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Evin Shutt of 72andSunny on the Power of Resilience
And creating the space for more diverse perspectives
Evin is currently CEO and partner of 72andSunny.
We spent two minutes with Evin to learn more about her background, her creative inspirations and recent work she’s admired.
Evin tell us …
Where you grew up, and where you live now.
I grew up in Neenah, Wis., which will always be home. Go Packers! But I’ve lived in Los Angeles for 20 years.
How you first realized you were creative.
I wrote an alphabet book in the second grade called “A is for Apple With a Hole In It,” which received rave reviews. It’s also when I learned what a “newt” was, as I needed an animal that started with the letter “N.”
A person you idolized creatively early on.
My Mom. From new art projects for her kindergartners to writing poems for friends and running a show choir with elementary school kids, she is one of the most creatively productive people I know. She is a constant inspiration.
A moment from high school or college that changed your life.
I played college volleyball and had four different coaches in 4.5 years. I stuck it out because of my teammates—we were fully committed to each other, even in the craziest circumstances. That experience played a huge part in my belief that building high-trust relationships and strong teams are two of the most critical components to overcoming challenges. That experience is a huge reason I’m such a staunch supporter of getting it right for women’s sports.
A visual artist or band/musician you admire.
Dolly Parton. I went down a rabbit hole a few years ago and listened to the podcast Dolly Parton’s America, and I was blown away. The way she spans generations and genres, her songwriting craft, how she stays true to who she is and holds her ground, how she gives back. She teaches a ton of valuable lessons. But for this moment in time, her ability to connect people who are on opposite sides of the political spectrum is something we need more of to heal and move forward.
A book, movie, TV show or podcast you recently found inspiring.
Film: Power of the Dream. This is a story from four years ago about the Atlanta Dream and their role in shaping the Georgia senatorial election and then some. Incredibly inspiring and just one reminder that today’s movement is standing on the shoulders of giants.
One of your favorite creative projects you’ve ever worked on.
Nike’s European Championship campaign in 2008, “Take It to the Next Level,” always stands out in my mind. Not only did we have to create a new type of camera and approach to shoot from a first-person perspective, but the storytelling set the bar. The most human idea is often the best. Even if the technology doesn’t exist, you can find a way.
A recent project you’re proud of.
All the work 72andSunny has out in the world right now, from the Venmo building on the already existing vernacular of “What’s Your Venmo?” …
… to the Call of Duty “Replacer” putting the game back at the center of culture …
… to United Airlines’ “Real Good Stories” that deepen how United employees live “Good Leads the Way,” and how it impacts it’s customers:
Your main strength as a creative person.
I’ve been told I have a high pain threshold for challenges and change.
A mentor who helped you navigate the industry.
I’m so fortunate to have entered this industry with Matt Jarvis, John Boiler and Glenn Cole. They embraced my n00b perspective and invited me into the highest-level conversations. They were the first to make me feel more confident in my creativity. Matt, John and Glenn continue to be mentors, friends and amazing partners.
How you’re paying it forward with the next generation of creatives.
It’s why I do this job at 72andSunny—to make sure our platform is a place for people to grow and create impact. My constant push is to make sure we’re opening up the opportunity for more diverse perspectives, which will lead to more impactful work.
What you’d be doing if you weren’t in advertising.
If I could figure out how to make money at it, flower farming. But more realistically, teaching (which I did before advertising).
2 Minutes With is our regular interview series where we chat with creatives about their backgrounds, creative inspirations, work they admire and more. For more about 2 Minutes With, or to be considered for the series, please get in touch.
