Film and video editor Max Goldblatt joins Tim to talk about building a creative career across indie films, digital content, and nearly a decade of touring. He shares how early exposure to editing shaped his path, how short-film work opened doors to feature projects, and what it takes to balance passion, stability, and financial responsibility in an unpredictable industry. Max also reflects on navigating rate negotiations, imposter syndrome, and the realities of sustaining creative momentum over time.

Max's question for Tim: My kid is three. School is expensive. I know that a 529 plan has some limitations, like what if she doesn't go to college? Is there a smart and flexible way to set her up for success?

Key takeaways:

1. Max Goldblatt is a film, TV, and digital video editor based in Los Angeles, working both on independent films (his “passion work”) and as a lead editor for a production company that handles a range of clients, including MasterClass.
2. He learned the craft early by watching his father, editor Mark Goldblatt, spending spring breaks in editing rooms for major films like Starship Troopers, True Lies, and Armageddon.
3. Before establishing himself as an editor, Max spent nearly nine years touring, first as a videographer for his cousin Pete Yorn and then as a merch manager for various artists (including Sufjan Stevens).
4. He now balances steady staff work with independent feature opportunities, with his company allowing him to step away for film projects and return afterward, providing stability during volatile industry periods.
5. On finances, Max says he’s always been frugal and cautious, started a Roth IRA early due to childhood acting income, avoids credit card debt, and prefers a “save first, spend within means” approach rather than rigid budgeting.

Links:
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Max's website
The trailer for Sacremento, a feature film edited by Max
St Vincent's MasterClass (edited by Max)
Ringo Starr's MasterClass (edited by Max)