Kevin Collins, Secret Walls - Drive By Entrepreneur Podcast S2 E8

In the latest episode of the Drive By Entrepreneur podcast, host John Frank interviews Kevin Collins, the CEO of Secret Walls. The podcast, sponsored by Third Road Management, Two Hound Red, and NWC Media, aims to provide valuable insights to entrepreneurs and influencers of small to mid-size organizations. John Frank starts by explaining the mission of the podcast and introduces Kevin Collins, who shares his journey from being an English lit major and college athlete to an influential figure in experiential marketing and the arts.

Kevin Collins describes his early career, including an impactful internship at SFX, which later became Live Nation. This experience sparked his passion for live events and entertainment. After working various roles in the marketing world, including a stint with Levi's and a return to Clear Channel, Collins moved to New York to join an experiential marketing agency, MKTG. His career took another leap when he moved to London, working with major brands like Nike and Beats by Dre, and eventually discovering Secret Walls, a live art competition that captivated him.

Secret Walls, founded in 2006 by Terry Guy, started as an underground art battle in London and has since grown into a global phenomenon. Collins explains the various facets of Secret Walls, including their battle events, educational programs through Secret Walls Academy, and agency services. The organization is dedicated to supporting local artists and creating opportunities for them through live events, brand partnerships, and community-building initiatives. Secret Walls has also adapted to the pandemic by finding new ways to engage with audiences and expand its reach.

Throughout the conversation, Collins highlights the importance of staying curious, asking questions, and continuously pushing oneself out of comfort zones. He reflects on the challenges and rewards of growing Secret Walls and emphasizes the need for short-term memory in dealing with both successes and setbacks. The episode concludes with some fun personal questions, revealing Collins' love for Halloween and his potential interest in teaching as a future career. Overall, the interview provides a rich exploration of Kevin Collins' entrepreneurial journey and the innovative world of Secret Walls.