7 Lessons Learned from 7 Years at the Helm of Strat Labs
May 2, 2024
Estimated Read Time: 5 min.

Seven Lessons Learned From Seven Years at the Helm of Strat Labs

As the CEO and Founder of Strat Labs, a social impact marketing, communications, and philanthropy agency, the past seven years have been a whirlwind of growth, learning, and impact. From our humble beginnings with just one client to now serving some of the top nonprofits in the country, the journey has been both challenging and rewarding. Along the way, I’ve gleaned invaluable lessons that have shaped my personal and professional growth. Here are seven key insights I’ve learned as the founder of Strat Labs.

 

 

Speaking at the 2023 B:Civic Summit

Authenticity is Non-Negotiable

Our commitment to authenticity is one of the foundational pillars of our success at Strat Labs. In a world inundated with marketing noise, being genuine and transparent with our clients and their audiences has been paramount. We’ve learned that authenticity builds trust and fosters deep connections with our community. Whether crafting a brand narrative or developing a marketing campaign, staying true to our values has always been our guiding light.

 

 

 

The Strat Labs team at Denver Startup Week 2023

Collaboration Fuels Innovation

At Strat Labs, we firmly believe in the power of collaboration. Over the years, we’ve witnessed firsthand how diverse perspectives and expertise can fuel innovation and drive meaningful change. By fostering a culture of collaboration internally and with our clients, we’ve developed creative solutions that have made a tangible impact. Collaboration has been instrumental in our growth journey, from cross-functional brainstorming sessions to strategic partnerships.

 

 

 

Hosting the Future Changemakers Panel with GALS students and Chandra Thomas Whitfield

Adaptability is Key

In the ever-evolving landscape of social impact and marketing, adaptability is not just a desirable trait—it’s a necessity. We’ve learned to embrace change, pivot when necessary, and stay agile. Whether navigating shifts in donor or consumer behavior, responding to emerging trends, or navigating a global pandemic, being adaptable has allowed us to stay ahead of the curve and deliver exceptional results for our clients.

 

 

 

 

Touring the Denver Zoo alongside 6162 Productions

Purpose Drives Passion

At the heart of everything we do at Strat Labs is our shared purpose – to drive positive change in the world. We’ve learned that passion naturally follows when individuals and brands align with a meaningful purpose. By helping our clients articulate their purpose and infuse it into their branding and marketing efforts, we’ve seen firsthand how it ignites enthusiasm and mobilizes communities. Purpose-driven work isn’t just fulfilling – it’s contagious.

 

 

 

 

Sending off team member Andy Vernier at Topgolf as he starts a new chapter in California

Resilience is Built Through Challenges

No journey is without its challenges, and the past seven years have certainly been no exception. From navigating economic downturns to overcoming unexpected obstacles, we’ve learned that resilience is built through adversity. Each setback has presented an opportunity for growth and learning, ultimately making us more robust and resilient as a team. Embracing challenges with a growth mindset has been integral to our continued success.

 

 

 

 

 

Happy hour at Platte Park Brewery with the Strat Labs team

Impact is Measured Beyond Metrics

While metrics and analytics are essential indicators of success, true impact transcends numbers. We’ve learned to measure our impact by the metrics we achieve, the lives we touch, and the communities we empower. Whether raising awareness for a vital cause or mobilizing support for a grassroots initiative, the objective measure of our success lies in the tangible difference we make in the world.

 

 

 

 

Welcoming teammate Dana Bacardi with a team lunch

Gratitude is the Ultimate Currency

As we reflect on the past seven years, one lesson stands out above all – gratitude. We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity to do meaningful work that aligns with our values and passions. Gratitude fuels our motivation and fosters a culture of appreciation within our team and with our clients. By expressing gratitude for the journey, the challenges, and the victories, we cultivate a sense of abundance that propels us forward with optimism and purpose.

 

 

 

 


As we look ahead, we’re excited to continue empowering purpose-driven brands and individuals to amplify their voices and create positive change in the world. These seven lessons have been guiding principles throughout our journey, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to share them with our community. If you are interested in refining your story, amplifying your voice, and building your community, please reach out to me or connect with us here. We would love to support you in this next chapter of our journey.

Here’s to the next seven years of innovation, collaboration, and meaningful impact.

 

Ready for year 8!

 

Video by: Comcast for Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce Awards

Featured in Photos: Dana Bacardi, Christine (Clark) Vottima, Lexie Robles, David Bledsoe, Kelley Eckler, Julie Jameson, Andy Vernier, Curry (Campbell) Monson, Zachary Scamehorn, Christine Yeager, Michael Sharon, Alaina Green, 6162 Productions, B:CIVIC, Denver Startup Week, Denver Zoological Foundation, GALS Denver, Chandra Thomas Whitfield

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