Episode Details

No matter the rung of the ladder you happen to be on in the entertainment industry, making it in Hollywood is no easy feat. And with how our world is evolving post-pandemic, you might think it will be nearly impossible to maintain any sort of work-life balance for our foreseeable future, especially if you’re fortunate enough to reach the top rung of the ladder like today’s guest.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to not only survive but thrive while working on giant tent pole films like The Avengers series, Captain America: Civil War and Iron Man 3, or a multitude of other blockbusters, then this conversation is going to give you the inside look you’ve been waiting for. Award-winning editor Jeffrey Ford, ACE has made his career working with big name directors like Michael Mann, Joss Whedon, Anthony & Joe Russo, and Joe Johnston, and he does not sugar coat the reality that editing these films is an all-consuming endeavor.

In today’s interview with Jeffrey (which was originally recorded a few years ago back in the ‘Fitness In Post’ days), he does share with us his secrets and routines for maintaining his health and family life without succumbing to bad habits and burnout. We dive deep into the methods he uses to stay energetic and creative despite the long hours, specifically maintaining consistent movement throughout his workday. He also talks about the immense importance of keeping his team rested and refreshed so they too can be productive and creative while still meeting the demanding and intense work schedules on huge tentpole films. While the conversation might not be brand new, the topics we discuss are as relevant as ever.

If setting boundaries and maintaining some semblance of sanity in our post-pandemic world is a priority for you, after listening I highly recommend following up this episode with my interview with producer Janace Tashjian where we discuss the importance of setting boundaries, advocating for yourself, and asking for help.

Want to Hear More Episodes Like This One?

» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episode

Here's What You'll Learn:

• The story of how Jeff began his film career after graduating from USC film school and getting his first job as an apprentice editor with director James Gray and editor Dorian Harris
• What film school taught him about teamwork and making connections with people in the industry.
• The struggles he endured through years of unemployment, only working 5 days a month while making films on his own to hone his craft.
• His humility still leaves him surprised and enthused that people continue to let him cut their films.
• The extreme focus necessary to edit the film, Public Enemies with Michael Mann, and the demanding schedule and hours he endured.
• Jeff believes that the longer you sit in front of your screen without moving, the more it inhibits your objectivity and relationship with your audience.
• Why he makes time for 3 to 4 movement breaks throughout the day.
• The reason his standing desk has been an enormous benefit to his creativity and mental fortitude.
• The scheduling fix they use on the Marvel movies to avoid burnout and ensure everyone stays healthy and happy.
• The importance of having a work environment that provides daylight, space, and amenities to maintain health and well being.