A Day of Insight and Inspiration with Jordan McCreery of Ingrained Media

This week, our class had the incredible privilege of learning from Jordan McCreery, co-founder and President of Ingrained Media. It’s safe to say we left feeling energized, informed, and inspired.

From the moment he began sharing his story, Jordan reminded us that marketing isn’t just about selling — it’s about connecting people to value. He showed us that great marketing happens where creativity and strategy meet, and that connection, not just communication, is what moves people and brands forward.

Jordan’s journey is a true testament to following your passion. From his early days as a marketing intern in Chicago to building a thriving digital media company rooted in the world of MMA, his story began with something as simple — and powerful — as a tweet. That single moment on Twitter led to a long-term business partnership and the foundation of what would become Ingrained Media.

He reminded us that life is far more rewarding when we pursue what we enjoy doing most.

Throughout his presentation, Jordan walked us through the fundamentals of what makes marketing effective:
• Start with the audience. Understand who you’re talking to and what they truly value.
• Marketing = Connection. It’s the bridge between what you create and what people care about.
• Understand the platform. Don’t try to be everywhere — focus on where your audience already is.
• Use data wisely. Go beyond vanity metrics and focus on insights that actually drive growth.
• Content = Connection. Social media isn’t just about posting — it’s about creating stories that build relationships.

He also shared the importance of focusing on metrics that matter — reach, engagement, and action — and how each tells a story about your brand’s impact.

Every insight tied back to one central idea: marketing isn’t about noise; it’s about value. Whether it’s a class business or a personal brand, the goal is to connect, inspire, and build something meaningful.

What makes Jordan’s story even more inspiring is how deeply he’s rooted in his community. He is an active mentor and guest speaker for both the Edwardsville and Gateway CEO programs, where he dedicates his time to helping students explore entrepreneurship, develop leadership skills, and build confidence in pursuing their passions. His commitment to giving back and guiding future business leaders is a powerful reminder that true success includes helping others rise.

One of the most meaningful moments came after class, when Jordan stayed for an additional 20 minutes to speak one-on-one with a student who had questions about his individual business. He offered thoughtful advice, encouragement, and practical guidance — demonstrating that his passion for helping others extends far beyond the presentation itself.

We are truly grateful to Jordan for sharing not just his knowledge, but his journey, energy, and genuine care for our students. His message was clear: start with people, lead with purpose, and let data drive your direction.