Michelle Patterson, Vice President of Marketing & Communications, joins host Karina Jimenez in Austin, Texas, to share the career journey that took her from nearly two decades of running an agency with her husband and business partner to stepping into a leadership role within a large enterprise. She reflects on the challenges of transitioning from entrepreneurship to a corporate environment, including the responsibility of moving her former agency off the account and building new partnerships. Michelle also shares her approach to building high-performing teams, why she prioritizes hiring for potential and character over résumés, and how understanding the bigger business strategy helps even lean teams make a meaningful impact.
Michelle and Karina also explore how AI is transforming marketing, from improving efficiency and connecting data to business outcomes to creating opportunities for teams to experiment and adapt. Michelle discusses the importance of intentional listening, generous feedback, and compassionate leadership, along with how mentorship and flexibility can help others grow professionally. For the next generation of leaders, she encourages staying curious beyond your immediate responsibilities, learning how businesses make money, and developing a strong understanding of financial fundamentals. Above all, her advice is to lead generously, embrace opportunities even when the answer might be no, and recognize that meaningful career growth takes time.