We recently connected with Shiheng Xu and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Shiheng, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Being the only person in the room who looks like me has been a truly distinctive and empowering experience. In the Los Angeles film industry, where the majority comes from diverse backgrounds, my Chinese heritage often piques people’s curiosity and interest. It’s a remarkable feeling to stand out and bring a fresh perspective to the creative process.
I’ve had the pleasure of amusingly fooling people into thinking I’m American, only for them to discover my Chinese background later on. This revelation tends to elicit various reactions, some rooted in curiosity and genuine interest, while others may arise from a lack of exposure to different cultures. I’ve always seen this as an opportunity to break down stereotypes, foster understanding, and champion diversity of ideas.
One significant aspect is the sense of uniqueness and pride that comes with being Asian in these spaces. It’s not just about representation; it’s also about embracing my cultural heritage. I’ve leveraged my experiences to infuse humor, share knowledge, and challenge misconceptions. While I haven’t personally faced racial discrimination in job placements, I have encountered bias related to the Chinese government, often shaped by media narratives. In these situations, I make it clear that, at heart, I think like an American, I live in America, and I take pride in being a unique voice in the room.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
My story is intricately intertwined with the world of sound — a journey that began unexpectedly during my freshman year at Edinburgh University. Initially, I had envisioned a career behind the camera, but my path took an unexpected turn when I became captivated by the allure of audio. I honed my skills working on short films, and this journey eventually led me to Los Angeles, a city brimming with creative energy.
Here at Jzoo Studios, we firmly believe that art is a deeply personal testament; it’s about infusing soul into every piece. We collaborate with artists from around the world, embracing projects that align with our philosophy—one that values authentic connections and the essence of storytelling over monetary gain. Our commitment to sincerity resonates in the soundscapes we create, where mastery of sound is crucial, but it’s the soul that defines our signature.
One of the most exciting experiences for me has been our collaboration with Unbridled Sound on A24’s “Dicks the Musical.” This project perfectly encapsulates what excites me the most—blending sound effects with music to enhance the narrative. The film’s soundscape mirrors life’s dynamic rhythm, enhancing humor and accentuating emotional moments. Our exploration of sonic storytelling doesn’t stop there; we are eagerly anticipating the release of A24’s upcoming feature, “Y2K,” where we dive into some mind-bending sci-fi sound design. Additionally, our work on the sonically rich “Moving Mountains” series for Nike, featured at the Tribeca X Festival 2022, has been a highlight.
At Jzoo Studios, our expansion into film, television, and commercial work, such as our mix for the National Association of Realtors’ campaign, reflects our dedication to versatile and impactful storytelling. This commitment has resulted in millions of views on YouTube.
My professional journey has been crafted through hard work and the valuable connections forged along the way. These relationships have played a significant role in shaping the ethos of Jzoo Studios. At Jzoo Studios, we invite the world to listen closely—not just to our sound but to the stories we tell and the bonds we create.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three pivotal qualities have emerged as essential: interpersonal skills, creative proficiency, and industry acumen.
First and foremost, interpersonal skills are of paramount importance. Our society and workplaces are built on relationships. Navigating personalities and cultivating meaningful connections can propel one’s career more than they might realize. It’s not solely about hard work; it’s also about who you know, how you engage with them, and how you nurture and evolve those relationships.
Secondly, a strong foundation in core creative skills is vital. Opportunities hold little value without the ability to deliver. Continuous practice to refine one’s craft is essential. Always be prepared to showcase your expertise when the need arises.
Lastly, comprehending the politics and macroeconomic factors of your industry is crucial. Stay well-informed about the latest technologies and trends. It’s about being resourceful, not merely knowledgeable. Be the person who can provide solutions and insights when they are needed most.
For those starting their journey, my advice is to diligently nurture these facets. Develop your networking skills, commit to lifelong learning in your chosen craft, and keep your finger on the pulse of the industry. By doing so, you can become the go-to expert that everyone relies on.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
My success is a collective journey, and at Jzoo Studios, we owe our achievements to the countless giants who have illuminated our path.
In particular, I want to take a moment to acknowledge some of the important people in my life.
In the realm of production, there are individuals whose guidance, collaboration, and trust have been transformative on my journey. Darren Augustus stands as a foundational figure. His early mentorship and insightful advice during the nascent stages of our journey in LA were invaluable. I’m grateful that we maintained our connection and went on to work together on numerous projects, including the Target Mas Que 2022 campaign and the Coach Lil Nas X 2022 campaign.
Equally influential in our production endeavors has been Shaun Yee, a steadfast ally at True Peak Soundworks. From our collaborative work on the acclaimed feature “Anchorage,” which garnered numerous international awards, to more recent ventures like “Civic,” showcased at the Rotterdam International Film Festival, our partnership has been marked by a shared passion for excellence. Shaun’s unwavering support and continuous collaboration across a wide spectrum of production and post-production projects have been pivotal to our growth.
Our journey in post-production has been enriched by exceptional mentors and collaborators who have fundamentally shaped our understanding and approach. Nathan Ruyle played an instrumental role in providing us with opportunities in LA. Our collaboration on the Chinese short film “Drifting” was a fantastic experience, especially considering its numerous international awards.
Derek Vanderhorst, a guiding light during our sonic journey, played a significant role in navigating life and work challenges, providing crucial advice and introducing us to influential industry circles. Derek’s mentorship expanded our understanding of the sound industry, stemming from humble beginnings to reaching the pinnacle of the field.
Lastly, I hold deep appreciation for everyone at Unbridled Sound, without whom my life would feel incomplete. Among them, Brent Kiser has been an unwavering mentor, mixing partner, and trusted advisor. His mentorship extends beyond the technical aspects, teaching us the essence of finesse and the values that underpin a successful small business.
Contact Info:
- Website: jzoostudios.com
