Ari Weinzweig // The Art of the Imperfect Recipe

“Ideas are worthless. Execution is the only thing that matters.” After three attempted startups and a lack of enthusiasm for corporate jobs, Josh Luber decided to try a new avenue: one that combined his passion for shoes with his entrepreneurial ability. Three years later and with the help of billionaire Dan Gilbert and experienced businessman Greg Schwartz, the three transformed Josh’s startup into StockX: the world’s first stock market for “things.” Recently valued at over $1 billion, StockX acts as a virtual marketplace for consumers to buy and sell highly coveted products including sneakers, streetwear, collectibles, handbags, and watches. As the former CEO who now serves on the executive leadership team and board of directors, Josh takes us through his entrepreneurial journey from selling blow pops in sixth grade to pioneering the resell market with StockX.

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As the visionary and ingenious leader who developed numerous global superstars including Katy Perry, Sam Smith, and Madonna, Greg Thompson has revolutionized the music landscape. Starting his career in the music business as a young college student, Greg spent over 30 years acquiring industry knowledge and experience that enabled him to move up the chain of command at various record labels. Looking to progress the industry and make an even bigger impact, Greg decided to transition from record labels to the management side of the business. Through his innovative creativity, keen intelligence, and passion-driven leadership, Greg joined Maverick Music as the company’s first-ever President. Tasked with leading one of the most powerful management conglomerates in the world, Greg continues to positively shape and refashion the music scene through Maverick’s music enterprise of influential managers and impressive artists.

From a two-sport athlete at the University of Michigan to a two-time U.S. Grand Master squash champion, Jim Berline has always been competitive. It was this competitiveness that helped to jumpstart Jim’s career in marketing. Eventually, this led him to become the youngest vice president and senior vice president at two highly regarded marketing communication and advertising agencies. Yet, it was Jim’s drive and passion that sparked the start of BERLINE, Jim’s own agency in Michigan, that he operated for some time before simultaneously working for an established shop in New York City. After deciding to focus solely on his own company, BERLINE has proudly served its clients for nearly 40 years. Throughout his journey, Jim has gained an abundance of experience and a plethora of wisdom that he kindly gifts in this episode.

From a tiny deli with two employees to 14 businesses that generate $60 million in annual revenue, Ari Weinzweig unfolds how his eccentric business practices have transformed his small restaurant known as Zingerman’s Deli into a nationally renowned food enterprise. Ari shares with us his personal stories and principles that have turned a $20,000 loan from the bank and limited experience in the food industry into a masterful culinary ecosystem with over 750 employees and a community of unique businesses.

From establishing the Nike brand in China to untold stories about Kobe Bryant, marketing guru Jason White guides us through his remarkable journey in the advertising industry. Through Jason’s experiences including serving as the Global Head of Marketing at Beats by Dre and his current role as the Chief Marketing Officer of Curaleaf—one of the largest cannabis companies worldwide—we get to hear some of the most fascinating details of Jason’s expansive career.