These days, it’s no big deal to see people who are successful in multiple fields. In fact, it’s almost become the norm to see well-known personalities dominating several different sectors. Herb Jackson Jr. is a great example of someone whose accomplishments in various areas show that any barrier can be broken if you persevere and stay true to your vision. Jackson is a prime example of what you can achieve if you set your mind to it and refuse to give up. His story is one of hope and inspiration and is definitely worth checking out.

You’re currently wearing many hats. Can you tell us more about what you do?

Herb: I’m a Boeing 737 captain for a major US airline. Over the years, I’ve built a solid career, amassing over 16,000 flight hours and obtaining multiple aircraft ratings. But, although I loved being in the air, I decided it was time for me to branch out and try something different. So, I made the bold move to establish a name in an industry known for its competitive nature. 

Being in the limelight is a whole different world from manning the skies. How did you prepare for this major career shift?

Herb: “Chuckles” First, I wouldn’t say I’m in the limelight. I’m just a guy trying to learn a new skill and see where it takes me. I’ve studied acting in person with several schools in the Phoenix area, along with taking classes online & via zoom from instructors in NYC and Los Angeles. It’s a constant learning curve. First, understanding some of the core principles & methods and then improving on them. I’ll always be working on something. I call it continuous improvement, and I look forward to the challenge in every opportunity to grow and improve as an actor. 

We heard that you had made several appearances on different platforms. Where have fans seen you so far?

Herb: I’ve appeared on the Channel 12 Arizona Midday show and on multiple local commercials. You may have seen some of my work with my appearance on Popfuzion TV, where I hosted the “All Things Trending” segment. I’ve also appeared in a few short films listed on IMDb.

You have a YouTube show that has piqued the interest of countless people. Tell us more about 5 Minutes With Herb. 

Herb: It’s a video podcast that I launched when we were faced with the restrictive nature of the pandemic. I had only been taking acting lessons for a year or so when everything was kind of put on hold. So the suggestion was made to “create my own content,” and that’s how the show was born. Since I’m trying to learn more about acting, I thought, well why not interview actors and other creatives. So that’s what I did. 

How has it been going?

Herb: Pretty well, I think. At first, I was a bit apprehensive, being new to interviewing, but over time, I really enjoyed having conversations with folks I’d enjoyed watching on tv and film. I’m really looking forward to season 3. 

Where do you see the show five years from now?

Herb: Ahh, the standard where do you see yourself question, haha. I have no idea actually. I have, however, thought about bringing my show to a streaming service. There seems to be a need for new content and personalities, So why not me? For now, I’m just trying to improve both as a person and an actor/host. Let the chips fall where they may.

What do you want others to learn from your journey as you’re carving your own?

Herb: I want them to realize that if they believe in themselves and work hard, things will come their way. You’ll begin to see results. And that they can achieve anything they set their mind to. As my dad once told me, “the only way you won’t make it is if you quit.”