In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, host Grant Fisher sits down with Jeff Shiffman and Kate Finan, the co-founders of Boom Box Post, a boutique audio post-production studio based in Burbank, California. Known for their award-winning sound design work on projects for Netflix, Nickelodeon, Disney, Amazon, and more, Jeff and Kate are reshaping what it means to run a creative studio that’s nimble, inclusive, and fiercely independent.
Boom Box Post started as a leap of faith, a breakaway from the corporate world of Warner Bros. to build something smaller, more agile, and more aligned with their values as creatives. What followed was the transformation of a literal auto body shop into a state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos equipped facility with a culture unlike anything else in the sound design world.
In this conversation, we explore how Jeff and Kate built their studio from the ground up, why they prioritize design-focused storytelling, and how they’ve maintained strong client relationships with some of the biggest names in entertainment. We dive into their paid apprenticeship program, their 50/50 gender parity hiring approach, and how fostering a generous, collaborative culture has helped them thrive in one of the most competitive corners of the entertainment industry.
You’ll also hear their candid take on the rise of AI in audio post-production, why transparency and kindness still give them a competitive edge, and how they’re future-proofing their business by expanding into features, podcasts, and digital sound libraries.
Whether you’re a creative entrepreneur, studio owner, sound professional, or just curious about how top-tier studios operate behind the scenes, this episode is packed with practical wisdom on how to build a creative business that lasts.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Featured Projects Mentioned:
Resources & Mentions:
Connect with Boom Box Post:
→ Visit: boomboxpost.com
→ Contact: Use their contact form for inquiries, all messages go directly to Jeff and Kate
→ Follow their blog for weekly insights into sound design, team culture, and creative workflows
About the Podcast:
Small Business, Big Engine is a weekly podcast hosted by Grant Fisher, where we explore the stories and strategies of creative entrepreneurs who are building strong, sustainable businesses. Each episode dives into the real-world tools, decisions, and philosophies that power small business success.
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