Meet Matt Schmalz | Video Editor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Matt Schmalz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Matt, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Balance is a big part of my life and one of the primary reasons I started freelancing. Over time I’ve been able to set boundaries with myself and prioritize quality time away from work.

I think balance is different for everyone, but vital for my happiness. Every day is a bit of a balancing act, and some days may feel slightly off-kilter or the glass may be half empty, but I enjoy the accountability and growth I get from both sides of the spectrum.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I didn’t get where I am today professionally without a lot of love and support from family and friends, and as cliché as it may sound there was a little blood, sweat, and tears along the way. I didn’t find it easy to get my foot in the door, but I like to think I saw a lot of opportunity in the career path I chose and knew it was something that brought a lot of happiness to my life. I feel like once I have my mind made up I tend to find my way through obstacles and challenges, but that’s certainly not without any setbacks throughout the process.

I think the biggest lesson I’ve learned is to just be yourself. That comes with challenges on it’s own, but if you’re honest and upfront with people and yourself, and where you’re at in your career and life, then it becomes much easier to manage expectations.

I want the world to know that I’m here and that I have a voice. I don’t like the thought of seeing myself as a brand, but I do have stories to tell throughout the work I do, and I take a lot of ownership in representing other people’s stories. I love what I do.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d definitely start with food and drinks, and who am I kidding – I’d likely end with food and drinks as well. We would eat at Patzcuaro’s, Lady Nomada, Sushi Den, Little Man Ice Cream, probably have a night or two where we cook some food at my place, then drinks and live music at Goose Town Station, any dive bar or anywhere with a pool table or games. If it’s hockey season we’d definitely try to go an Avs game, and would also try to prioritize some time outside in the mountains. Then, maybe a movie and a nap.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There’s way too many people to give individual shoutouts to, but as a whole I’d like to give a shoutout to my friends and network. I’ve been fortunate to build a lot of great friendships within the industry and would be lost without those people I can lean on for support, deep chats and drinks, ski days, movie nights, and creativity.

Obviously my parents deserve ALL the credit, not just a little. I don’t have enough time to list the reasons why they deserve the biggest shoutout of all time, but let’s just say I wouldn’t be here without their unwavering love and support.

Website: https://www.mattyschmalz.com/

Instagram: @matty_schmalz

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattschmalz/