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Michael Cooley
President & Executive Producer at Ronin Media House, Inc.
Professional Background
Mike Cooley is a prominent figure in the realms of filmmaking, content marketing, and entrepreneurship, bringing nearly 25 years of expansive industry experience to the table. As an award-winning producer and entrepreneur, he has established himself as a leader in the moving images sector and an innovator in digital content strategies. His ability to weave compelling narratives through visual media has captured the attention of audiences and critics alike. With a commitment to excellence, Mike currently operates Ronin Media House, Inc., a boutique digital moving images studio based in Los Angeles, California.
Founded in 2011, Ronin Media House embodies the mantra "All the world's a screen," where Mike and his team excel in creating moving image stories that are tailored for any-screen platforms. The studio caters to a diverse clientele, focusing on media production to elevate brand narratives through engaging video content. Under Mike's guidance, Ronin Media House has developed a reputation for its remarkable work in video creativity, further establishing its foothold in an ever-evolving industry.
In 2015, he co-founded One-Eleven Entertainment, aiming to cultivate original intellectual property (IP) within the entertainment industry. Today, One-Eleven has an extensive portfolio comprising multiple projects in both development and production stages, collaborating with international non-profits and notable producers. This entrepreneurial endeavor highlights Mike's vision and strategic approach in flourishing within the competitive landscape of entertainment.
Prior to these ventures, Mike held significant roles including that of a partner at Santa Monica-based 5th House Productions. His career saw him contribute to Fox Cable Networks for five years as the Director of On-Air Promotions at FUEL TV, where he and his team were responsible for over 50 industry awards, further testament to his exceptional skills and dedication to producing quality content.
In addition to his impressive filmmaking accomplishments, Mike currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Steve Cooley & Associates, Inc., a consultancy that specializes in business strategy, crisis management, and justice system navigation. This role complements his extensive background in media, allowing him to apply his strategic prowess in diverse sectors.
Education and Achievements
Mike Cooley's educational background is as distinguished as his career. He is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity degree at Liberty University, reflecting his aspiration to integrate his vocational skills into Christian ministry. Concurrent with this academic pursuit, he launched ChristWasHere.com and the Nailed It Theology Podcast in early 2024, both endeavors aiming to enrich the discourse surrounding faith and community engagement.
He holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in Film and Television Production from the prestigious University of Southern California, where he developed his filmmaking skills and honed his craft. Additionally, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of California, San Diego. Mike's foundational education at Loyola High School of Los Angeles further set the stage for his illustrious career in media, storytelling, and entrepreneurship.
His notable achievements as a filmmaker include working as a Cinematographer, Editor, and Producer on the feature documentary "Beers of Joy," which has received six awards since its release in March 2019, including two Best Feature Documentary awards. Mike's other acclaimed work includes the 2017 documentary "Mine Is the Sunlight: Refugee Youth in Germany," which premiered at the Newport Beach Film Festival, further showcasing his ability to create impactful narratives.
In 2016, he took on multiple roles as co-director, producer, and editor for the feature documentary "South Bureau Homicide," which is currently available on Amazon Prime and continues to resonate with audiences through its exploration of crime and justice issues in Los Angeles. These accomplishments affirm Mike's dynamic capabilities within the industry and his commitment to meaningful storytelling.
Achievements
- Cinematographer, Editor, Producer for "Beers of Joy": Responsible for an award-winning documentary with six accolades, enhancing the visibility of craft beer culture and the stories behind it.
- Co-director and editor for "South Bureau Homicide": An impactful documentary that provides insights into crime in LA, available on a major streaming platform, showcasing his expertise in storytelling and production.
- Master's Degree Candidate in Divinity: Committed to merging creative skills with vocational ministry, aiming to inspire and uplift through faith-based media.
- Co-founder of One-Eleven Entertainment: Developing original content in collaboration with renowned producers and organizations, solidifying his influence in the entertainment industry.
- Director of On-Air Promotions at FUEL TV: Achieved over 50 industry awards during his tenure, demonstrating leadership and innovation in media promotion.
With a dedication to both his professional and theological pursuits, Mike Cooley exemplifies how creativity and faith can intertwine to create meaningful impact in both media and ministry. His extensive experience, combined with a continuous drive for growth through education, establishes him as a leading figure in both realms of entrepreneurship and storytelling.
