Hey there! I’m Joaquin Elizondo, ACE.
Editor, mentor, career coach, and podcast host.
Glad You Are Here, My Friend!
I’m an ACE editor based in Los Angeles with over 20 years of professional editing experience. I currently work in the world of film & scripted television shows in Hollywood. Some of my recent credits include Griselda (Netflix), Dark Winds (AMC), Narcos: Mexico (Netflix), and The Hot Zone: Anthrax (NatGeo).
I’m also a mentor, career coach, and podcast host.
I help people unlock their potential and create a rewarding career within the world of editing and post-production.
Thanks for stopping by!
It All Started With a Dream
My story is one of passion, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of a dream that took root in my childhood, where I was always found with a video camera in hand, driven by a deep desire to tell stories. Growing up in the Tijuana-San Diego border region, that dream led me to study film at the University of Michigan.
However, after graduating, I found myself in a comfortable but creatively unfulfilling role in my hometown working in local news. It was safe, but it wasn’t my dream. The allure of Hollywood seemed distant, a shimmering mirage on the horizon.
I learned a lot during my time in local news from 2003-2006, but every day I dreamt of working in films & television shows in Hollywood.
Feeling Creatively Unfullfilled
For many years, I found myself stuck in jobs that left me wanting more. I worked in documentaries, sports, talk shows, music videos, promos, marketing – you name it!
The desire to make a mark in Hollywood never went away, but I lacked the knowledge and connections to take that crucial step of leaving the safety of my comfort zone. It was a period marked by frustration and dissatisfaction, and I was held back by a fear of taking risks.
I Took The Biggest Risk of My Life
But one pivotal moment changed everything. I realized that to truly make my dreams come true, I had to step out of my comfort zone. So, I took a leap of faith and quit my staff job, embarking on a backpacking adventure through the vibrant landscapes of Southeast Asia and then moved to New York City without a job.
The fear was real, but it was in the uncertainty that I realized how important it is to take risks when pursuing your dreams, for it’s in those bold steps that you truly discover your potential.
Making new friends in Chiang Mai, Thailand (January 2011).
Hanging out with Diego Luna and the Narcos: Mexico editorial team at the season 1 premiere. Now I get to collaborate with artists I admire on high-profile projects that bring a lot of joy to my life.
Giving Up Was Not an Option
The path to my dream wasn’t always clear, and I spent 15 years navigating through jobs that left me yearning for more. I wasn’t satisfied, but I refused to give up. I faced countless rejections, and the road to success was paved with obstacles and setbacks. But in the face of adversity, I decided to forge my own path, to create opportunities where there were none. I made mistakes, learned valuable lessons, and persevered.
And then, the breakthrough I’d been relentlessly working towards finally arrived…
I landed a pivotal role in the world of entertainment, finding my place in the post-production department of Narcos: Mexico. It was a testament to the power of unwavering dedication and the willingness to follow one’s passion against all odds.
From Aspiration to Achievement
After years of relentless pursuit, I’m proud to say that today, I’m living my dream of working in film & television in Hollywood. Every day, I wake up excited because I don’t see it as work—it’s my passion. I have the privilege of helping my friends and fellow artists bring their stories to life. It’s a joy and an honor, and I want you to experience the same fulfillment.
That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to the Hollywood Editing Mentor Program. Together, we can turn your aspirations into achievements and ensure that you find happiness in doing what you love in the world of editing and post-production.
Now I get to do what I love!
My Approach
The idea of the Hollywood Editing Mentor program is to motivate and inspire people through my personal experiences and guide you in avoiding the mistakes I’ve made in the beginning of my career. I believe in giving practical advice and being completely honest and respectful with my opinions. Are you self-aware? I believe it’s important to be open to external observations because oftentimes we don’t see something in us that other people might. It’s one way for us to grow and improve ourselves.
I want to push people to their limits and help them discover skills and abilities they didn’t know they had. Our mind and body is capable of some amazing things. We just need to dig deep to find them. It’s my intention to push you out of your comfort zone so that you can get out there and crush your goals!
From Promos to Documentaries to Films –
Here Are Some of the Projects I’ve Worked on Over the Past 20+ Years…
- Griselda (Netflix) – Editor [Premieres January 25, 2024]
- Dark Winds (AMC) – Editor
- The Hot Zone: Anthrax (Nat Geo) – Editor
- Narcos: Mexico (Netflix) – Editor
- Soundwave (Feature Film) – Editor
- Trust No One (Short Film) – Editor
- NOS4A2 (AMC), The Hot Zone (NatGeo) – Assistant Editor
- Under The Silver Lake (Feature Film) – Assistant Editor
- The Assassin’s Code (Feature Film) – First Assistant Editor
- The Day I Met El Chapo (Netflix) – Assistant Editor
- Player vs. Player (Hulu) – Editor
- Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Sports Awards – Editor
- Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen – Lead Editor
- HBO Sports – Videographer/Editor
- Once Again (Feature Documentary) – Videographer/Editor
- Telemundo New York (Promos) – Videographer/Editor
- KPBS San Diego (Docu-Series) – Videographer/Editor
- ABC San Diego (Promos & Commercials) – Videographer/Editor
- Univision San Diego (News) – Videographer/Editor
Ready to Start Your Growth Journey?
Discover How the Hollywood Editing Mentor Program Can Elevate Your Post-Production Career
Congratulations on taking the first step toward advancing your career in the world of post-production. I’m committed to helping editors and post-production professionals at all levels achieve their career aspirations.
With a sustainable 20+ year career as a professional editor, I’ve not only honed my craft but have also thrived in this industry by working steadily on a diverse array of projects. So whether you’re into film, television, advertising, documentaries, animation, trailers, reality, or any other sector, I have the insights and practical wisdom needed to effectively guide you through the multifaceted landscape of post-production.
I understand that every post-production professional’s journey is unique. My mentorship program is tailored to meet your specific goals, whether you’re just starting or seeking to reach new heights in your career.
Practical skills are key to success in post-production. My program emphasizes hands-on, real-world training that equips you with the tools needed to excel in your chosen field.
My mentorship goes beyond technical skills; it includes career development support. I’ll help you map out your career path and provide ongoing guidance to help you reach your career milestones.
With over two decades of hands-on experience in the realm of professional editing, I know the ins and outs of this industry. Now I’m eager to share that knowledge with you. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, my guidance is founded on real-world expertise.
Let me help you navigate this dynamic field and empower you to achieve your dreams!
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