Meet Steve Tejada | Production Sound Mixer

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

Hi Steve, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I’ve been lucky enough to have been all over the world. What’s great about my career is that it can take you anywhere. Now that I have a family, I enjoy being home more so I can spend more time with them. It has created a much better work like balance for me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a production sound mixer and have been doing it for over 20 years. I think what sets me apart from others is the fact that work has allowed me to experience many things most people don’t get an opportunity to do. I have been to 66 countries and 46 states and have seen the way other people of different demographics live. It has given me a greater appreciation of what I have in life and keeps me motivated to keep going. When I started my career, I had the great fortune to have the right people around me to show me the ropes and give me opportunities to succeed. Being a minority in this business, I’m also starting to see changes that are allowing people just like myself more opportunities. I’ve been able to see much more diversity from where I started. I think I’m definitely doing something right in this business as the demand for my services has been increasing more and more each year. The body of work has also been something I can be proud of too. I’m grateful to have been on some amazing productions along with an Emmy nomination for sound as well.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m pretty much a homebody nowadays so it’s hard for me to say where I like to go other than the comforts of my own home. Most of what I do centers around my family, so basically a lot of it is what my kids want to do. When we get out of the house it’s always someplace like a park, zoo, children’s museum and even Disneyland. I feel like I’m always researching food on a food app or website so I’ll try to find the best local spots wherever we are. Thai food is my favorite so I’m always down for that unless we go someplace that is known for something specific.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would definitely give a shoutout to my wife, Sharae. We have been together for almost 20 years and she has definitely been by my side from the early stages of my success. She completely understands the demands that come along with my job. I truly appreciate her love and support and I owe so much to her. I’d also love to give a shoutout to my kids, Avery (6) & Camden (3). I’m a very proud father and they keep me young at heart. Something I really need in life.

Instagram: @stevetejada

Other: Tejadajr@yahoo.com