Lainya Magana, founder of A&O PR. (Credit: Courtesy of A&O PR)

1,000 Stories

She Brings Her Art Gallery Experience to Her PR Firm

Lainya Magana’s agency, A&O PR, has roots in the art world, but is rapidly expanding into architecture, hospitality and tech.

January 15, 2026

By Victoria Flexner

Lainya Magana launched her PR and marketing firm, A&O PR, just after the financial crisis of 2008. She’d been laid off from an art gallery, where she was the director – not long after, she learned she was expecting her first child. Magana looks back on that time and says that “as exciting as that was, I was terrified about being unemployed … I spent every moment of my brief unemployment dreaming up my next opportunity.” The Portland, Oregon-based founder’s dreams – in addition to her years of experience in the art world – became a dynamic arts and culture agency, which today works with hundreds of clients in the arts, has two offices on each coast and is quickly expanding into a number of new markets. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

We specialize in small to mid-size businesses that are majority-women and BIPOC-owned or operated. Our clients are usually in the startup or growth phase, which requires a nimble agency with a passion for our clients’ stories and an ability to take creative risks that achieve results. We act as trusted advisors and an extension of our clients’ teams.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

In a career spanning nearly two decades, I’ve been honored to have many successes – but if I had to choose my biggest success, I’d probably say it was having the honor to manage PR for the inaugural Uganda Pavilion at the Venice Biennale.

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Scaling. And, I’m still trying to figure that one out!

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

I’ve experienced many hardships in life, but I’ve never let them stop me. I’ve always continued to put one foot in front of the other, working hard, helping my clients succeed and building a brighter future.

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Keep your business as sustainable as possible. That way, it’s always something you can manage – whether times are good or difficult. That means always keeping enough in the bank, not growing too big, too fast and not compromising your values. Slow and steady wins the race.

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How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

My community is full of inspiring people doing amazing things. Along with my children, my community motivates me to keep working to achieve my goals.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

 “IT” by Christine and the Queens.

Who is your most important role model? 

My brother, Ken. He had a really challenging time in high school and didn’t end up getting his GED until he was in his 20s. Then, he went to community college, and did so well he got a full scholarship to the University of California at Berkeley – but turned it down to go to Cornell University. He graduated Summa Cum Laude, then went on to get his Master’s from Harvard. He’s an inspiration to all of us in my family!

Instagram: @ao.pr
Facebook: @aopublic

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Madison Smith, founder of Charlotte Social Studio. (Image: Courtesy of Charlotte Social Studio)

1,000 Stories

She Helps Interior Designers Conquer Social Media

Madison Smith built Charlotte Social Studio for women in design — and for the life she wanted as a new mom.  

July 30, 2025

By Victoria Flexner

Before Madison Smith launched her boutique marketing and PR agency, Charlotte Social Studio, she worked as an interior designer. Smith knew first-hand that designers need a personalized and strategic approach to marketing within the design industry – especially in a field that can feel saturated and difficult to stand out in. When the Coeur d’Alene, Idaho-based entrepreneur unexpectedly became a single mother, one of her top priorities was creating a work-life balance that would fit around her life. In 2023, Smith launched Charlotte Social Studio, a boutique agency named after her daughter and dedicated to helping interior designers elevate their brands. Today, Smith says she is proud to be helping other women in the design field grow successful businesses while also creating the life she wants for her daughter – and herself. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

We bring an insider’s perspective to the interior design world. Our boutique approach allows us to form close, collaborative relationships with our clients, acting as an extension of their team and offering full-service support across social media, PR, email marketing, ad campaigns and more. 

We also focus on strong personal branding —we help our clients uncover what makes them unique and we translate that into a cohesive, elevated presence across every platform. Social media marketing and PR are not separate efforts but work together in perfect harmony, with each aspect of our strategy complimenting the next.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Seeing how impactful this work is for my clients. I’ve seen clients shift from taking on unaligned or less-than-ideal projects just to keep the pipeline full, to taking on high-profile, truly luxury projects they once thought were out of reach. It’s more rewarding than I can express.

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Helping clients understand the importance of consistency in building their brand over time. A common misconception in this industry is that when the pipeline is full, marketing can fall to the wayside. Many designers who take a DIY approach to marketing and PR tend to focus on marketing when they need more leads, only to stop or disappear from those efforts when they’re busy with projects. When those projects end and marketing hasn’t been maintained, panic often sets in. The reality is, it’s crucial to continue marketing and nurturing your brand, regardless of whether the pipeline is full or not. 

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

The birth of my daughter shifted my priorities and motivated me to create a business that allowed me to be present for her while still doing the work I love. Additionally, my prior work experience in both interior design and marketing gave me the foundation to start. 

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

If you truly love what you do and you focus on building your business in the best way you know how, the money and success will follow. We all define success differently. For some it may be making a certain amount of money, for others it might mean having more freedom with your time, or having more work-life balance. What matters most is building a business that aligns with your values. 

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How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I find inspiration by coming back to my why—my daughter. She’s the reason I keep going, even when things feel heavy. I also think about the incredible women I serve—passionate interior designers who are pouring their hearts into their work – just like I am. Knowing that I get to help them show up confidently and grow their businesses reminds me that this work matters deeply. I am helping someone make their dreams come true! What an honor.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

I love worship music for those tough days.

Who is your most important role model? 

Can your 2-year-old daughter be your role model? I am so grateful for her and I know without a shadow of a doubt that I would be nowhere near where I am without her. Beyond her, other role models would be my family who inspired me to start my journey in entrepreneurship and have supported me every step of the way. I come from two parents who are entrepreneurs, and their support has been a driving force in my journey.

Instagram: @Charlottesocialstudio

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Jade Pruett, founder of HelloSEO. (Credit: Courtesy of HelloSEO)

1,000 Stories

Top-Notch SEO Guidance for Small Businesses

Jade Pruett creates transparent, effective search engine optimization strategies for women-led small businesses.

February 18, 2025

By Victoria Flexner

Jade Pruett originally launched her company, HelloSEO, to bring in some extra income. But as she grew in the SEO space, she realized there was a big gap going unserved: Small businesses. Founders told Pruett that they often felt like they were being misled by SEO analysts – they didn’t quite understand what the services they were paying for actually did. Pruett wanted to ease their frustration. Since starting-up in 2020, the Columbia, South Carolina-based founder has worked to provide top-notch SEO advice that is not only effective, but also honest, transparent and genuinely beneficial to the businesses she serves. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

Women are still the minority in my field. Many of my clients, especially woman-owned businesses, find it refreshing to work with a woman in SEO. But no matter who I’m serving, my priority is always the same: Making sure they fully understand what’s happening, the value of the work I’m doing, and exactly how it’s moving the needle for them month to month.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

When I finally matched the income from my old full-time job in the semiconductor industry. When I realized I could quit that work and fully support my family through my business’ income alone, was monumental for me both personally and professionally. 

What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

I’m a textbook high-performer. I love to fill every second of every day with “productive work.” But this is something I’ve really struggled with over time, especially now that I have a family. I’ve had to learn how to slow down and prioritize a work-life balance. I’ve also discovered that I’m not the best trainer — I find it challenging to translate my expertise to others. Luckily, I’ve been able to lean on people with different strengths who can help bridge that gap.

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Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

Having a baby was a huge shift in my life, both personally and professionally. Overnight, the stakes felt so much higher as the sole breadwinner for my family. It was definitely challenging, but one of the biggest reasons I started my business in the first place was to have the flexibility and financial stability to support a family. While the early days were tough, it has been incredibly rewarding.

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Get a good business advisor as soon as possible. For me, everything clicked into place once I met mine. That’s when I finally saw that taking the leap of quitting my job and building the life I truly wanted was actually possible. You don’t have to do it all on your own — and you shouldn’t.

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I have an incredible husband who patiently listens to me process everything — business, life, all of it — on repeat. It helps so much. And, it might sound a little unconventional, but I also have an amazing hypnotherapist who has been a game-changer, especially when it comes to imposter syndrome. Lastly, when I start to feel overwhelmed, I revisit podcasts I was on back in 2020 — when I was thrilled to be making $1,500 a month. It’s the perfect reminder of just how far I’ve come. 

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What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

I really love listening to the “Waitress” soundtrack. I was a theater kid in college. (Don’t tell anyone.)

Who is your most important role model? 

There are several successful and generous people in both my family and my husband’s family whom I look up to. The people I admire most in this world, generally speaking, are those who have built success while pursuing their dreams — and still make time for their families. That balance is something I aspire to.

Website: helloseo.com

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Founder Allyson Conklin. (Credit: Courtesy of Allyson Conklin PR)

Her PR Strategies Get to The Root of a Company’s Identity

Allyson Conklin prides herself on her holistic, personalized approach to working with brands in the beauty and lifestyle industries.

November 20, 2024

By Victoria Flexner

Allyson Conklin founded her eponymous public relations firm in 2010, with hopes of representing brands of all sizes in new and more meaningful ways. Conklin says brand building through consultation is at the heart of what her firm does – but that if you ask her clients, “they’ll tell you that we’re way more than publicists; … we’re a true extension of their teams.” Since ACPR’s launch 14 years ago, Conklin and her team have worked hand-in-hand with new and heritage businesses of all sizes, creating meaningful brand awareness, driving influence, and supporting their respective goals for growth. Today, the Atlanta-based founder continues to navigate the challenges of scaling her small business while continuously adapting her entrepreneurial mindset in ways that work best for her, her team and her clients. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

As a small boutique agency, we take a highly personalized approach to PR. We consider ourselves a relationship-first agency – which makes this experience inherently different to that of working with a larger firm. I wholeheartedly believe that the foundation of our success lies in our ability to go deep, which leaves no stone unturned or story untold. We see brands as a whole, and aim to tell their stories in their entirety – that’s where the magic of PR shines through.

What is your biggest success to date?

I can name many traditional successes: Scoring coveted media opportunities for deserving clients, including recognition in the Allure Best of Beauty Awards, or a 12-page feature in Traditional Home magazine. We’ve celebrated long-term partnerships with clients, grown our revenue year-after-year, and received hundreds of applications within 24 hours for open positions when we’ve listed them on LinkedIn. 

But what I consider my biggest success right now is breaking free from the “be better, faster, stronger” mentality, and instead focusing more on the feeling – in particular, feeling good. Founding and growing a company is hard work, and it’s easy to get caught in the “do whatever it takes” trap. I was on that path for years, and it didn’t work for me. I made some radical changes in how I operate this year in an effort to feel better, and it was the best decision I could have made, for both myself and my business. The best part is, we are now attracting even bigger and better opportunities because we’re focusing on what matters most.

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Scaling up. As a small company, there is a delicate dance to growth, and it can be tough to navigate. I have learned that it’s not always a “we need this number of employees to service this number of clients” formula. Fourteen years into business, I still don’t have a solution – but I’m committed to figuring it out. 

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

Like many company owners, the Covid pandemic forced me to rethink how we work. While I was initially apprehensive about becoming a remote company – I loved the in-office culture – in 2021, we made the change all the same. While there are challenges that have come with it, it has ultimately proven to be one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. Going remote has expanded our ability to attract and retain talent, enabled us to establish a footprint in new markets, and has provided me with the flexibility and freedom to work in a more meaningful way. Getting to decorate my home office has been the icing on the cake!

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

It’s OK not to have all of the answers! “I don’t know” is a perfectly acceptable answer. As entrepreneurs, we often pride ourselves on knowing everything – or at the very least, knowing how to find the answer quickly. But that’s a lot of pressure, and it even can prevent learning and growth. I’ve learned to embrace “I don’t know,” and honestly, I wish I would have done so sooner!

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How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

By remembering my “why.” It can be hard to see the forest for the trees on particularly tough days – but then I remind myself why I’m doing what I’m doing, and that it’s a choice that I made for myself, which helps me gain perspective. Or, if even that fails, getting up from my desk to get a latte and a gluten-free pastry often does the trick! Taking a break – whether it’s a quick walk, a lunch out, an impromptu day off, or a full blown vacation (because those are necessary, too!) – can be just what I need.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“High Dive” by Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness. 

Who is your most important role model?

I consider myself truly fortunate to have had so many strong female role models in my lifetime. My mom, Christine Cerbana, is one of them. I have learned so much from her – lessons which I apply not only to my life, but to my business as well. One of my favorite life lessons from her is that you can achieve anything you put your mind to, as long as you believe in yourself, work hard, and stay positive.

Instagram: @helloACPR
Facebook: @AllysonConklin

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Polly Hammond, founder of 5forests. (Credit: Courtesy of 5forests)

1,000 Stories

A Digital Marketing Agency for The Wine Industry

Polly Hammond’s agency, 5forests, offers wineries a digital transformation.

October 10, 2024

By Victoria Flexner

Polly Hammond’s journey to entrepreneurship began 10 years ago, when she and her husband sat on their patio one Sunday afternoon talking about what they wanted their life together to look like once their children left home. They were expats living in New Zealand and Hammond was already working in marketing, helping artisans of all sorts sell their wares in the digital space – but that day, she realized her true calling was in wine. So, Hammond decided to dive headfirst into her dream project by launching 5forests, a digital marketing agency working with vineyards and wineries across the globe. Hammond, who now lives in Barcelona, is proud to report that over 700 brands around the world turn to her for ways to grow their winery websites and ecommerce platforms – and she gets to live out the dream she crafted on her patio every single day.  

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

We are the only digital agency working in wine on a global scale, which means that we have deep expertise in cross-cultural and cross-border wine marketing. We have the strongest development team working in wine right now, which means that we have become the go-to agency for complex digital solutions. Our work is grounded in accessibility, sustainability and privacy. And – something I never would have expected – I have become a recognized subject-matter expert for the Millennial and Gen Z wine consumer.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

I could talk about the quality of our clients, or the numbers of wineries using our integrations, or metrics of client performance. But really, I think our biggest professional success is our team. We can have hard conversations and get through tough times and still like one another – this culture that we have cultivated is what got us through the insanity of the wine industry “discovering” digital in 2020. We have a huge amount of respect for what each person brings to the table, and we’re great at recognizing and honoring each other’s contributions.

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Our own marketing — the classic ‘mechanic’s car’ scenario. We focus so much on client marketing that our own sometimes falls by the wayside. We’ve tackled this in three key ways. First, by leveraging referrals – when a great client comes along, we make sure to let them know how much we value them, and we actively encourage referrals from clients who align with our values and goals. Second, by contributing value to the industry – we regularly present and participate in industry panels, always with a zero-promotion stance. And when we identify gaps, we offer free solutions. Lastly, I started a podcast about the wine business in March 2020, just as Europe was entering lockdowns. Since then, I’ve hosted over 100 podcasts on wine business and marketing and, like presenting, I make it a point to provide value and insight without being self-promotional.

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Keep your own counsel, and set boundaries from day one.

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I don’t rely on inspiration – I rely on habit. When my heart isn’t in it, which of course happens sometimes, I sit down at my desk and start with just one small, regular thing.

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What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

I love music. There is always a soundtrack playing in the background of my days, and I remember which songs formed the soundtrack to which projects. If I had to pick just one song, it would be “September” by Earth, Wind, and Fire. 

Who is your most important role model?

My husband – in a completely non-patriarchal way. He is calm, while I am choleric; he is joyful, while I can be a bit broody; he has amazing self-discipline, while I only have self-discipline when it comes to work! Whenever I’m at a loss for how to manage a situation, I stop and ask myself what would my husband do.

Instagram: @5forests
Facebook: @5forests
Podcast: PollyHammond.com

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Dina Mostovaya, founder of Mindset Consulting. (Credit: Courtesy of Mindset Consulting)

1,000 Stories

Tech Start-Ups Turn to Her for Storytelling Strategies

Dina Mostovaya’s PR agency, Mindset Consulting, works with innovative young companies and VC funds across the globe.

September 10, 2024

By Victoria Flexner

Dina Mostovaya worked as an independent PR consultant for over a decade, playing pivotal roles in their early-stage marketing strategies. In 2020, Mostovaya found she couldn’t keep up with her full roster of clients on her own, and decided it was time to build a team – it was the beginning for her firm, Mindset Consulting. Since launching, the Barcelona-based founder has been able to further expand her impressive roster of international clients, many of them working in tech and VC funding spaces, helping them with media relations, crisis management and more. All the while, the accolades roll in: Her firm was recently named the PR Agency of the Year by the 2024 Global Agency Awards.

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Since the moment of our founding almost 5 years ago, we have completed several fascinating projects with truly extraordinary entrepreneurs we are really proud of.

The first one that comes to mind is our current client, Boston-based venture capital fund Flint Capital. The fund invests in early-stage companies from the United States, Israel and Europe, and recently, it raised $160 million — four times the amount of their initial fund! Their success was covered by many top media outlets and a variety of leading newsletters. Another success story is Dubai-based tech startup XPANCEO. The company is pioneering the development of smart contact lenses that could reinvent computing as we know it. We’ve been working with them for less than a year, but already they have won the Best in Business Award for Healthcare by Inc. Arabia, and gained over 200 media high-quality mentions.

Our portfolio also includes successful projects with Sateliot, a Spain-based space tech startup and SpaceX partner; We Do Solar, a Berlin-based green tech company focused on vertical solar solutions; and Voyagu, a San Francisco-based travel management platform.

What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Moving to Europe and relocating the company along with me was the biggest leadership challenge in my almost 20-year-long career. When I moved to Barcelona in 2022, both my team and clients faced a wide range of economic and social concerns. During that time, we got through by hiring more talent, developing new recruitment and onboarding programs, and implementing employee coaching practices. We also added new services and developed fresh approaches, taking into account the cultural specifics of our clients. 

Last year was also difficult, as we were grappling with the changing legal environment in Europe. With new business laws, increased taxes, and other rising costs to consider, we were forced to rethink the agency’s business model.

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Have you experienced any significant personal situations that affected your business decisions? 

Besides my relocation, maintaining health has been a challenge. The pandemic made it clear to me that mental health is more important than career, work and ambition. But I’m a crazy workaholic! During the quarantine, I could sit at my laptop continuously for 12 hours without taking a lunch break. Eventually, I felt a loss of strength, and I couldn’t maintain concentration. Later, my therapist asked if I took breaks from work. Tears rolled down my cheeks in response, and in that moment, I understood just how important it is to block off rest time in my schedule – no matter how busy I am.

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

After more than 15 years of interacting with entrepreneurs from different regions and industries on a daily basis, I have developed a simple formula for success that helps companies thrive. The first is persistence; the second is action. It means the more ideas and hypotheses you test, the closer you are to success. 

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

Exercise. When I run, I feel like I’m getting closer to my goal. Exercise shows you your limits — how strong your willpower and discipline are, and how strict you can be towards yourself.  Also nature – for me, being outside is the best way to relax and feel one with the world.  And last but not least, I can’t imagine my life today without art. This is my biggest passion! I even started my second business, Sensity Studio, to help brands engage through the power of women’s art.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“What A Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. 

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Who is your most important role model?

Since I was a child, my mum has been my biggest role model. She worked hard and did everything she could to achieve her goals. She supported and inspired me while teaching me discipline, perseverance, purposefulness and dedication.

I’ve also learned a lot from my beloved mentor, Claudine Moore, founder of C.Moore Media (acquired by Allison+Partners), who made essential contributions to my development. She taught me to take a strategic view on business goals, build my personal brand in the U.S. and go in the direction of business consulting.

I lastly want to mention Marvin Bower, who grew McKinsey from a small firm to a leader in the consulting industry. He is a legend for me, and I share his values, principles and morality.

X: @DinaMostovaya
LinkedIn: @DinaMostovaya

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Amy Parrish, founder of Rhythm Communications. (Credit: Courtesy of Rhythm Communications)

1,000 Stories

She Serves Up Methodical Marketing Solutions

From film festivals and nonprofits to fast food chains and construction companies, Amy Parrish markets them all through her firm, Rhythm Communications.

September 4, 2024

By Victoria Flexner

Before she started her own firm, Amy Parrish worked both sides of the writer’s coin – first as a journalist, then as a publicist. Eventually, she landed a position at a large marketing agency that she loved – but when she got pregnant with her son, she knew she had to change her schedule drastically, so that she could spend more time with him. In 2003, Parrish launched Rhythm Communications, where she provides customized, unique marketing solutions for a broad range of businesses, while working hours that make sense for her “mom” life. To date, the Atlanta, Georgia-based entrepreneur has worked on behalf of film festivals, the Georgia Entertainment Tax Incentive, several nonprofit research organizations – and even fast food chain Chick-fil-A.

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

One of the projects I’m proudest to have been a part of is the creation of the Georgia Entertainment Tax Incentive. Over 20 years ago, I worked with Grammy-winning producer Dallas Austin to establish the Tax Credit Program. The initiative offers a 20% transferable tax credit to films, television series, commercials and music videos filmed in the state of Georgia. It has been one of my happiest achievements to have worked on something that changed the film industry in Georgia.

What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

In the early 2000s, when there was an economic downturn, we retooled, repriced and revised. When there was a shift away from public relations as a lead marketing program a few years back, we emphasized other marketing techniques. When social media became a lead voice in marketing communications, we trained our team to craft organic social media solutions. But no matter what, good writing always rises to the top. 

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Have you experienced any significant personal situations that affected your business decisions? 

I had always dreamed of being a mother. My husband and I had been trying to have a child for 10 years, and had been told by physicians that I would not be able to have a baby. We had begun investigating adoption – but God had different plans for us, and I got pregnant. 

At the time, both of our careers were incredibly demanding, and not conducive to childcare. I left my position at Grey Globals, an advertising and marketing agency, that I loved – and started up instead. I was able to juggle working from home one day per week, then hired an incredible nanny for the other days – but I still made sure I was always home for dinner. We were ultimately able to cherish every moment of our son’s childhood. 

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Build a team around your strengths and weaknesses – and praise those team members who make your firm successful. In my case, I especially needed help with operations and finance management. Although this was a difficult investment to make as a small firm, it was important for our firm’s success.

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How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I seek solutions through prayer, and I find peace through music and family time. In recent years, I’ve also taken to walking for stress management.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

Music is my greatest love – there are too many songs I love to count or list. However, my son, Eli Parrish, is a talented musician who composes for and conducts symphonies. I am most moved by Prometheus’ Prelude, his first full symphony, which is sold and performed all over the world.

Who is your most important role model?

As you age, your role models evolve – no one person can fill every hole. My mother is my role model for motherhood and the best example of leading and loving a family. Eslene Richmond-Shockley, of Caring for Others, stands up for what is right and fights for people in need. My husband has taught me about living for the will of God, and being humble. And, I had the pleasure of working under journalist Katie Couric at NBC. She is one of the finest writers, investigative reporters and storytellers on the planet.

Instagram: @RhythmCommunicationsllc
Facebook: @RhythmCommunications

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When Alexis Quintal started her boutique PR firm, Rosarium PR & Marketing Collective, she was determined to use her knowledge of the industry to strengthen it – and to make some subtle changes. Instead of hiring a traditional staff of publicists, for example, she decided to engage other business owners as contractors. Because, Quintal says, the person best suited to help an entrepreneur thrive is, in fact, another business owner. Since launching the company in 2022, the Tampa, Florida, founder has consistently struggled with work/life balance  – she is a self described “overachiever” – but is now increasingly learning the power of an appropriate, well-placed “no.”

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

We don’t have traditional employees. Our entire staff is made up of contractors who are also business owners. We do this because people who are successful business owners are best qualified to understand what other business owners need to succeed.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Getting started and sticking with it. That’s easier said than done when you consider I went out on my own during the Covid pandemic — when budgets were being cut and layoffs were running rampant throughout our field. But I knew I had what it took, so I kept going.

A couple years down the road, I rebranded my business, brought in more talent, added new services and generally kept scaling. Today, I’m more successful than I’ve ever been. 

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Knowing when to take a break – I haven’t always been good about that. Case in point: I was getting ready to go into a meeting when I found out that my mom passed away. I never even thought to cancel the meeting, and it wasn’t because I was worried about inconveniencing a client.

I would never recommend that someone take a call so shortly after losing a loved one. But I will always make sure to be the voice they need to hear – the voice I needed to hear when my Mom died. I want my clients to know it’s ok to work, to take a break, to just think and feel. 

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that affected your business decisions? 

I’ve always struggled with saying no. I’m ambitious by nature — an overachiever and a pleaser. But as I’ve grown in my career, I realized that the times I’ve helped my clients the most were when the client and I were a good match — their needs fit with my expertise, our goals complimented each other, and our personalities meshed. 

That lesson came in handy last year when, for the first time ever, I saw some red flags from a prospective client as we headed into the contract phase. I decided to tell them that our partnership would not be a good fit. Afterward, I felt relieved. The experience taught me that we don’t always have to say yes. 

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What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Being honest with yourself is paramount – but being honest with yourself is a two-way street. It isn’t simply about absorbing criticism or someone else’s opinion. You need to be honest with yourself about your good points, too. You need to appreciate who you are, what you’ve accomplished, and all of the things you bring to the world around you.

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I let myself feel what I need to feel. I also remind myself of all the things I’ve accomplished, all the things that I am and all the ways I’ve seen myself through.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“Everyday” by Logic & Marshmello.

Who is your most important role model?

My dad. Growing up, I watched him start his own company. I loved seeing how his hard work led our family to new opportunities. I always kept that in mind as I move forward on my own path.

Instagram: @Rosarium.work
YouTube: @Rosariummarketing
LinkedIn: @RosariumMarketing&PRCollective
Spotify: Thought Garden Podcast

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Catharine Montgomery wanted to make a positive impact on the world, and decided the best way to do so was through a socially responsible business. In 2022, she left behind her job to launch marketing and PR agency Better Together, which works to uplift members of underserved, underrepresented communities. Through storytelling, Montgomery and her team work with organizations and nonprofits that advocate for these communities, to share their messages with the world and drive real change on issues such as voter rights and climate justice. Today, the Washington D.C., founder is growing a team that is up to the challenge – while also battling all-too-familiar imposter syndrome. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

We use data-driven solutions to address problems – because Better Together is constantly looking for new and creative ways to solve pressing social issues.

For example, we are presently tailoring a communication campaign by using data to reach underrepresented women who have breast cancer. This allows us to identify the best methods of communicating with them. We believe that by taking this innovative approach, we can drive meaningful change and make a lasting impact on social issues.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Securing the backing of a reputable venture capital firm for my business. This has allowed us to not only scale our operations and expand our reach, but also gain access to invaluable resources and expertise.

Beyond the financial aspect, I am proud that we have been able to stay true to our core mission of working only with clients who share our values. From the very beginning, we have been committed to building a business that not only drives profits, but also makes a positive difference in the world. I am proud to say that we have been able to do just that.

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Finding the right people to join my team. As a leader, I know that having the right people in certain roles is crucial to achieving our goals and delivering high-quality work. 

To address this challenge, I first established clear job descriptions and advertisements that highlight the specific qualities we are looking for in candidates. Secondly, I have expanded our recruitment channels, to increase the pool of potential candidates. And, I have developed a rigorous interview process that includes behavioral and situational questions, to better assess a candidate’s fit.

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

As a Black woman in a leadership role, one of the biggest challenges is overcoming imposter syndrome, and constantly feeling like I don’t belong. This is compounded by the systemic barriers and biases that Black women face in the workplace.

However, by embracing my identity, building strong relationships with allies and mentors, and continuing to educate myself and grow my skills, I am confident that I will continue to overcome this.

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What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Stay focused on the big picture, and do not get bogged down by the day-to-day challenges that come with building a business. When I first started up, I found myself getting overwhelmed by all of the tasks that needed to get done – from managing finances to building a customer base to developing new products. It was easy to get lost in the details and lose sight of the long-term vision. What I wish I had known earlier is that staying focused on the big picture can help you make better decisions and avoid getting sidetracked by distractions.

Another important tip: Build a strong support network of mentors, advisors and peers who can provide guidance and feedback along the way. Starting a business can be lonely and challenging, but having people who understand you can make all the difference.

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

By focusing on the positive things in my life and seeking out sources of encouragement and support. This could mean talking to a close friend or family member, reading inspirational quotes or stories, or engaging in activities that bring me joy and fulfillment.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days? 

“You’ve Already Won” by Shane & Shane.

Who is your most important role model?

My dad. He has always been a great source of inspiration for me, both in his personal and professional life.  Growing up, I saw firsthand how hard my dad worked to provide for our family and pursue his goals. He always pushed himself to be the best that he could be. But at the same time, he never lost sight of what was truly important in life – his family, his friends and his community. 

Threads: @bettertogether
LinkedIn: @bettertogether

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The post She Uses Storytelling to Amplify Marginalized Voices appeared first on The Story Exchange.

When Milou Pietersz moved to the United States from the Netherlands 7 years ago, she was determined to break into the world of marketing and advertising. When she couldn’t get a foot in anyone’s door, she decided to start her own outfit: Simply Media & Advertising, a full-service, digital-focused agency that helps brands take their online platforms to the next level. After 4 years in business, Pietersz has built a team at her Austin, Texas company that helps clients with everything from brand positioning to content creation. The unexpected entrepreneur is leaning into her current leadership role,working to create a productive environment for her employees while offering tangible results to clients. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

Tell us more about why you started your business.

I was rejected or ghosted by every marketing agency I applied to after I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Media and Advertising. I was still hungry, extremely ambitious, and ready to take on the marketing and advertising world. So I decided to take life into my own hands and start a business. Now, I run a six-figure marketing agency with the team of my dreams. I am the agency I always wanted to work for.

How is your business different from others in your industry? 

We pay it forward. Once I had a solid foundation in my agency, I launched my passion project: the Inner Circle. Through that effort, we mentor aspiring social media professionals who are on the same journey I was. We share resources, experiences, failures and wins, in the hopes of bettering this very new industry and setting a high standard of excellence.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Definitely expanding and placing myself in a CEO mindset instead of a do-it-all-myself endless cycle. I hit a wall and decided to take a leap of faith and hired a woman that changed the game for me – Heather from the Clover Collective – as head of my business operations. She has helped me transform from “solopreneur” to the leader I always envisioned being.

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

I educated myself in all things sales and marketing. Advertising was my world. But when I took on a team, I realized I needed to develop leadership skills by delegating and building a team-based foundation that allowed each member to shine in their zone of genius. In short, I needed help. Not something every founder wants to put that out there openly. When I did seek guidance and made the right hires, everything else started working out. Work and life balance is coming as a result, too – I’ve learned more about the nitty-gritty of business and how to utilize my time intrinsically.

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

Relocating your life is life-changing. I moved to the U.S. from the Netherlands 7 years ago. Getting people to move past my accent and my age was difficult. This industry is very new, and we are adapting to the standards. Breaking social media management myths of “Oh, it is just posting!” to a data-driven and strategic mindset is a constant challenge. Building an agency from scratch and laying that foundation – while simultaneously working as a private tennis teacher and completing my college education – placed immense pressure on me. But challenges and difficult situations develop your character, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

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What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

My go-to mantra: “Rejection simply means you are meant for something more.” When you want something so intensely, and it doesn’t roll out the way you want, flexibility and determination move you forward. Pivot and learn from rejection in your journey. Being an entrepreneur is all about accepting that you don’t always have to know what you are doing – but surrounding yourself with the right people helps. 

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I reflect back to my competitive sports days. I learned five important lessons from those times that pull me through dark times now: Discipline makes today hard, but tomorrow easy. Work your hardest, not knowing when or if it will pay off. Have difficult conversations now to avoid stress later. Tweak your strategy and pivot if it is not working. Believe in yourself when no one else does.

What is your go to song to get motivated on tough days? 

Honestly, in my job, I come across all types of music from REELS. Whatever is trending goes on repeat on my playlist.

Who is your most important role model?

As a former D1 Athlete and tennis player, I take a lot of inspiration from professional athletes – their drive, determination, and strategy for not only the game, but life in general. 

Instagram: @simplymediadvertising
Facebook: @milou.Pietersz
Twitter: @simplemediav

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The post She Built The Agency She Had Always Dreamt of Working For appeared first on The Story Exchange.