How The F**k Did You Get That Job?

In the world of business, it's easy to assume that being the market leader is the ultimate goal. After all, who wouldn't want to dominate their industry and enjoy the spoils of success? But there's a compelling case to be made for the advantages of being a challenger brand - a company that may not be the top dog, but is hungry, agile, and ready to shake things up.

As Marissa Solis, SVP of Global Brand and Consumer Marketing for the NFL, puts it, "If you can combine both the swagger and the hunger, I think you get a perfect marketer." In other words, while market leaders may have the confidence that comes with their position, challenger brands have the drive and adaptability that can propel them to new heights.

In this episode, we'll explore the benefits of embracing the challenger mindset, from avoiding the pitfalls of complacency to connecting with underserved markets. We'll also examine real-world examples of companies that have leveraged their underdog status to achieve remarkable success. So buckle up and get ready to root for the underdogs.

On the latest episode of "How The Fuck Did You Get That Job", we sat down with Heidi Anderson, a trailblazer who's gone from a small Danish town to the upper echelons of Silicon Valley. As the current CMO and CRO at Nextdoor, Heidi's journey includes impressive roles at Google and LinkedIn, where she played a vital part in driving these tech giants to new heights.

Heidi grew up in a tight-knit Danish community of just 100 people. But her curiosity and love for reading sparked dreams of exploring the world. Her path took her from the University of Southern Denmark to a life-changing gap year traveling the U.S., igniting a passion for the fast-paced, innovative spirit of Silicon Valley.

In this episode, Heidi discussed the ups and downs of navigating the tech world as an immigrant and a woman in leadership. She offered valuable advice for aspiring leaders, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships, staying resilient, and constantly growing. Heidi's story is one of embracing opportunity, pushing beyond comfort zones, and harnessing the power of community to drive positive change.

You can also watch this conversation on Youtube.

Picture this: you're a hotshot marketer, ready to take on the world. But you're faced with a tough choice — should you be a jack-of-all-trades or a master of one? It's the age-old debate between being a generalist or a specialist. To help us navigate this tricky terrain, we brought in Charlotte Mostaed, the CMO of Health-Ade Kombucha. Charlotte's got a multidisciplinary background in development studies, which has shaped her unique approach to marketing. She calls it "very general management focused." Basically, she's a boss at seeing the big picture. As Charlotte puts it, "This ability to do a very multidisciplinary major really, really spoke to me. And I would say that that's how I've now approached marketing and my brand of marketing, which is very general management focused." Her experience shows just how valuable a generalist mindset can be in marketing. But before we crown generalists the winners, we’re going to break down the merits of being a stone cold specialist in certain fields. In this article, we'll dive into the pros and cons of being a generalist or specialist in marketing, look at some real-world examples of successful marketers from both sides, and give you some actionable advice to help you navigate this complex landscape.

Picture this: you're a marketing mastermind, perched atop your throne of brilliant ideas, ready to take on the world. But wait, what's that sound? It's the drumbeat of artificial intelligence, marching steadily toward your kingdom. Do you cower in fear, clutching your trusty whiteboard marker? Or do embrace your new robot overlords and use AI as your secret weapon in the battle for marketing supremacy? As Sophie Kelly, SVP of Global Tequila at Diageo, aptly put it, "Gone are the days of sitting in a room trying to think of all the possible ideas." The AI revolution is upon us, and it's not just a passing fad – it's a seismic shift in how we approach marketing. With AI tools readily accessible, we're no longer limited by the boundaries of our own imagination. We can feed the machine a few prompts and watch as it spits out a smorgasbord of ideas, each more tantalizing than the last. But here's the catch: having a vast array of options is only half the battle. The real challenge lies in navigating this sea of possibilities to uncover the true gems – the ideas that will resonate with your audience, drive engagement, and propel your brand to new heights. And that, my friends, is where the importance of creativity and fearlessness comes into play.

In our insanely overstimulated and infinite world of social media, trying to communicate your brand’s message loudly to multiple generations simultaneously is like trying to juggle flaming chainsaws while riding a unicycle on a tightrope. As consumer decision-making becomes more collaborative and family-oriented, marketers must channel their inner circus performer and adapt their strategies to appeal to a diverse range of age groups. Each generation comes with its own quirks, preferences, and communication styles. The higher education sector is a perfect case study for this multigenerational marketing clusterf**k. As Gabriel Welsch, VP of Marketing and Communications at Duquesne University shared on the podcast this week, "In 90% of cases, the parents are a huge part of the decision, and increasingly the grandparents, because for millennial parents, whose kids are now growing and starting to look at college, the grandparents often were the caretakers. So they're very invested in their success as well." It's like a family reunion, but instead of arguing about who makes the best potato salad, they're debating which college has the most impressive dining hall. Below, we'll dive headfirst into the challenge of multigenerational marketing, using insights from the higher education sector and time spent talking with Garbiel Welsch as our guide. We'll explore each generation's unique characteristics and preferences, uncover best practices for crafting cohesive brand messages that resonate with audiences across the age spectrum, and equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to become a marketing superhero.

In this super fun, super insightful interview (which we did on a yacht!?), we sat down with Olivia Donnan, VP of Branding Communications at YOTEL, to dive into her career journey and philosophies about how to stand out and build a world-class global brand in hospitality. From her early dreams of becoming an actress to navigating the multicultural nuances of international business, Olivia shares the lessons, challenges, and wins that have shaped her path. Like many of our guests on “How the F**k Did You Get That Job?”, Olivia’s education and career path are completely unrelated, and she gives practical advice for those starting out in their career and anxious make their mark early (hint: be patient!). One of our favorite parts of this interview as the candid look at what it takes to build and maintain a strong brand in the uber competitive world of hospitality, and how to maintain that brand’s consistency across continents. A great lesson for any budding global marketing executive.

In this fascinating interview we cover: - Embracing New Platforms for Engagement: At NYC FC, Lauren harnessed the power of new platforms like TikTok for influencer marketing, highlighting the need to adapt to changing media landscapes for brand visibility and engagement. - Innovation in Agency Partnerships: Lauren discussed the evolving dynamics between brands and agencies, stressing the importance of creativity, commitment, and deep brand understanding in successful partnerships. - The Importance of Integrated Marketing: Lauren's diverse experiences taught her about taking an integrated marketing approach, where balancing various strategies effectively addresses different business challenges. - Data-Driven Creativity: She advocates for a balance between creativity and data in marketing, emphasizing that both are crucial for crafting engaging campaigns and resonating with audiences. - Future Trends in Marketing: Lauren predicts a future where marketing will be heavily influenced by the integration of new media and technology, focusing on creating personalized and engaging experiences for customers with things like AR & VR. In the disorientingly fast-changing world of marketing, it’s extremely important to make sure that you are creating a feedback loop between data and creativity. Marketing is the blend of art and science, and few people understand this as well as this week’s podcast guest, Lauren Scrima. Lauren is the VP of Marketing at NYC FC. Her transition from studying political science to running multi-platform brand marketing departments symbolizes the necessity for marketers to be agile, adaptable, and continuously learning. Adaptability is particularly critical as this field is ever-evolving, the engagement platforms rise and fall and consumer engagement paradigms shift almost daily. “How are we different?” is a question that must be asked and realized on a daily basis. Lauren started her career at the prestigious New Yorker Magazine as a sales associate before jumping over the brand side at Dr. Pepper Snapple, and later, the alcohol behemoth AB InBev. Each step in her journey gave her unique insights — from grappling with the emotional connections essential in marketing to the significance of data-driven strategies in sculpting compelling, unique brand narratives. Today Lauren is at NYC FC, and has been tasked with elevating the fledgling soccer brand in the highly competitive US sports market. She went gung-ho into influencer marketing and platforms like TikTok, underscoring her ability to adapt to new mediums and strategies. Her time at NYC FC has showcased her penchant for keeping creativity in marketing, while balancing it with an acute awareness of data to inform decision-making, resonate with audiences, and drive impactful brand engagement.

Welcome to another episode of How the f**k did you get that job?" This week, we're excited to sit down with Jinal Shah, the GM and CMO of Zip US, a digital financial services company making credit accessible to as many people as possible. If you've ever been part of an exhilarating, fast-paced (aka f**king crazy) startup, you know that roles are often as flexible as they are demanding. In early-stage startups, job descriptions blur, departments merge, and you're expected to roll up your sleeves to get shit done. Jinal, as a leader navigating these fluid dynamics, took to this environment like a duck in water after spending years in the agency world. In her dual role as GM and CMO, Jinal has exhibited an understanding of the art and science of marketing that really impressed us. She’s been instrumental in fostering an environment at Zip US that values data-driven decision making, while also championing the creative potential of her team. Jinal consciously aims to be an inspirational leader, encouraging her team to explore, innovate, and continually push the boundaries of what's possible. I loved this conversation because it reinstated my belief that startups can have top tier creative talent in their ranks and that they needn’t rely on fancy agencies to tell them how to talk to their customers. It was refreshing, inspiring, engaging.

What experiences and influences shape standout marketing leaders? Abby Eddy, Director of Brand Management at Purdue University, joins us to peel back the curtain on her winding path to directing high-profile brand strategy initiatives.‍ From entrepreneurial childhoods to lateral career stepping stones, we overturn assumptions about the trajectory toward marketing leadership. We unpack with Abby how early talents were nurtured by those around her, planting seeds that blossomed over time.‍ We go back to Abby’s Girl Scout cookie sales outreach and the sway observing family businesses firsthand. Her stories spotlights how such early exposure cultivated natural competencies around positioning brands and engaging consumers.‍ Abby also discusses the impact of internships cementing marketing fundamentals beyond textbook concepts. We examine her stint as an orchestra librarian, revealing transferable strengths built in unconventional roles en route to marketing direction.‍ Throughout our discussion, Abby credits certain mentors with recognizing abilities that outgrew opportunities. Their encouragement to embrace next-level responsibilities enabled pivotal stepping stones demonstrating capabilities beyond her current responsibilities.

In our fractured age, crafting a brand that emotionally inspires trust and loyalty from both customers and employees can seem impossible for large organizations. However, Jeff Harris, Chief Marketing Officer of Sam Houston State University, believes that large brands orgs can still connect authentically in 2024 if they focus on amplifying internal purpose over imposing external perceptions. We got Jeff in the hot seat to break down his six critical insights for C-suite leaders to pilot a cultural marketing renaissance at organizations in 2024 by looking at how he brings them to life at Sam Houston State. Jeff has steadily elevated regional academic institutions’ brands for over a decade by fundamentally listening and understanding audiences before building marketing strategies. He sees the marketing team’s role as almost entirely supportive – bringing together disparate organizational voices into compelling, cohesive stories that serve others while advancing the collective mission.

Liz Simon took an unexpected route to her current role as Chief Operating Officer of premium coworking company Industrious. Early on, she had her sights set on changing the world through politics and policy. The self-proclaimed "super nerdy" teen was obsessed with civil rights and dreamed of directing impact through the law. She charged ahead to Cornell then the University of Michigan Law School, with a stint working on the Obama campaign sprinkled in between. But the "soul-crushingly slow" pace of bureaucracy left her questioning the ability to drive change from within. A pivot to the world of startups proved fateful when a happenstance referral dropped her into an associate general counsel role at the then-40-person coding bootcamp General Assembly. As Simon describes it, she proceeded to "work herself out of a job" by building a lean legal team to address regulatory snarls, then found herself migrating into broader executive leadership. After rising to CEO during a period of company growth and acquisition, she took the pandemic period to reflect on aligning impact and passion. The future of work called, landing her in operations oversight at Industrious during a post-COVID rebuilding phase. Now feeling the culture is "in one of the strongest places" after rallying during contraction, the self-proclaimed non-online person offers simple advice: "most of the stuff is just not that important." Perhaps that wisdom comes from the only other pursuit she says brings her equal meaning – being a mom. As Industrious continues to bounce back under Simon's steady leadership, she’ll surely rely on that clarity of priority.

Imagine stepping into the world of marketing with a sociology degree in your back pocket, ready to decipher the hieroglyphs of consumer behavior like some sort of modern-day Indiana Jones, minus the whip and the fear of snakes. This is the story of Jenny Zirinsky, Global SVP, Marketing, Communications, & Media Transformation at Colgate-Palmolive, whose career trajectory makes the Golden Record’s journey through space seem like a leisurely stroll through the park.

For those who missed the memo, Jenny is not your run-of-the-mill marketer. No, she embarked on her odyssey at Boston University, armed with nothing but a passion for sociology. Fast forward through the years, and you find her steering the ship at Colgate-Palmolive’s marketing department. How did she get there? Well, buckle up, because this is where it gets interesting.

Her journey kicks off in the agency world. Here, Jenny worked at OMD International and Resolution Media, honing her skills in the art of digital media strategy. Think of her as the captain of the Starship Enterprise, if the Enterprise was tasked with selling shampoo and toothpaste instead of exploring strange new worlds.

Then came the leap to the brand side, a move akin to switching from tea to coffee — shocking to the system but ultimately invigorating. From Estée Lauder to Coty, Jenny didn't just walk through doors; she kicked them down with the finesse of a ballet dancer wearing steel-toed boots. Along the way, she learned the importance of work-life balance.

But what sets Jenny apart is not just her career trajectory; it's her unwavering belief in seizing opportunities and diving headfirst into the unknown. She approaches challenges with the enthusiasm of a kid in a candy store, if the kid was a marketing genius and the candy store was the global marketplace.

One of her crowning achievements? A Spider-Man campaign that made navigating Peter Parker's New York as thrilling as swinging through the city on a web. It was creative, it was innovative, and it probably made every competitor wish they had thought of it first.

So, as Jenny Zirinsky continues her voyage through the world of marketing, let her story be a beacon for all those navigating the dark waters of their careers. It's a reminder that with a bit of humor, a dash of courage, and a sociology degree (apparently), the sky's not the limit — it's just the beginning.

Liz Crisafi took an unexpected route through the worlds of broadcasting, marketing, and advertising before she landed in hospitality as the Global Vice President of Integrated Marketing at InterContinental Hotels Group. But her passion for storytelling and people has been a constant driving force. After initially pursuing broadcast journalism in college and losing her Southern accent along the way, Liz realized the competitive field wasn’t for her. So when a friend suggested she try marketing, mentioning the better pay and hours, she decided to pivot. As she says with a laugh, “Compared to broadcast, anything probably looked better at that point!” Her first marketing gig may not have been glamorous, selling agricultural chemicals. But Liz embraced the challenge to “make herbicides and pesticides interesting” with an ad campaign set in an OR trying to revive a giant dying potato. As Liz says, “It doesn't have to be boring, even if it’s some random chem company or a B2B market.” Over the years, Liz learned to love marketing and honed her skills on iconic brands like Kodak. But it was the field of hospitality marketing that ultimately captured her heart when she joined IHG. As she puts it, “It’s hospitality. I love travel. It was a great role for me and it’s a great company. It checked all the boxes.” Now as IHG’s Global VP of Integrated Marketing, she leads marketing efforts for the company’s 19 brands and 6000 destinations worldwide. But she’s quick to note, “Our best product is our people that walk in and out of those hotel doors every day.” Of course, marketing such a diverse portfolio of hotel brands poses unique challenges. As Liz explains, “You have to be relevant in the moment and make sure you’re co-creating experiences, not just relying on past data.” From road warriors staying at a Holiday Inn Express to couples celebrating at a glamorous InterContinental, IHG aims to deliver personalized and meaningful stays. And while Liz loves the creativity of marketing, she’s learned over the years not to take things too seriously either. “Take your work seriously, but don't take yourself too seriously,” she advises. “We’re not curing cancer here, we’re marketing.”

When Molly Swagler was 20 years old, she had one dream – to become a broadcast journalist. But when she met with the news director, he rejected her outright. “You look and sound too young,” he said. Molly was bummed, but took it as a challenge. She didn’t let that stop her from getting what she wanted. Instead, she got creative. Rather than giving up on her goal, Molly devised an unconventional plan to change the news director’s mind. She went home and drafted an eccentric letter stating, “I have taken up smoking and stopped sleeping...and am now looking a lot older.” Her tongue-in-cheek letter was meant to catch the director’s attention and showcase her wit and determination. Along with the letter, she included compelling story ideas every day thereafter that could enliven their newscasts. She even sent gifts like a case of his favorite soda. The news director surely wondered when this spirited young woman would take no for an answer. But eventually Molly wore him down. Thanks to her bold antics – and her sharp journalistic skills – he saw fit to give her a shot. She landed her dream job as an on-air reporter. Molly’s tale illustrates why marketing executives seeking to launch their careers shouldn’t fear coloring outside the lines. When trying to grab the attention of potential employers, creativity and persistence matter just as much as qualifications. Rather than blending in with stacks of generic applicants, make yourself memorable. Show the hiring manager why you deserve the position – and why nobody wants it more than you. Be bold and a tad audacious in order to stand out from the crowd. Just ensure your methods align with company values. Defy norms without being inappropriate or unethical. And back up your unconventional approach with ample proof that you can excel in the role. Molly’s route won’t be right for everyone. But her willingness to manufacture her own opportunity rather than waiting for one is admirable Marketers should feel empowered to take the road less traveled on their way to securing that dream job. When faced with initial rejection, come back stronger and find an innovative way to reverse the decision-maker’s stance. Reframe setbacks as a chance showcase your passion. So take a page from Molly’s playbook. Pull out your proverbial typewriter and craft an eye-catching letter of your own. Start brainstorming what creative tactic could lead hiring managers to exclaim, “You’re hired!” And if you know of other marketers with an intriguing career origin story, please forward this episode and article their way. We would love to learn how more determined souls turned a “no” into a game-changing yes – and transform those stories into future inspiration for go-getters everywhere.

When it comes to great marketing, community colleges don’t often come to mind. Yet these schools excel at outreach. How? By grasping basics other marketers forget. ‍ So, we grabbed a room at the Museum of Ice Cream and sat down with Juliet Hidalgo, the Director Communications and Marketing for the Los Angeles Community College District. Here’s what she had to say. __ HTFDYGTJ is presented by OpenFortune

Remember playing with Barbies for hours of fun? If you’re a parent now, you probably hard passed on buying your kid the doll you enjoyed years ago. “Lame,” “not with it,” and “gives girls wrong ideas” are feelings about the 60-year-old toy. And, if you saw the Barbie movie last year, you know exactly what we’re talking about. But let’s dial back the clock a bit to break down what marketers can learn from Matt Repicky’s transformation at Barbie years before the movie was even an idea. Matt faced those blah views about Barbie when he rejoined as the toy’s marketing leader in 2014. Moms especially saw Barbie as dusting off odd messages about how girls should look and what they should want. They didn’t want their daughters anywhere near her, and Matt had his work cut out for himself. Something big needed to change to update Barbie’s image but keep her specialness. Matt took on restarting the brand’s purpose and meaning to both girls and parents. His winning rallying cry was “Inspiring the limitless potential in every girl.” That motivation focused everything going forward. Matt leaned on 3 main mindset shifts for injecting new life into tired brands, which we covered in today's episode.

Marketers these days are constantly spinning their wheels with ad platforms and algorithms that seem impossible to tame. But what if I told you true marketing magic stems from understanding human emotions?‍ In this episode of “How The F**k Did You Get That Job”, we sat down with Erin Levzow, CMO of the dazzling Museum of Ice Cream and 25 year veteran driving digital marketing strategy for iconic brands. When she says she markets joy, she isn't kidding. But as Erin's journey from community theater kid to heading up teams at the likes of Wingstop and Del Taco shows, keeping your pulse on customer cravings takes some grit too.‍ From leveraging in-real-life moments to hype social chatter, to choosing optimism and imagination in the face of trauma, Erin gives us the inside scoop on infusing marketing with more heart and memory-making. Our inner child felt seen. ‍

Picture this: you're scrolling through the Miami Dolphins' social feeds. You expect to see the usual suspects - the star quarterback, the lightning-fast wide receiver. But wait, what's this? A long snapper getting the spotlight? That's right. In a bold move that might seem like a social media sin, the Dolphins focus on the team rather than the stars. It's all about the collective, not the individual. Why? Because according to VP of Brand Marketing Michael Shaw, the team ethos is king. This isn't your run-of-the-mill strategy. The Dolphins' approach challenges the norm. In a world where individual branding often takes center stage, they're flipping the script. They're highlighting every player, from the one making the game-winning catch to the one who, well, snapped the ball perfectly. It's like giving every actor in the movie, including the guy who delivered the pizza in scene three, their moment in the Oscars acceptance speech. Why should you care? Because this strategy is more than just nice – it's smart. For starters, it builds a stronger team culture. Everyone feels valued, from the star player to the one in the trenches. This isn't just feel-good stuff; it translates to on-field performance and fan engagement. Fans love to root for a team that feels like a family. And from a marketing standpoint, this approach creates a diverse content stream that appeals to a wider audience. ___ HTFDYGTJ is presented by OpenFortune

In this episode of "How The F**k Did You Get That Job?" hosted by David Jaffin, Amanda Rassi, a seasoned marketing professional, shares her career insights, tracing her path from Procter & Gamble to Michaels. Amanda delves into the challenges and triumphs of driving change at a massive corporation like Kroger, highlighting the significance of a dynamic data science team and building a unique brand marketing strategy. The conversation shifts to her role at Michaels, a creative retail giant, exploring the nuances of modernizing the in-store experience and expanding into growth initiatives. Engaging in light-hearted moments, including a fortune cookie revelation and a rapid-fire Q&A, Amanda imparts valuable wisdom on loyalty programs, the evolving retail landscape, and the essence of staying agile in marketing. Tune in to unravel Amanda Rassi's journey, offering a compelling narrative on the transformative power of marketing and the art of navigating change in the industry.

Episode Highlights:

0:00 Intro

01:49 College decision

03:48 First job out of college

06:02 Example of a first project where you were stumped but figured it out

08:29 Marketing strategy when it comes to laundry business

10:17 What does switching between brands at P&G look like to you

13:11 How did you see P&G change over your 14 years there

14:32 When did you know it was the right time to move on to a new job

17:10 What was expectation versus reality taking that gig

18:42 How did your time at P&G help you understand consumer to consumer strategy at Kroger

20:20 How do you convey messages to such a large team in a way that they understand and believe

22:46 How do you make groceries cool

24:11 How do you explain what a Kroger employee should stand for

26:30 What made Michael's the right call for you

28:36 How do you define change and evolution at Michael's

30:41 How did you go about modernizing stores

32:05 How do you go about rewarding customers for having brand affinity

34:11 How do you manage the pros and cons of online buying and brick and mortar stores and how do market them differently

35:55 How much crossover do you have with learning from other CMOs who might have a similar audience

37:41 What advice would you give to a 21 year old woman who wants to get involved in marketing

39:36 OpenFortune sponsorship

41:20 Quick question round

43:59 Outro

In this episode of the podcast, we had the privilege of sitting down with Delu Jackson, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive VP at ADT. Delu shares insights and stories from his remarkable career journey, spanning iconic brands like Nissan, McDonald's, and Kellogg's, before landing at ADT. He highlights the power of networking, reinvention in marketing, the profound impact of ADT in ensuring safety and peace of mind, and how personal goals drive his professional life. Delu also discusses the importance of being a better father and husband and the role of mentorship in his life. The episode concludes with a quick question round, offering a glimpse into Delu's personal preferences and philosophies.

Episode Highlights

0:00 Intro 

1:57 College decision process

3:25 What is a brand you saw as a kid that stood out to you 

4:31 Landing first job out of college 

8:06 What was the big career pivot for you 

9:25 Moving to Japan with Nissan

11:20 Major difference between living in Japan versus the U.S.

14:09 What made you want to leave Tokyo 

15:24 Expectation versus reality when transitioning to the food industry 

17:36 How did you get to know your customers 

18:40 What is one of the coolest campaigns you’ve run

20:52 Tell me about the ADT patches on the little league kids 

21:56 Do you have a story to share of ADT saving somebody 

23:07 How did you land your job at ADT

24:53 If you were to give your 21 old self advice, what would you say to him 

25:27 What do you look for in hires

26:11 What is something you learned over time that you want to share with new parents 

27:53 OpenFortune sponsorship 

28:49 Quick question round 

30:03 Outro 

In this enlightening episode, our host dives deep into the journey of Vera Koch, the SVP of Marketing at Happy Head, a company dedicated to combating hair loss. Vera discusses her academic and professional endeavors leading her to entrepreneurship. She passionately shares how Happy Head is transforming lives by restoring confidence in individuals experiencing hair loss. The conversation touches upon the company's growth, its DTC strategy, and the influence of mentorship in her career. Vera emphasizes the importance of building networks, particularly for women in leadership roles, and advises younger professionals to seek out mentorship opportunities early in their careers. Vera also shares the joys and challenges of motherhood, its influence on her life decisions, and the importance of her family in her life journey. A must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and those seeking to balance career and personal growth.

Episode Highlights:

0:00 Intro 

1:41 How did storytelling play a role for you growing up 

2:49 What was it like landing your first job after university 

04:27 What made L’Oreal the right place for you 

5:00 What were your expectations versus reality in the role

6:24 What drew you to Henkel 

7:40 How do all of the departments work hand in hand 

9:08 What are some of your favorite campaigns you worked on at Henkel 

10:02 What was it like moving to the states 

14:34 What is something your partner taught you that you’ve brought into everything you do 

15:50 Why did you leave Henkel 

17:15 What about Happy Head and the founder’s vision made it the right move for you 

19:21 What about the founder story really impacted you 

21:42 What is a customer story that made you realize you’re doing the work you were meant to do 

23:03 What does the customer journey look like 

23:41 What is something coming up that you’re excited about 

24:28 What is something you’re grateful for in your personal life 

25:13 What is something you’ve brought in from motherhood that has taught you a lot about life 

25:53 What advice would you give to your 21 year old self

27:31 OpenFortune sponsorship 

28:53 Quick question round 

30:11 Outro 

In this episode of "How The F**k Did You Get That Job?" hosted by David Jaffin, the guest is the marketing expert, Nick Karrat. Nick opens up about his early career beginnings and the significance of the brand's halo effect on a resume, particularly referencing his pivotal years at AT&T. The conversation segues into the riveting backstory of Tommy John, emphasizing the genuine humility of its founders, Tom and Aaron, and the brand's strategic vision for the future, especially in the omnichannel space. Through a mix of insightful discussions and light-hearted segments, such as a fortune cookie banter and a rapid-fire Q&A, listeners will glean invaluable insights into branding, marketing, and the intricacies of crafting a successful career. Dive into this episode to unravel Nick's journey, which stands as a testament to the power of branding and the essence of staying authentic in one's career trajectory.

0:00 Intro 

03:20 How did you get your first job at AT&T

5:04 What was your dream job as a kid

05:39 How did Whitney Houston change your career 

06:47 Was there one moment when you realized “I’m really good at this”

09:18 When did you know it was the right time to leave AT&T

11:08 Can you talk about the importance of working for a smaller company at a young age 

12:19 How has your wife played a role in your career 

13:10 What are some lessons you took from fatherhood into the workplace 

14:22 What was the first startup you joined 

16:19 What was the biggest thing you took away form working at a startup 

17:48 What are some coping mechanisms you would use to keep pedaling and keep thins thing going 

19:17 What were you looking for next 

21:18 Journey with Plated 

23:41 What are some of the best exercises to get to know the consumer 

26:45 What characteristics do you look for in founders when you’re going to work for them 

28:50 How do you go about getting a longer leash and sharing your visions 

30:50 What about the founders vision of Tommy John got you fired up 

33:53 What was step one when you came in 

35:53 What marketing plays have you ran that delivered for you 

38:26 What are you most excited about coming up with Tommy John

39:46 What advice would you give your 26 year old self 

40:51 OpenFortune sponsorship 

42:04 Quick question round 

43:55 Outro 

In this episode of "How The F**k Did You Get That Job?" hosted by David Jaffin, the guest is none other than Ethan Braden. Ethan shares his extraordinary career journey, from his early days as a pre-med student to becoming a successful marketer in the pharmaceutical industry and, ultimately, his transition to Purdue University. The conversation delves into the art of marketing, the transformative power of storytelling, and how Ethan played a pivotal role in reshaping Purdue's brand identity in the online education sphere. Listeners will gain insights into the ever-evolving world of marketing and the importance of adaptability and mentorship in one's career. Don't miss this episode as Ethan Braden's career path serves as an inspiring example of how diverse experiences can lead to remarkable achievements in the realms of marketing and higher education.

Episode Highlights

0:00 Intro 

1:38 What was your dream job as a kid 

3:07 What prompted your college decision 

5:17 What did your first job after graduation look like 

7:29 What was your first impression walking in to Eli Lily 

8:17 How did you navigate between roles at Eli Lily 

9:02 What was the moment where you realized you had a knack for marketing

11:05 if you were to sum up Eli Lily in one lesson what would it be 

12:35 How did you know it was time to move on from pharmaceuticals 

14:15 Tell me about your mentor 

15:53 What made you want to come in to Purdue and do things differently  

17:38 What are you doing with Purdue Global to innovate their marketing

18:33 How do you differentiate yourself from the online landscape 

22:34 How do you create the alumni feeling for your global students 

24:01 How do you make sure the Purdue brand is being continued and cherished 

26:32 What campaign do you feel allowed you to win the AMA marketer of the year award 

28:10 If you were to give your 21 year old self some advice what would it be 

29:40 OpenFortune sponsorship 

30:40 Quick question round 

32:46 Outro 

In this episode of "How the F**k Did You Get that Job?" hosted by David Jaffin, listeners are treated to an engaging conversation with a dynamic guest, Rema Vasan, who has embarked on a fascinating career journey spanning various industries. The discussion explores Rema's transition from advertising to digital marketing, highlighting the power of adaptability and creative thinking. Rema's experience from the agency side to the client side sheds light on decision-making authority and the need to demonstrate ROI effectively. As the former global president of a renowned communications agency, Rema shares the challenges of leading through the pandemic. The episode also delves into her role as the head of global gaming business marketing at TikTok, revealing insights into the gaming community's nuances and the platform's potential. The episode concludes with a heartfelt reflection on Rema's proudest accomplishments, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, mentorship, and seizing unexpected opportunities in one's career journey.

Episode Highlights

0:00 Intro 

1:55 Vertical versus horizontal growth 

3:42 When did you realize you had an interest in advertising 

5:06 How did you get your first job 

5:56 What was your biggest takeaway 

6:44 When did you realize this was something you were good at

8:48 What does your creative process look like 

9:45 Why was moving to Pfizer the right move for you 

10:45 What are some things you’ve learned from past female mentors 

13:02 What were some challenges you didn’t expect when working for a brand 

15:47 What is your leadership style like 

17:05 When was the first time you heard of TikTok, what was your first impression 

18:29 How did the opportunity with business marketing and gaming come up

19:57 What have you learned about the gaming community 

21:10 What did some of your success look like when you first came into the role 

22:46 What is something you’re proud of 

23:53 OpenFortune sponsorship 

25:08 Quick question round 

26:40 Outro 

In this episode of "How the F**k Did You Get That Job?," host David Jaffin sits down with Timo Pelz, VP of Business Marketing at Reddit, to unravel an intriguing career journey that took him from the world of advertising agencies to tech giants like Facebook and Instagram before landing his current role. Through candid and captivating storytelling, Timo shares pivotal moments and lessons learned during his career, offering a glimpse into the inner workings of some of the world's most influential companies. From navigating the challenges of imposter syndrome to honing his leadership style, his experiences offer valuable insights for aspiring professionals and seasoned veterans alike. Amidst the corporate buzz, this episode also touches on the joys of being a devoted "girl dad" and the unique cultural blend Timo embraces through his daughters. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that explores career transitions, personal growth, and what it takes to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of modern business.

Episode Highlights

0:00 Intro

1:13 College decision and journey 

4:50 Internship out of college 

7:48 Discovering PR

9:00 What was a moment you realized you liked PR and were good at it 

11:40 Most gritty or unglamorous thing you did

13:22 Ad agency background 

19:50 How did you get into working on brand side / Job at Facebook

25:22 What did the transition from Facebook to Instagram look like 

29:18 What are you most proud of at Instagram that you made happen 

31:34 What made you want to work at Reddit 

35:58 How has your leadership style evolved 

37:32 What’s something you’re proud of in your personal life 

38:28 OpenFortune sponsorship 

39:12 Quick question round 

40:11 Outro 

Join us in this episode of "How the F**k Did You Get That Job?" as we sit down with Martin Jaskolowski, a luminary in luxury brand marketing. Martin takes us on a fascinating journey from his beginnings to his illustrious roles at iconic brands like Aston Martin. Delve into the inner workings of the luxury marketing world as Martin shares how he transformed marketing strategies, navigated shifting consumer demographics, and artfully balanced creativity with data-driven insights. Learn the secrets behind his innovative campaigns and groundbreaking partnerships that reshaped the luxury landscape. Whether you're an aspiring marketer or just intrigued by luxury branding, this episode offers an insightful discussion that will leave you both inspired and informed.

Episode Highlights

0:00 Intro 

1:26 Childhood journey towards marketing 

3:03 What’s a brand that inspired you to get into the industry  

3:47 When did you realize this was something you’re good at 

4:40 First example of a marketing campaign you felt was successful 

7:06 What are some challenges you didn’t anticipate working for a luxury brand 

8:20 How did brand loyalty play a role at Aston Martin

11:45 What did you bring into your current job from Aston Martin

12:45 How did the opportunity at Pernod Ricard come about 

13:50 How has marketing for a new audience at Pernod Ricard affected your strategy moving forward 

15:00 Does travel play a role in understanding your audience 

15:52 What are some creative campaigns you’ve done that have shown dividends 

19:54 What’s something you’re excited about that’s coming up 

21:14 How do you measure some of this data and tactics 

23:05 What’s something you’re proud of outside of your career work 

24:50 OpenFortune sponsorship 

26:09 Quick question round 

28:34 Outro 

In this episode of "How the F**k Did You Get That Job," host David Jaffin sits down with Mike Wente, the Chief Creative Officer at Verizon, to uncover the fascinating journey behind his career. Mike shares his story, from humble beginnings in the Midwest to his unexpected move to New York City, and ultimately, how he landed his role at Verizon. Along the way, they discuss the evolution of ad agencies, building creative teams, pushing boundaries in the corporate world, and the importance of caring deeply about your work. Mike also reflects on the power of personal connections and tells a touching story about Verizon's involvement during 9/11. Join David and Mike for an inspiring conversation about careers, creativity, and embracing life's twists and turns.

Episode Highlights:

0:00 Intro 

1:36 Early childhood passions

2:38 How did you chose your college and how did that impact you 

4:06 Early successes 

6:43 Getting your first job out of college 

9:41 Moving to New York

13:03 Past history at ad agencies 

15:24 Transition going from agency to brand work 

17:23 Where did the opportunity at Verizon come from 

18:45 Initial goals when starting at Verizon 

20:18 How do you manage being creative and pushing limits while staying true to the brand 

23:35 Skills you look for when bringing on  people to work with you 

25:25 Something you are proud of at Verizon 

29:08 What’s something you’re proud of outside of work 

30:07 OpenFortune sponsorship 

30:27 Quick question round 

36:00 Outro 

In this episode of "How the F**k Did You Get That Job," our host sits down with James Thompson, the COO of Heineken. With a background in English literature and a flair for business, James takes us through his unconventional journey. Starting from his university days, he discovered a passion for persuading people and quickly found his niche in marketing. James shares his experiences from Unilever to Diageo, Avon, and ultimately landing at Heineken. He delves into the intricacies of alcohol advertising, the art of standing out, and the power of relationships in the corporate world. James reflects on his leadership style, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, collaboration, and embracing strengths. He highlights Heineken's vision for balanced growth, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility. As the conversation unfolds, James provides insights into his innovative strategies for expanding Heineken's brand reach, digitizing the business, and introducing new product concepts.

0:00 Intro 

1:03 Deciding to study English literature 

1:50 First business in university 

2:23 When did you realize not only that you enjoyed it, but you were good at it

2:47 How does reading play in to your narrative

3:36 What was your first campaign that stood out 

4:30 Take me back to getting your first job at Unilever

5:00 How did you show leadership at a young age 

5:30 What were some things you didn’t expect working at a global brand 

6:17 How did you start managing red tape that comes when working with a brand 

6:55 Mentorship, who taught you a lesson you hold onto now 

8:00 How did the opportunity to go from Unilever to Diageo come about 

9:23 What is one thing with Diageo that worked really well that you didn’t expect and vice versa 

10:35 What was the transitionary period going to Avon like

12:51 How did you find yourself as COO at Heineken 

14:21 What do you look for in talent when making teams 

15:13 Type of metrics that exemplify success in your position at Heineken 

15:53 Where do you see Heineken going in the next couple years 

16:55 How has travel affected you and your personal life

17:42 Something you’re proud of in your personal life 

18:32 OpenFortune sponsorship 

19:28 Quick question round 

20:30 Outro

In a captivating episode of "How the F**k Did You Get That Job," Diana Scholz, a seasoned communications executive at Bayer, takes listeners on a journey through her unconventional career path. From her humble beginnings and transformative internship to her current leadership role, Diana emphasizes the power of embracing opportunities with a learning mindset. She shares insights into Bayer's impactful projects, its unique purpose in healthcare and nutrition, and her strategies for maintaining creativity within a corporate environment. The episode touches on personal aspects as well, with Diana discussing her enduring long-distance relationship and the importance of daily routines. As a woman in leadership, she emphasizes the significance of vulnerability and adapting to change while offering advice on navigating non-linear career paths. Listeners gain inspiration from Diana's insights into leadership, innovation, and personal growth, leaving them with valuable takeaways for their own professional journeys.

0:00 Intro

1:43 Take me back to your university decision 

2:17 A moment when you realized this was the right path for you

4:05 How did living in Berlin and your travel shape you as a person 

6:20 Landing her first job 

8:00 What made Bayer special to you 

8:51 What was a project you felt you had a big impact on 

10:35 Culture of the company 

11:57 How has being a woman in a leadership role affected your trajectory 

13:20 The reality of moving somewhere new 

15:06 What advice would you give to someone about moving to a new place 

16:05 How do you balance being creative within a big corporate company

17:23 Leadership style and past mentorship 

19:30 How would you define your market, how does it define your marketing stagey

21:33 What’s a product you’re trying to push more 

22:15 Personal life 

25:12 OpenFortune sponsorship 

25:44 Quick question round 

30:00 Outro

In this insightful episode, we dive into the remarkable journey of Dr. Joel N. Myers, the visionary Founder and Executive Chairman of AccuWeather. From his early fascination with weather to the founding of AccuWeather, Dr. Myers shares his challenges and triumphs in establishing accurate weather forecasting as a critical industry. He recounts the pivotal moments that led to AccuWeather's growth and its life-saving impact, citing examples such as Hurricane Katrina. Dr. Myers' dedication to mentoring, fostering a culture of excellence, and following one's dreams shines through as he discusses his personal philosophy and legacy. The episode concludes with a lively lightning round, offering a glimpse into Dr. Myers' thoughts on various topics. Listeners are left inspired by his commitment to accuracy, innovation, and making a positive difference in people's lives.

0:00 Intro 

1:08 Early interest in weather 

2:50 College decision 

3:50 Early weather forecasts

6:50 What did it look like getting your first customer 

8:58 What did it look like growing the company 

10:21 How did you know you could do it better than those around you 

15:02 What was the moment you realized this could change the world 

16:20 Some of the ideas you’ve led with through time

17:44 Some things you are proud of with Accuweather 

19:52 Campaigns that have allowed you to get more of a user base than competitors 

20:37 Where do you see the business going in the next 5 years 

21:24 What are some things you’re proud of in your personal life 

24:55 OpenFortune sponsorship 

25:57 Quick question round

28:00 Outro

In this riveting episode of "How the F**k Did You Get That Job?," we sit down with Dot Levine, Director of Communications at Vevo. Host David Jaffin delves into Dot's remarkable career journey, tracing her path from studying American Studies to becoming a driving force in the music industry. Dot's narrative showcases the power of embracing unconventional paths and the significance of genuine connections in her role at Vivo. She recounts heartwarming stories of working with artists like Wolf Alice and Billie Eilish, revealing the impact of original content and authentic engagement. Through her insights, listeners gain a unique perspective on the ever-evolving world of public relations, the transformation of content creation, and the essence of fostering meaningful connections. Tune in to uncover Dot's inspiring journey and discover how the fck she got that job.

Episode Highlights:

0:00: Introduction to the podcast and guest Dot Levine

1:27: Early exposure to the music industry

2:43: Background in American studies

4:08 First job upon graduation

5:20 Fusing music and politics

6:27: Leveraging core competencies and building your skillset

8:18 What are qualities of hires you’ve made?

12:50 Biggest takeaways that led you to working in the music industry

15:14 Advice you give to people working in front of the cameras

17:35 Advice for those hoping to break into the music industry

21:17 Why Vevo, first role on the communications team

25:55 Tell me about an artist that loved the user experience at Vevo

31:32 One person that if you met you’d still get butterflies 

34:27 How has PR changed

40:00 What’s something you’re really proud of

42:35 What’s something you’re proud of outside of work

43:17 OpenFortune sponsorship

43:53 Quick question round 

46:24 Outro

How the f**k did Neda Whitney manage to seamlessly blend her profound understanding of marketing with her passion for luxury fashion? After graduating from college, Neda embarked on a determined journey through agency work, tirelessly climbing the corporate ladder to reach her dream role. She recalls the sheer sense of destiny she felt when she finally took on her title as a CMO in a luxury fashion firm, attributing her success to the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai - the intersection of what you love, what you can be paid for, and what the world needs. Neda also touches on the importance of advocating for other women in professional settings, emphasizing the power of using one's voice for collective success. But beyond her professional achievements, the episode provides listeners with an intimate look into her personal beliefs and preferences. Curious about how Neda perceives the world, or how her journey can inspire your own career trajectory? Dive into this episode for a rich blend of professional wisdom and personal anecdotes.

Navigating the tumultuous tides of the advertising world, especially in a powerhouse like Amazon, is no small feat. This illuminating conversation with Jo Shoesmith of Amazon's advertising team provides a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the dynamic world of advertising campaigns. Diving deep, she touches on the nuances of teamwork, the pressure of high-risk projects, and the marriage of creativity with evolving technology. Additionally, her candid discussion on being a woman in a predominantly male industry offers invaluable insights for aspiring young professionals. Anecdotes, both humorous and revealing, pave the way for a deeper understanding of the advertising cosmos. This conversation paints a vivid picture, not just of the technicalities of advertising, but of the human touch that drives it.

How the f**k did Andrew Stallings go from working on a morning golf show at SiriusXM to owning and running his own successful marketing agency? Andrew graduated from Marymount University with a degree in Communication and Media Studies. During his time in school, he interned with Sirius XM. Shortly after finishing school in 2010, he came on full time as a producer on Sirius’s NASCAR Radio Channel. In 2015, Andrew began work with the sports marketing agency behemoth, Octagon. He left Octagon in 2017 and that eventually led to him founding his own sports marketing agency, Athelo Group. Today, in addition to being the CEO and Founder of Athelo Group, he is the Head Coach of Stamford Public Schools Women’s High School Ice Hockey Team and the sponsor of a Firecracker 400 champion eSports car. So how close are Andrew and John Legend, or as Andrew calls him, Johnny Legend? And what drives Andrew to be so successful in his role as CEO?

How the f**k did Adam Faris go from having an entrepreneurial spirit at a young age to now running multiple businesses and providing content to over 800 thousand TikTok followers? Adam graduated from the University of Oregon with a Business Administration degree in 2020. During his time in Oregon, Adam interned with IOTAS, Arcimoto, and LinkedIn. As a student, he also co-founded two groups, Oregon Blockchain and Duck Ventures. Today, he is a co-founder of Shred and FleetNurse. He’s also a Growth Marketer at The Mobility House. On top of all that he runs two TikTok accounts with over 800 thousand combined followers. So how did Adam start his entrepreneurial journey? And how has he been successful across multiple areas including automotive, sports, medical and lifestyle experiences?

How the f**k did Assaf Swissa go from creating snacks to creating content for some of the biggest brands in the world today? Assaf graduated from Boston University in 2004 with his BA in English. In his time at school, he interned as a copywriter and co-founded the company, College Bellhop which was a nationwide concierge service catering to college kids. In 2010, he sold that company and became an early co-founder in a snack business working without artificial flavors called Unreal Brands. Assaf moved on from Unreal in 2013 to found Superdigital, a creative company that has produced work with Snoop Dogg, Guy Fieri, and Steph Curry. Along the way, he also co-founded Coast Productions with New England Patriots legend Julian Edelman. Today, Assaf is still helping run both Superdigital and Coast as a Creative Director and Executive Producer. So how did Assaf and Julian meet? And what is the key to starting a successful business according to Assaf? (Hint: it’s not always because it’s a good opportunity)

How the f**k did Joe Pompliano go from working on Wall Street to writing newsletters out of his new, Florida home? Joe graduated from North Carolina’s High Point University in 2016. Upon graduating, he was a digital analyst for the sports and entertainment agency, Octagon. Then in 2017 he started working as a financial analyst with an emphasis in fixed income for the company MarketAxxess and then in 2018 he accepted a similar position at JP Morgan. Today, Joe is the founder of one of, if not the most popular independent sports business newsletters on the planet named Huddle Up. So how was he able to tell his own story through his daily newsletter? And how would the Pompliano brothers stack up against each other in a basketball game?

How the f**k did Ezra Levine go from working at Bloomberg to creating his own app dedicated to modernizing and democratizing the sports card and memorabilia industry? Ezra graduated from the University of Michigan in 2010 with a B.A. in American Studies. Shortly after he began working in business development for the software development Bloomberg L.P. In 2012, he became a portfolio manager and investment analyst for Hilltop Park Associates Family Office. During his time working with Hilltop Park, Ezra also earned his M.B.A. from New York University’s Stern School of Business. In 2016 near that same time of receiving his advanced degree, Ezra was brought on to work with The Spring League, a fresh new professional American football league. Today, Ezra works as Chief Strategy Officer of The Spring League in addition to being the CEO of Collectible, a company that provides fractional ownership opportunities for sports cards and memorabilia to fans across the United States. So what made him take the leap from finance to sports memorabilia? And how did a college email address suddenly turn Ezra into the most popular kid in his high school?

How the f**k did Jake Marsh go from calling high school football games in Syracuse to calling ping pong matches for one of the top sports media companies in the country, Barstool Sports? Jake graduated from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School with a degree in Broadcast and Digital Journalism in 2018. During his time at Syracuse, he was on the air with play by play coverage for several local radio stations. He also interned with MLB and NHL Networks. In October of 2018, Jake became THE play-by-play announcer for Vermont Catamounts Men’s Basketball. The following spring he began an internship with the United States’ number one sports podcast: “Barstool Sports’ Pardon My Take”. Today, Jake is a mainstay on the podcast in addition to calling play-by-play for Barstool Sports events. So what is Jake’s ultimate broadcast goal? And who’s really the favorite: Jake or Billy?

How the f**k did Rand Getlin go from taking AND passing the Bar Exam in two states to producing short films for Quibi? Rand graduated from the University of Oregon in 2006 and shortly after went on to USC Gould School of Law. During his time at the Southern California school, Rand worked in Nike’s legal department as well as Stoel, Rives and Milbank, Tweed, Hadley and McCoy. Getlin left USC with his J.D. in 2009 and shortly after began working as an NFL Insider for Yahoo Sports. In 2017, he significantly pivoted again to become an Executive Producer for Park Stories. Today, in that same role he’s produced content for athletes like Zion Williamson, Tyler Adams, Red Gerrard, Jalen Ramsey, and Chantel Navarro. So how did Rand know when to leave his writing gig to take on an entrepreneurial and production role? And what is like to work with your wife everyday?

How the f**k did Aaron Johnson go from playing professional basketball in 13 countries to founding his own training and consulting agency focused on maximizing athletes’ full potential in sports, business and life? Aaron played basketball at Penn State University where he graduated in 2006. He began playing professionally after leaving Happy Valley, suiting up in at least 13 different countries over the course of a 10-year career. In 2011, Aaron started founding programs with the mission to help athletes on and off the court. To help with that mission, Aaron also worked in marketing departments of various companies, including UPS. Today, he is a public speaker, the Director of Global Operations at Beyond Nation Sports, and the Chief Executive Officer of Ball Beyond, a training and consulting agency focused on maximizing athletes’ full potential in sports, business and life. So how did Aaron do all of this before he even turned 33 years old? And how extensive is Aaron’s IMDb page?

How the f**k did Jason Feifer go from writing about small-town sports to becoming editor in chief of a major magazine? Jason graduated from Clark University in 2002. He stayed in Massachusetts working as a reporter for five years before becoming an editor for Boston Magazine. After a year there he moved on to become a senior-level editor at some of the biggest name publications in the U.S. and around the world: Men’s Health, Fast Company, and Maxim just to name a few. In 2015 Jason began working at Entrepreneur media, and today, he is their editor in chief in addition to being a keynote speaker and hosting three podcasts and thus being three times better than us at life. Those podcasts are Pessimists Archive, Problem Solvers, and Hush Money. So how was he able to turn his passion for writing and sharing ideas into a career in journalism? And how is it that everything that comes out of his mouth is a lesson that anyone can apply to their own life?

How the f**k did Scott Greenberg go from starting a company while still in college to becoming a CEO of a startup that has raised millions in capital? Scott graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in entrepreneurship. In 2016, while still in school, he co-founded his first company Pivt, a social network app focused on helping users settle into new cities by identifying and connecting them with their friends’ friends. In 2019, he left Pivt to start another company called StarStock. StarStock is a marketplace for sports fans and card hobbyists to buy, sell, and invest in their favorite athletes through sports cards in a centralized vault. The company has raised millions in capital and just this week at the time of our recording, StarStock added Kevin Durant to its list of investors that already includes the FanDuel co-founders, Matthew Dellavedova, and former guest of the show, AJ Vaynerchuk. Today, Scott is still the CEO of StarStock. So what did he gain from his Entrepreneurship degree? And what did he teach Jake about cards?

How the f**k did Peter Stein go from working at a boarding school to now being a force in sports analytics and venture capital? Peter graduated from Amherst College in 2009. After that, he moved on to Suffield Academy where he was the Assistant Director of Marketing & Communications. He studied towards a Masters Degree in Sports Business at NYU. While earning his graduate degree, he left Suffield to work with the Brooklyn Nets, the New York Yankees, and Bloomberg Sports. After receiving his degree, he became involved in sports analytics and venture capital. Today he is a Partner & Co-Chairman at Turn 2 Equity Partners, Managing Director of SportsTech Ventures, and VC in Residence at Transition Sports & Entertainment. So how did Peter find his perfect co-founder? And how the heck does he do it all?

How the f**k did Cameron Rogers go from hustling in the NYC trading scene to running her own super successful food blog and podcast? Cameron graduated from Lafayette with a degree in economics in 2013. She went on to JP Morgan where she worked in sales and trading. In 2018, Cameron left her finance job to pursue her passion for documenting and sharing her health journey. Thousands of followers later, today, she’s still creating content for Freckled Foodie and was named one of the five entrepreneurs changing New York’s wellness scene by Forbes. So what made her leave the sales and trading world for the entrepreneur life? And attention Dax Shepard: Why won’t you answer Cameron to be on her podcast?

How the f**k did Tyson Hutchins go from looking at law schools to sending out Tweets for a living? Tyson graduated from Brigham Young University in 2017. After an internship with Mindquest, and a gig at another tech company, Mozenda during his time at school, he started working with his BYU’s athletic department. That eventually turned into a job and for three years Tyson was the Digital Content and New Media Coordinator at BYU. That was until January of 2020 when he officially made the move to Clemson, South Carolina. Today, he is the Senior Director of Creative Solutions at Clemson University Athletics. So how did Tyson switch career paths from the law world to the content creation and digital media world? And how does Jake feel about BYU’s Tanner Mangum and his soul-crushing, game-winning hail mary pass at a 2015 Nebraska football game?

How the f**k did Bobby Redfern go from collecting vintage baseball bats to working for one of the strongest brands in the hunting industry? Bobby graduated from the University of South Carolina in the early 2000’s. He was a graphic designer for Pennington Seed before becoming the Marketing Director of AdDrive. After a brief stint there, Bobby moved on to become the Director of Product Development at Loud Door, LLC. He stayed with the company for over 8 years. Today, he is a self-proclaimed BBQ Pitmaster, Chili Champ, and Pinball Wizard. He is also the Director of Digital Marketing at the hunting apparel giant, Realtree. So what sparked Bobby’s interest in advertising? And what makes Bobby's BBQ so special?