Today we’d like to introduce you to Jake Tranter.
Jake, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My name is Jake Tranter. Growing up, I was deeply involved in the performing arts. Whether it was theater, musical theater, or technical stagecraft, I loved being part of the storytelling process. Toward the end of high school, I joined the Up2UsNow Youth Media Projects, a program that brought together youth from all over the county to create PSAs on issues that mattered to us. We wrote the scripts, created the storyboards and shot lists, and worked with a production company to bring them to life. Those projects ended up airing on local and national television and that experience stuck with me.
After high school, I enlisted in the Army and served as an infantryman. I spent four years in the military before being medically discharged due to a severe injury. The transition back to civilian life was tough, especially navigating my physical recovery and mental health, but I found healing in creativity. That led me to start my own film production company, Spiderking Studios. Since launching it, we’ve created five feature films (one of which is now streaming) and numerous short films that I’m incredibly proud of.
Outside of film, I’ve developed a real passion for health and fitness. I’m currently working toward certifications in personal training, group fitness instruction, and boxing coaching. I’ve also taught guitar in both classroom settings and one-on-one lessons and someday, I hope to release music of my own.
For me, storytelling, fitness, and creativity are all connected. They’ve helped me heal, grow, and build a life I’m proud of. And I’m just getting started.
In a beautiful full-circle, Spiderking Studios is now the official production company for the Up2UsNow Youth Media Project, the very program that first inspired my love for filmmaking.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road hasn’t been easy. My time in the Army left me with physical injuries that changed the course of my life, along with mental health struggles that nearly consumed me. I came dangerously close to becoming another statistic in the long list of veterans lost to suicide. Climbing out of that darkness took more than just treatment and therapy. It took rediscovering purpose. For me, that purpose came through creativity.
But even when I found my way back to art, the challenges didn’t stop. Running a low-budget independent film studio in a world ruled by massive Hollywood franchises is a constant uphill battle. There’s no roadmap, no safety net, and very little margin for error. Every project we’ve made at Spiderking Studios has been built on resourcefulness, determination, and the belief that we can do something meaningful with the tools we have.
We’ve had to be creative not just in what we film, but in how we get it made. That’s meant working with limited gear, calling on passionate volunteers, and often wearing more hats than I can count. There have been setbacks, burnout, and plenty of closed doors along the way. But I’ve never lost sight of why I started. I believe in telling honest stories. I believe there’s room in this industry for filmmakers who care more about true storytelling and passion as apposed to taking liberties on the story for more dollars in the pocket.
What I’ve learned is that obstacles don’t define you. How you respond to them does. And I’ve made it my mission to not just survive, but to build something real and lasting. For myself, for my community, and for others like me.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a filmmaker, Army veteran, and founder of Spiderking Studios which is based in Southern Oregon. Storytelling has always been part of who I am. It’s what helped me heal after the military and gave me a new purpose. Through my studio, I’ve directed and produced five feature films, one of which is now streaming, along with dozens of shorts. I’ve also heavily worked with community organizations such as the Douglas County Human Trafficking Task Force, the Battered Persons Advocacy (Now Peace at Home), and Source One Serenity (A nonprofit that helps support veterans).
I specialize in raw, heartfelt dramas that reflect real people and real struggles, often made with limited resources but a whole lot of passion. What sets me apart is that I’ve lived through the kinds of battles I now put on screen. Physical, emotional, and personal. I’m proud to have built something from scratch that gives others a chance to do the same.
Looking ahead, in April of 2026 I’ll be starting a documentary project called The Longest Road, where I’ll walk across the entire United States. From Boston to Newport, Oregon, following Highway 20. The goal is to raise awareness for veteran suicide and PTSD by sharing not just the stories of others, but my own journey along the way.
How do you define success?
To me, success isn’t measured by money or fame, it’s about alignment. If what I’m doing taps into my purpose, fuels my passion, and helps others in the process, then I consider it a success. Personal fulfillment is everything. Creating something that matters, something that speaks to people or makes a difference, that’s the real reward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.spiderkingstudios.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spiderking_studios
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpiderkingStudios
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@spiderkingstudios
