In this episode of Navigating No, I sit down with my friend and mentor, Paul Kiely—a creative powerhouse whose career spans decades of work with iconic brands like Amazon, GM, Microsoft, PepsiCo, and YUM Brands.

From his early days at MTV to his roles as a casting director, voice-over actor, and commercial creative, Paul’s journey is filled with invaluable lessons on persistence, adaptability, and the power of humor in overcoming challenges.

Paul doesn’t just navigate rejection—he’s mastered the art of avoiding it altogether. By embracing serendipity and staying true to himself, he’s turned hurdles into stepping stones, proving that every “no” can lead to a better opportunity.

00:00 Intro

00:38 Meet Paul Kiley: A Creative Journey

01:34 Reconnecting and Reminiscing

02:20 The Samsung Commercial Experience

07:40 Casting Insights and Challenges

12:11 The Reality of Rejection in the Industry

22:40 Unexpected Stories from the Set

25:56 Lost Donkey Footage

27:15 Navigating Career Challenges

28:49 Breaking into the Industry

30:18 Imposter Syndrome and Early Success

31:29 MTV Adventures

34:40 Street Interviews and Serendipity

42:57 Mentorship and Positivity

49:58 Thoughts and Farewells