Case Kenny, 32, is the host of the podcast, “New Mindset, Who Dis.” He’s also the author of three self-help journals, “Single is Your Superpower,” “New Mindset Journal,” and “Unbothered Journal.” Follow Case on Instagram: @case.kenny or visit his website, newmindsetwhodis.com.
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Where did you grow up? Are you originally from Chicago?
I was born in Hinsdale and then my family moved to Virginia. Then, I moved back to Chicago.
What brought you back to Chicago?
I went to University of Notre Dame. After I graduated, a lot of my friends moved here and I had a lot of family that still lived here. It made a lot of sense for me to move back to Chicago.
What’s a basic overview of what you do?
I’m a podcaster first and foremost. But, I’m also a writer. They go hand in hand. I’m also a producer/DJ. I like to focus on mindfulness. Mindfulness is self awareness. I don’t refer to myself as an expert when it comes to dating and relationships, but people seem to get a lot of value out of my perspective.
After you graduated from Notre Dame, how did you get into podcasting?
I started doing the podcast in 2018. I just got out of a serious relationship. I wanted to challenge myself. I had been writing online before that. I wanted to take my writing to the next step. I wanted to talk about self development topics and mindfulness. I got really lucky. Then, I started building my social media following.
How did you come up with the concept of self-help journals?
I spent a long time developing those journals. I started them in May 2019. I always wanted to be a journaler. I bought so many journals and I didn’t find them helpful. So, I decided to create my own. With COVID, they blew up. My journals are “New Mindset, Who Dis,” “Single is Your Superpower,” and “Unbothered”. I’ve been flabbergasted with how they’ve sold.
How did you promote your work before COVID?
I think having a top podcast, “New Mindset, Who Dis” really helped. Then, I started doing more interviews.
You seem like you have so much confidence! How did you get to that place?
We always put ourselves in a corner when we think something is the right way to do something. There’s no “right way” to be single, or to be in a relationship, or be married. I create confidence from creating my own path. There is no correct path. I find a lot of freedom in that.
What advice would you give someone who wants to build their brand?
You’ve got to write from experience. People don’t want to listen to experts or gurus. They want to listen to everyday people they can relate to. They want emotional empathy. Everyone has a unique perspective. It doesn’t have to be earth shattering. Just do it in a way that’s true to you.
I also create quotes on Instagram. I was able to break through in a small way by writing on coffee cups. That’s why I call myself a dudebroguy. I just share my perspective and I think that resonates.
How do you want to build your brand into the future?
I want to create more impact. I want to be the biggest podcaster in the world! I want to do more with music. I’m coming out with more books and products this year. I’m going to dip my toe into some YouTube stuff. I want to write, and talk, and dance, and do it in a fun way. I want to make my own money doing what I love. That’s the goal.
Case’s Guide to Chicago:
Pizza: Lou Malnati’s, 805 S. State St., Chicago
Date Spot: Soho House Chicago, 113-125 N. Green St., Chicago
Where to Mingle: Fulton Market in the West Loop
Sports Teams: Cubs, Notre Dame football
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