Capitol Communicator is running a series of profiles of communicators in the mid-Atlantic. In this “up close and personal” profile, we feature Jason Siegel, co-founder and chief creative officer of D,C,-based Bluetext. Photography for this series by Cade Martin; wardrobe styling by Pascale Lemaire for THE Artist Agency; and hair and makeup by Patti D Nelson and Janice Kinigopoulos for THE Artist Agency.

Jason, please provide us with a short bio.

When I was growing up, I wanted to be a hip hop CD cover designer. CDs went by the way side, so I wound up developing internet businesses and interactive agencies. In my 20s, I started two companies, Internet Gravity (acquired by MSL Qorvis in 2004) and UFollowUp (acquired by Lasso in 2013).   My latest venture is Bluetext. As co-founder and chief creative officer, I am responsible for the creative vision of Bluetext. I focus on guiding teams of visual designers, brand strategist and user experience designers as they create award-winning work for our Fortune 500 clients. I try my hardest to ensure that Bluetext stays true to the company’s unique dynamics of collaboration between world-class creative and groundbreaking digital strategies.

What are the things you are most proud of?

Being a father to my three kids – Noah, Ellie and Benjamin.  The joy they bring me is like a creative learning about a new color that never existed.  Truly magical watching them grow up.

Who were your personal role models?

I would say there are three role models I have had in my career and life.   My grandma, Rose Rosenberg, was an amazing woman.  A hard-working and positive woman.   Rand Kramer, taught me a lot about how “the devil is in the details”, how to treat your teammates, and what great interactive creative is all about.  And, finally, the great Doug Poretz – a wonderful personality and a great life mentor.  Doug’s confidence in me and counsel was invaluable.

What professional advice do you have for others?

Here are three things I share with others:
– Run really hard but don’t bump into other peoples lanes;
– Pigs get fed, hogs get slaughtered; and,
– The younger you are, the bigger risks you should take.

What advice do you have on what’s appropriate attire for your organization?

We are a creatively-charged organization.  I want people to be comfortable when being asked to “be creative”.  We dress the part when we present and meet with clients, but I prefer an informal organization that acts professional and has fun. The attitude you wear is more important to me than the clothes you wear at our agency.

Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?

There are a number of things, including:
– I am a proud Redskins fan (no matter how bad they are again this year);
– I eat too much chicken parmesan and Reese’s peanut butter cups;
– I am barely a 4.0 tennis player with a horrible back hand;
– I appreciate artist Chuck Close work;
– I collect Roberto Clemente memorabilia because I think he has the best story ever; and,
– I am so proud of the team @ Bluetext.