Holler’s Fast Company Most Innovative Nod: What it Means to Me

It was recently announced that Holler made the list of Fast Company’s Most Innovative for 2020. Being part of something like this is an opportunity that, as a founder, you strive for. And when it happens, for a moment it’s surreal. It’s truly a recognition not only of your business idea and mission, but for the innovative approach and people you invoke to achieve your goals. 

When I found out Holler was in the running for the coveted list, there was definitely a moment of shock and surprise. But, I quickly realized that we got here because of the efforts put forth by everyone on my team. And I seriously can’t thank them (all 70 of them) enough. It’s not by chance or because of luck, but due to steadfast determination and careful execution along the way. Everyone has a goal, and a dream, but being able to actually execute is the most difficult part. 

I started this company in college back in 2011 at 19 years old, with the realization that data used intelligently can create better experiences for people. A spark of an idea turned into multiple business iterations (and a few company names) before we planted ourselves firmly on the ground as Holler. 

It sounds totally cliche, but I do feel strongly that it’s more about the journey than the destination. I started this company from a dorm room in Miami, and we just recently made our 70th hire. We moved from cramped office quarters in Midtown Manhattan to a two floor suite on 38th Street to better accommodate our growing team. We iterated (and continue to do so) on the product we develop and the service we offer to stay relevant in an evolving digital landscape. And we’ve brought in talent from the likes of Facebook, Disney, and NASA to help us approach the messaging space from both creative and technical perspectives.

I owe my sincerest thanks to all of these people who took a leap of faith with me. Who left established positions at other companies to make big things happen at a little place called Holler. Who believed in me, a 20-something year-old founder, with my big dreams and an even bigger vision. Who continue to work tirelessly every day to make Holler the best it can be. Who live by our guiding principles and who Always Do Right. You’re the reason we’re being recognized as a team of innovators. 

Today, we continue to embark on new and exciting things, from a recent partnership with Venmo to brand launches with Chipotle, Ikea, Subway, and Keurig, just to name a few. Even though I’ve been at it for almost a decade now, to me, it seems like we’re just at the beginning. 

Yet, with plenty of other smart, disruptive companies doing amazing things every day, we are truly honored to be recognized by Fast Company this year. And we’re proud to be among the other innovators in our Social Media category. Social media - what was once a mere exploration of new ways to communicate and share with others - has quickly become the driving force behind how we interact on a daily basis.

At Holler, we’re all about the conversation. And we’re looking forward to continuing to make all digital communications more authentic, expressive, and fun. We just hope you’ll follow along with us as we continue to enjoy the ride. Thanks again, Fast Company, for the recognition. 

If you have any feedback for me I’ll be here, so just Holler!