Jay brings over 35 years of sales and leadership experience across broadcast and digital platforms directly into his coaching. His mission is simple: help propel executives, teams, and leaders to their highest potential…fast. He dives deep to untangle business challenges, unlock potential, and instill accountability for growth. Known for his authentic, energetic style, Jay doesn't just ask questions—he provokes, challenges, and delivers the kind of unfiltered feedback that sparks real transformation.
Jay is the catalyst you call when you're ready to break through barriers and lead unapologetically. He doesn't answer your questions—he questions your answers, playing the provocateur and sounding board every leader craves. Through intense 1:1 sessions and 360-degree feedback, Jay helps shift behaviors, identify growth areas, and elevate your leadership game…all in the name of personal and professional growth.
Before launching JayBird Unlimited, Jay held senior leadership roles at Google, Cox Enterprises, ABC/Disney, and iHeartMedia—always leading with a bias to action, a growth mindset, and a people-first approach. He's navigated tough clients, challenging bosses, massive reorgs, and over 5,000 high-stakes meetings with C-level execs.
At Google, Jay managed the large customer segment in US advertising sales, partnering with top brands like IBM, Salesforce, Slack, Microsoft, Zoom and Carvana. He's a passionate DEI advocate, mentoring African American and Latinx leaders, and has advised entrepreneurs as part of his role on CapitalG's GTM Advisory Board.
Certified by the Hudson Institute of Coaching, Jay now works with clients that lead teams at companies like Google, Intuit, TikTok, Instacart, Anthropic and New York Life, and loves every minute of it. Originally from the South, he's called both Atlanta and Silicon Valley home while helping raise three amazing kids. When he's not coaching, you'll find Jay outdoors with his two Australian Shepherds, surfing, golfing, or playing tennis. Life is good—and he's here to help you make yours even better.
Simply put: Working with Jay has been game-changing in my career. Jay's guidance has been instrumental in helping me navigate complex leadership conversations with clarity and confidence. I've also become much more effective at managing expectations within my team, leading to smoother workflows and stronger relationships.
Beyond the day-to-day leadership, Jay provided invaluable support as I prepared for senior-level interviews. His insights into the interview process, guidance in knowing my story and helping me navigate ambiguity significantly boosted my confidence and performance. Thank you, Jay, you truly are a guiding light.
Pashmeena Hilal
Working with Jay Bowden has been one of the most impactful professional experiences of my career. His positive, thoughtful approach creates a space where you feel both supported and challenged to grow. What sets Jay apart is not just his deep coaching expertise, but the way he brings his own rich career experience—along with his personal wins and honest reflections on setbacks—into every session. That transparency adds so much depth and relatability to his guidance.
Jay doesn’t just coach for the moment; he equips you for the long run. I now have a practical, empowering toolkit I can reference anytime, and perhaps most importantly, I carry Jay’s voice with me—encouraging, insightful, and always reminding me of what’s possible. He’s helped me access a level of clarity and confidence that continues to shape how I lead and show up every day.
Julie Kikla
Whatnot
We've helped hundreds of leaders, managers, and rising teams with our science-based frameworks and sessions. 98% of attendees say Elevate improved their confidence to manage their team, and 95% of attendees said they’d recommend Elevate to others.
We've helped hundreds of leaders, managers, and rising teams with our science-based frameworks and sessions. 98% of attendees say Elevate improved their confidence to manage their team, and 95% of attendees said they’d recommend Elevate to others.
