Press Record with Kellan Reck

PHIL HATES GLUTEN: Gluten Free Lifestyle, Full-Time Content Creation, and Navigating Social Media Today

In this  episode, we sit down with Phil Hates Gluten, a content creator specializing in gluten-free food. Phil shares his journey of being diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis (EOE) and how it led him to adopt a gluten-free and dairy-free lifestyle. He transitioned from a sales career to full-time content creation, focusing on raising awareness about EOE and the gluten-free lifestyle. Phil offers advice to aspiring creators, emphasizing the importance of starting immediately and finding joy in the process.  Find Phil Online: * Phil Hates Gluten - https://www.instagram.com/philhatesgluten/?hl=en * Phil Hates Gluten on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/PhilHatesGluten * Phil Got Fits - https://www.tiktok.com/@philgotfits?lang=en Timestamps Diagnosis and Lifestyle Change (00:01:49) Phil's diagnosis with eosinophilic esophagitis, the impact on his life, and the transition to a gluten-free and dairy-free lifestyle. Content Creation Journey (00:05:12) Phil's evolution from reviewing gluten-free beers to creating entertaining and relatable content in the gluten-free niche. Understanding Eosinophilic Esophagitis (00:07:18) Phil explains eosinophilic esophagitis (EOE) and its differences from celiac disease and food allergies. Raising Awareness (00:12:48) The impact of creating content on raising awareness about EOE and the importance of spreading knowledge. Transition from Corporate to Content Creation (00:13:44) Phil's professional background, transition from sales to content creation, and the role of creativity in his life. Making Videos for Family (00:17:09) Discussion on making videos for personal entertainment and the joy of creating content for family and friends. Living Two Lives (00:23:08) The unique feeling of living two separate lives: work life and creator life, and the challenges of managing both. Creating an Online Persona (00:25:33) The concept of an online persona and the disconnect between the creator's real self and the perceived character online. Operating a Content Creation Business (00:28:00) The challenges of operating a content creation business, including managing merch sales, brand deals, and customer service. Monetization and Brand Partnerships (00:37:45) The discussion revolves around the differences in monetization between short form and long form content, and the types of brands Phil prefers to work with. Work-Life Balance and Personal Branding (00:41:53) Phil discusses the challenges of separating work from personal life as a content creator and the considerations for personal brand development. Benefits of Separating Content (00:47:26) The benefits of maintaining separate content for different niches are discussed, including the advantages for brands seeking specific audience demographics. Advice for content creators (00:48:47) Phil shares advice on starting in content creation, emphasizing the importance of just getting started and finding joy in the process. Finding your niche (00:50:43) Phil encourages creators to explore specific niches and create content that brings them joy, emphasizing the importance of not losing the passion for creating. Just do it, press record (00:51:48) Phil and Kelly emphasize the importance of taking action and getting started in content creation, giving the advice to "just do it" and "press record." Where to find Phil (00:52:29) Phil shares his social media handles and platforms where he posts content, including Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

ALEX PINEDA: The Recipe for Success in the Culinary World

In this podcast episode, Alex Pineda, an emerging chef in Boston, discusses his culinary journey and recent venture, Que Mas, a modern Latin cuisine restaurant in Beverly, Massachusetts. Raised in a Colombian-Irish household, Alex was introduced to cooking by his mother, Lydia Shire, who opened Biba in 1989. He shares his experiences working in prestigious kitchens worldwide and the lessons learned. Alex talks about his creative process, emphasizing the freedom to experiment with diverse culinary influences. He also addresses the challenges of balancing work and personal life. The episode concludes with an invitation to visit Que Mas and experience his vibrant cuisine. Find Alex Pineda Online: * Que Mas - https://www.instagram.com/quemasrestaurant/ * Que Mas Website - https://www.quemasrestaurant.com/ * Alex Pineda - https://www.instagram.com/chefalexpineda/ Timestamps Introduction of Alex Pineda (00:00:12) Introducing Alex Pineda, his culinary background, and the opening of Que Mas in Beverly, Massachusetts. Alex Pineda's background and identity (00:01:16) Describing Alex Pineda's multicultural background and upbringing in the culinary industry. Influence of Alex Pineda's mother (00:02:01) Discussing the influence of Alex's mother, Lydia Shire, and her impact on the Boston restaurant scene. Alex Pineda's passion for cooking (00:03:08) Recounting Alex's early exposure to the culinary world and his passion for cooking despite initial discouragement. Family dinners and parties (00:06:28) Describing the culinary experiences at home, including Colombian and Irish meals and elaborate Sunday dinners and football parties. Learning from chefs and kitchen observations (00:11:03) Detailing the value of learning from chefs, observing kitchen operations, and asking the right questions. Culinary techniques and lessons (00:14:37) Explaining the importance of blooming tomato paste and the process of searing protein to achieve a perfect crust. Opening Que Mas in Beverly, Massachusetts (00:19:53) Discussing the opening of Que Mas, Alex's first restaurant, and his partnership with Ortega in creating a unique culinary experience. Menu and drink creation process (00:22:20) Explaining the process of building a menu and drink selection for a new restaurant, including recipe development and planning. Developing the Concept of Que Mas (00:22:30) Alex explains the inspiration behind the name "Que Mas" and its meaning in Latin slang. Influence of Latin Cuisine (00:25:16) Alex discusses the foundation and roots of his restaurant, drawing influence from Latin American countries and blending diverse flavors. Opening of Que Mas (00:27:08) Alex talks about the recent opening of Que Mas and invites listeners to visit the restaurant in Beverly, Massachusetts. Work-Life Balance (00:27:53) The host inquires about Alex's approach to balancing work and personal life, especially with a young son. Challenges of Running a Restaurant (00:30:34) Alex shares the difficulties of managing a restaurant, emphasizing the importance of family and maintaining consistency in food and service. Advice for Aspiring Culinary Professionals (00:32:32) Alex provides advice for individuals entering the culinary world, stressing the need for passion and thorough preparation.

BRANDON MIHM: Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Yankees, Barstool Sports, and AgAmerica Media

In this episode, Kellan interviews Brandon Mihm, a seasoned creative producer with 15 years of experience working with the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Yankees. Brandon shares insights from his career, including earning five Emmys with the Yankees and transitioning to Barstool Sports, where he elevated various brands (Spittin' Chiclets, Fore Play Golf, Bussin' With the Boys, Chicks in the Office). He discusses his current role at Ag America Media, focusing on rural content. The conversation covers the evolution of content creation, the importance of personal branding, and strategies for managing sponsorships. Brandon also offers advice for aspiring creatives and highlights his personal projects, including the podcast "Musty Millenial." Find Brandon Mihm Online: - Musty Millenials Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/3qRILBWefrx5ICrdy1uckU?si=f506c3ecc5e448fc - Like a Farmer Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/3E4jxqFXJe0U1JDSpz7YKb?si=42197ef416a04e5e Timestamps: The start of an impressive career (00:00:18) Introduction of Brandon Mihm's career with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Yankees, earning five Emmys. Balancing work and family life (00:01:05) Brandon Mihm discusses managing his career and family life with two children and a third on the way. Early passion for video production (00:03:04) Brandon Mihm's childhood interest in video production and creative content, leading to his career path. Joining the Pittsburgh Steelers (00:04:50) Brandon Mihm shares his experience of joining the Pittsburgh Steelers and working for his hometown team. Transition to the New York Yankees (00:11:39) The difficult decision to leave the Pittsburgh Steelers for a new role with the New York Yankees and the beginning of original content production. Challenges of producing original content (00:14:45) The demands of producing an hour of original content every week for the New York Yankees and the range of content produced. Interactions with athletes (00:16:27) Brandon Mihm's experiences with athletes, including Derek Jeter's professionalism and challenges with Ben Roethlisberger. Transition from Sports to Barstool Sports (00:20:14) Mihm discusses his decision to leave sports teams and join Barstool Sports for a new creative challenge. Working with Producers and Teams (00:26:46) Mihm explains his approach to working with producers and teams, emphasizing individual support and success. Collaboration and Networking at Barstool Sports (00:28:28) Mihm discusses his extensive networking and collaboration with various departments and talents at Barstool Sports. Working with "Chicks in the Office" Team (00:28:58) Mihm shares his positive experience working with the "Chicks in the Office" team at Barstool Sports. Transition to AgAmerica Media (00:30:29) Mihm shares his experience of being laid off from Barstool Sports and transitioning to AG America Media. Building Content at AgAmerica Media (00:37:19) Mihm discusses the approach to building content at AG America Media, considering various platforms and content types. Evolution of Video Content (00:40:40) Changes in video content length and format over the years, focusing on shorter, more engaging content for social media platforms. Personal Branding and Sponsorship Considerations (00:44:55) The importance of personal branding, managing personal and professional brand alignment, and navigating sponsorships in relation to personal and brand affiliations. Career Advice and Networking (00:52:05) The value of networking, offering advice to individuals entering the industry, and the importance of supporting others as one progresses in their career.

TRICIA McCORMACK: Thriving as a Wedding Photographer after Jumping from a Corporate Career

In this podcast episode, Tricia McCormack, a photographer and entrepreneur from the Berkshires, shares her journey from a 14-year corporate career to founding three businesses: a photography studio, a photo booth service, and a fitness venture. Tricia discusses the internal struggle she faced in the corporate world, the challenges of transitioning to entrepreneurship, and the importance of a supportive team. She offers advice on wedding photography, balancing work and family, and personal branding. Tricia emphasizes authenticity, mentorship, and creating a relaxed environment for clients, providing valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. Tricia McCormack is a talented photographer and successful entrepreneur, based in the Berkshires! After a 14-year career in the corporate world, she left and founded three businesses: Tricia McCormack Photography, a Photo Booth rental service, and TK-Fit, an outdoor fitness bootcamp. Beloved by her clients for her attention to detail, creativity, and energy, Tricia balances her thriving businesses with raising two boys. Her passion and dedication are evident in her work, whether capturing special moments at weddings or leading fitness sessions. Tricia's influence and enthusiasm make her a cherished figure in her community. Find Tricia McCormack online: Tricia's website - http://triciamccormack.com Berkshire Photobooth - https://berkshirephotobooth.com TK Fit - https://tk-fit.com Timestamps: Leaving the Corporate World (00:00:00) Tricia's struggle to leave the corporate world and pursue her authentic self. Starting Multiple Businesses (00:02:29) Tricia's journey from corporate life to starting and managing three businesses simultaneously. Challenges and Lessons Learned (00:14:15) The difficulties and lessons learned from starting two businesses simultaneously and the importance of support. Building a Team Model (00:18:30) Tricia's approach to building a team and the success of her photography business through team collaboration. The wedding photography space (00:22:00) Advice for couples planning weddings and the importance of finding the right photographer. Managing work-life balance (00:26:08) Struggles and strategies in balancing raising children and building multiple businesses. Promoting personal brand (00:37:02) Challenges and strategies in promoting oneself as a multi-faceted professional in photography, fitness, and more. Future trends in wedding photography (00:39:58) The shift towards authenticity and capturing real moments in wedding photography. Photography and Observant Eye (00:43:12) Tricia discusses her approach to photography and how her observant nature has shaped her work. Candid Moments in Editing (00:44:00) The excitement of discovering candid shots during the editing process. Early Influences on Photography (00:44:14) Tricia shares how a childhood game with her father sparked her interest in photography. Seeking Mentors and Lessons Learned (00:45:47) Tricia emphasizes the importance of seeking mentors and learning from experiences in building a business. Final Remarks and Business Information (00:47:46) Tricia shares advice and details about her photography, photobooth, and fitness businesses.

MATT LIGOTTI: Working with VaynerMedia to Co-Founding a Creative Agency

In this podcast episode, Kellan interviews Matt Ligotti, a creative professional and co-founder of NOX, a creative agency. Matt shares his journey from an internship at VaynerMedia to working with major brands like Pepsi and Budweiser, and eventually starting his own agency. He discusses the importance of collaboration, personal branding, and balancing work with personal life. Matt emphasizes perseverance, financial preparedness, and surrounding oneself with supportive individuals. He also highlights NOX's focus on providing social media services for musicians and small to medium-sized brands, and the challenges and successes faced along the way. Matthew Ligotti has his BFA in graphic design from New York Institute of Technology, where he received the Marvin Horowitz Sculpture Award for his creative work. He spent over 4 years as a senior videographer at VaynerMedia, one of the leading media companies in the world.  He went on to co-found NOX, where he operates as the chief creative officer. He helps talent and brands increase their brand awareness, improve their social media channels, and grow their revenue. NOX is a digital agency that specializes in content production, paid media campaigns, influencer marketing, audience growth, and conversion optimization. Find Matthew Ligotti online: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/matthewligotti/ NOX's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nox.media/ NOX's Website - https://wearenox.com/ Timestamps: The internship and early career (00:00:00) Matt's experiences working with Bieber, VaynerMedia, and co-founding NOX. Lessons learned at VaynerMedia (00:10:18) Lessons learned about creative collaboration, client interactions, and adapting to client needs. Working with Gary Vaynerchuk and Vayner Talent (00:14:37) Matt's involvement in the Vayner Talent team and its impact on personal branding. Creation of NOX and career transition (00:17:24) Matt's decision to start his own agency, NOX, and transition from VaynerMedia. Founding NOX (00:18:20) Matt and his partner, Sam, decide to start building NOX, a creative agency, and their reasons for wanting to run their own business. Client Acquisition (00:22:15) Matt explains the methods used for client acquisition, including networking, word of mouth, and referrals, along with the role of press hits in gaining attention. Collaborations and Building Rapport (00:23:23) Matt shares experiences of collaborating with artists such as Justin Bieber and O'Malley, and the importance of building rapport with celebrities during shoots. Challenges Faced with NOX (00:26:20) The challenges faced in the early years of NOX, including the impact of COVID-19 and the need to pivot the business to adapt to the changing circumstances. Adapting to Social Media Trends (00:28:51) The importance of staying updated with platform updates and trends to maximize the return on investment for clients' social media content. Transition to Entrepreneurship (00:29:54) Matt discusses the challenges and adjustments involved in transitioning from the corporate world to starting his own company, including the importance of advisors and finding a reliable bookkeeper and CPA. Personal Branding (00:31:44) The importance of personal branding and the challenges of prioritizing personal brand development while managing client work. Work-Life Balance (00:33:36) Matt's approach to finding balance between work and personal life, including transparency with his partner and utilizing dedicated time for personal activities. Advice for Creative Professionals (00:35:51) Perseverance, financial planning, and surrounding oneself with the right people as essential advice for creative professionals and business owners.