Meet Chip Sovek | Audio Post Mixer – C.A.S. / M.P.S.E.

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

Hi Chip, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
Going freelance and starting a business!

Being my own boss and starting a business scared the shit out of me, especially after 20 years in an industry I”d worked so hard to break into. Additionally, at a point in my life where I thought I had plateaued and would enjoy a long career being a company person. Little did I know at the time how much change would happen, not only industry-wide, but how much I could push myself onward and upward to higher plateau’s. I’d had built a career as a post production audio editor & mixer and was very comfortable being a staff mixer, the thought of jumping over that (freelance) fence was terrifying. Contrastly, I’ve always made the best decisions for my career, my family and my future under stress and I’m glad this was no different…Once I was put in the position of staring straight into the cross-roads, I knew deep in heart what the answer was, it was a matter of having the courage to take that first step! Fortunately, I had my best friend at my side to help steer my wild thoughts (and focus) and pull them into reality of following my heart. My wife still supports every decision and is always there to listen.
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Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My particular path wasn’t exactly easy and straightforward. It was more of a challenge I had to define to friends and family…”you want to do what?” As with many people in this (entertainment) industry I had to relocate to where the work was. Coupled with a whole lot of mental fortitude and intuition, I was on a mission. Let’s simply say that there was no plan B. After building a career of 20 years and then launching a company (Spinn Creative), I am still a student of the craft. I consider each project a gift to practice that art and I truly enjoy the opportunities in being part of a creative team which collaborates to get projects across the finish line. Like any team member, I’d like to think that I bring a little extra something to the creative table… maybe a slightly different approach to sound design, or perhaps a unique perspective on how to steer a sound mix…I’m not exactly sure what that may be, I’ll leave that up to the Directors & Producers I’m so grateful to work with.

The challenges have been mostly industry changes, a pandemic & long hours but I’d have to point out that the biggest challenge has been running a business for nearly a decade. While it’s immensely rewarding, it’s also one of the hardest things I’ve ever achieved.

The (many) hats a person in business needs to wear are numerous… I was lucky in that I had a fairly solid base of clients from simply being in business so long. However, as many realize, it’s a different perspective once the tables turn and suddenly you’re in the driver’s seat. Building and cultivating satisfied clients who are more likely to return for future projects and refer others to your company is tougher than imagined. I’ve always said it’s not the first job a client will bring but the second one! Building a company requires perseverance, resilience, and a willingness to overcome challenges and setbacks not to mention doing the work itself. Stay focused on your goals, remain adaptable in the face of adversity, and never lose sight of your passion.

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?
The Washington DC region is home and has been for a while but being a native New Englander, I will always seek out quaint seaside area’s reminiscent of the northern coast. I would definitely plan a day trip to Georgetown. Located on the western side of DC with a fantastic view of Arlington, VA it sits on the banks of the Potomac river. This spot was built around a canal that originally ferried coal, lumber and passengers inland to Maryland and is almost its own city. If you love cobblestone streets, quiet neighborhoods and a good coffee shops, you’ll love this spot. Perhaps an outdoor cafe will be on our itinerary if the visit is in autumn, such a nice time of year. Of course when you’re in DC, no visit is complete without visiting some of the historical locations and monuments. The Smithsonian Institution offers many fantastic and fascinating opportunities. Looking at the many sites of history, you can’t beat the architecture with its granite blocks and columns any direction you look, It makes any visitor feel the buildings are larger than life.

I’d also plan a day trip out to the eastern shore (MD) with Annapolis, Easton or St Michaels on the Chesapeake bay. Simply beautiful areas and a big contrast to Washington DC. If you love seafood, a good bar, a really good Bed and Breakfasts for an overnighter, or a good hang with friends these areas need to be on the list.

While DC is a walking town, we can always fuel up by visiting one of the many amazing coffee shops, like Tryst in Adams Morgan or Kaldi’s Social House Silver Spring and do some people watching from this international city!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give a shout out to my incredible wife, Rosa! She’s the epitome of charm, strength, altruism and love! She’s the heart and soul of our family, the single best travel partner, a beacon of light in every storm, and the greatest gift. Her unwavering support, endless kindness, friendship, joy and talent for mangling everyday words makes every single day brighter with shared laughter.

Website: https://spinncreative.net/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spinn_creative/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chip-sovek-mpse-cas-58689336/

Image Credits
Cameron Whitman – photographer for picture of Chip with microphone – www.cameronwhitman.com