We’re looking forward to introducing you to Zach Warner. Check out our conversation below.
Zach, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
In business right now, the focus has been on integrating AI into the daily routine. More clients are either using AI or asking about it, so I’ve had to adapt and learn quickly.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m half German sausage and half Italian sausage, and that makes for one tasty sandwich. My favorite past time is being on tour. There is nothing like being in a different city and state every day, constantly meeting new people and making connections.
My body of work is extensive, spanning band tours, reality TV, commercial productions, and documentaries. Over the past 10 years, my focus has centered on travel-intensive projects, historical content, and corporate clients.
The name of my company, “Zulu Whiskey” is the military alphabet for my initials.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
There were two pivotal people in my career who taught me about the industry. The first was Joe Cantu of Texas World Television. I was 19 when he hired me. At the time, I knew nothing about the film or commercial world, but he placed me in a department that sparked my love for production. I worked my way up from the bottom—starting as a PA, then Grip, Gaffer, gear maintenance tech, and eventually editor. I even dropped out of college to work for Joe and fully commit to the craft.
The second was Richard Gibbe of Gibbe Productions, who refined my producing, post-production, and networking skills. Without these two mentors, I wouldn’t be as successful as I am today or have had the opportunity to work on the epic projects that many only dream of.
Some may call it luck—I call it being in the right place at the right time, with a great attitude and a willingness to get my hands dirty.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There has never been a moment when I considered giving up. Even during times when clients weren’t hiring me, choosing others over me for bids, or constantly negotiating budgets and changing concepts at the last minute—I stayed the course.
I love this industry too much. The creative world has always been my focus, and I never had a backup plan. Sticking with it wasn’t just a choice; it was the only option. Whether it took months or years, I was determined to become great at what I do.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
If you asked my closest friends what truly matters to me, I think or would hope they’d say, it’s making memories, making people laugh, and creating good energy. I’m naturally high-energy—some call me the Energizer Bunny or Spark Plug. I believe that this positive, fun energy has been the driving force behind my success. People can see it, feel it, and often want that energy on their set. We always get the job done—but we have a lot of fun doing it. After all, people are drawn to good energy.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Great question. I’ve always believed in performing my best—whether or not I receive praise for it. My grandfather used to tell me, “No matter what, always perform. Companies can let you go for all sorts of reasons, but never let it be because of your performance.”
I work in an industry where people thrive on praise and recognition, but for me, it’s about staying relevant and continuing to get hired—consistently—for over 24 years. That’s what matters most.
I’m still winning. – Charlie Sheen
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zuluwhiskey
Image Credits
Portfolio Photos – Zach Warner (Me)
BTS Photos – Clay Hayner & Logan Harris
