Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevin Jacobsen.
Kevin, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My wife (and now business partner) launched Story North Productions in June 2021 after I stepped away from a nearly 20 year career in television news. For a majority of that time, I got to tell stories whether as a photojournalist, reporter or news anchor. When I stepped into news management, that all changed. It was HR work 75 percent of the time. Realizing I needed something to fuel my creativity, I eventually picked up photography as a hobby. That eventually morphed into discussions with my wife about starting a video production company. We created a five year plan which quickly turned into a one-year plan. After securing several key clients, we decided it was time for me to focus on the business full-time. We now produce video content for brands, businesses and non-profits. My wife, who stepped away from her full time job in January 2022, serves as the president and director of strategy. I serve as the creative director. In addition to story-telling focused video production services, we also offer workshops on how organizations and individuals can confidently tell their stories along with crisis communication strategy and support.
My passion for visual storytelling sparked during the blizzard of 1996. I was 13-years-old and spent several snow days glued to the TV watching wall to wall storm coverage on the local New York City TV stations, while playing with LEGO.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
The biggest struggle we’ve faced along the way was the launch of Story North Productions. With both my wife and me having full-time jobs, how could we build the brand, find clients and do the actual work? Planning was key. The launch didn’t happen overnight. We spent two years doing research, building a business plan, meeting with mentors and potential clients, etc.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Story North Productions?
Story North Productions is a Duluth, Minnesota-based full-service video production company serving Minnesota, Wisconsin and beyond. More than just great video, we are storytelling experts driven by passion, creativity and helping our clients succeed. From concept to the final edit, we specialize in video content that engages and inspires audiences and gets results for a wide range of clients. The content we produce can be seen on television, websites, social media, and in board rooms.
There are two key things that set Story North Production a part from others. One is we are a turnkey solution. In addition to shooting and editing, we provide strategy, coaching, voice over services and more. The other is our backgrounds. Annie has spent the last 13 years working in business, nonprofits, schools and local government. Kevin has worked in television news for nearly 20 years.
The thing we’re most proud of is we have strong relationships and shared community with clients. We don’t just show up and hit record. We work with our clients from beginning to end to ensure their vision comes to fruition.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Over the next 5 to 10 years, there will be a continued demand for video content across all platforms, whether it’s a 10 second product ad, a virtual how-to or a company overview.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: storynorthproductions.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/storynorthproductions
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/storynorthproductions
Image Credits
Jane Cane Photography
