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Together, we'll make the world a better place.
First, allow me to introduce myself.
I am Ryan Johnson.
I am a Denver, Colorado-based creative director, founder and entrepreneur. Finding this position was like a revelation. Something that I've been thinking deeply about for a long time, is something you've lost sleep over—AI systems that prioritize safety. Steerable, not malleable. And genuinely interested in making the world and humanity better.
Please, allow me to introduce myself...
My professional journey began at Campbell Mithun advertising, in my hometown of Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. Starting my career in print production, when that was still a discipline and department.
Working my way through creative portfolio school at night, and learning the business of creativity during the day. Earning my first copywriting gig at Doner Advertising in Detroit, Michigan in 2004.
For the next four years I would help Doner grow from 800 people to nearly 2,000 people. Then, in the blink of eye, watch it shrink to merely 550 people. I'll never forget that feeling...low...but moreover, developing a profound sense that creativity should not be treated like a commodity, but rather, nurtured as a resource.
Creativity has the power to change us.
Like beauty.
Truth.
A.I.
Or relationships.
When the opportunity presented itself, I moved my family to a small agency in my adopted home state of Colorado. Returning to the Rocky Mountains for the second time. Working at a small agency, with the grit and energy to make it bigger. Continuing to elevate my strategic chops, client relations skills and my ability to sell creative solutions. Growing the agency from 35 people to just over 80. Progressing from copywriter to Executive Creative Director.
I thought I had found my forever job.
Still, something nagged at me about the advertising and brand-building business. An inherent belief that it could be done better. With more emphasis on solving business problems in concert with our clients - rather than as a retriever fetching mediocrity. Combining creativity with the power of story and technology to bring unique brand solutions to life in compelling ways.
I started my own agency, _defyThemAll.
For the second time in my life, I thought I had found my forever job.
Then, Anthropic shows up.
You are the only AI firm with whom I see a kindred spirit. I connect with your mission. For my children, and their children, I would pour my heart into a company dedicated to helping drive the adoption of an AI that benefits humanity.
If ever there was a role that could motivate me to step away from running my own business, this is it.
Some of the compelling stories that have created value for our clients.
I do have more traditional credentials for your records. If interested, please feel free to download my cirriculum vitae here.
Download CV
