Notion Podcast First Block: Interview with Garrett Lord, Co-Founder and CEO of Handshake
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Dec 16, 2025 
In this insightful discussion, Garrett Lord, co-founder and CEO of Handshake, shares his journey from humble beginnings in Michigan to leading a career platform connecting 17 million users with employers. He reflects on overcoming challenges like living out of his car and emphasizes the importance of talent density for startups. Garrett also unveils the origins of Handshake AI, explaining its role in enhancing employability and preparing young professionals for the future. He encourages founders to embrace ambitious AI opportunities and prioritize a strong company culture.
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From Michigan To Building Handshake
- Garrett Lord grew up in a working-class Michigan family and used internships to change his trajectory.
- He started Handshake to democratize access to career opportunities regardless of background or school.
Living Out Of A Ford Focus
- Early Handshake founders lived out of a Ford Focus while selling the product to universities.
- They persisted through hundreds of rejections and stacked daily small wins to grow the company.
Prioritize Talent Density Early
- Invest early in talent density and your talent brand because the first hires define future growth.
- Create intimate experiences to attract top people before hypergrowth begins.