Do you enjoy meeting new people? Hearing the stories of someone who is inspiring? If you answered yes to either of those, or find yourself enjoying having a simple conversation with someone else, we’re with you. And we want to offer this to you through THEM, a section of our blog that introduces the inspiring people we have had the fortunate experience of meeting.
Enjoy meeting Alex.
Alex Rakestraw is a writer, creative and brand strategist for New York-based advertising agency, Droga5. He began his career working as an editor at SHEI Magazine, a publication created by students at the University of Michigan in collaboration with “members of their community.” The magazine is an interesting one, with a goal of “to bring the latest designs, extraordinary artists, and amazing ideas from around the world to the wonderful University of Michigan campus.”
Throughout his time at U of M, Alex continued through other editor and researcher roles landing him as a campus marketer and style editor for Greats, the NYC-based shoe brand.
What does a typical day look like in the life of Alex Rakestraw?
6am gym. 9am desk. 7pm train. Write. Repeat.
Do you have a favorite article you have ever written? We'll link it.
Let's Stop Pretending Balenciaga's Meme-Bait Is Cool.
You describe yourself as an outerwear enthusiast. Any favorite brands on your radar right now in that category?
For function, Norrona. For fashion, Snow Peak. For both, Mission Workshop.
What is some advice you would give to a new, or even slightly experienced writer?
Write at least three sentences every day, no exceptions. There is no replacement for it.
What do you enjoy most about what you do?
The idea that someone, somewhere, might have enjoyed a thing I created.
What has shaped you the most?
A tenacious action bias. Things move through addition, not subtraction. Do instead of plan to do, then watch where it takes you.
Would you change anything about what has brought you to where you are?
Nope. I'd just write more thank you notes.
Hopefully, you have enjoyed meeting Alex and hearing a little more about him. Subscribe to our email newsletter for other stories from THEM, the inspiring people we have had the fortunate experience of meeting.
