The Reinventionists: Doug Olson & David Adler on Personal & Publishing Evolutions

Episode • Sep 5 • 14m

How can mentoring lead to a whole new career? How do dinner conversations and AI come together to drive entrepreneurship? How are some people changing the world as they change gears? Talk about REINVENTION!

Well, I did. Meet two more honorees of the Folio: awards named to the Hall of Fame, in this “two-fer” episode on Doug Olson and David Adler, both of whom have gone from being presidents of publishing companies to reinventing themselves…and parts of the industry.

First up: Doug Olson.

Doug went from a career in the tech side to the publishing side, ultimately running Meredith Magazines (think: “Time,” “People,” “Better Homes & Gardens”…) to NOW hangin’ with the digital natives doing bling-meets-social media, as Co-CEO of “Bomb Party,” with its TikTok-famous jewelry reveals! Bet you didn’t see THAT coming.

He discusses the evolution of Meredith, its major acquisitions, the partnership he headed with Walmart, and how Meredith navigated its own transition — adding digital to print media.

Doug also describes his transition to #BombParty, a thriving and unique jewelry company that uses social media to engage customers.

Then there’s David Adler.

I cannot even keep track of all the ways David has reinvented himself: from launching a magazine on DC society back in the 70s, which he sold 10 years later for a handy profit — and is now turning those archival images into songs and content! I kid you not.

But wait, there’s more. He helmed big PR shops, but is perhaps best know for founding one of the best magazines on events, called “BizBash.” And now? SO MUCH — from recently launching an online events mag, “GatheringPoint.news” to yet another startup.

He highlights how he is an unabashed #AI acolyte and explains how it has revolutionized his latest ventures, supporting creative storytelling and increased efficiency. But David is also stopping to smell “The Roses”, making the most of his author father’s legacy by helping enable that current box office hit!

Like roses themselves, these guests exemplify the concept of ‘perennials,’ described by David as individuals who continuously evolve and remain curious, regardless of generational labels. Their stories illustrate the importance of adaptability, lifelong learning, and embracing new technologies in media or just for mental well-being!