Begin the Begin Podcast by Jeff Hilimire

On this episode, I spend time chatting with Chelsea Jenkins, who’s the Director, Cultural and Inclusive Marketing at Kellogg. We have a great time talking about her personal Purpose and mantra, the importance of corporate DEI strategies, or as she calls it, EDI (you’ll learn why as you listen to the podcast), her favorite books, and much more.

On this episode, I talk all things "company culture" with my good friend Adam Albrecht, who's also the co-author of my latest book, The Culture Turnaround. We talk about the cultures we build within our families, how we worked to build the culture at Engauge many years ago, tips on how to build an "undeniable culture" within any team or company, and much more.

On this episode, I had a chance to talk to one of my favorite people in the world, Sanjay Parekh. Sanjay and I have known each other for a long, long time, and I consider him both of the smartest and kindest (and I shouldn’t forget, one of the most successful) entrepreneurs I know. On this episode, we spent our time talking about his newest company, Occasional Wraps, which produces the first-ever artist-designed, limited edition gift wrapping paper.

I had a great time on this episode talking with Katie Louise Mullins and Kacie Lett Gordon, the founders of It All Media. It All Media is a modern media empire inspired by and devoted to women (un)doing “IT ALL.” They exist to tell new stories, amplify real women’s voices, and facilitate a movement through conversation to affirm and build women’s power. We talk about their entrepreneurial journey, why it’s so important to be writing new narratives and telling stories around women’s health, the dimensions of womanhood, and the power of learning in public.

On this episode, I speak with Michael McCathren, Sr. Principal, Enterprise Innovation at Chick-fil-A, about his new (and first) book, 6Ps of Essential Innovation. I had an early look at the book as my publishing company, Ripples Media, partnered with Michael to bring it to life. And I have to tell you, it's terrific. We talk about why he decided to write the book, what the process was like, and of course, what it takes to build a company that aspires to be innovative and resilient.

On this episode, I get to talk to a legend in the running world: Barefoot Ted. I first learned about him through the book, Born to Run, by Chris McDougall, which fundamentally changed the way I run and, more importantly, completely removed the persistent knee pain that used to accompany my runs. He’s probably one of the most energetic people I’ve ever had on the podcast and hearing his journey is bound to inspire you.

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On this episode, I talk with Tim Schurrer, author of the fantastic book, The Secret Society of Success. I read this book in only a few days and the stories and lessons that Tim shares are just what people need in today's hectic, pressure-driven society. The subtitle says it all: Stop chasing the spotlight and learn to enjoy your work (and life) again. Boom!

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On this episode, I’m joined by Bonnie Wan, an incredible leader who created a brilliant concept called, The Life Brief, which helps people live with greater clarity, creativity, and courage by teaching them how to write briefs for their lives. We dive deep into how she created The Life Brief and its major components, but we also spend time talking about her life as an Asian immigrant in the United States and my experiences with having adopted two Chinese children. I just loved this conversation with Bonnie and I know you’ll find it inspiring.

On this episode, Raj Choudhury (former guest of the podcast and serial entrepreneur) shares the news that he has acquired ARPR, an award-winning tech PR agency. He talks about the vision behind the acquisition, his partnership with Anna Ruth Williams (former CEO and founder of ARPR), and their exciting plans for the future. 

On this episode, I had the chance to talk with my friend, Hanni Berger, CEO and founder of JOYVIAL. For anyone that knows Hanni, they know she’s a bright, bursting light of positivity, bringing joy to everyone she comes in contact with. I was really excited to hear more about her inspiring journey which led her to start JOYVIAL, a company helping business leaders live their healthiest, most joyful life. You're going to love hearing her story.

On this episode, I talk with entrepreneur, artist, and advocate, Jay Austin. He’s working to interrupt mass incarceration. We talk about what led him to this important work, the current state of mass incarceration, and the nonprofit he started called RLENTLSS, a prison diversion and re-entry program teaching premiere level videography, photography, storytelling, and other below-the-line production skills. His work is so important and I hope you can find ways to support him on this journey.

This is an audio recording from my email newsletter, where I wrestle with the idea of being a stoic.

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On this episode, I have one of my favorite guests, Terence Lester, back on the show. Terence is a social justice leader, entrepreneur, author, dedicated father and husband, and so much more. I wanted Terence to join me again on the podcast to talk about what it means to be a true ally. We get deep into that, and we also talk a bit about his latest book, When We Stand, which is truly amazing. You should seriously pick up a copy (link below).

On this episode, I talk with my good friend and former teammate at Spunlogic and Engauge, Jay Jhun. Currently the Director of Loyalty at Focus Brands, we talk about Jay’s career, in which he’s worked for agencies (like mine), technology companies like IBM, and now on the brand/client side at Focus Brands. We also talk about Jay’s journey of adopting his son, as well as career advice for young marketers.

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On this episode, I had a chance to catch up with my inspiring friend, Evana Oli, to hear more about her journey of starting a company with her 9-year old daughter, Zoe, called Beautiful Curly Me. Beautiful Curly Me is a brand that encourages young girls to love and be confident in who they are. How great is that :) Ever since we recorded this episode I’ve been trying to think about how I can begin starting companies with my kids!

On this episode, I speak with one of my favorite marketing leaders in Atlanta, Paige Farrow. Paige is currently the Director of Brand Strategy & Management at NAPA Auto Parts, and we talk about her career journey (which includes stops at Coca-Cola and Charbroil), her style of leadership, advice she has for young people starting out in their career, and some tips on the age-old fight for better work-life balance, something we’re both still working on.

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This is a very special episode as I talk with my good friend and one of my favorite Atlanta business leaders, Kenji Kuramoto, about his family’s experience with the Japanese internment camps of the 1940s. His generosity and vulnerability in sharing this with me was so powerful, and I just know you’ll appreciate the stories he shares.

On this episode, I’m honored to have Bethaney Wilkinson back on the show, this time to talk about her new, incredible book, The Diversity Gap. I read this book in less than 3 days and absolutely loved it. We talk about many of the concepts in the book, including the importance of knowing, and sharing, your origin story, the goal of working toward liberation, and what it means to explore reparations within a company. Buy the book! -> https://amzn.to/3lsXTWx Learn more about Bethaney -> https://www.bethaneywilkinson.com/ 

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On this episode, I talk with Kyle Porter, CEO and co-founder of Salesloft, one of Atlanta’s most recent unicorns (meaning they are valued at a billion dollars or more). This episode is full of incredible stories and advice from Kyle, including how he works to grow as a leader, some of the secrets to Salesloft’s success, his best advice for leaders (including the importance of building trust), and something called the ‘Clearing Model’ which I simply cannot wait to implement at my companies.

This episode is the audio from one of my email newsletter posts, titled: Abled and Eyes Opened (Thanks to one leader, I now see my privilege in a new light).

Keith Millner, co-founder and managing partner of Coaching Catalyst, joins me on this episode. Keith is an entrepreneur, servant leader, and self-described, “hustler”, and you’ll get a sense of all of those designations from our conversation. We talk about his journey, what led him to be an executive coach and change agent for so many, his successful hike to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, his leadership of 100 Black Men of Atlanta, and much more.

On this episode, I talk with Nathaniel Smith, Founder and Chief Equity Officer/CEO Partnership for Southern Equity. We talk about his journey, the difference between actual social justice and what he calls, “fakequity”, the Values Revolution that we need to happen to create real change in our society, and so much more.

On this episode, I talk with Ryan Gravel, enterpreneur, author, urban designer, and most certainly, the person that came up with the once-in-a-generation idea of The Atlanta BeltLine. We talk about, of course, the story of the BeltLine, but we also get into some really great concepts, including what he loves about Atlanta (and where we struggle as a city), things he learned about his family’s history during the racial unrest of 2020, his upcoming new book, and of all things, Dungeons & Dragons.

On this episode, I spend time talking with my new friend, and fellow supporter of The A Pledge, Sequoyah “DataBae” Glenn. She’s one of the most talented data and analytics experts I’ve ever met, and also has one of the biggest hearts. We talk about how she became a “media culture disruptor”, her purpose to change the world through the eyes of marketing and media, and what it takes to be a good ally.

Connect with Sequoyah and her work!

On this episode, I talk with Nathan Stuck, who some consider to be "Mr. B Corp Georgia". We talk about, what else, B corporations, and we also dig into conscious capitalism, how ROI fits into the decision, and what it takes for a company truly to be a force for good in this world.

On this episode, my guest is Nina Smith, a self proclaimed “communications mercenary”. She’s the former traveling press secretary and advisor to Pete Buttigieg, and she spends most of her time helping candidates, brands, and organizations tell their story in the media. We talk about her journey, of course the work she did with Pete (I’m a HUGE fan), some of the work she did with Stacey Abrams (someone else I love), and her board involvement with an incredible organization called Community Groundwork. 

On this episode, I brought David Cummings (Atlanta Tech Village, Pardot, Atlanta Ventures) back on to talk about the characteristics that the most successful entrepreneurs and leaders have. We’ve both built businesses and invested in others, and I thought it would be a fun conversation to discuss the qualities that are somewhat non-negotiable in those that succeed.

On this episode, I have the great pleasure to speak with Jay Jackson, CEO of RYSE Interactive and RYSE Creative Village (and a board member of one of my nonprofits, Ripples of Hope!). We talk about where his inspiration to help others comes from, how a passion for constantly learning and a focus on humbleness has led him to success, and his MASSIVE vision for RYSE Creative Village. I always feel incredibly inspired after talking with Jay, and this conversation left ME ready go after MY dreams.

On this episode, I catch up with my friend, Eileen Lee, one of the co-founders of The Lola. The Lola’s mission is to bring womxn together as allies and accomplices to tell their stories, raise their voices and dismantle a system that doesn’t serve them. We talk about her journey toward entrepreneurship, where the inspiration to start The Lola came from, and the tremendous progress they’re making as they come out of the difficulties of the pandemic.

On this episode, I had the great pleasure to talk with Teresa Baker, founder of the Outdoor CEO Diversity Pledge and the African American Nature & Parks Experience. She was recommended by a previous podcast guest, Patagonia’s Whitney Clapper (you should check that episode out if you haven’t) who described Teresa as a visionary for what life could be with a little more disrupting and dismantling of various systems of oppressions.

I talk with Teresa about how she became a self-proclaimed trouble maker, where her purpose to include people of color in environmental protection came from, and so much more.

“When I'm sometimes asked when will there be enough [women on the Supreme Court] and I say, 'When there are nine,' people are shocked. But there'd been nine men, and nobody's ever raised a question about that.” ― Ruth Bader Ginsburg

On this episode, I have the great pleasure of talking with Bhavana Smith, founder of the amazing organization, Until There Are Nine™. Until There Are Nine™ is an educational network and resource group whose purpose is to give women the power to advocate for their rightful share of compensation, rewards and professional advancement. We talk about what inspired her to start the organization, stories about the impact they’ve already made, and how she’s working to shape the future that her daughter will live in.

On this episode, I chat with Rodney Bullard, the Executive Director of the Chick-fil-A Foundation. We talk about his journey, including the impact that his 1st-grade teacher - Ms. Adams - had on his life (and somehow we never knew we went to rival high schools in Atlanta!), how he ended up at Chick-fil-A, and of course, his terrific book, Heroes Wanted. Rodney has helped so many organizations during his time at the Chick-fil-A Foundation, and I know you’re going to want to hear where his heart for giving came from and what he’s focused on now.

On this episode, I had the great pleasure to talk with my good friend, Qaadirah Abdur-Rahim. Qaadirah is currently the Chief Equity Officer, City of Atlanta, and was the CEO of the Future Foundation for 15 years prior to taking her role with the city. We talk about where her resilience comes from, the need to disrupt stagnation in order to achieve equity, the importance of focusing on childhood development, and what it takes to be a gladiator for social justice.

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On this episode, I have the extreme pleasure of having Mita Mallick on the show. Mita is the Head of Inclusion, Equity, and Impact at Carta, and has worked at some of the world’s largest and most respected companies, including J&J, Pfizer, and Unilever. Mita is one of those people that infects you with her passion and joy for the work she’s doing. She talks with me about her personal purpose, which is to help those that have been excluded to find their voice, and once they find it, to never stop using it. How great is that? We also talk about her wonderful writing, about raising kids to have empathy and to be kind, and so much more.

On this episode, I have the great pleasure of chatting with Bethaney Wilkinson, founder and CEO of The Diversity Gap Podcast and Academy. I first met Bethaney by attending one of her workshops, and her passion and innovative views on racial equity, privilege, and bridging the diversity gap was incredibly inspiring to me, and I knew I had to have her on the show to hear her story!

My guest on this episode is Sharon Harris, Global Chief Marketing Officer of Jellyfish. We talk about her career journey, working at some of the largest companies in the world, to the great work she and her team are doing at Jellyfish, and how hard women in the workforce have been hit by the pandemic, or what she calls a “She-cession”.

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On this episode, I have the great pleasure to talk with Jenn Graham, Founder & CEO of Civic Dinners. Civiv Dinners bring people together virtually or in person for structured conversations on the critical issues of our time. Jenn started the organization in 2016, and we talk about her journey, including the first time we met at Souper Jenny’s in Atlanta, her big pivot in 2020, and the amazing growth they’ve had over the last 5 years.

On this episode, I talk with my friend and Leadership Atlanta classmate, Atlanta City Council member, Amir Farokhi. I spend the first half of the interview digging into Amir’s journey that led him to eventually run for public office. We then spend the rest of the interview talking about what makes Atlanta so great, and what the city must do to reach its potential as a global city of hope.

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On this episode, I chat with Bobby Norwood (Director - Debt & Equity Capital Markets, JLL) about the 'hard reset' he decided to implement in his life. 

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On this episode, I’m joined by my friend, Alex Gonzalez, who interviews me about 48in48, an organization I co-founded in 2015. We talk about how the company began, the amazing growth its had in the last 6 years (including the struggles and triumphs that the company experienced in 2020), and the bright future we have ahead.

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On this episode, I had the chance to talk to an incredible entrepreneur, Caroline Boudreaux. Rarely do you meet someone who has such an epic journey as Caroline. The work her company, Miracle Foundation, is doing to help empower orphans and vulnerable children around the globe to reach their full potential, is so inspiring. And she has one of the most unique origin stories of anyone I’ve had on the podcast!

On this episode, Bem Joiner, founder of Atlanta Influences Everything, joins Darryl Cobbin and me as we dive deep into the Atlanta Influences Everything brand, his personal purpose and journey, and why Atlanta has so much potential… if we can come together around common interests.

On this episode, I chat with my friend, Penny Collins, President & CEO at Women in Technology, or WIT. We talk about her journey into entrepreneurship, where her passion to help others comes from, and the incredible work she is doing with WIT to empower girls and women to excel in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math from the classroom to the boardroom.

WIT: https://mywit.org

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On this episode, I have the great pleasure to be joined by Kyle Stapleton to interview Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon, founder and CEO of Atlanta Village Market. We talk about how her purpose to be intentional with her life has guided her journey, and the incredible work she is doing to help empower African American entrepreneurs through education, purpose-driven events, and community engagement.

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On this episode of the SpunMafia series, Raghu Kakarala joins me as we catch up with Bruce Eatroff, Managing Director, Star Mountain Capital, whose company acquired Spunlogic in 2008. We talk about our first meeting with Bruce during the sale process, differences in the industry between then and now, current obstacles in the private capital markets, and how agency leaders should prepare for a successful sale.

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My guest on this episode is Medina Jett, the CEO of Jett Speaks. We talk about her journey from corporate america to “serial entrepreneur”, as well as the important work she is doing in diversity, equity, and inclusion.

On this episode, Darryl Cobbin joins me as we sit down with Terence Lester to talk about Love Beyond Walls, his organization that helps advocate for those experiencing poverty and homelessness, and the incredible and improbable year that he had in 2020.

My guest on this episode is Darryl Cobbin (or “DC”), founder of Brand Positioning Doctors, and co-founder of The A-Pledge. We talk about his origins in the corporate world, the risky switch to entrepreneurship, and the ups and downs that come with that journey.

My guest on this episode is Helene Lollis, President and CEO of Pathbuilders. We talk about where her passion for helping came from, the extraordinary journey she's been on since she bought Pathbuilders, and the unique challenges that women leaders face in business.

On this episode, I talk with Paul Snyder, Executive Vice President Stewardship at Tillamook Creamery. We talk about where his caring spirit started, early conversations about race and how that shaped his life as an ally, and his view on companies that work to make the world a better place.

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On this episode, Alex Gonzalez joins me as we talk with Jay Bailey, CEO of H.J. Russell Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. We talk about his amazing journey, what inspires him to give back, and how he tries to affect change around him.

On this episode of the SpunMafia series, the gang talks with Donovan Panone, one of the earliest and most important leaders to work at Spunlogic and a true partner in our journey.  We talk about the early, early days, including our name change (from NBN Designs), how we got our first big win, Donovan's "Jerry Maguire" moment that allowed us to find our focus, and many other epic stories.

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On this episode, I talk to my good friend Alex Gonzalez about his TEDx talk from February 2020, titled Innovation DNA Defined. I’ve always wanted to do a TED talk, so I used this opportunity to understand how it came about, what the preparation was like, and what it felt like to be on that stage. We also dive into the topic itself, talking about corporate innovation, confusion tolerance, and being your authentic self.

On this episode, I talk with Maggie Jones Patton , co-founder of the organic children’s food company. Bitsy's, and easily one of my favorite leaders.  We get into why she took the leap into entrepreneurship, juggling being a parent and running a business, how even during hard times Bitsy's works to help others, and her big plans for 2021.

On this episode, Alex Gonzalez joins me as we talk with Hala Moddelmog, CEO of The Woodruff Arts Center. We dive into her storied career, including running businesses at the highest levels in the civic, nonprofit, and corporate world. We also spend time on her passion for the arts and the great work they’re doing at Woodruff.

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In this episode, I speak with Jabari Paul, the US Activism Manager at Ben & Jerry’s, about where his heart to help others came from, how his desire for activism started, and the Social Justice good that Ben & Jerry’s is famous for.

In this short episode, I read an excerpt from my book, The Crisis Turnaround. This chapter touches on the concept of changing to survive versus changing to thrive, when to stand firm or go with the flow, and how some temporary changes can teach us how to make more permanent changes in the future.

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In this episode, I chat with Titania Jordan, CPO (Chief Parent Officer) of Bark, about her inspirations, her new book about parenting in a digital world, where her spark comes from, and what she sees in her future.

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In this episode, I interview the amazing Mitali Chakraborty, CEO and founder of Youth Jobs Connect. We discuss how following her heart has led her to incredible opportunities, her philosophy of ”going left”, the impact and importance of representation, and her work with “disconnected youth”. 

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In this short episode, I share the seven keys that I’ve found to be successful in life and business. I believe anyone can embody these characteristics and through hard work, focus, and discipline, we can all accomplish our dreams.

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In this episode, I interview David Cummings, Atlanta-based tech entrepreneur, and founder of Atlanta Tech Village. As one of the most disciplined and action-oriented leaders I know, we discuss his process for staying focused and disciplined while juggling so many great initiatives. 

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In this episode, I interview  Elaine Dinos, founder of Kindred Lane. We talk about purpose, and how and why she took the plunge into entrepreneurship.

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In this episode, I interview three couples that met at either Spunlogic or Engauge, and have since married and started families. Listen along as we reminisce and play our version of “The Newlywed Game”!

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This is the fourth and final episode of my interview series with Taylor Branch, Pulitzer Prize winning author and historian. Listen along as we discuss his book writing process and his favorite books of all time.

In this episode of the SpunMafia series of my podcast, I interview a few members of my former team: Joe Koufman, Shannon Delaney, and Raghu Kakarala. Listen along as we talk about a pivotal moment in Joe’s career, when we had to stage an intervention to get him on track at Engauge.

This is the third episode of my interview series with Taylor Branch, Pulitzer Prize winning author and historian. Listen along as we discuss his encounter with Bobby Kennedy (one of my personal heroes), and what he thinks the outcome would have been if Bobby hadn’t been assassinated during his presidential run in 1968.

Also, if you missed the first and second part of this series, you can listen to them here: 

In this episode, I interview Karen Beavor, CEO of Georgia Center for Nonprofits. Listen along as we talk about her career, her leadership style, and how she has dedicated her life to helping nonprofit organizations be successful.

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This is the second episode of my interview series with Taylor Branch, Pulitzer Prize winning author and historian. Listen along as we discuss  Taylor’s time spent writing about the Civil Rights era of the 1950’s and 1960’s, Martin Luther King Jr., and some of the other lesser known leaders/heroes of the cause.

In this episode, I interview Dan Holm: Senior Director, Digital Platforms & Innovation at Subway. Listen along as we talk about his background and career, how he leads with an entrepreneurial mindset, the lack of diversity in the marketing industry, and the importance of leading with empathy and heart.

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To follow Dan:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danholm/

In this episode, I interview Taylor Branch: Pulitzer Prize winning author and historian. Listen along to Part 1 of our conversation where I talk to Taylor about his time spent with President Clinton and his book, The Clinton Tapes.

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In this short episode, I share my perspective on the importance of finding passion at work and how to make changes if you aren’t fulfilled in your career.

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In this episode, I interview one of my all-time favorites, Julie Bowerman: Chief Global Digital Consumer and Customer Experience Officer at Kellogg and a 48in48 board member! Listen along as we talk about her career progress, leadership style changes, and how she stays focused and productivity, especially during COVID-19.

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In this episode, I interview some of the original members of 48in48, a nonprofit I co-founded in 2015 that puts on hackathons around the world to build 48 nonprofit websites in 48 hours. Listen along as we tell stories about the early days.

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In this episode, Nicola Smith, Twanna Harris, and I return to talk more about their new initiative: Grey Matter. Listen along as we discuss how storytelling affects perception of reality, and how to affect change through narrative.

About Grey Matter:
Racism is not just black and white; the fundamentals of racism are often found between the lines in the grey matter. We are digging deep into the layers of racism through our own personal stories and experiences of the world around us. From our local community leaders to CEOs of the corporate world to experts in every field, we’re here to uncover the multifaceted ways racism, patriarchy, constructs of whiteness, and identity have adapted and impacted our everyday lives and the systems and institutions we rely on. We’re challenging ourselves and all of you to start the dialogue around how we move past the current outcomes of racism considering the economic and racial disparities that continue to plague our society. We all have the power to rewrite the narratives that are shaping our industries and our world. Join us on our journey as we explore the substance between the black and the white. Welcome to Grey Matter. Let’s do this.

In this episode, I interview Mohamed Massaquoi: former UGA and NFL football player who, after becoming an amputee, is working to help the world deal with change. Listen along as we talk about his roots, his career, the loss of his hand, and how he is making an impact now.

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In this episode, I interview several Atlanta leaders and friends: Anand Thaker, Karen Houghton, and Jermaine Brown. Listen along as we discuss mentorship, how to find a mentor, and how to be a great mentee or mentor.

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If you liked this episode, check out my previous episode with Anand -> https://bit.ly/AnandThakerPodcast

In this episode of the SpunMafia series, Spunlogic founders (Jeff Hilimire and Raj Choudhury) talk with four members of their advisory board (Ken Bernhardt, Bill Nussey, William Pate, and James Marlow) about the critical role they played in the success, and ultimate sale, of Spunlogic.

Kaitlin Lutz is the amazing founder and CEO of two companies: NewCrew and Sparke Women.

I’m sure I’ll have her back on the podcast one day to talk about those businesses, but today’s episode is focused on something else that Kaitlin is an expert at: social media. She breaks down the 4 things that she believes, if focused on, will help anyone supercharge their social media game. And since I needed this advice personally, I thought I’d record it and share it with all of you.

In this episode, Nicola Smith, Twanna Harris, and I talk about their new initiative: Grey Matter.

About Grey Matter:
Racism is not just black and white; the fundamentals of racism are often found between the lines in the grey matter. We are digging deep into the layers of racism through our own personal stories and experiences of the world around us. From our local community leaders to CEOs of the corporate world to experts in every field, we’re here to uncover the multifaceted ways racism, patriarchy, constructs of whiteness, and identity have adapted and impacted our everyday lives and the systems and institutions we rely on. We’re challenging ourselves and all of you to start the dialogue around how we move past the current outcomes of racism considering the economic and racial disparities that continue to plague our society. We all have the power to rewrite the narratives that are shaping our industries and our world. Join us on our journey as we explore the substance between the black and the white. Welcome to Grey Matter. Let’s do this.

In this episode, I interview Jill Thomas, Chief Marketing Officer for the PGA TOUR Superstore and major Florida Gator fan. Listen along as we talk about her impressive marketing career, her current role (and love of golf), and her advice for young marketers today.

In this episode, I interview Kyle Stapleton, Manager of Culture & Experience at WarnerMedia. Listen along as we talk about his role at WarnerMedia, his passion and work in social justice, and the mark he hopes to leave on Atlanta and the world.

In this episode, I interview Alex Drohobyczer, founder of YayFinder. Listen along as we discuss her journey to creating YAYFinder, how the business is investing in the younger generation, the skills they are learning, and the social impact they are having on society.

The guys are back together again in the 4th episode of the SpunMafia series. In this episode, the Spunlogic founders discuss the final years of Engauge and the sale process to Publicis/Moxie.   

In this episode, I interview Goldie Taylor: writer and author, on-air political analyst/strategist, and world-class marketer. She is currently Chief Marketing Officer of Morehouse School of Medicine. Listen along as we talk about her lifetime of experience promoting global brands, her most recent novel, Paper Gods, and the creative process behind the characters and heartbeat of Atlanta in her book.

To follow Goldie:

In this episode, I interview Mike Popowski, CEO of Dagger. Listen along as we talk about his journey in marketing and advertising, resulting in him becoming an entrepreneur well into a successful career. We also discuss the value of unplugging periodically to allow for strategic, big-picture ideas, and how he has grown his business so quickly in just five short years.

In this episode, I interview Jenny Vyas, corporate e-commerce guru turned inspirational, purpose-driven artist. I dive deep into Jenny's origin story, from growing up in India, to her journey to the US as a 19-year old, to ultimately finding her purpose as an artist helping people grow through grief and pain.

On this episode I interview Anand Thaker, one of the most impressive entrepreneurs I know. Listen along as Anand talks about his life and career path, why mentorship and diversity is important, and how to prioritize your involvement with people and opportunities to avoid burnout.

On this episode of the Begin the Begin Podcast, I interview Ann Cramer, an all around extraordinary human being. There have been few people who have inspired me as much as Ann. She’s known as “the Human Exclamation Point” for a reason, and you’ll hear why as you listen to this podcast.

Listen along as we discuss her origin story, her life passion, her "Yes, And" philosophy, and what wisdom she would impart on the twenty-somethings embarking on their life journey today.

Note:

On today’s podcast I interview Darrah Brustein: author, entrepreneur, and coach. Listen along as she shares her origin story, her life purpose, how she helps people 'design their life', and what she is up to today.

I took a few minutes in this podcast to share my thoughts on the meaning of life. I won't spoil the surprise, give it a quick listen and tell me what you think. 

About me:

This episode is Part 2 of interview Lisa Magill - CEO and founder of Aleria. We discuss what keeps her productive, what books inspire her, and why she is not a morning person :) Listen along as Lisa delves deeper into her personal habits and how she has gotten to where she is today.

In this episode, I interview Lisa Magill - CEO and founder of Aleria. We had such a great time chatting, I ended up breaking the conversation into two parts.

In this Part 1 of our conversation, we discuss what led her to her personal mission of establishing diversity and inclusion as a core foundation in businesses and corporations. Listen along as Lisa describes her life, her business and non-profit, and why she has made it her personal mission to eliminate discrimination in the workplace.

In this episode, I talk with Ashley Jones, the founder and leader of Love Not Lost. Ashley is on a mission to help people love each other better, and as you listen to this podcast, I'm sure you'll be affected by her enthusiasm and passion for that mission just as much as I have been since the day we met. 

We talk about how she founded the organization, the amusing story of how we first met, her latest initiative (helping people within companies love each other better!) and her plans for the future. 

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of speaking with Jonathan Karron. Jonathan is the VP of Digital Marketing for the American Cancer Society. He's also a fellow graduate of Leadership Atlanta and one of the most generous people I know. We spend time talking about his pull to nonprofit marketing, where his empathy comes from, (of course) the Atlanta Falcons, how to lead with heart, and why we should be optimistic about our world today.

On this episode, I interview Stephanie Olson, founder of We Are Rosie. We discuss what led to her leave behind her “golden handcuffs” and become an entrepreneur. Listen along as Stephanie describes her journey, her business, and why giving back to your community (in your professional life) is so important right now.