Episode 038: Drew Katz

Introduction:


Today we have with us Drew Katz, who aside from being a
successful businessman, passionately and relentlessly channels
the title of that old Neil Young song “Heart of Gold” when it
comes to his family, friends, and all of his philanthropic
pursuits. In addition to being an owner of real estate in a few
emerging areas, Drew is the CEO of Interstate Outdoor
Advertising, whose mission is that of being at the forefront of
innovative design, emerging technologies and social purpose. So
much of what Drew stands for can be summed up in his quote when
he was honored by Oprah Winfrey’s magazine a few years back: “You
don’t need incredible resources to impact another human being.
You can make a difference by being conscious, [and] by thinking
of creative ways to make others feel good about themselves.”


 


Episode Notes: 


At 2:37, Drew Katz discusses his father imparting on him that the
most precious asset is time. At 4:15, Drew dives into how he
keeps his mind focused on the big picture, along with how to
prioritize new responsibility. At 6:48, Katz notes that the way
in which one responds to struggle in life dictates the quality of
one's life. At 7:57, he shares a story from 1996, when at
25-years-old he entered the billboard world fresh out of Stanford
Law School. At 12:20, Drew gives his thoughts on the billboard
industry and dealing with local governments for approval. At
16:35, Katz speaks about the 20 Bruckner Boulevard project he and
his partners are currently redeveloping into a school. At 19:06,
he discusses the projects he is currently working on, including
The Lewis, named after his late father Lewis Katz. At 20:29, Drew
shares his thoughts on Interstate Outdoor Advertising’s
not-for-profit billboard plan with the city of Camden, New
Jersey. At 24:59, Katz advises those just starting out in
business to seek out mentors. At 26:19, he points out that he
does his best to surround himself with those who have a “can do”
positive attitude. At 27:37, Drew discusses Newark’s
infrastructure, transportation systems, as well as its proximity
to New York City. At 28:54, Katz talks about “outkicking your
coverage” and his long-time friend and 2020 presidential
candidate Cory Booker’s quote “rarely in life has something good
not come from something bad.” At 32:32, Drew Katz closes out the
podcast with a message in regards to living in a world where
people were more open and kind.