The Unique Way Questions that Spark Connection w/ “Off the Record” Founder Kate Terentivia
In this episode, Cortney sits down with the incredible Kate Terentieva, founder of Off the Record—a groundbreaking connection card game designed to revolutionize how we communicate and foster deeper, more impactful relationships. Kate brings her unique blend of creativity, passion for connection, and entrepreneurial wisdom to the show, and trust us—you’re going to love her vibe!
Kate shares her journey from working as a creative and art director for iconic brands like WhatsApp, Calvin Klein, Converse, and Four Seasons Hotels, to creating Off the Record as a way to tackle the epidemic of surface-level conversations. Growing up as a natural conversationalist, Kate realized over time that small talk was leaving her (and many others) feeling disconnected and unfulfilled. During the pandemic, this realization fueled her mission to create a tool that helps people dive deeper into who they are and connect on a truly meaningful level.
Stick around until the end where Kate shares her morning routine (spoiler: it starts with staying off her phone), her favorite wellness practice, and a book that changed her life.
If you’re ready to ditch the small talk, create meaningful connections, and hear some amazing stories, this episode is for you! Don’t forget to share it with a friend—it might just spark a deeper connection in your own life. 💕
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✨ Kate’s entrepreneurial journey and how her experience in advertising taught her the power of asking the right questions to build connection. ✨ The rise of surface-level conversations and how they negatively impact our quality of life and relationships. ✨ Practical tips on moving from small talk to meaningful conversations that leave people feeling seen and heard. ✨ How Off the Record works, including a live demo where Kate and Cortney pull a card (this was fun!). ✨ Tips for building impactful relationships in 2025—perfect for navigating loneliness and social anxiety in a post-pandemic world. ✨ How Off the Record has helped bridge generational gaps, bond workplace teams, and inspire personal growth.
Kate’s Advice for Female Founders:
💡 Find founder-product fit: Are you the best person to solve the problem you’re addressing? 💡 Start with your “why” and let that by your driving force. 💡 Validate your idea with proof of concept (beyond your family members & inner circle). 💡 Focus on solving the problem your audience is navigating, not just building the “business.” 💡 Embrace organic marketing to share your product authentically (you don’t need a ton of capitol or investors).
Resources Mentioned:
📚 “Food Fix” by Dr. Mark Hyman 📚 “Smart Brevity” by Jim VandeHei & Mike Allen 🎥 “Poisoned” documentary on Netflix 📺 Simon Sinek TED Talk: How Great Leaders Inspire Action
Connect:
🌐 Website: playofftherecord.com 📸 Instagram: @playofftherecord 🎵 TikTok: @playofftherecord
_________________________________
_________________________________
To say thank you for taking the time to subscribe, rate & review the podcast I’m gifting you my Zoom Yoga Library (11 creative vinyasa classes). All you have to do is take a screenshot of your REVIEW & send it to hello@cortneyostrosky.com. I’m so grateful for your support & think you’ll love these classes!