We had the good fortune of connecting with Zach Tolchinsky and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zach, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
After spending a decade in the animation and stop-motion industry, I thought it time I start my own business geared towards tackling stories and projects that really inspire me. Over the years, I’ve acquired unique skills through a plethora of interesting jobs, and in the process, began creating personalized pieces for clients. This motivated me to start sharing my work on Instagram, and with other like-minded creatives in my industry. Although I had steady work at a studio, the idea of going independent was daunting. However, the pandemic changed the landscape of production, making it clear that my job as a stop-motion fabricator wasn’t altogether sustainable. Because of this, I started taking on custom art projects and filming my process for YouTube. In October 2023, I launched Wood Goblin Fabrication to showcase my work and attract new clients.

Starting my own business was born from necessity and a desire for stability in an unpredictable industry. I love making art, miniatures, and puppets, but I wanted the freedom to pursue my projects without relying on studio work. My YouTube channel serves as a way to showcase what I do, attract new clients, and share my passion for fabrication with a broader audience. I also wanted to maintain the freedom to continue my filmmaking career, and having my own business gave me the opportunities to do that. Overall, starting my own business was driven by my passion for art and a desire to work on projects I’m really proud of.

What should our readers know about your business?
My company, Wood Goblin, draws its name from an abandoned title for Anton Chekhov’s play Uncle Vanya. The protagonist in that story lives in perpetual regret due to never taking chances in life. Inspired by the antithesis of this character, I sought to embrace life fully, taking risks and pursuing my passions. Wood Goblin embodies this spirit of seizing opportunities and living a life without regrets.

What sets Wood Goblin apart is its diverse range of creative endeavors. At the heart of my brand is the Wood Goblin Fabrication YouTube channel, where I’ve explored filmmaking, furniture crafting, stop-motion animation, puppetry, and miniature art. This platform allows me the freedom to venture in any artistic direction, with a focus on entertainment and unique storytelling.

Through perseverance and a willingness to embrace potential failure, Wood Goblin Studios has evolved into the production company it is today. It’s been a journey of self-discovery and growth, marked by both successes and setbacks. But through it all, the guiding principle has been to stay true to my passions and to never shy away from taking risks. Nothing is too hard or abstract for us to take under our wing!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When my dear friend from Germany visited Los Angeles, I made sure to show him a mix of iconic spots and hidden gems. We started with a trip to Disneyland, followed by drinks at The Lucky Tiki. Both places utilize unique storytelling and are so artistically inspiring. We then caught a screening of “Swiss Family Robinson,” in its original print, complete with vintage trailers and a 1960s animated short, at The Vista Theater on Sunset. It’s one of my favorite theaters, made all the better by its most recent renovations.

Some other awesome places we checked out were History for Hire, a fun place to walk around if you’re making a film, and the Smokehouse restaurant in Burbank. Lastly, I don’t care what’s playing, The Hollywood Bowl is my favorite venue in LA, due to its unbeatable atmosphere and amazing performers. It’s the perfect place to take a friend, date, or loved one who’s new to the SoCal scene.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! I am profoundly grateful for the support, mentorship, and encouragement I’ve received from numerous individuals who have played instrumental roles in my journey. John Sumner, Michael Jung, Chrisann Verges, Sasha Pasternak, and Will Martinez stand out among those who have generously supported my artistic pursuits, their guidance and belief in my abilities shaped my path in ways I could never have imagined.

I also owe a debt of gratitude to Arnold Schwarzenegger for his book “Be Useful,” a source of profound motivation that inspired me to focus on the leap to independence. Its insights have been pivotal in shaping my mindset and empowering me to embrace new challenges with confidence and determination. You might laugh, but I’m totally serious. I read this book at the same time I launched my YouTube channel and without the “vision of focus” the book talks about, I think I might have given up on the idea before it even started.

Furthermore, I’d like to express appreciation for the impact of two beloved films, “Cool Runnings” and “Ratatouille.” Though seemingly lighthearted, these movies have instilled in me the vital lesson of self-belief and the importance of pursuing one’s dreams against all odds.

The support and inspiration provided by these individuals and sources have profoundly shaped my journey as an artist and as a person. I am deeply thankful for their belief in me and the transformative impact they have had on my life.

Website: https://tfzshortfilm.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WoodGoblinFabrication

Image Credits
Sasha Pasternak

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