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.”

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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.”

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**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.

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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, Coen’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. Coen 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 Coen. The conversation unfolds over a Hendrix gin and tonic, discussing Coen’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. Coen 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 Coen’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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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About the Guest(s):

Eric Friedman is a seasoned professional with deep roots in the New York startup scene. His illustrious career includes significant roles at Union Square Ventures, Foursquare, and Expa Labs. At Union Square Ventures, Friedman was at the forefront of identifying and investing in high-potential startups, such as Foursquare, where he was one of the earliest employees and contributed to its growth in multiple capacities. As the head of Expa Labs, he leveraged his vast experience to propel one of the most successful accelerators in New York City. His entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to found Go Fractional, a platform designed to foster a community for fractional executives to find work and share collective wisdom.

Episode Summary:

In this Story in a Bottle episode, host Dan Maccarone delves into the expansive New York tech ecosystem with guest Eric Friedman, whose journey weaves through some of the city’s most influential startup ventures. Friedman shares his unique experiences from Union Square Ventures to his pivotal role at Foursquare and his leadership at Expa Labs.

The conversation highlights Friedman’s latest venture, Go Fractional, which aims to revolutionize the concept of executive employment by harnessing the untapped potential of elite, high-caliber talent seeking fractional work. As Friedman unravels the rationale behind fractional work, the dialogue shifts to the multifaceted challenges and revelations accompanying finding and trusting this specialized group of executives. Listeners are treated to a deep dive into the intricate world of startups and venture capital through the lens of a seasoned insider.

Notable Quotes:

• “It is much easier to embrace behavior than create behavior.” – Eric Friedman
• “If everyone would just do this, it’s going to work. And I’m like, great. How do you get the first person to do that?” – Eric Friedman
• “You could do it in three weeks versus three months.” – Eric Friedman
• “The goal of hiring someone is to hire someone smarter than you.” – Eric Friedman
• “I feel like you should be a paid spokesperson for gofractional.” – Dan Maccarone

Resources:

• Go Fractional Website: Go Fractional

Join us for the entire episode to explore the transformative ideas and inspiring stories shared by Eric Friedman. Stay tuned for more engaging content from Story in a Bottle, where tech, media, and entertainment leaders open up over their favorite beverages.

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