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The Growth Note | People Buy Stories, Not Products

Read it. Feel it. Do something with it.

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Hey you,

Jesse Itzler tells a story from his early days that has always stuck with me.

In the 1990s, Jesse was hustling to break into the music world. He pitched himself to the New York Knicks to write their official theme song — and somehow, he got the deal.

The Knicks paid him $4,000. But here’s the kicker: it cost Jesse $4,800 to produce the track. On paper, he actually lost $800.

But that “loss” was one of the best investments of his life.

Because it wasn’t just a song. It was a story. “I wrote the theme for the New York Knicks.”

That story gave him momentum. Other NBA teams hired him. Soon, he was creating anthems for sports organizations and big brands across the country.

Jesse’s takeaway?

👉 People don’t buy products. They buy into people, stories, and momentum.

3 Lessons From Jesse’s Story

1. Stories Sell More Than Features

A product’s features tell people what it does. A story tells people why it matters. Leaders who share stories inspire trust, connection, and buy-in.

2. Momentum Multiplies Influence

The Knicks project didn’t pay in profit, but it paid in credibility. Momentum attracts more momentum. Sometimes the smartest move is trading short-term gain for long-term growth.

3. People Invest in People

The Knicks weren’t just buying a song — they were buying Jesse. His energy, hustle, and belief in himself made people want to bet on him. The same is true for us: people invest in who we are more than what we sell.

2 Quotes to Reflect On

“People don’t buy products. They buy into people, stories, and momentum.” – Jesse Itzler

“The most powerful person in the world is the storyteller.” – Steve Jobs

1 Stretch for the Week

Think of one way you can tell a story instead of pitching a product this week.

It could be a customer success story, a personal experience, or a challenge you’ve overcome.

Use it in a conversation, presentation, or email — and notice how differently people respond.

If this week’s Growth Note resonated, forward it to someone who needs the reminder that their story — not just their skill — is what will open the next door.

More soon — until then, speak boldly.

—Kamryn

Beyond the Note

I work with founders, professionals, and teams who want to speak with confidence, lead with clarity, and grow through intentional communication.

→ Book 1-on-1 coaching

→ Bring me in to speak at your next event

→ Explore more tools and frameworks

Big things are coming soon — like my first book and online trainings. Stay tuned.

P.S. Know someone who needs this kind of weekly stretch?

Forward this email or send them to The Growth Note signup page.