Jonathan’s pursuit of an MFA was “totally mercenary.” After making little headway in his career or with his oil paintings post college, he realized his penchant for writing could be lucrative (and creative). 

Several years later, with his master’s finished, Jonathan was at a work party when his boss made an offhand remark that sparked another epiphany: If he kept working for others, he’d likely never get a larger piece of the proverbial pie. Within a few months, Kranz Communications was born.

The early years demanded learning the ins and outs of copywriting, networking, and marketing his own business while taking whatever work he could get — and often at low rates. But his tenacity paid off. 

Jonathan’s income tripled between his first and second year solo. And he has earned a solid reputation in his space, landing big-name accounts, speaking at marketing events, and leading workshops at conferences and for clients. 

Twenty-five years on, the deliverables and technology have changed. But Jonathan’s preference for charting his own path has remained.

Books & other resources mentioned

Tested Advertising Methodsby John Caples

Ogilvy on Advertisingby David Ogilvy

Ugly Things Magazine 

Where to find Jonathan’s content and creative works

Kranz Communications website

Writing Copies for Dummiesby Jonathan Kranz

Our Brothers at the Bottom of the Bottom of the Sea(YA novel) by Jonathan Kranz

Check out more from The Work Seminar

Visit theworkseminar.com or find @TheWorkSeminar on social media. 

Sign up for The Work Seminar newsletter to receive updates straight to your inbox.

Support the show