Meet Jason Flakes | Film Director, Mindful Designer & Futurist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jason Flakes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jason, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
As a film director and business owner, my view of work-life balance has significantly evolved over time. Early in my career, I was deeply entrenched in hustle culture. It was all about ‘rise and grind,’ working long hours, and pushing through, which I thought was necessary for success. This approach was not only prevalent in the film industry but also seemed to be a badge of honor in the business world.

However, my experiences, including international projects and personal shifts, led me to question and eventually redefine this notion. A pivotal moment was my time working in France, where I observed a healthier work culture focused on well-being and balance. This experience, coupled with the stark realities I witnessed in the Congo and my move to Ohio, made me reconsider the unsustainable pace I was maintaining.

Today, I view work-life balance not as a static state but as a dynamic process of mindful decisions. It’s about intentional scheduling (my method called the S.I.T. method – Schedule Intentional Tranquility ) and making conscious choices daily to balance professional responsibilities with personal well-being. This approach has not only improved my quality of life but also enhanced my creativity and productivity as a filmmaker.

I believe in setting boundaries, valuing rest as much as work, and embracing moments of tranquility. These practices don’t detract from my professional goals; rather, they enrich my capacity to achieve them more sustainably.”

This response integrates your personal and professional experiences, aligning with your journey towards mindfulness and sustainable work practices, and reflects your growth and current perspective on work-life balance.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Visual14 didn’t start as a business plan; it emerged from a moment of reinvention. Back in 2008, amid the economic collapse, I faced a career-altering challenge: I was laid off from my job as an architectural systems designer. This period, although difficult, marked the beginning of an unexpected journey into entrepreneurship. I pivoted towards photography, a hobby I never imagined could evolve into a career, let alone a thriving business in video production, multimedia, and film.

The transition wasn’t smooth. The economic climate was harsh, and entering a field where I was self-taught was daunting. But a photography project came my way, igniting a passion that grew into Visual14. Over time, we expanded into video production, leveraging drone imagery to create compelling visual narratives. We’ve collaborated with architects, businesses, and non-profits, transforming ordinary visuals into extraordinary experiences.

What sets Visual14 apart is our commitment to capturing moments and creating visual legacies. We focus on storytelling that resonates globally, turning each project into an immersive experience. As the founder, I blend my passion for visual art with skills in marketing and strategy, supported by a team of talented directors, strategists, and editors. Our work is characterized by authenticity, creativity, and technical excellence.

The journey to where Visual14 stands today took a lot of work. Each challenge was a learning opportunity, from the initial pivot in my career to adapting to the ever-evolving multimedia landscape. I discovered the importance of mindfulness in business, understanding that while business is a vehicle for success, it’s also a tool for finding peace and focusing on what truly matters – connections, problem-solving, and education.

I’m most proud of how Visual14 has grown into a hub of creative storytelling, and I’m excited about the future narratives we’ll craft. The lessons I’ve learned are embedded in our work:
-The power of resilience
-The value of authenticity
-The impact of visually translating stories into emotional experiences

To the world, I want Visual14 to be known as more than a multimedia company. It’s a platform where creativity meets purpose, where every project is a step towards connecting people, educating audiences, and inspiring change. At Visual14, led by my vision and fueled by a team of dedicated creatives, we don’t just work on projects – we breathe life into stories that matter.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Visual14 didn’t start as a business plan; it emerged from a moment of reinvention. Back in 2008, amid the economic collapse, I faced a career-altering challenge: I was laid off from my job as an architectural systems designer. This period, although difficult, marked the beginning of an unexpected journey into entrepreneurship. I pivoted towards photography, a hobby I never imagined could evolve into a career, let alone a thriving business in video production, multimedia, and film.

The transition wasn’t smooth. The economic climate was harsh, and entering a field where I was self-taught was daunting. But a photography project came my way, igniting a passion that grew into Visual14. Over time, we expanded into video production, leveraging drone imagery to create compelling visual narratives. We’ve collaborated with architects, businesses, and non-profits, transforming ordinary visuals into extraordinary experiences.

What sets Visual14 apart is our commitment to capturing moments and creating visual legacies. We focus on storytelling that resonates globally, turning each project into an immersive experience. As the founder, I blend my passion for visual art with skills in marketing and strategy, supported by a team of talented directors, strategists, and editors. Our work is characterized by authenticity, creativity, and technical excellence.

The journey to where Visual14 stands today took a lot of work. Each challenge was a learning opportunity, from the initial pivot in my career to adapting to the ever-evolving multimedia landscape. I discovered the importance of mindfulness in business, understanding that while business is a vehicle for success, it’s also a tool for finding peace and focusing on what truly matters – connections, problem-solving, and education.

I’m most proud of how Visual14 has grown into a hub of creative storytelling, and I’m excited about the future narratives we’ll craft. The lessons I’ve learned are embedded in our work:
The power of resilience
The value of authenticity
The impact of visually translating stories into emotional experiences

To the world, I want Visual14 to be known as more than a multimedia company. It’s a platform where creativity meets purpose, where every project is a step towards connecting people, educating audiences, and inspiring change. At Visual14, led by my vision and fueled by a team of dedicated creatives, we don’t just work on projects – we breathe life into stories that matter.

—

If you were my best friend and were visiting, I had the chance to show you the adventure of a lifetime. It would start with me taking you to The Wilds, North America’s sprawling animal preserve. Picture us wandering through this vast space, marveling at the exotic animals roaming freely. It’s like stepping into another world where nature rules and we are mere spectators.

Then, I’d whisk you to Put-In-Bay, the little gem on Lake Erie. We’d catch the ferry, feel the fresh lake breeze, and step onto an island frozen in time. There, we’d explore quaint streets, absorb the history, and join in on local festivities.

But the adventure doesn’t stop there. I’d show you Ohio’s ancient secret – the glacier carvings. As we walk through these historic sites, I’ll tell you stories about how these landscapes were shaped over millennia, a testament to nature’s enduring presence.

Now, brace yourself for the next part of our journey – Cedar Point. I’d take you on some of the world’s most exhilarating roller coasters. Imagine us, hearts racing, as we’re catapulted through the sky, a thrilling blend of fear and excitement.

Our adventure would take a culinary turn. We’d find ourselves on High Street in Columbus, where I’d take you to one of those restaurants with a view. Picture us dining high above the city, the lights of Columbus creating a sparkling backdrop to our delicious meal.

Naturally, our epic week in Columbus would only be complete with immersing ourselves in the wonders of science at COSI. It’s a place where curiosity comes to life, and we’d have the chance to explore and learn about the marvels of the scientific world.

And finally, on our last day, I’d take you to Katalina’s for breakfast. Known for its pancake balls, it would be the perfect end to our Ohio adventure. As we savor the flavors, we reminisce about our unforgettable experiences and incredible journey. This, my friend, would be our epic adventure in Ohio.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely, I’m thrilled to share this! Success is never a solo journey; it’s a tapestry woven with the support, wisdom, and encouragement of others. For me, two incredibly profound sources of inspiration and support stand out.

First, I’d like to dedicate a heartfelt shoutout to the Bible, specifically the teachings and wisdom found within Jehovah’s word. While some might see this as a cliché, for me, it’s been a foundation of strength, guidance, and perspective. The values and lessons in the Bible have not only shaped my moral compass but also provided comfort and direction during challenging times. Its timeless wisdom has been a constant, enlightening me on patience, resilience, and the importance of humility and service to others.

Secondly, I must express my deepest gratitude to my wife, Savanna Flakes. From the inception of my business, through the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, to the heights we’ve reached, she’s been my unwavering pillar. Savanna’s belief in me during times when our goals seemed like distant dreams has been nothing short of miraculous. Her support, understanding, and patience have been instrumental in navigating the complexities of business and creativity. She’s been a partner in every sense — offering insights, sharing the burden during tough times, and celebrating the victories, no matter how small.

Both the guiding principles I’ve gleaned from the Bible and Savanna’s steadfast support have been integral to where I am today. They deserve more than a little credit; they are central to my story.

Website: www.visual14.com

Instagram: @jasonflakes

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jflakes/

Twitter: @MrJasonFlakes

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jason.flakes

Yelp: https://yelp.to/CDgDsEcvqM

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@IAmJasonFlakes

Other: TikTok @jasonflakes

Image Credits
Versus image one
James Anthony Photography