In this episode of Navigating No, I sit down with my friend and mentor, Paul Kiely—a creative powerhouse whose career spans decades of work with iconic brands like Amazon, GM, Microsoft, PepsiCo, and YUM Brands.
From his early days at MTV to his roles as a casting director, voice-over actor, and commercial creative, Paul’s journey is filled with invaluable lessons on persistence, adaptability, and the power of humor in overcoming challenges.
Paul doesn’t just navigate rejection—he’s mastered the art of avoiding it altogether. By embracing serendipity and staying true to himself, he’s turned hurdles into stepping stones, proving that every “no” can lead to a better opportunity.
Show Flow:
00:00 Intro
00:38 Meet Paul Kiley: A Creative Journey
01:34 Reconnecting and Reminiscing
02:20 The Samsung Commercial Experience
07:40 Casting Insights and Challenges
12:11 The Reality of Rejection in the Industry
22:40 Unexpected Stories from the Set
25:56 Lost Donkey Footage
27:15 Navigating Career Challenges
28:49 Breaking into the Industry
30:18 Imposter Syndrome and Early Success
31:29 MTV Adventures
34:40 Street Interviews and Serendipity
42:57 Mentorship and Positivity
49:58 Thoughts and Farewells