The deets:
Name: Sergio Miranda (he/him)
Business Name: Serril Media, Inc.
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Describe your business:
Serril Media, Inc. provides post-production services for film and tv – working smarter not harder by utilizing new technology trends to deliver films and tv programming.
Tell us about your self-employment journey.
I started as an Assistant Editor for reality tv. Once I became an editor, fellow editors advised me to start my own LLC or S Corp so I can better control my money, tax strategy and monthly cash flow. When other people shared their experience and guided me, it helped me avoid some major pitfalls!
My wife, April, and I started the company to help us manage our freelance income.
After starting my S Corp I was able to take on more serious clients. Now we have provided services for networks and streaming services like Netflix, HBO Max, Facebook Watch and more. Most recently we expanded to podcasts – and the gaming industry.
What area of your business are you most passionate about?
Collaborating with other artists and creative people helps me evolve my artistic skills and perspective.
What’s the most valuable thing you learned early in your career that has contributed to your success?
The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz helped me succeed in my projects and clients work.
- Be Impeccable With Your Word
- Don’t Take Anything Personally
- Don’t Make Assumptions
- Always Do Your Best
Simple rules. And they’ll always help in the most stressful situations with work.
How are you pivoting your business during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Working from home has been a big way to deal with COVID-19. More companies are seeing the benefit of not renting office space and editing equipment.
Are you part of any freelancer communities? Which ones and how do they support you?
Facebook has a few groups that are very helpful with technical troubleshooting when working on editing software or complex shared media storage.
What’s a recent project that you’ve worked on that you’re really excited about?
Voice Lessons Podcast series. Host and Creator, Kim Kuhteubl, and Producer, Jessica Minalga, are the team I work with to produce and edit this podcast series.
It puts people who lead with feminine strength and from the heart in front of entrepreneurs and business owners. Voice Lessons Podcast taps the collective wisdom of soul-led, mission-driven entrepreneurs, like you. Women (and sometimes men) who have gone rogue and are building social, spiritual and financial wealth for themselves, their families and the world, differently.
What advice would you give other self-employed people?
Be patient and consistent in your work. Once you have built something, others will support you – and it’ll get easier.
How has forming an S Corp helped you level up your business?
It has helped by allowing me to have more cash flow which then helps me set bigger goals for my business.