PARAGON Expands Creative Reach with New Director Roster and Executive Producer Tom Leonard

Oct. 06, 2025

PARAGON, the next-gen commercial, cine-doc, and content production company, expands its creative and strategic reach with a growing director roster and the addition of Executive Producer Tom Leonard. Built on a mission to reinvigorate production with life, heart, and resonant storytelling, PARAGON’s directing talent includes newly-signed Christian Vergara, Marshall Burnette, Sha Collier, Brian Myers, Jon Correal, and Derek Hockemeyer.

Founded by director Jack Linderman in 2020, PARAGON was born out of a production reality in which creativity was being both upended and democratized and brands focused on fresh ideas to meet the moment. With the perspective that storytelling can be both global and centered in community, cinematic and genuine, evergreen and hyper-current, PARAGON quickly grew from a hidden secret to a trusted production company. Partner/Head of Production Jacob Nobbe joined in early 2025, with a shared belief in nurturing an environment where big ideas meet real collaboration.

PARAGON’s next chapter is focused on taking their vision and approach to a larger audience. Central to that evolution is the addition of EP Tom Leonard, who has worked for and with many noted and creative companies including Digital Kitchen, Rhythm & Hues, Butler Shine & Stern, Goodby, Imaginary Forces, Optimus, and Second City Works.

Jack explained:

“Tom knows how to connect with people, build lasting partnerships, and open doors in new markets. With him on board, we’re doubling down on the human side of production at a time when the industry needs it most.”

 

Tom noted:

“When I saw their work, I was really impressed by their storytelling, by the cinematography, and by the care involved. And when I found out that they had only been around for five years, I was shocked at the level of work that they were already doing. They have a vision, and my role is about helping bring it to life while adding layers with my industry experience. I think the blend is really beautiful.”

 

Central to this vision is nurturing and representing compelling talent that is meeting the moment and helping to shape the future of brand-integrated storytelling for all screens. Among them, their latest work with director Bailen Estrada, titled "Playing in the Dark," showcases a unique blend of VFX elements, on-location capture, and AI generated transitions. It's already garnered 200k+ views on Instagram and earned a Frameset feature.

Jacob shared:

“We look for people who are the best at what they do and are great to work with. Our goal is to provide opportunity to the next generation of directors – those who are daring, who are building their own brands, and who, like all of us, want to be a part of something exciting and special.”

 

While the talent roster reflects a wide variety of styles and perspectives, everyone at PARAGON is united in the philosophy that the process matters just as much as the final product.

Jack concluded:

“When people think of PARAGON, we want them to remember how we made them feel - like they were heard, cared for, and part of the experience. And we want them to connect us with creativity that feels fresh, engaging, and personal.”