Pod Around & Find Out

Pod Around & Find Out

Connecting with Jeff Greenspan: A Creative Journey

Welcome back to PodAround and Find Out! Today, I had the pleasure of chatting with Jeff Greenspan, a multi-talented individual with a diverse background in creative endeavors. From his work as the chief creative officer for BuzzFeed to his current passion for stand-up comedy, Jeff has had a fascinating journey through the worlds of music, advertising, and comedy.

Early Exposure to the Music Industry

Jeff's creative journey began at a young age when he landed an internship at IRS Records, a renowned music label. At the label, Jeff had the opportunity to work closely with bands like Concrete Blonde and gain backstage access to some of the most iconic shows of the time. This early exposure to the music industry served as a formative experience for Jeff and sparked his passion for supporting artists and creative expression.

Discovering a Passion for Creativity

Growing up in the 70s, Jeff's creative inclinations were often seen as a sign of being a "problem child." However, it wasn't until his time at WLIR and WDRE, where he interned and wrote promotional spots for the radio station, that Jeff's creative talents were recognized and nurtured. This experience laid the foundation for his future endeavors in advertising and comedy.

Transitioning to Advertising and Comedy

Following his time in the music industry, Jeff's career took a turn towards advertising, where he honed his skills as a creative strategist for Facebook and contributed writing to major publications. However, it was his foray into stand-up comedy that truly allowed Jeff to fully express his creative talents.

Navigating the World of Stand-Up Comedy

As Jeff delved into the world of stand-up comedy, he found himself grappling with the challenges of finding his comedic voice and navigating the diverse landscape of comedy clubs. Despite the hurdles, Jeff's dedication to the craft and his commitment to continuous growth have propelled him forward in his comedic journey.

Embracing Creativity in All Forms

Throughout his creative journey, Jeff has embraced various forms of expression, from writing ad campaigns to performing stand-up comedy. His experiences in the music, advertising, and comedy industries have shaped his unique perspective and fueled his passion for creativity.

Looking Ahead

As Jeff continues to pursue his creative endeavors, his focus remains on refining his craft in stand-up comedy and exploring the intersection of art and activism. With a wealth of experience and a keen eye for cultural relevance, Jeff's creative journey is a testament to the power of artistic expression and the impact it can have on the world.

In conclusion, Jeff Greenspan's creative journey has been a testament to the transformative power of art and the impact it can have on individuals and communities. From his early days in the music industry to his current pursuits in stand-up comedy, Jeff's dedication to creativity serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and creatives.

Connect with Jeff Greenspan

To stay updated on Jeff's creative endeavors, you can visit his website at That Guy I Met and follow him on social media. Additionally, be sure to catch his stand-up performances and keep an eye out for his upcoming projects in the world of comedy.

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In this episode, we're diving into a candid conversation between two friends, John and the Scott. They discuss their experiences with depression, the challenges of managing a podcast, and the frustrations of working with professionals who don't meet expectations.

The Struggles of Managing a Podcast:

• John shares his struggles with managing his podcast, Dystopia Tonight. He talks about the challenges of finding the right management and editing support.
• The conversation delves into the frustrations of working with professionals who don't meet expectations and the difficulties of finding reliable and creative editors.

Navigating Depression:

• Both John and the host open up about their experiences with depression and how it affects their work and personal lives.
• They discuss the challenges of managing their mental health while navigating the demands of their careers and creative projects.

The Search for Reliable Support:

• The conversation highlights the importance of finding reliable and creative support for podcast editing and production.
• John shares his experiences with using Opus Clip for video editing and the challenges he faced with the platform's functionality.

New Insights on Mental Health:

• The conversation touches on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on artists and the struggles of conducting research and interviews during this time.

Finding Joy in Music:

• John and Scott share their love for music and discuss their current favorite bands and artists.
• They talk about finding comfort in music and exploring new genres and artists to uplift their spirits.

This candid conversation sheds light on the challenges of managing a podcast, navigating mental health struggles, finding reliable support in the creative industry, and exploring new insights in the music industry. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, it's important to seek out support and keep pushing forward.

Check Out Dystopia Tonight

Check Out John's Website

Check Out Duppet (Especially if you're depressed)

Pod Around & Find Out

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Get ready for Pod Around & Find Out coming in January 2024!

Hi it’s Scott Curtis host of Pod Around & Find Out. Pod Around and Find Out is launching in January of 2024 and will be a show where I talk to artists, folks involved in science, and entertainers. I might even throw some activists into the mix.

I’ll be talking to people who inspired me and I think will inspire you.

So, get ready for talks with musicians, comedians, podcast hosts, poets, actors, authors and much more.

I also want to build a community where you can be heard. Do you have a story that you think will inspire others? Are you doing great things in your community. Or are you weirdo who nobody else will listen to? Well, Pod Around & Find Out is for you because I will talk to regular or irregular people just like you and me for that matter.

Hit that subscribe button on your favorite podcast app and shoot me an email to [email protected] if you’d like to be a guest. Look up pod around & find out on your favorite social media and give us a follow to see what’s coming up and get lots of extra info about my guests.

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In this first episode, I want to give you a glimpse into what this podcast is all about. There are several facets to the show, and I'm going to keep them separate so that you can choose what interests you the most. Let's dive in and explore the different aspects of Pod Around and Find Out.

Interviews: Connecting with Inspirational Individuals

The first facet of Pod Around and Find Out is the interviews. These interviews will feature a wide range of individuals who have made a positive difference in my life or the lives of others. From old friends to fellow podcast hosts, activists, and artists, I'll be engaging in conversations that inspire and enlighten. Most of the artists I bring on the show will be from the music industry or authors, as music and books have played a significant role in shaping my life. Get ready to join me as I reconnect with those who have been a part of the soundtrack of my life and the bookshelf of my mind for the past 59 years.

Stand-Up Comedy: A Journey of Laughter

Now, let's talk about my stand-up comedy journey. Yes, I know, the word "journey" may be overused and cliché, but it perfectly captures the ups and downs of this comedic pursuit. I started doing stand-up almost 8 years ago, and I've had my fair share of jumping in and out of the scene. The challenge with stand-up comedy is that it's not like riding a bike. If you take a break for more than a couple of weeks, you lose your performance abilities. Your timing, stage presence, and even your memory of your act diminish. However, I love performing, and with this podcast beginning in 2024, I've made a resolution to focus on my stand-up comedy. I'll be sharing my experiences, from open mic nights to asking for show opportunities, and even traveling to perform. Additionally, I'll be more supportive of my local comedy community in Huntsville. Join me as I embark on this comedy adventure, documenting my progress and sharing the laughter along the way.

Overcoming Depression: A Personal Journey

Lastly, but certainly not least, I want to address a topic that holds great significance in my life - depression. I've battled with depression for as long as I can remember. Some may argue that I'm not "suffering" from depression, but rather "living" with it. However, I disagree. Depression has caused immense suffering, and if I didn't have it, I know I would be living a much better life. In 2023, my struggle with depression reached its peak, and I became a mere shell of myself. For about 9 months, I barely functioned, escaping into binge-watching shows until the early hours of the morning and sleeping excessively. Finally, I decided to seek help from my doctor, adjust my medication, and start therapy. While these steps have contributed to my overall improvement, I still have a long way to go. Throughout this podcast, I'll be sharing my experiences of getting better, setbacks, and maintaining stability. I'll also provide insights into the strategies and practices that have aided my recovery. Join me as we navigate the complexities of mental health and find solace in shared stories.

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Pod Around & Find Out Website

Mike's Infectious Enthusiasm

Mike's enthusiasm for his work is truly infectious. He brings a childlike joy and exuberance to every episode of his show. It's evident in the way he connects with his guests and the genuine appreciation he shows for them. Mike's enthusiasm is not only inspiring, but it also sets him apart as a host.

The Power of Curiosity

Mike attributes his curiosity to his upbringing and the need to diffuse his father's anger. By asking questions and showing genuine interest, Mike was able to navigate difficult situations and build connections with others. This curiosity has carried over into his podcasting career, where he engages with his guests in meaningful conversations.

Self-Examination and Growth

Both Mike and Scott discuss the importance of self-examination and personal growth. They reflect on their past experiences and the traits they inherited from their parents. They recognize the need to break free from negative patterns and choose a different path. Through personal development and a commitment to change, they have both found ways to overcome challenges and become better versions of themselves.

The Outlier Mentality

Mike and Scott share a common trait of being outliers. They don't conform to societal norms and have a unique perspective on life. This outsider mentality has shaped their interests and passions, such as their love for indie music and their admiration for David Letterman. They find inspiration in individuals who stay true to themselves and make a meaningful impact on others.

The Journey of Personal Development

Both Mike and Scott have embarked on a journey of personal development. They have read books, sought self-improvement, and explored their own emotions and behaviors. Through this process, they have gained valuable insights and learned to navigate challenging situations with empathy and understanding.

The Power of Empathy

Empathy plays a crucial role in their personal growth and in their interactions with others. By putting themselves in someone else's shoes and seeking to understand their perspective, they can diffuse conflicts and build stronger relationships. It's a skill they continue to develop and apply in their daily lives.

The Wrestling Connection

In their conversation, Mike and Scott discuss the similarities between the comedy and wrestling scenes. They highlight the importance of connecting with the audience, honing one's craft, and navigating the unique challenges of their respective industries. They find inspiration in the passion and dedication of wrestlers and comedians alike.

The Importance of Connection

Mike emphasizes the importance of connection in his life and how it has helped him overcome anxiety and depression. He shares his experience with his wife's mental wellness app, He Changed It, and how it has brought him closer to others. Mike believes that finding something that lights you up and connecting with others who share that passion is the secret to a fulfilling life.

Check Out The LetterMan Podcast Here!

And Here!

Dude! The Facebook Page is Here!

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