Podcast Episode Summary:

Guest: Jimmy Vetrano – Founder & CEO of 2626 Digital | Co-Owner of Sushi Hall Chicago

Location: Chicago, IL

Fun Fact: Jimmy launched his full-scale digital agency after leaving a high-stress political post and now runs both a growing agency and a top-rated sushi restaurant.

🔑 Greatest Learnings & Takeaways:

1. Make a Splash—Don’t Stay Still

“Most people don’t… make a splash. But YOU should.”

Jimmy's message is about standing out. Whether it's launching a new business, speaking up in a corporate environment, or delivering small acts of kindness—don’t just blend in. Be bold. Make waves.

2. Notice. Anticipate. Overdeliver.

“I notice what people need—even when they don’t say it—and I help them get there.”

This theme ran through his stories—from his leadership at Kraft Heinz to how he runs 2626 Digital. His secret weapon? Deep empathy, combined with technical know-how. That’s a rare (and powerful) combo.

3. Great Culture Starts With Great Humans

Whether it’s at Sushi Hall or 2626 Digital, Jimmy creates workplaces where people want to stay. Why? He values his team, listens, and leads with kindness. Chef Mitch and the Sushi Hall team are remembered more for how they make people feel than for the ingredients (though the sushi’s top-tier too!).

4. Do Your Part, Like the Hummingbird

“The hummingbird brought water to a forest fire—because doing something matters.”

Jimmy embodies this philosophy. He doesn’t wait for others to act. He contributes, uplifts, and helps—without expecting anything in return. That mindset not only drives business success but changes lives.

5. Relationships > Résumés

“The emotional hesitation is the real objection.”

Jimmy nailed it: people buy from who they trust. Whether selling sushi or social strategy, the emotional connection always wins. He gets to know clients, their pain points, their goals—and meets them where they are.

💬 Standout Quotes:

“I want to leave people better than I found them.”

“You can’t protect your team if you’re not in the room—so play the game, but don’t lose yourself.”

“You couldn’t do that.” — On respecting and recognizing frontline hospitality workers.

“I’ve always had an eye for opportunity—sometimes before others even see it.”

🧠 Business Takeaways for Listeners:

Leaders: Your integrity matters more than your title.

Marketers: Don't just chase metrics—create meaning.

Entrepreneurs: You don’t need the perfect name. You need the perfect effort.

Everyone: Helping someone—without needing anything back—is its own reward.

More about https://2626digital.com

More about https://sushihallchicago.com/

Connect with Jimmy on LinkedIn: (1) James Vetrano | LinkedIn