Capitol Communicator is running a series featuring an in-depth look at communicators in the mid-Atlantic. In this “Up Close and Personal” profile, we feature Josh Golden. Photography for the series is by Cade Martin, wardrobe styling by Pascale Lemaire and Sybil Street for THE Artist Agency; and hair and makeup by Patti D Nelson, Janice Kinigopoulos and Lori Pressman for THE Artist Agency.
Josh, please provide us a short bio.
I began my career in theatre, as an actor, playwright, lyricist and director. After a few years of tours and rep, the need for a steady paycheck overcame my need to perform and I began working in a completely different field: a baseball diamond. I first ran entertainment for the New York Mets and then became a founding member of the Washington Nationals, eventually serving as the team’s Director of Creative Services. For a number of years, I worked for PCI Communications and currently am SVP, Senior Creative Director at Yes& Agency.
Are you involved in any other organizations?
I am a member of the DC Ad Club.
What are the things you are most proud of?
In general, I am proud that I have always managed to stoke my creative passion, wherever I’ve worked — even in baseball! I’m thrilled that my babies–the Nationals Racing Presidents–have become a DC institution. I am more thrilled that my actual babies–my two daughters–embody the spirit of joy and play that I try to encourage every day.
Who are your personal role models?
My grad school theatre professor, Geri Clark, was there at exactly the right time for me and has shaped how I approach my work. It’s amazing how often the lessons I learned through theatre apply to so many aspects of my life. My wife, Jenny, is a constant source of inspiration for me. She has taught me the excitement and joy of taking risks — of leaping without a net.
Did your role models offer professional advice that helped you in your career?
Geri recognized my love for facility and challenged me to embrace obstacles. I’ve tried to do so ever since. Challenges open the door to creativity. And the bigger the challenge, the more creative the solution you’ll have to find. The work I’m most proud of came from what at first seemed impossible.
What professional advice do you have for others?
It’s the first rule of improv: say “Yes, and…” No matter how outlandish the premise, once we accept and offer, it’s thrilling where we’ll end up.
What’s on your Spotify and Pandora playlists?
Nothing too out of the box. I love the Beatles. I love U2. Being from Long Island, I’m compelled to love Billy Joel. I’ve dissected every word and phrase of “Hamilton.” The rest, I rely on the more musically innovative to share with me.
What’s your favorite restaurant?
Can I say Popeyes?
Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?
I have an insatiable curiosity, a passion for history, a deep knowledge of both musical theatre and baseball. And I can drive a forklift.
I happen to work with Josh and he is even more awesome in person. I’ll work on arranging a forklift-operating course for creative who are interested in expanding their toolkit.