Brandon Roudebush is an award-winning Video Producer, and the Founder and Executive Producer of Pixelab Studios, a full-service video production company based in Pittsburgh, PA. He is also the Founder of Pixelab Academy, an online platform that empowers small businesses with practical digital marketing tools and education.

How many years have you been a judge?

1-3 years

What was your first job in the industry? What did it teach you?

Like many, my first job in the industry was as a Production Assistant. Beyond learning what it takes to keep a production running smoothly, the experience taught me the importance of working as part of a team. Starting at the ground level and working my way up gave me a real appreciation for how every role contributes to the success of a project. That perspective has been invaluable in my current role, where understanding how each position functions on set helps me lead more effectively.

What do you look for to determine excellence in video?

It can be easy to get caught up in how something looks, but excellence comes down to whether the story truly connects with the audience. The best content feels authentic, intentional, and memorable. When every creative choice serves the story and drives the desired action, that is when I know the work has achieved excellence.

How do you unwind from work mode?

As the owner of a production company, I can tell you that detaching from work can be extremely challenging. While I still struggle with it, I’ve learned how important it is for both mental health and long-term productivity. Spending time with friends and family, reading, watching movies, and playing video games helps me recharge and return to my work with more clarity and creativity.

What are your current roles and responsibilities and what do you love most about your job?

As Executive Producer of Pixelab Studios, my role has evolved significantly over the past decade. I started out as a solo shooter, wearing every hat, working seven days a week, and learning the business from the ground up. Today, I’m fortunate to focus more on running and growing the business while creating space for my team to thrive creatively. What I love most is the relationships I’ve built along the way. Whether it’s our clients, crews, or partnerships, those connections have been the most rewarding part of the journey.