Meet Nathan Roels | Video Producer, Second Mile Video

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

Hi Nathan, what are you inspired by?
What was your thought process behind starting your own business?

I have a passion for telling stories that make a difference, and there are many organizations doing awesome work in the community who could not afford to work with some of the bigger video agencies. I began my company with a focus on non-profits and ministries and have really enjoyed watching it grow.

What’s one piece of conventional advice that you disagree with?

Conventional advice would be to have a rigid price structure. However, I find flexibility to be an essential component of my business. Different organizations have access to different funding, so flexibility and adaptability are key.

Risk taking: how do you think about risk, what role has taking risks played in your life/career?

Initially, I began college with a Business major and a Film and Media minor, as it seemed like a safer choice. However, I found more passion in Film and Media, and ended up making that a major and Business my minor. I saw a pathway forward to make it happen, but it did require a level of risk and uncertainty.

What habits do you feel helped you succeed?

I always maintained a strong work ethic, but also did my best to be patient with clients, and collaborators as well. I tried to work hard while also being laid back relationally, as I really value the relationships I have been able to build through this work.

What is the most important factor behind your success / the success of your brand?

I believe the reason my business has had any success is a result of God’s grace. Everything good that I’ve done is a result of God’s working in my life.

(If you are looking for a non-religious answer):
My success is due to the relationships that I have been fortunate to have with others. It would not be easy to succeed in this line of work without valuable connections with others.

What’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?

Through this work, I have learned so much about different marginalized groups, and this has given me a drive to continue making a difference, inside and outside of video production. I especially am interested in serving the incarcerated population, due to work I have done for ministries and non-profits focused on prisoners and returning citizens.

Work life balance: how has your balance changed over time? How do you think about the balance?

Since beginning my business, I have gotten married and we have a one and a half year old son. We also have another baby on the way. Family has to be a priority, and this does mean missing out on some great work opportunities. I’ve also been doing more volunteer-type work outside of video production that has resulted in missing other work opportunities. However, these aspects of life are essential for me. I am really grateful to have balance in my life, and the opportunity to work in a field that has some flexibility and provides me with family time and time to serve others.

What are you inspired by?

I’m really inspired creatively by the work of others. I love watching documentaries and finding creative ideas, but also ideas on what to avoid as well. Additionally, I am inspired by mentors of mine and friends in video production, such as former professors Sam Smartt and Carl Plantinga, cinematographers Tyler Grimm and Marcus Thomas, and director Eric Johnson. All of those people have not only shown professional talent, but also a heart of compassion and service. They’re mission-driven people who remind me why I do what I do.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Second Mile Video is a video production company in Grand Rapids, Michigan that serves non-profits, ministries, businesses, and individuals. We seek to go the second mile with our video production services in terms of quality and work ethic.

Initially, I began college with a Business major and a Film and Media minor, as it seemed like a safer choice. However, I found more passion in Film and Media, and ended up making that a major and Business my minor. I saw a pathway forward to make it happen, but it did require a level of risk and uncertainty.

I have a passion for telling stories that make a difference, and there are many organizations doing awesome work in the community who could not afford to work with some of the bigger video agencies. I began my company with a focus on non-profits and ministries and have really enjoyed watching it grow.

My success is due to the relationships that I have been fortunate to have with others. It would not be easy to succeed in this line of work without valuable connections with others. I always maintained a strong work ethic, but also did my best to be patient with clients, and collaborators as well. I tried to work hard while also being laid back relationally, as I really value the relationships I have been able to build through this work.

Through this work, I have learned so much about different marginalized groups, and this has given me a drive to continue making a difference, inside and outside of video production. I especially am interested in serving the incarcerated population, due to work I have done for ministries and non-profits focused on prisoners and returning citizens.

I’m really inspired creatively by the work of others. I love watching documentaries and finding creative ideas, but also ideas on what to avoid as well. Additionally, I am inspired by mentors of mine and friends in video production, such as former professors Sam Smartt and Carl Plantinga, cinematographers Tyler Grimm and Marcus Thomas, and director Eric Johnson. All of those people have not only shown professional talent, but also a heart of compassion and service. They’re mission-driven people who remind me why I do what I do.

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.
The Downtown Market is a favorite location of mine. That’s actually where we had our wedding reception. There are great food vendors, and lots of options to choose from to make sure everyone finds something they enjoy.

KCM is another favorite restaurant. Their Katsu Curry is amazing and was actually just featured in The New York Times.

Lastly, Pupuseria El Salvador is amazing if you like pupusas, or would like to try them. I recommend the Pupusas Revueltas.

If you like tacos, Tacos El Cuñado on Burton is really good too.

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?
I am inspired by mentors of mine and friends in video production, such as former professors Sam Smartt and Carl Plantinga, cinematographers Tyler Grimm and Marcus Thomas, and director Eric Johnson. All of those people have not only shown professional talent, but also a heart of compassion and service. They’re mission-driven people who remind me why I do what I do.

Website: www.secondmilevideo.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/second_mile_video

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/secondmilevideo

Facebook: www.facebook.com/secondmilevideo

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0Tih1hNqUNXS5vhX1iEx_g