Emily Hsuan

Meet Emily Hsuan, an editor extraordinaire with three Primetime Emmy nominations. Emily has worked on Naked and Afraid, Project Runway, and Life Below Zero, to name a few TV series from her long list of credits. As the owner and editor at Swan Media, LLC., she was always drawn to storytelling and loved losing herself in other peoples’ stories for a few hours. Emily was introduced to the craft of editing in college and realized it was her calling. She is deeply passionate about team building and believes in the transformative power of collaboration and mentorship. We are proud that we get to support this phenomenal talent’s financial journey. Meet Emily, who believes being both a mentee and a mentor is essential to success, in our new Member Stories spotlight!

What is the key to finding success in the entertainment industry?

“Adaptability and flexibility are key to finding success in the entertainment industry. No two jobs are the same, no two days are the same. It’s important to be willing to roll with what comes your way and think creatively to meet whatever challenges appear. Maintaining relationships is also key. It’s important to allow yourself to be helped and to help others along on their path.”

What inspired you to want to pursue an entertainment career?

“I loved the feeling of being in a theater, the outside world fading as the lights went down. I loved that I could be brought to tears or laughter and inspired to think about things I had not thought about before or in new ways. I felt that films and television had the power to educate and invoke empathy, and I wanted to be a part of that. When I went to college, I thought I would be a journalist, but realized I was far too introverted to be a crack reporter. But it was there I was introduced to documentary films, and I was moved by their ability to empower and affect change. I loved the aspect of weaving elements together to create a cohesive, compelling story. Editing non-fiction is like putting together a jigsaw puzzle that doesn’t always end up looking like the picture on the box but still makes sense.”

How does First Entertainment benefit you as a creator of entertainment?

“When Covid-19 hit, they gave a no-questions-asked and no real application loan to help get us through the beginning of the pandemic. I think it was interest-free, if I remember correctly. That was so helpful, and they gained me as a life member with that, even though I was already a member of 20 years, but that really sealed my loyalty. First Entertainment helped ease anxiety at a very scary time.”

How would you compare your experiences with First Entertainment with other financial institutions that you have banked with?

“So much better! Understands my business.”