I did it because it needed to be done

Intrinsic Motivation

I started @postinblack, initially a blog (now podcast), over 10 years ago to celebrate excellence in the black community. Specifically, to shine a light on those who work in post-production behind the scenes in Hollywood.

I did this because it needed to be done, not because I expected anything in return. I used to work in post-production as a sound editor / designer.

After I left @BerkleeCollege, I pursued a career of “composing with sound effects” and had to cut my teeth working on reality TV shows like The Hills for MTV.

I got lucky though and was eventually able to work on Curb Your Enthusiasm that same year. One thing that struck me immediately was the lack of diversity in the post-production space.

There were very few people of color working behind the lens. I started Post in Black originally as a blog to tell the stories of the artists who are far too often labeled as “technicians” by those in front of the camera.

If you create any form of video content, you know firsthand that editors are remarkably creative.

What's most devastating about industries and professions that lack diversity is that it compounds over time. If you don't see anyone like you, why would you think it's for you? I saw the same lack of diversity in the tech industry when I first started programming back in 2014, and I'm seeing the same issue in the creator economy.

Post in Black aims to bring more people of color into the space. If you have an opportunity to do the same in your area of expertise, I challenge you to do so.

— Daniel