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Life & Work with Tami Magaro

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tami Magaro.

Tami Magaro

Hi Tami, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
From a young age, I was captivated by cinema, initially dreaming of an acting career. Yet, my innate shyness led me on a different path, ultimately igniting my enduring passion for filmmaking.

In 1996, my journey began in Berkeley, California, and a year later, I discovered my true calling while working at a community television station in Pacifica. There, I delved into film editing, launching my own surfing show, “Explorin’ the Stoke,” marking a pivotal moment in my budding career.

I eventually found myself in Los Angeles in 2001, contributing my editing skills to a feature film. Returning to San Diego, I ventured into television production within the mental health industry. Along this diverse path, I explored writing, directing, and editing, culminating in four successful short films. Today, I’m fully immersed in filmmaking, actively contributing to projects, hosting a podcast, and channeling my unwavering love for storytelling into every endeavor.

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ve embarked on various journeys, from crunching numbers in a hospital’s finance department to orchestrating conferences, running psychological offices, and producing mental health videos. Each twist and turn has been a steppingstone, guiding me toward the next thrilling adventure. These experiences have not only sharpened my existing skills but also introduced me to unexpected talents, boosting my confidence to navigate through unexpected detours and consistently bringing me back to the world of film. Which lead me to having the courage to produce a podcast The Inner World of Filmmaking, where I have the opportunity to interview people all over the world who share their stories and expertise in all facets of filmmaking.

A wise friend once shared an unforgettable piece of advice with me that I’ve carried close to my heart for years: “Sometimes, you have to feed the baby hippopotamuses to get to where you want to go. You never know where this experience will lead you.” While my friend’s a dietitian, and the analogy is related to her profession, I’ve always seen it as a universal truth.

In essence, it means that sometimes we find ourselves doing things that make us question, “Why am I doing this?” Yet, these seemingly unrelated experiences can lead us to three valuable destinations. First, they introduce us to new people who open doors to unforeseen opportunities. Second, they equip us with skills that prove essential for future endeavors. Finally, they remind us that life’s path is rarely a straight line; it’s more like a winding road with unexpected detours. Every twist and turn serves a purpose, guiding us toward our ultimate destination.

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I wear two hats: I’m both an editor and a podcaster. When it comes to my editing work, I handle everything from short to long-form films. What sets me apart is my collaborative and communicative approach. I thrive on learning and growing, both as an editor and as a person. And I’m fun to work with!

However, what I’m most proud of is my podcast, “The Inner World of Filmmaking.” I’ve always been a naturally curious person. Even as a child, I’d craft questionnaires to get to know my friends better. Now, I get to take that curiosity to a global level, interviewing fascinating individuals from around the world and delving into all things related to film. Through this weekly podcast, I’ve formed incredible connections, leading to opportunities and meaningful friendships. My ultimate goal with the show is to provide future filmmakers with insights and knowledge they might not have discovered otherwise, paving the way for their own success.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
To never give up, and it’s never too late to start.

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