For Justin Jackson, life has been a tale of two passions—both pursued at the highest level.
Originally from Asheville, NC, Justin spent a decade playing professional baseball before stepping up to the plate for a whole new career: filmmaking. His journey into the creative world began in his final season, when he launched a vlog called Ball is Life to document life on and off the diamond.
That spark led him to enroll in the Los Angeles Film School’s online program, and today, he’s a director and cinematographer through Media Bolt Productions, bringing powerful stories to life right here in Milwaukee.
Justin’s portfolio is as meaningful as it is impressive. His ‘Made in Milwaukee‘ project celebrates the city’s creative community, highlighting the athletes, artists, and makers who make this city special.
With Dreams Fuel Greatness, he issued a powerful message to young Black baseball players, reminding them that a major league dream is still within reach despite the declining representation in the MLB. In 1986, the number of African-American baseball players was around 18%, today that number is only 6%.
His story follows a young baseball player who works his way up to a professional level through hard work, determination, and grit.
And then there’s his work with the Milwaukee Brewers.
“Getting to work with the Brewers is truly a dream come true, to not only play professional baseball, but then in my second career, to be able to work with my hometown team, truly is a blessing and one of my favorite moments of my filmmaking career.”
Justin continues to create projects that matter, collaborating with Milwaukee’s vibrant creative scene. “There are so many talented people here, and it’s been awesome to be in the mix with these dope folks,” he says.
The Milwaukee film and creative scene continues to grow, especially as an Action! Wisconsin program was recently approved.
“For the Milwaukee film scene, I hope that more stories get created here that make an impact around the world, and that an economy begins to grow to support the filmmakers here who want to pursue this occupation.”
From the field to behind the camera, Justin Jackson is proof that passion—and hard work—can lead to more than a one-dream career.