Jay Shapiro: Storyteller, Producer, and Visionary Entrepreneur

Jay Shapiro has never lived an ordinary life—and that’s exactly what makes him such a compelling force in the worlds of film, publishing, and media. Born in Minnesota in 1972, Shapiro’s unconventional upbringing exposed him to a whirlwind of people and experiences that shaped his bold approach to storytelling and business. Today, he channels that background into a slate of high-profile projects that blend creativity, culture, and commerce.

Producing Buddy Jacobson

At the forefront of Shapiro’s work is his role as Executive Producer of Buddy Jacobson, a feature film based on the life of the infamous New York horse trainer whose world of high society, crime, and scandal left an indelible mark on the city in the late 20th century. The story has personal resonance for Shapiro—his mother, Dawn Eve, was a model who worked alongside Jacobson’s circle in Manhattan’s Upper East Side during its glamorous heyday. Shapiro’s unique connection to the subject matter infuses the project with authenticity, giving audiences a rare inside perspective on one of New York’s most notorious figures.

Think and Grow Rich – Kabbalah Edition

Beyond film, Shapiro is also an author and thinker. He is currently finalizing the editing of Think and Grow Rich – Kabbalah Edition, an innovative reimagining of Napoleon Hill’s timeless classic through the lens of Jewish mysticism. The book bridges practical success principles with spiritual wisdom, offering readers a fresh perspective on ambition, faith, and achievement. By merging two worlds rarely seen together, Shapiro continues his tradition of producing work that is both original and deeply meaningful.

Expanding a Media Empire

In addition to his creative pursuits, Shapiro is a highly successful entrepreneur. He owns the largest media group in Florida, a powerhouse that combines publishing, events, and public relations under one umbrella including: SOUTH FLORIDA magazine, SOUTHWEST Florida Magazine, Mondo Italiano Magazine, Good Jewish News Magazine, 200 socialmedia groups and pages and a business networking group called LUXURY CHAMBER of COMMERCE.  Through his PR firm, he has become a trusted connector for businesses, entertainers, and thought leaders, building platforms that elevate brands while cultivating powerful networks across industries.

A Vision for the Future

With his distinct blend of real-world grit, cultural curiosity, and business acumen, Jay Shapiro is a rare hybrid of storyteller and mogul. Whether producing a feature film, publishing a groundbreaking book, or expanding his media empire, he brings authenticity, boldness, and vision to every project. For Shapiro, success isn’t just about building companies or producing art—it’s about telling stories that matter and creating legacies that last.