Between the Beats: From Texas Roots to Trailer Rhythms

What does it take to edit trailers that breathe emotion, humor, tension, and awe—all in a few short minutes?

This week, we sit down with Shea Jones, a self-proclaimed "rhythm cutter" whose musical instincts have defined some of the most memorable trailer moments of the last decade. Shea shares his origin story—from math-loving student in San Antonio to trailer editor at X/AV—along with insights into how he approaches genre, music, and storytelling.

🎵 Whether he's remixing action sequences with beat drops or building visual poetry around Taylor Swift lyrics, Shea reveals how the best trailers aren't just made—they're felt.

This episode is a must-listen for creatives, editors, and trailer geeks alike.

💡 Key Takeaways

• Editing is Rhythmic: Shea describes himself as a "rhythm-based cutter," likening his editing flow to musical composition and even mathematics.

• Versatility is a Superpower: From horror and blockbuster action to emotional dramas, Shea's ability to pivot across genres comes from intuition and experimentation.

• Let the Music Speak: For projects like Daisy Jones & The Six and The Summer I Turned Pretty, lyrics drive narrative as much as visuals or dialogue.

• Compete with Yourself: In an industry full of talent, Shea's biggest rival is yesterday's version of himself.

• Culture Matters: A decade at XAV isn't just about work—it's about a team-first environment that nurtures people, not just projects.

🎤 Notable Quotes

"There's a mathematics to trailers. It's not just beats—it's breathing, silence, and flow."
— Shea Jones

"The best finish is my next finish."
— Shea Jones

"Competing with others used to drive me. Now, I just want to keep getting better."
— Shea Jones

🌐 Connect with X/AV

• Website: xav.la

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Want to hear how the best in the business craft the world's most exciting movie trailers? Tune in every week to Trailer Geeks and Teaser Gods! 🎬🎤