Story in a Bottle

Episode Overview: Scott Switzer’s journey from Omaha to global tech innovator began with creating computer games on his TRS-80. Facing challenges during the dot-com boom and bust with Big Emmas, later called Article 27, Scott eventually found success with OpenX, an open-source ad platform that became a major competitor to DoubleClick. His experiences with VCs like FirstMark and Flybridge, investing in startups, and exploring blockchain and crypto, have shaped his career. Now, as the co-founder of Ozone, Scott is focused on redefining the digital advertising industry. Quotes: “Creating computer games on my TRS-80 was just the beginning of a lifelong passion for technology and innovation.” “The dot-com boom and bust taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and the need to pivot quickly in the face of failure.”  “OpenX was a game-changer, showing that open-source solutions could compete with industry giants like DoubleClick.” “Working with FirstMark and Flybridge gave me a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed in the startup world and the potential of emerging technologies.” “With Ozone, we’re not just participating in the digital advertising industry; we’re redefining it to better serve both publishers and advertisers.” The post Scott Switzer appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

Dorothy Chang’s journey from Long Island to becoming a pivotal figure in the New York tech ecosystem is a story of adaptability, perseverance, and innovation. Growing up with high expectations in a musical family, she found her way into PR and tech, eventually transitioning into venture capital. Dorothy’s career highlights include working at renowned firms like Edelman and Brew, co-founding Liberty City Ventures, and playing a crucial role in Foursquare’s pivot to a data intelligence company. Currently, she focuses on supporting early-stage founders through Lynx Collective and Next Wave Ventures, leveraging her extensive network and expertise to bridge gaps in the startup ecosystem.   Notable Quotes “You don’t build company culture by buying a ping pong table. That’s not culture.” “I tried to give my team so much autonomy that it was too much stress for them.” “Founders need to find the people that are going to disagree with them. It’s really important.” “You have to hustle harder in the startup world and try to make a little something out of nothing.” “We’re looking for ways to connect founders and investors, making it easier for early-stage founders to get the access they need.” The post Dorothy Chang appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

Stacy Spikes, the entrepreneurial force behind MoviePass and the Urbanworld Film Festival, shares his incredible journey from the music industry to creating one of the most controversial subscription services in entertainment. Growing up in Houston, Stacy’s ambition led him to LA, where he started as a gopher at American Video, quickly rising through the ranks at Motown and Sony. Transitioning to film, he worked with the Weinsteins at Miramax and then moved to October Films. Stacy’s story is one of relentless perseverance and groundbreaking innovation. During our conversations over several Diet Cokes, Stacy delves into insights from his book, *Black Founder*, and reflects on the lessons he’s learned throughout his multifaceted career. Memorable Quotes “If you’re going to be an app, you need to own an activity. Once I heard that, it changed everything.” “We increased moviegoing by 111% month over month. It’s all about creating a habit.” “There’s a language to funding. They speak their own language. You need to know how to get in that person’s mind quick.” “Our job is to help streamline that friction and extend the life of smaller films.” “You don’t want to build with a million customers; you want to get your kinks worked out with a community that’s very forgiving.” The post Stacy Spikes appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

Episode Overview Heather Wagner Reed is a force to be reckoned with in the world of PR. We caught up with her at 77 Degrees in North Austin over some tropical tiki drinks to hear about her journey from working as Beyoncé’s right hand to founding her own boutique agency, Juice Consulting. Heather dives deep into the essence of community engagement, the power of storytelling, and the strategic alliances that have fueled her 17 years of success. With anecdotes from her career and insights into the PR industry, Heather shares the challenges and rewards of managing a boutique agency. She emphasizes the importance of understanding each client’s unique story and translating it into a compelling narrative. This conversation is packed with energy and valuable lessons for anyone interested in the art of PR and marketing. Notable Quotes “It’s all about understanding the unique story behind each client and translating that into a compelling narrative.” “Community engagement isn’t just a strategy; it’s the heart of successful PR and marketing.” “From Beyoncé’s right hand to my own agency, it’s been an incredible ride filled with learning and growth.” “Connecting people and creating those ‘million dollar meetings’ is what truly excites me.” The post Heather Wagner Reed appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

Episode Overview: Anthony Armendariz has spent decades mastering the art and science of digital design. Starting his journey in the ’90s, Anthony transitioned from straightforward browser design and Flash to leading his own agency, Fun Size, in Austin, Teaxas. Fun Size has become a beacon of innovation in digital product design, adapting to the ever-changing technological landscape while maintaining a focus on creating exceptional user experiences. In our conversation at the Austin bar Long Play, where we enjoyed beers and margaritas, Anthony shared his insights into the evolution of digital design, the challenges of running a successful agency, and his latest venture into AI technology. His story is one of continuous learning, adaptability, and a deep passion for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the digital world. Quotes: “The tools we use today are vastly different from the ones we started with, but the principles of good design remain the same.” “At Fun Size, our focus has always been on creating exceptional user experiences that solve real problems.” “AI offers an incredible opportunity to tailor digital experiences to individual users in ways we never imagined before.” “Working with people you trust and who bring different perspectives to the table is crucial for any creative endeavor.” The post Anthony Armendariz appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

Episode Summary Caren Kelleher, the founder of Gold Rush Vinyl in Austin, TX, has had a remarkable journey through the music industry. Starting her career at Paste Magazine, Caren quickly dove into the business side of music, gaining a deep understanding of the industry’s intricacies. Her path led her to tech roles, including a significant position at Google where she managed the Artist Hub platform, enabling artists to upload their music directly to Google Play. Caren’s commitment to supporting artists remained unwavering, ultimately inspiring her to establish Gold Rush Vinyl. Her pressing plant is dedicated to independent musicians, providing them a vital revenue stream through vinyl records. Caren’s story is a blend of professional milestones and personal growth, marked by pivotal moments that shaped her career. Moving to Austin and founding Gold Rush Vinyl was a bold move driven by her vision of the vinyl market’s potential and a strong desire to help artists earn more from their music. Her innovative approach at Gold Rush Vinyl includes traditional vinyl pressing and the upcycling of damaged vinyl into new products, emphasizing sustainability and creativity. This episode explores the challenges Caren faced, the insights she gained, and her future vision for vinyl and the music industry. Quotes “When you’re on the road and you’re selling vinyl or t-shirts or whatever, but especially vinyl, that’s cash in your pocket.” “We work for independent artists specifically… Vinyl makes artists a lot of money.” “I started managing bands… seeing the royalty statements coming from streaming… it could be six months before the artist got paid.” “To see artists hold their own vinyl for the first time, it’s an emotional moment where they truly feel like they’ve made it.” The post Caren Kelleher appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

Episode Summary: David Dylan Thomas, an expert in cognitive bias and user experience, joins us to discuss his multifaceted career and unique insights into the intersection of technology and ethics. David’s journey began in the indie film scene, where he discovered the transformative potential of the internet, leading him to pivot towards UX and content strategy. He has worked extensively in applying cognitive biases to create ethical and inclusive products, making him a sought-after speaker and author of the book “Design for Cognitive Bias.” Throughout our conversation, David emphasized the importance of participatory design and involving users in the design process to create more effective and well-received products. He also highlighted how understanding business strategies is critical for driving successful UX and content initiatives. David’s storytelling prowess was evident as he shared examples from his career, illustrating how specificity in storytelling enhances audience connection, whether in films or UX work. Quotes: “I think the criteria on which we judge a family is no longer, ‘mother, father, two kids in one home’. We’re hopefully starting to look at more meaningful criteria for a healthy family.” “We were the first generation to really get into that chosen found family thing. And that becomes a criterion for how we want our families to be.” “Specificity not only matters but is beneficial. You’re actually more likely to succeed in that product way of people liking it, enjoying it, whatever.” “The best bet is still on the specific, whether you’re paying ten bucks for it or a hundred million dollars for it.” “When money gets involved, how much does it start to shift more towards being a product and needing to answer these denominators?” The post David Dylan Thomas appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

Episode Summary: Adam Roberts, also known as The Amateur Gourmet, shares his remarkable journey from an unfulfilled law student to a celebrated food blogger, TV writer, and now a novelist. His blog, which began as an escape from law school, quickly gained popularity due to Adam’s creative approach, including writing songs about food and hosting quirky contests. This unique content set his blog apart and opened doors to various opportunities, such as writing cookbooks and TV scripts. Despite exploring different ventures, Adam’s passion for food and storytelling remained constant, ultimately driving him back to blogging with renewed enthusiasm. In this episode, we enjoyed Hendricks and tonics while diving into Adam’s career transitions and the evolution of his blog. Key moments include how writing songs about food helped set his blog apart, when his creative endeavors led to TV writing opportunities, and how he maintained his passion for food through it all. Adam’s story is a testament to following one’s passion and staying resilient in the face of change. Quotes: “I started a food blog as a way to document my culinary failures and successes, and it ended up opening so many doors for me.” “Writing songs about food and creating quirky content made my blog stand out in the crowded food blogging space.” “Moving to LA and getting into TV writing was an unexpected turn, but it taught me so much about storytelling.” “Coming back to blogging felt like returning to my roots, and it reminded me of why I started this journey in the first place.” The post Adam Roberts appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

Episode Summary: Tara Heath’s journey with Boston Beer Company is a testament to dedication, adaptability, and lifelong learning. Starting as a temp, Tara now holds the title of Chief Legal Officer at one of America’s most iconic breweries. Her career spans nearly three decades, during which she has navigated the complexities of the legal landscape in a highly regulated industry while also contributing to the company’s strategic growth and innovation. Recorded at the Samuel Adams Tap Room in downtown Boston, this episode  captures the essence of Tara’s professional evolution. She reflects on her unexpected path from a temp job to a pivotal leadership role, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities and continuous education. Tara discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by AI integration and social media in the alcohol industry, offering a glimpse into the legal and operational intricacies involved. Tara also shares the story behind Boston Beer’s successful pivots into non-beer products like Twisted Tea and Truly, illustrating the company’s innovative spirit and ability to adapt to market trends. She delves into the strategic acquisitions of brands like Dogfish Head, highlighting the cultural and operational synergies that drive such decisions. The impact of COVID-19 on Boston Beer’s operations and the company’s agile response further underscores the resilience and entrepreneurial mindset that define Boston Beer. Additionally, Tara’s involvement in establishing the company’s tap rooms showcases her ability to manage complex projects and navigate building regulations, adding another layer to her multifaceted career. Key Takeaways Integrating AI into company operations involves significant challenges, particularly in protecting sensitive information and trade secrets. Quotes “I started at Boston Beer as a temp job and ended up staying for almost 30 years.” “AI in the beer industry is fascinating but comes with its own set of challenges, especially in protecting our trade secrets.” “Navigating social media as an alcohol company is like walking a tightrope; we have to be very careful about our audience.” “The support I received from Boston Beer to pursue my MBA and law degree was crucial to my career development.” “Our success in quickly pivoting to products like Truly and Twisted Tea highlights our innovative spirit.” The post Tara Heath appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

Episode Summary Jimmy Tingle, legendary comedian known for his sharp political humor and reflective one-man shows, takes us through his comedic journey from the vibrant 80s Boston comedy scene to his current autobiographical performances. He shares insights on the evolution of political comedy, how Martin Luther King Jr.’s writings influenced his perspective, and the impact of sobriety on his life and career. Jimmy also delves into the challenges of running for political office and the importance of authenticity in his work. Join us for an insightful and humorous look into the life of a comedian who has continually evolved and inspired through his unique blend of humor and reflection. Quotes “The issues that we talk about today are so much more complex and so much darker. The intensity of the media and the availability of information was nowhere near what it is now.” “Listening to his tapes, he was doing a much bigger thing, obviously. He was talking about world events, but he was also using the power of religion and the relationship with a god.” “The reason I wanted to do an autobiographical show is it’s the only thing I’m kind of sure of. It was easier to just process it, you know?” “Running for elected office is hard. How many moving parts, and how much, how many people you need to answer to, and how responsible you have to be.” “When I quit drinking in the 80s, that was a big spiritual influence. Asking God to help me quit drinking was like something that I was doing on a daily basis.” The post Jimmy Tingle appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

Episode Summary In this episode, Meghan O’Keefe discusses her journey from aspiring comedian to becoming a prominent figure in digital media at The New York Post’s Decider.com. Over Hendrick’s and Tonics, Meghan reflects on her early days in the comedy scene in New York, her transition into entertainment journalism, and her current role where she influences how streaming content is perceived and reviewed. The episode delves into the nuances of media and comedy, exploring how Meghan’s personal experiences shaped her career path. She candidly discusses the challenges of finding her voice in a male-dominated industry and how her shift from comedy to journalism led to a more fulfilling career. This conversation not only highlights her professional evolution but also touches on broader themes of media influence, personal growth, and the unpredictable yet rewarding nature of creative careers. Quotes: “I was really depressed and then when I finally started to get stuff together, I went back into comedy a bit. I started getting more confident in Boston. It’s kind of making me want to die. And not only that, but I’m seeing friends get big breaks and they don’t seem happier.” “I always loved writing of any kind. And this, I was just really struggling and as I was starting to get like, you know, when Mark was coming to me with the cider at the same time, someone else was trying to get me for their site. And I started to realize, Hey, this entertainment journalism thing I like, and I’m good at it and doors are opening.” “The advice I try to give to like, the interns we talk to at Decider is like, you’re so young and your life ahead of you and if anything I’ve learned from my meandering path is that you should be open for the idea that your dream could change.”   The post Meghan O’Keefe appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

In this lively episode, Tyler Balliet shares insights from his extensive experience in the wine industry, highlighting his unconventional approach to wine education and his journey as an entrepreneur. He describes his latest venture, a comprehensive wine guide titled “Rebel School of Wine,” which aims to demystify the wine experience. Tyler emphasizes the importance of providing context rather than jargon, making wine more accessible and enjoyable. His narrative is filled with anecdotes about his friend Joel’s innovative winery in Sonoma, the influence of celebrities like Eric Wareheim on wine marketing, and the evolution of wine distribution and consumption. Throughout the conversation, Tyler reflects on the evolution of the wine industry, contrasting traditional and modern approaches to wine marketing and education. He critiques the standard wine descriptions that dominate the industry, advocating for a more relatable and engaging method that focuses on storytelling and the historical and cultural context of wine. This approach is evident in his book, where he includes 450 illustrations to visually capture the essence of wine regions and types. Tyler also discusses the challenges and triumphs of his entrepreneurial endeavors, particularly with his event series, Wine Riot, and his transition into publishing with “Rebel School of Wine.” He shares personal stories of starting out in the wine industry, the trials of adapting to digital marketing, and his philosophy on making wine education fun and accessible. His candid reflections reveal a deep passion for wine and a dedication to innovating how it’s shared with the world. Quotes: 1. “Instead of like, every other wine book is like, Mmm, the strawberries and the boysenberries. And for me, like, what things smell like or taste like… the flavors and aromas is like the least interesting part.” 2. “I think we’re talking about wine all wrong. I don’t think consumers need to actually learn anything to enjoy it.” 3. “Understanding wine really kind of like makes the experience better… if you can drink something that you feel confident about. From a science perspective, actually, it makes it taste better.”     The post Tyler Balliet appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

**Summary:** In this compelling episode of “Story in a Bottle,” host Dan Maccarone welcomes Susan Rinkunas, a seasoned journalist with deep expertise in women’s health and reproductive rights, for a thoughtful discussion over Michter’s Old Fashioneds. Susan recounts her professional journey through the ever-evolving media landscape, from her early days at Runner’s World to her significant work at Jezebel and Vice Media, where she tackled complex topics such as reproductive rights and health policy. She shares personal anecdotes about the instability and challenges of freelance journalism, especially during pivotal moments like the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg and subsequent shifts in abortion legislation. The conversation takes a deeper dive into the intricacies of media operations and editorial decisions that impact content quality and journalistic freedom. Susan discusses her transitions between major media outlets, shedding light on the effects of corporate ownership and private equity on editorial content and the overall health of media organizations. Her stories highlight the tension between financial objectives and the journalistic mission to report truthfully and ethically. Susan and Dan discuss the future of journalism, touching on the growing prevalence of digital platforms and the challenges they present, such as the impact of paywalls, the ethical concerns around AI-generated content, and strategies for sustaining quality journalism in a changing economic landscape. This rich dialogue not only offers insights into Susan’s career but also explores broader questions about the direction of media and journalism. The post Susan Rinkunas appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

About the Guest(s): Jessica Coen is an accomplished media executive with extensive experience in the digital journalism landscape. Growing up in a media-heavy household, Cohen’s passion for journalism was sparked at a young age, leading her to ultimately pursue a career in the field. She has held various editorial positions, including her early role as editor of Gawker and later endeavours at Vanity Fair and New York Magazine. Cohen is known for her innovative approach to journalism, especially her successful pursuit of video storytelling to engage audiences. In her current role, she’s focusing on reaching younger demographics through political news video content at the Recount. Episode Summary: In this episode of Story in a Bottle, host Dan Maccarone delves deep into the world of journalism with media expert Jessica Cohen. The conversation unfolds over a Hendrix gin and tonic, discussing Cohen’s journey from her Detroit roots to the forefront of digital news. Jessica shares her early encounters with journalism, transitioning from a die-hard reader to an influential media personality. She reflects on her decision to forgo journalism school for real-world experience at Gawker, establishing a candid voice that resonated with a large audience. Her career is a testament to navigating the ebbs and flows of tech, media, and entertainment, especially as she spearheaded the launch of Jezebel and influenced the growth of Mashable. Key points in the discussion include the evolution of news consumption, the impact of social media on public engagement, and the role of video in reaching younger demographics. Cohen emphasizes the importance of relatable content and the necessity of adapting to the viewer’s needs in a rapidly changing media environment. Notable Quotes: “If you’re passionate about getting information to audiences, you should be on video.” “It’s about the actual issue at hand, whether it’s funding for Ukraine or woman’s reproductive rights or censorship in schools.” “Journalism has to kind of follow the lessons of the creator economy.” “What does this election really mean? Like, let’s really talk about what these platforms are.” “The quickest way you fall off your high horse is when you have to do the layoffs.” Resources: Tune into the full episode to hear Jessica Cohen’s inspiring story and gain deeper insights into the evolving landscape of journalism. Stay engaged with compelling discussions on Story and a Bottle for more perspectives from leading voices in tech, media, and entertainment.   The post Jessica Coen appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

Mike Wystrach is a seasoned entrepreneur with a diverse background in the food and tech industries. Growing up in southern Arizona on a ranch with family ventures ranging from the restaurant business to veterinary care, Mike has a wealth of experience in managing and growing businesses. As a founder of Freshly, a food delivery company, Mike led the venture to great success, exiting to Nestlé after experiencing rapid growth and scale. With a passion for innovative solutions, he’s now taking on the veterinary care sector with Petfolk, aiming to revolutionize the industry through technology and customer-centric care. Episode Summary: In this captivating episode of Story in a Bottle, host Dan Maccarone sits down with Mike Wystrach over a pint of Guinness to discuss the trials and triumphs of entrepreneurship. Mike opens up about his journey from a family-run restaurant to founding Freshly and his current venture, Petfolk. This conversation reveals the raw and real path to success that is often peppered with uncertainties and challenges, contrasting the typical narrative of overnight achievements. Mike shares key insights into how solving personal problems led to the creation of businesses that resonated with consumers. From starting Freshly in the midst of economic turmoil with just $15 in his bank account, to the eventual sale of the business to Nestlé, Mike’s story is one of determination, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of visions that others may not immediately see. Notable Quotes: “One of the keys to my success has always been kind of scratching my own itch.” – Mike Wystrach “I always have fun on things that I think why does this not exist? Like, why does this not exist? And those are always the funnest things for me to create and build and do.” – Mike Wystrach “I wasn’t the expert on things. I’m a quick learner… generally can learn complex things fairly quickly. But I’m nowhere near a vet.” – Mike Wystrach discussing the start of Petfolk “We’re like the hair club for men commercial where the guy says, I’m not only the president I’m the first customer… I generally look at myself as the CEO, the first customer.” – Mike Wystrach The post Mike Wystrach appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

Grab a drink and join the laughter as Roy Wood Jr. shares his remarkable evolution from a journalism student to a comedy connoisseur. Roy doesn’t hold back, offering an insider’s look at The Daily Show’s dynamic post-Trevor Noah, and giving us the lowdown on his decision to branch out creatively. Roy divulges the trials and tribulations of merging comedy with sports commentary at ESPN, and you might just find yourself nodding in agreement with his candid reflections on the necessity of staying true to one’s voice while serving up satire that cuts to the core of social issues. Roy’s journey is more than just punchlines; it’s a masterclass in personal growth and comedic finesse. He traces his roots from Birmingham’s comedy clubs to the glittering lights of LA and New York, spilling the beans on how the cities’ comedy communities differ in their camaraderie and competition. Roy doesn’t shy away from the gritty details, highlighting the peaks and pitfalls of navigating the stand-up scene, comedy competitions, and the elusive dream of sitcom stardom. His anecdotes are not only a testament to his resilience but also a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to crack the code of the comedy business. Ever wondered how to tread the tightrope of humor in sports and politics without falling off? Roy’s got you covered. He uncovers the delicate art of delivering jokes that resonate with fans and foes alike, and the unique challenges that come with each territory. From athletes’ sensitive egos to the battlefield of political satire, Roy examines how to craft comedy that’s both intelligent and impactful. So pull up a chair, because this episode isn’t just entertaining—it’s an enlightening glimpse into the mind of a comic genius who masterfully balances the weight of words with the levity of laughter. The post Roy Wood Jr appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

About the Guest(s): Sang Yoon is a renowned chef and restaurateur known for achieving the venerable status of a celebrity chef. With an impressive career trajectory in the restaurant industry, Sang has worked under culinary legends such as Alain Ducasse and Wolfgang Puck. He gained widespread acclaim for creating what has been called the country’s best burger and participated in the culinary competition of “Top Chef Masters.” Currently, Sang Yoon is eagerly anticipating the opening of his new establishment, the Helms Bakery, a project close to a decade in making. Episode Summary: In this episode of Story and a Bottle, host Dan Maccarone uncovers the journey of chef Sang Yoon, whose reputation in the culinary world is marked by both his exceptional skill and tenacity. Despite his accomplishments, Sang approaches his latest venture, the Helms Bakery, with a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation. This conversation delves into the multifaceted aspects of running a successful dining establishment while balancing personal growth and creativity. Chef Sang Yoon reminisces about his start in the culinary world, including his formative years in France and his experiences working in high-pressure environments. He discusses his transition from fine dining to the gastropub scene with Father’s Office, a move that redefined casual dining in Los Angeles. The narrative also touches on his stint on “Top Chef Masters,” revealing the unexpected challenges and adrenaline-fueled moments on the show. Sang Yoon reflects on the rigorous training and discipline that shaped his culinary philosophy. The opening of Helms Bakery presents an opportunity for Sang to explore new culinary territories, including breakfast and pastry. Yoon shares insights into the unpredictable nature of the restaurant business, shaped by external forces such as natural disasters. His foray into “Top Chef Masters” pushes him out of his comfort zone, highlighting the difference between being a chef and a competitive cook. Notable Quotes: “I think I’m in the business of expression, using food as a medium to express myself.” “There’s quite a bit of history, and I’m excited to bring back a piece of history.” “I’ve never actually served a single breakfast. So this is my first.” “You go into this business and industry knowing you can’t please everyone.” “You know you’ve had people yell at you…what’s gonna happen, it’s like, okay.” Resources: Follow Sang Yoon on his gastronomic journey and catch up on his culinary insights and upcoming ventures through potential platforms such as the Father’s Office website or his social media profiles (not directly mentioned in the transcript). Tune in to the full episode to immerse yourself in Sang Yoon’s compelling narrative and stay connected for more episodes that unveil the personal stories of living legends in tech, media, and entertainment through Story and a Bottle.     The post Sang Yoon appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

About the Guest(s): Lauren Tousignant is a seasoned journalist with a robust digital and print media background. Her career trajectory took her through various media landscapes, from her early aspirations of writing for a fashion magazine to tackling major societal issues. Notably, she served as the editor of Jezebel, a publication focused on female-oriented content with an unapologetic and candid approach. Lauren guided the publication through significant challenges during her tenure, including a shutdown and subsequent resurrection. Her work is characterized by a fearless willingness to tackle controversial topics and a deep commitment to shedding light on underreported issues. Episode Summary: In this revealing episode of Story and a Bottle, host Dan Maccarone sits down with Lauren Tousignant, the tenacious editor of Jezebel, to unpack her fascinating journey through the ever-tumultuous media industry. While sipping on Aperol Spritzes, they delve into the controversial shutdown of Jezebel and the rollercoaster ride leading to its revival under Paste magazine. From the onset, Lauren’s storytelling illuminates the inner workings of a media company on the brink. Her recount of the days at Jezebel, the challenges of aligning journalistic integrity with profitability, and the painful yet transformative experience of the publication crumbling and rising anew capture a microcosm of today’s digital media landscape. The conversation is enriched with Lauren’s anecdotes, reflecting on early career aspirations, navigating the industry’s highs and lows, and cementing her martini order as a rite of adulthood. The episode commemorates journalistic resilience and the relentless pursuit of a publication’s soul despite its existential threats. Lauren articulately discusses how, amid these tribulations, Jezebel’s voice became more crucial than ever, significantly as political landscapes shifted. The dialogue transitions into an explorative discourse on the roles of journalism and objectivity. It is a timely reminder of the importance of storytelling that doesn’t shy away from taking a stance – a theme of Lauren’s professional evolution and belief system. As evidenced by Lauren’s poignant reflections and Dan’s engaging narrative style, this episode is a testament to the vitality and indispensability of voices like Jezebel in an era where media narratives shape public consciousness and societal action. Notable Quotes: “I was a little disruptive, but I was a great writer.” “I do not think anyone writing in college should publish anything on the Internet.” “I don’t think there needs to be objectivity with those things (abortion and reproductive rights).” “It does feel weird because I kind of was like, this was not. I don’t know, I just was. It was, yeah, it was a very bizarre feeling.” “We cannot have the Comstock act. Just…That’s the first thing I was like, we need to write about the Comstock act every single day.” Resources: Jezebel’s Website We encourage our audience to listen to the full episode for an authentic and informative conversation that provides insights into journalistic integrity and media challenges. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from Story and a Bottle.   The post Lauren Tousignant – The Role of Journalism: Reporting the Facts or Telling the Story appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

About the Guest: Nolan Bushnell is a pioneering figure in the technology and gaming industry, with a career marked by innovation and entrepreneurship. As the founder of Atari and the creator of Pong, Bushnell revolutionized arcade and video games in the 1970s. His entrepreneurial spirit manifested early, as he sold strawberries and created a “shocker” toy during his childhood. Bushnell has not stopped innovating, with his career spanning the creation of Chuck E. Cheese’s, involvement in various tech start-ups, and now, shifting his focus to the intersection of education and gaming through his latest venture, Exodexa. Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of Story in a Bottle, host Dan Maccarone interviews Nolan Bushnell, known for his groundbreaking work with Atari and Chuck E. Cheese. In an intimate conversation over glasses of Chardonnay, Nolan retraces his journey from his earliest entrepreneurial ventures to the world of amusement parks and gaming, shedding light on how these experiences have influenced his current endeavors. The episode delves into Nolan’s philosophy on innovation, education, and fatherhood. Nolan Bushnell reflects on how selling strawberries as a kid kickstarted his entrepreneurial mindset, leading to a lifetime of creativity and business acumen. This episode also explores Bushnell’s transition from Atari to Chuck E. Cheese and his perspective on educating through games. Through engaging storytelling, Nolan shares his vision for reshaping education via gamification, emphasizing the impact of immersive learning experiences through platforms like VR. Notable Quotes: “Selling strawberries as a kid taught me that as an entrepreneur, you can make more money than selling your time.” – Nolan Bushnell “Life isn’t unconditional. So the father’s job is to provide conditional love…to help kids transition from childhood to adulthood because the world doesn’t care about you in general.” – Nolan Bushnell “There’s a theory that kids who grow up in fatherless homes may have a harder time transitioning to adulthood because they don’t learn that there are consequences in life.” – Nolan Bushnell “I’ve described my life as a series of happy accidents… from selling strawberries to playing with ham radios.” – Nolan Bushnell “Engagement is when you have a problem that is right-sized, not too hard, not too easy, just right. That’s when you enter the state of flow.” – Nolan Bushnell Resources: Nolan Bushnell’s book, “Shaping the Future of Education,” briefly discussed in the episode. Official websites and social media handles of Nolan Bushnell and his projects, were not clearly specified in the transcript. Tune into the full episode to witness the wisdom Nolan Bushnell imparts through the lens of gaming history and innovative thought. Stay connected for more intriguing conversations that delve deep into the stories behind prominent figures in tech, media, and entertainment. The post Nolan Bushnell Happy Accidents appeared first on Story in a Bottle.

About the Guest(s): Alexa von Tobel is a highly-driven founder and financial expert best known for her pioneering work in the financial technology sector. She’s the founder and former CEO of Learnvest, a personal finance company that was acquired by Northwestern Mutual. Alexa’s relentless pursuit to make financial understanding accessible has led her to author several books, including “Financially Fearless” and a kid’s book, “Rebel Girls: Money Matters.” Her latest endeavor, Inspired Capital, finds her on the venture capital scene, investing in other innovative founders with big ideas. Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of Story in a Bottle, host Dan Maccarone engages with Alexa von Tobel over several glasses of Chardonnay. Alexa dives into her journey from art-fencing entrepreneur as a child to revolutionizing personal finance with Learnvest. The conversation provides a raw look at the trials and tribulations of standing up a disruptive fintech startup and the road leading to its eventual acquisition. Alexa also discusses the inception of her venture fund, Inspired Capital, which focuses on early-stage, generalist investments. From discussing the success and mindset required to back transformative ventures to understanding the intricates of raising a venture fund, the episode is a treasure trove of experiences. With marriage-like mergers and the significance of education in finance, Alexa outlines a life dedicated to impact. Notable Quotes: “Learnvest, I really love investing my core. I am somebody who is really thoughtful about how do we make great financial decisions.” “I think social media is the one that’s, like, a third rail for us. And so there’s this great professor at NYU, Jonathan Hate, who’s talking all about the impacts, like, the data-driven impacts.” “It’s New York City. And so I love to think, know, New York City is an underdog. We’re in so many ways a capital of the.” “I became a certified financial planner. I was like, if I’m going to do this, I got to do it right.” Resources: Alexa von Tobel’s book: “Financially Fearless” Her book focussed on tech and finance: “Financially Forward” Kid’s book on financial literacy: “Rebel Girls: Money Matters” Tune in to the full episode to hear the complete narrative of Alexa von Tobel’s entrepreneurial journey and her insightful views on investing and finance. Be sure to catch more episodes from Story in a Bottle for compelling conversations with leading voices in tech, media, and entertainment.   The post Alexa von Tobel appeared first on Story in a Bottle.