Joe's success in multi-camera directing projects also led to directing a solo performance special with Bobby McFerrin, and to documenting the first-ever visit to the U.S. by the Beijing Opera Company--all to rave reviews.

Joe is the founder and creative force behind the well-known Minnesota based production company, Moving Pictures, Inc. (est. 1987). While there, he established strong relationship with MTV on a variety of projects; rockumentaries with R.E.M. Motley Crue, and the Beastie Boys; multi-camera movie specials with Keanu Reeves & Christian Slater; and award shows with En Vogue and live with U2. He worked as a producer for NBC/Viacom's series "Johnny B. on the Loose" and VH-1's "Naked Café.".

Major movie studios called on Joe's documentary talents to film 'behind-the-scenes' on a variety of movies, including Beautiful Girls, Mighty Ducks, and Grumpy Old Men.

As executive vice president for River Road Entertainment since the end of 1999, Joe was given the opportunity to educate himself and develop valuable contacts in the world of program development. With the start of 2002, and nearly 20 years of experience, continued passion, and a fresh eye, Joe is bringing Moving Pictures back to life.

First industry job
WFRV TV - an NBC affiliate in Green Bay, Wisc. I worked in news as a photographer and editor. My first experience with film... a press conference with Bart Starr (Green Bay Packers). I under exposed the film, and all you saw was an outline of his head, and lots of white teeth on the 6 p.m. newscast.

Career highlight
A week in Haiti with the Fugees - experiencing their homeland. I produced/directed music videos for a first-time ever concert - which drew a crowd of nearly 65,000 people. The production included several film cameras, EFP video packages, lots of crew and 125 cases of equipment!

Career disappointment
Getting burned on the final payment of a large music video - from a well-known artist.

Greatest industry challenge
Trying to get a program executive to see new show ideas in the sea of new show ideas. . . "Getting the pitch meeting."

Best business decision
Taking a late evening gig from Sue Owens at Flyte Tyme Studios (Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis). Last minute thing - asked if I'd shoot a session they had in the studio with Wyclef, Lauryn Hill and the Marleys. I almost backed out. My wife and daughter said I was nuts if I didn't do it. So I did. That shoot turned into the "No Women No Cry" music video - and from there I did seven more videos, three live performance specials, another trip to Haiti and Trinidad - and made numerous industry connections, along with much, much more.

Worst business decision
Almost not taking that gig.

Best business advice to offer
Never, never, never give up! “Passion” goes a long way.

Most memorable industry event
MTV Video Music Awards.

"Life" mentor
My wife (and best friend) Joan. She’s given me unconditional support in everything I’ve done – she’s incredibly creative and understands the biz (being host of HGTV's "Decorating Cents").

Office paraphernalia
Rudolph "bobble head" and lots of pictures.

What people would be surprised to learn about you
My mom, brothers and sister - we don't talk about business much.

Industry pet peeve
”Fake” networking conversation.

Joe can be reached at 952-922-9420; e-mail: JoeyMPI@aol.com

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