Episode 2

Launching a podcast is no small feat, especially when it involves dusting off old interviewing skills and stepping into a world that may be unfamiliar. Episode 1 was not just a milestone; it's a testament to going outside my comfort zone, learning, and the thrill of starting something new. As a former journalist, this journey has been a rediscovery of the art of conversation and a plunge into the dynamic realm of podcasting.

The inaugural episode of this podcast was more than just a solo endeavor; it was a collaborative venture featuring Derick Pope from High Arc Media in Atlanta. Derick, the first guest (even if he didn't know it at the time), generously shared insights into overcoming challenges on the road to success. His experiences shed light on the transformative power of partnerships in business growth.

In Ep. 2,  Torry Tayenaka, CEO of Spark House, shares his journey in the video production business. From high school startup ventures to leading a successful agency, Paul's story offers a glimpse into the daily activities of a video production company owner.

The day typically begins around 10 a.m. in the creative hub of Spark House. With a focus on pre-production and post-production tasks, the team engages in activities such as casting actors, finding filming locations, writing scripts, and editing videos. On-location production days add another layer, involving everything from filming in manufacturing facilities to creating studio sets for diverse video projects.

**Scaling Success: Paul Tory's Insights on Company Growth**

Torrey reflects on Spark House's unique journey to becoming a high-performance company without relying on external funding. The emphasis on an entrepreneurial approach, coupled with strategic processes, contributed to steady growth. Torrey highlights the significance of implementing systems and processes, providing a clear blueprint for projects and ensuring seamless collaboration with external contributors.

The use of project management tools like Asana, Trello, and the current system, Wrike, streamlined Spark House's workflow. The ability to plug and play, adding external talent seamlessly, has been a key factor in the company's scalability.

**Balancing Creativity and Business Oversight: Paul's Role in Spark House**

As the CEO of Spark House, Paul remains deeply involved in the creative and strategic aspects of the business. While overseeing the strategic side, he guides clients in choosing the right video format for their goals, whether it's for social media, Connected TV, cable TV, or platforms like TikTok.

Torrey 's involvement extends to collaborating on nuances like lighting, music selection, and actor choices. The focus, however, remains on delivering content that achieves clients' goals, whether it's driving sales, increasing website traffic, or providing educational content.

**What Sets Spark House Apart: The Winning Formula**

Reflecting on Spark House's success, Torrey points to a combination of factors that set the company apart in the competitive Orange County market:

1. **Robust Process:** The company's commitment to a well-defined and transparent process ensures efficient project completion. Clients appreciate the clarity and collaboration points throughout the project lifecycle.

2. **Entrepreneurial Approach:** Understanding the diverse needs of clients, Spark House takes an entrepreneurial approach to budgeting. By avoiding unnecessary expenses and investing wisely, the company maximizes value for clients of all sizes.

3. **In-House Equipment:** A strategic investment in high-quality equipment, including multiple six K red cameras and sprinter vans, positions Spark House as a versatile and cost-effective production house. Owning equipment reduces dependency on rentals, contributing to greater flexibility and efficiency.

4. **Client-Centric Focus:** Spark House prioritizes client satisfaction, resulting in a substantial repeat business and referral base. The company's commitment to delivering value and maintaining open communication resonates well with clients.

**Torrey's Advice to Newcomers in Video Production:**

For newcomers venturing into the dynamic world of video production, he offers valuable advice:

1. **Become Multifaceted:** Acquire skills across various aspects of video production. Understanding cameras, lighting, and audio not only enhances personal capabilities but also enables effective communication with specialized team members.

2. **Efficiency Matters:** Efficiency is crucial in production. Knowing the ins and outs of the process allows for quick decision-making, ensuring projects stay on track and within budget.

3. **Hands-On Learning:** While it's not always advisable to be in the weeds, having hands-on experience, especially during downturns, can be a valuable asset. Being able to step in when needed can enhance profitability and maintain project timelines.

4. **Customer-Centric Approach:** Prioritize customer satisfaction. Building a reputation for delivering high-quality content and going the extra mile for clients can lead to repeat business and positive referrals.

**Where to Find Spark House Online:**

To explore Spark House's portfolio and stay updated on their latest projects, visit www.thesparkhouse.com