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Meet 88ss new ECD, Joe Popa

 -  3 min read

Joe Popa

Joe believes in the power of ideas and the influence of design. Over a twenty-plus year career he has been a creative leader with some of the most exciting and innovative agencies in Chicago. He has inspired teams to craft powerful ideas into effective creative solutions for brands including Jaguar, M&Ms, CVS, Kerrygold, Kellogg’s, Volvo and The Clinton Foundation.

As a visual problem solver and graduate of The Columbus College of Art and Design Joe thinks about typography far more than he probably should. But he also makes time to volunteer with organizations striving to better the lives of families affected by HIV/AIDS. He currently lives in the Chicago home he rehabbed with his extremely patient wife and two very lucky dogs.

Joe Knows Passion

On being a diehard Cleveland Indians fan: Ah, my beloved Indians. To add insult to injury, I am also a Cubs fan. So if you’re keeping track at home, that’s a combined 174 years since a World Series win. Still, baseball is the best game on earth. And I don’t disagree with people who say it’s boring. It is boring. Until it’s not!

On his lifelong love for music: Prior to getting married, you could find me at a music club in Chicago three to four nights a week. And until recently, I was even playing a few of those clubs as the drummer in a local band. Google it at your own risk.

On his green thumb roots: As the descendant of farmers, I have a tendency to plant things in any green space I can find (or make; a la the desk plant). I’m also the cook of the household. Picked it up from my mother. My philosophy: nothing is as good as cooking while drinking and listening to music—or baseball.

On taking on new athletic challenges: After expanding my running routine to include swimming and cycling, and by my wife’s encouragement, I waded into the world of triathlons three years ago. Now, I find myself with a whole new set of goals to conquer throughout the year.