i have finally made it. it was a sunday night redeye where i recited our RGA pitch like counting sheep in order to sleep. “this social campaign… will unfold… in three phases…” *passes out*

waking up monday morning, my mind in a haze from the dreams of meeting carrie bradshaw on the east side, i sought my caffeine fix. meandering through the airport, continuing to recite that RGA pitch (“earned media… and locally targeted social content… will continue to drive traffic…”) i looked for the green and white icon i was so accustomed to. instead, i was received with dunkin’ donuts and a line around the corner. a radio spot boomed through the crackly airport speakers, the full bodied voice reciting, “america runs on dunkin’!”

it’s as simple as coffee and a donut. something millions start their day with, that pink and orange color and styrofoam cup. for the west, the day begins with a paper cup with a green mermaid, the smell of a pike place roast filling the air. it’s the difference in that shared experience. west to east america wakes up with coffee, needs it to kick-off the work week, but the standard is not the same. it begs the question to be asked, “what does it mean to be american?” is it as simple dunkin’ or starbucks? am i over analyzing this subject based on a tagline for a coffee chain at 6 am? probably.

nevertheless, java is the jumpstart needed to the infamous monday morning. i’ve always loved mondays. it’s a new week, a fresh start to whatever you’re working on. for us, this week will feature pitches, briefs, tours and teams, all under the the new york city skyline. with my dunkin’ in my hand, the new fuel coursing through my veins, an unforgettable week lies ahead.

let the work begin.

-kyle heiner 5.8.17