Hollywood Editing Mentor – Details, episodes & analysis

Things have changed in the film and TV industry, but that doesn’t mean it’s over.

Early access for The HEM Playbook is now open. Join the live workshop here: https://hollywoodeditingmentor.com/hem-playbook-workshop/

In this episode, I share my honest perspective on where things stand right now, why I’m choosing to stay focused on what I can control, and how editors can continue building momentum even during uncertain times.

If things have felt slow, unclear, or frustrating lately, this episode is for you.

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Original Music: "Apollo's Haze" and "Do You Want" by Jesusdapnk
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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

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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 

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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! >>>

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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! >>>

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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! >>>

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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