experience, Alex emphasizes how engaging in physical activities outside the cutting room is essential for maintaining creativity and mental well-being. His approach underscores the necessity for editors to step away from the screen and find inspiration in the world around them, ensuring that their work remains fresh and innovative. Alex also shares insights into the intricate editing process behind the Bon Jovi documentary. He describes the challenges his team faced in sifting through a vast archive of footage to craft a cohesive and compelling narrative. Their goal was to capture not just the band's history, but the unique rhythm and synergy between its members, reflecting the essence of Bon Jovi's enduring appeal. The documentary weaves together past and present, celebrating the band's 40th anniversary while also highlighting Jon Bon Jovi's personal struggle with vocal issues. Alex explains how collaboration with composers and archival producers was pivotal in ensuring the documentary's accuracy and authenticity. The result is a heartfelt tribute to the band's legacy, emphasizing themes of hard work, dedication, and the enduring brotherhood among its members. Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

In the third episode of Hollywood Editing Mentor and Impact24 PR's #EditingMentorPanels series, Joaquin Elizondo interviews editors Shelly Westernam, ACE, and Payton Koch (ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUILDING), along with Lauren Stava, Kelley Tourangeau, and Kara Torsney-Weir (VANDERPUMP VILLA). They share insights on their work and discuss the projects they submitted for the 2024 Emmy Awards. Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

In the second episode of Hollywood Editing Mentor and ‪Impact24 PR's #EditingMentorPanels series, Joaquin Elizondo interviews editors Ralph Jean-Pierre (TOKYO VICE), Laurens Van Charante (DANCING WITH THE STARS), Ben Bulatao, ACE (DANCING WITH THE STARS, ORLANDO BLOOM: TO THE EDGE), Matt Platts-Mills (THE GENTLEMEN), and Matt Friedman, ACE (EXPATS). They discuss their work on the projects they submitted for consideration for the 2024 Emmys. Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

In the first episode of Hollywood Editing Mentor and ‪Impact24 PR's #EditingMentorPanels series, guest moderator Victoria Male interviews editors Maura Corey, ACE (GEN V), Melissa Kent (MÚSICA), Inbal B. Lessner, ACE (ESCAPING TWIN FLAMES), Daniel Garber (SPERMWORLD), and Joaquin Elizondo (GRISELDA). They discuss their work on the projects they submitted for consideration for the 2024 Emmys. Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

"The scenes are so sharply cut that the series is perfectly paced." -Variety Joaquin Elizondo and Chris Cavanagh - two editors behind the Netflix limited series Griselda - explore the essential role of rhythm and pacing in enhancing storytelling, and discuss how they use these techniques to create emotional and impactful scenes.  Using episode 103 "Mutiny" as a case study—Joaquin and Chris's submission for the 2024 Emmy Awards competition—they break down their methods and share practical tips on how to manipulate timing and rhythm to elevate narrative and evoke strong emotions.  Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk

In this episode, Joaquin talks with Eduardo "Gualo" Jaramillo, the music editor behind the Netflix series Griselda. They discuss the complexities of music editing, exploring Eduardo's collaborative process with directors and editors, and the unique challenges of aligning music with visual storytelling. Eduardo shares insights into his creative journey and the orchestration techniques that bring the series to life, highlighting the importance of communication and teamwork in the fast-paced world of post-production. Eduardo provides a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Griselda score by Carlos Rafael Rivera, blending classical influences with Colombian roots to create a unique musical identity for the series.  The conversation covers the technical and artistic aspects of music editing, offering valuable advice for aspiring music editors and fans of the show.  Check out our free content and other resources! >>> SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! >>> Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk Facebook: www.fb.com/jesusdapnk Soundcloud: www.soundcloud.com/jesusdapnk Instagram: @jesusdapnk