Meet Murphy Li

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Murphy Li a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Murphy, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

When I first started working in film sound in Los Angeles, I often found myself as the only Asian woman on set—and sometimes the only woman at all in the sound department. At first, that made me feel invisible or underestimated, as if I had to work twice as hard to prove I deserved to be there.

But over time, I realized that standing out could also be a strength. Because I didn’t blend into the room, people remembered me and my work more clearly. I made sure that when I spoke, it was with confidence and clarity, and when I delivered, it was with professionalism and precision. Sound is something you can’t fake—the quality speaks for itself—so I leaned into that.

I also learned the importance of building relationships through empathy and collaboration. Even if I was different from everyone else in the room, I could still connect through listening, respecting others’ creative visions, and contributing solutions that made the project better.

Now, I no longer see being the “only one” as a disadvantage. Instead, I see it as an opportunity to bring a fresh perspective, to inspire others who might also feel like outsiders, and to prove that diversity in the room is not just valuable—it’s powerful.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I am the founder of Harmonyflicks Sound Studios Inc., a sound studio dedicated to bringing film and storytelling to life through immersive audio. My journey began with a background in classical piano in China, and it has evolved into a career in Los Angeles where I have worked on a wide range of projects—from narrative films and branded content to experimental shorts.

My work with “The Blind Zone” was screened at Dances With Films in New York and at TCL Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles, while “The Virgin & The Billionaire” reached over 150 million views on ReelShort. I’ve had the privilege of working on a diverse array of projects—from global entertainment and commercial campaigns like League of Legends, T‑Mobile, Pocari Sweat, and Doritos Super Bowl commercials, to music videos such as “Give Me a Break”, and the upcoming feature Better Life, starring Randall Park and Joel Kim Booster.My studio also collaborated on experimental projects such as “In Time’s Ruins”, which allowed me to push creative boundaries even further.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to expand Harmonyflicks Sound Studios Inc. into a hub not only for film sound but also for music-driven projects. I believe that rich visuals deserve even richer sound, and my mission is to continue creating audio experiences that resonate deeply with audiences around the world.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

1. Resilience & Adaptability
In the film industry, projects shift constantly—budgets change, schedules collapse, and sometimes opportunities disappear overnight. What kept me going was resilience and the ability to adapt quickly. For those starting out, my advice is: don’t see setbacks as failures. See them as training for the next opportunity. Every challenge builds a stronger foundation.

2. Communication & Collaboration
Sound is never created in isolation. Working effectively with directors, producers, and other departments is just as important as technical skill. Early in your career, practice active listening—understand what others need, then find solutions that elevate the whole project. Strong collaboration makes people want to work with you again.

3. Technical Excellence & Lifelong Learning
Technology in sound evolves constantly, from wireless systems to immersive formats. I invested in both my own equipment and my ongoing education, which gave me confidence on set and credibility with clients. For newcomers: master the fundamentals, but stay curious and keep upgrading your knowledge. It’s not just about owning gear—it’s about knowing how to use it to serve the story.

One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?

I’m always looking to collaborate with filmmakers and producers, especially on projects that highlight Asian stories and voices. At Harmonyflicks Sound Studios Inc., my goal is to help bring these stories to life with sound that resonates globally. I believe more Asian films deserve to be seen and heard around the world, and I’m passionate about building bridges through culture and identity. If you share this vision, I’d love to connect.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

GoShiggyGo Photography

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