Today we’d like to introduce you to Sam Jusino.
Hi Sam, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I spent my early 20’s working as a Music Producer in New York City before embarking on a 5-year journey across Asia and Latin America. During this time, I volunteered with children in Bolivia, taught English in Ecuador, Japan, and Taiwan, managed an e-learning school in Vietnam, and received my master’s degree from Curtin University in Australia. I did all of this while continuing to record / perform music internationally and compete in Shotokan Karate.
Upon my return to the United States, I managed data and telecommunications teams for several years before diving headfirst into marketing. After gaining experience working in Sales and Account Management for media agencies, I decided to go into business with my partner Hong Xiao. We founded the marketing consulting firm DISTRIKT in 2019.
We landed a few local clients and a Fortune 500 insurance company during our first year in business, but our biggest break came during the height of the pandemic. As companies reduced their marketing budgets in response to COVID-19, we partnered with a film distribution company and began hosting drive-in movie events nationwide in the parking lots of major theatres (AMC, Regal, Cinemark, etc.). This experience paved the way for us to manage marketing campaigns across the film and entertainment industry. A few notable clients include the UFC, WWE, David Bowie, Eric Clapton, Bo Burnham, David Byrne, Monty Python, and the smash hit slasher film Terrifier 2.
Today, I spend my time marketing for films, consulting enterprise companies, teaching and training Shotokan Karate in Carmel Valley, and I recently launched The Path Retreats with my fiancée Samara where we host life-changing wellness experiences for fit and fun travelers throughout SoCal and Central America.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Of course not! But that is the beauty of life. When we learn to embrace challenges, we come to understand that the obstacle is the way. I’ve faced numerous ups and downs throughout my life both personally and professionally. However, I’m extremely grateful for these experiences. I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.
Not bad for a guy that grew up on welfare, watched his parents battle heroin addiction, visited his father regularly in prison, and lived in a homeless shelter as a teenager. I chose to create a better life for myself and use these learnings as foundation for taking on anything the universe may throw at me.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At DISTRIKT, I build data-driven media strategies, manage marketing campaigns, and help clients make better business decisions through reporting and analytics. Our mission is to bring together the art and science of marketing through data, insights, and paid digital media.
We are an award-winning agency and were honored in 2023 as one of Drexel University’s LeBow Analytics 50, recognized for our excellence in pursuing data-driven solutions. The other honorees included multinational companies such as Best Buy, Verizon, Comcast, Honeywell, and Intel Corporation.
At The Path Retreats, my work is focused on curating multi-day experiences where attendees practice yoga, barre, breathwork, meditation, and martial arts while visiting the world’s most beautiful destinations. Our goal is to build a thriving community of like-minded and heart-centered individuals focused on inner growth. Please reach out if you would like to join us on our next retreat this Fall in Belize!
I’m also a published author. My first book titled ‘Doubling Down: 5 Steps for Setting Goals, Making Great Decisions and Jump-Starting Your Career’ is available for purchase on Amazon. My second book is currently in development and will highlight the valuable lessons I learned while overcoming childhood trauma. Stay tuned!
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’ve learned along my journey is the power of creating your own luck: Location, Understanding, Community, and Knowledge.
Location – Live somewhere that makes you happy. A place you’re excited to come home to. I left my small town to pursue my dreams. Best decision ever.
Understanding – Do research. Form your own opinions. Many people think their way is best, but that’s not always true. It’s important to establish your own beliefs.
Community – You never know who your next friend, boss, or business partner will be. Grow your circle with positive, motivated people and support one another.
Knowledge – Never stop learning. Read articles, take classes, attend seminars. Keep your mind sharp and learn something new every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.distriktww.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/samjusino
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/samjusino
- Other: www.thepathretreats.co
Image Credits
Jay Noelle Photography
