In this episode of The Epic Score Podcast, host Gabe Shadid, founder of Epic Score, continues with Part 4 of the story of his journey into the world of audio and music.

Gabe opens up about the long road to creative confidence—and how believing in yourself is so important, but something many of us find difficult.

From early self-doubt that held him back, to unexpected validation from music libraries and others, Gabe shares real stories from his music career as it was slowly building with production music, tv themes and beta testing. You'll hear how external feedback, timing, and persistence slowly built momentum—even when confidence lagged behind results.

This episode is part reflection, part encouragement, and part behind-the-scenes look at what it's really like to build a career in cinematic and television music. If you're a composer, producer, or creative who's putting in the work but still questioning yourself, this conversation is a reminder to give yourself a chance—and let the work speak.

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To reach out to us directly email: podcast@epicscore.com

In this episode of the Epic Score Podcast, host Gabe Shadid sits down with Karen Cirillo, a senior creative director/editor whose career path proves there's no such thing as a straight line in Hollywood.

Karen's journey began as a receptionist at CBS before moving through the world of television promotion with relentless deadlines and sink-or-swim expectations. Along the way, she faced roadblocks, self-doubt, and moments where taking a risk was necessary to move forward. But taking those leaps led to a two-decade career at NBC where she ultimately became a senior creative director of promo.

🎬 This conversation digs into:

Starting at the bottom and learning on the job

The reality of promo, post, and "day-of" deadlines

Taking risks before you feel ready

Why careers never stop evolving

It's an honest, behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to build a creative career—not through glamour, but through persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone.

🎧 Subscribe to The Epic Score Podcast for in-depth conversations with the creators and executives shaping the sound of modern cinema.

Subscribe to Epic Score's newsletter for events and more: https://go.epicscore.com/

To reach out to us directly email: podcast@epicscore.com

In this episode of The Epic Score Podcast, host Gabe Shadid, founder of Epic Score, continues with Part 3 of the story of his journey into the world of audio and music.

In 1999, the technology in the industry was evolving and it was causing major changes in the workflows around LA. Gabe's mixing career came to a grinding halt, and switching to freelance became a necessity. From rock bottom and full of doubt to busy beyond belief, tune in for a roller coaster ride!

🎬 In this episode, you'll learn:

About the importance of making in-person personal connections

About a new naming suffix on the titles of Epic Score's current album release

About how Gabe entered the world of music software beta testing

How Pro Tools changed an entire industry

How Gabe bounced back from a major mixing career setback

If you're interested in the history of Epic Score and the promo industry in Los Angeles, this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Subscribe to The Epic Score Podcast for in-depth conversations with the creators and executives shaping the sound of modern cinema.

Subscribe to Epic Score's newsletter for events and more: https://go.epicscore.com/

To reach out to us directly email: podcast@epicscore.com