Meet Jakob Michaels | Video Focused Marketer
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We had the good fortune of connecting with Jakob Michaels and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jakob, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk-taking has always been an integral part of my journey. It’s the lens through which I’ve viewed opportunities and challenges, and it’s played a pivotal role in shaping my career and life.
Before diving into the world of digital marketing, I began my journey as a mentalist and speaker. I had the privilege of gracing stages at corporate events for renowned organizations like Hibu, TEDx Columbus, and Specialized Speech Pathologies. But beneath the surface, there was a burning passion for something more. I had always known that video was the future, the secret sauce to making a mark in the digital world. But being in my early 20s, with no business acumen, no mentors, and no formal education in the field, the path was anything but easy. To make ends meet, I found myself working as a server at high-end restaurants, all while trying to navigate the complex world of video and marketing.
Then came the turning point. I realized that performing and speaking weren’t my true callings. I was at a crossroads, and I decided to take a leap of faith. With just $300 in my bank account, I shut down my speaking business, bought the most affordable Canon camera I could find, and embarked on a journey to master the art of videography at the age of 24. The initial days were filled with risks. I invested in courses, searching for that one golden nugget of wisdom that would set me apart. I hustled, building my video portfolio from the ground up, starting with free projects, gradually scaling my fees as my expertise grew.
Fast forward a couple of years, and I found myself traveling the globe, creating videos for diverse clients. From working with performers in Las Vegas to shooting a reality TV pitch episode in England, the experiences were enriching. But another realization dawned upon me. While I was producing top-notch content for big names like Big Lots, Boss Display, and Magie Cook, the renowned success coach behind Magie’s Salsa, these companies lacked the know-how to leverage the video content effectively.
This was the genesis of my transition from just a videographer to a digital marketer. I began imparting the strategies I had honed over the years, from paid ads to social media techniques. Drawing inspiration from industry stalwarts like Hormozi and Gary V, I developed my unique Social Video Funnel Method. The focus shifted from a ‘done for you’ to a ‘done with you’ service model. This not only provided more value to my clients but also revolutionized the way they approached their businesses.
Today, at Life on a Lens Media, we’re not just creating videos; we’re crafting success stories. We’re empowering online business owners, coaches, consultants, and experts to harness the power of video combined with strategic digital marketing to skyrocket their growth. The risks I took, the challenges I faced, they all culminated into this venture, and I couldn’t be prouder of where we stand today.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Jakob Michaels is not your typical digital marketer or videographer. His journey, filled with passion, risks, and breakthroughs, has made him a standout figure in the industry. As the driving force behind Life On a Lens Media Agency, Jakob has seamlessly blended video expertise with strategic digital marketing, setting new standards in the field.
Before venturing into the digital world, Jakob’s roots were in mentalism and public speaking. He graced corporate stages for renowned organizations like Hibu, TEDx Columbus, and Specialized Speech Pathologies. This experience wasn’t just about entertainment; it provided Jakob with a deep understanding of human psychology, a skill he later harnessed in his marketing strategies.
Jakob’s early years in the industry were marked by challenges. With a burning passion for video but limited business acumen, he found himself juggling roles, even working as a server at high-end restaurants. But Jakob is no stranger to taking risks. With a mere $300 to his name, he invested in a Canon camera at 24, diving headfirst into the world of videography. His investments in courses, inspired by industry leaders, became the bedrock of his expertise.
Jakob’s skills soon took him across borders. From collaborating with Las Vegas performers to shooting a reality TV pitch in England, he expanded his horizons. But a pivotal realization stood out: while his videos were top-tier, many clients lacked the strategy to use them effectively. This gap birthed the unique Social Video Funnel Method, drawing inspiration from industry giants like Alex Hormozi and Gary Vaynerchuk.
1. **Value-Driven Approach:** Jakob, inspired by Hormozi’s teachings, is a staunch believer in leading with value. His strategies are always about offering genuine value, building trust, and establishing credibility.
2. **Tailored Solutions:** Jakob understands the uniqueness of each business and individual. His solutions are never one-size-fits-all but are meticulously tailored to ensure maximum impact and ROI.
3. **A Holistic Vision:** While many focus solely on video or marketing, Jakob’s genius lies in integrating both. His holistic strategies ensure content is not just visually stunning but also effectively reaches its intended audience.
4. **A Commitment to Growth:** The digital realm is ever-evolving, and so is Jakob. He is committed to continuous learning, ensuring he’s always at the forefront of industry trends and innovations.
In essence, Jakob Michaels is more than just the founder of Life On a Lens Media Agency. He’s a visionary, a risk-taker, and a trailblazer, dedicated to helping businesses and individuals harness the combined power of video and digital marketing to achieve unparalleled success.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Columbus, Ohio, is a vibrant city with a rich history, diverse culture, and a plethora of activities to enjoy. If I were to create a week-long itinerary for a best friend visiting Columbus, here’s how I’d plan it:
**Day 1: Downtown Exploration**
– **Morning:** Start with breakfast at **Fox in the Snow Cafe**. Their baked goods and coffee are a treat.
– **Afternoon:** Explore the **Short North Arts District**. It’s filled with art galleries, boutiques, and murals. Grab lunch at **North Market** – a historic public market with various food vendors.
– **Evening:** Dine at **The Pearl**, an upscale gastropub in the Short North, followed by a stroll along the **Scioto Mile** to see the city lights.
**Day 2: Cultural Day**
– **Morning:** Visit the **Columbus Museum of Art** and immerse yourself in the local and international art scene.
– **Afternoon:** Head to **German Village**, a historic neighborhood. Have lunch at **Schmidt’s Sausage Haus**, and don’t forget their famous cream puffs.
– **Evening:** Attend a show at the **Ohio Theatre** or **Palace Theatre**.
**Day 3: Nature & Science**
– **Morning:** Begin with a walk or bike ride through **Scioto Audubon Metro Park**.
– **Afternoon:** Visit the **COSI (Center of Science and Industry)**. It’s fun and educational!
– **Evening:** Dine at **Milestone 229**, offering beautiful views of the Scioto River.
**Day 4: University Vibes**
– **Morning:** Explore **The Ohio State University** campus. Grab breakfast at **Katalina’s**.
– **Afternoon:** Visit **Ohio Stadium**. Even if there’s no game, it’s an iconic spot.
– **Evening:** Hang out at **Gateway Film Center** for indie films or head to **Chumley’s** for a laid-back evening.
**Day 5: Shopping & Relaxation**
– **Morning:** Shop at **Easton Town Center**. It’s a large outdoor shopping complex with top brands.
– **Afternoon:** Relax at **The Book Loft** in German Village, one of the nation’s largest independent bookstores with 32 rooms of books!
– **Evening:** Dine at **Basi Italia** for some upscale Italian.
**Day 6: Adventure Day**
– **Morning:** Head to **ZipZone Outdoor Adventures** for some zip-lining.
– **Afternoon:** Explore **Hocking Hills State Park**. It’s a bit of a drive but worth it for the stunning natural beauty.
– **Evening:** Have a BBQ back in Columbus. **Ray Ray’s Hog Pit** is a local favorite.
**Day 7: Leisure & Farewell**
– **Morning:** Brunch at **Skillet**. Their farm-to-table offerings are delightful.
– **Afternoon:** Take a leisurely stroll in **Goodale Park** and enjoy the pond and gazebo.
– **Evening:** Farewell dinner at **The Refectory**. It’s a bit upscale, but the French and American cuisine is top-notch.
Throughout the week, sprinkle in some local breweries like **Seventh Son Brewing** and **Wolf’s Ridge Brewing**. Columbus has a burgeoning craft beer scene that’s worth exploring.
This itinerary offers a mix of cultural, recreational, and leisure activities, ensuring your best friend gets a comprehensive experience of what Columbus, Ohio, has to offer!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Please mention my family, Todd Smith (father) and grandfather (Thomas Smith). Also please shoutout to my strategic partners who help the perfect blend of video, highly actionable ads and data into a guaranteed predictable growth system
Website: https://www.lolmediallc.com
Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/Jakob_Michaels_Official
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lolmediallc/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeonalensmedia
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7Udyb0UeMweoGrSBPpxVLQ
Other: Tik Tok: jakob_michaels