IN THIS EPISODE…

How can service-based businesses like roofing companies stand out in a competitive market and connect meaningfully with customers?

In today's episode of Matters of Creative, Katie Bylak (KB) interviews Leon Sariah, Digital Marketing Manager at Aspen Contracting, about transforming the roofing industry through cutting-edge digital strategies. Leon shares his 19-year journey from internet marketing pioneer to roofing industry digital innovator, revealing how technology, employee-generated content, and community engagement can redefine a traditional service business.

Leon's journey demonstrates that with creativity, technological savvy, and a commitment to community, even traditional industries can become dynamic, customer-centric businesses.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Leon Sariah has been a digital marketer for over 19 years, starting way back when it was simply called Internet Marketing. With a degree in Telecommunications Management and an MBA, Leon has supported digital marketing projects for major businesses including Massage Heights, Amazing Lash Studio, and American Family Insurance.

For the past 5 years, he’s worked for Aspen Contracting, the nation's number one rated roofing company, and is currently in the role of Talent Acquisition and Business Development Manager. In his position, he carries out digital marketing campaigns and makes lead connections for both potential customers and employees. When he’s not analyzing regional lead generation techniques or hammering out digital campaign details for Aspen, Leon runs his own marketing company, Sariah Marketing.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ASPEN CONTRACTING & LEON SARIAH:

Leon Sariah on LinkedIn

Aspen Contracting on LinkedIn

Sariah Marketing on LinkedIn

Aspen Contracting: Instagram | Website | Facebook

Aspen Contracting on YouTube

IN THIS EPISODE…

Dr. Corrie Wilder’s path to creative leadership hasn’t followed a straight line—and that’s exactly what makes her story so compelling. From her early career as a dietitian to working in graphic design and launching a boutique marketing agency, Corrie’s curiosity and intentionality have shaped a dynamic journey across industries. Now, as Executive Director of Marketing Communications at Washington State University Everett, she’s leading transformative initiatives that drive enrollment and accessibility and supporting students and teams as an educator and speaker.

In this episode of Matters of Creative, Corrie shares how she uses intentional curiosity, transparent communication, and the mindful integration of AI as a partnering thought leader to support both students and teams. She also opens up about building confidence through change, why listening to your audience is key to supporting them, and how a Pilates practice—and wise words from her instructor—inspired her TED Talk and impacted her outlook on life.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Dr. Corrie Wilder is a dynamic speaker, educator, and consultant specializing in

leadership, organizational culture, and the power of practice. She is part of the

Washington State University Everett leadership team, where she works to expand

educational access, foster community partnerships, and support student success. Her

work bridges higher education with industry and community needs, advocating for

innovative programs and collaborative initiatives.

With a background in cultural theory, risk management, and strategic communication,

Corrie helps individuals and organizations navigate change, uncertainty, and

professional growth. Through consulting, marketing coaching, speaking, and AI literacy

training, she empowers professionals to embrace new opportunities and lead with confidence.

A TEDx speaker and sought-after workshop leader, Corrie blends storytelling, humor,

and actionable insights to inspire audiences to push beyond their limits. She also

champions women in leadership, advocating for mentorship, professional development,

and community-driven growth.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. CORRIE WILDER:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/corriewilder/

https://corriewilder.com/

Entrepreneurs can build impactful brands by blending passion with purpose. However, maintaining authenticity while scaling a business can be challenging. How can small business owners craft compelling stories that resonate with their audiences and foster long-term connections?

In today’s episode of Matters of Creative, Bobbie Bailey and Ayanna Pasha interview Quincy Henry, Co-founder and CEO of Campfire Coffee, about his journey from marketing professional and musician to coffee entrepreneur. Quincy shares how he identified gaps in the coffee industry, the role of storytelling in brand building, and the importance of creating outdoor access for underrepresented communities.

Business owner and marketer Quincy Henry integrates branding, storytelling, and community engagement to shape his company’s identity. He emphasizes the value of authenticity in marketing and explains that small businesses can differentiate themselves in competitive industries through intentional messaging and branding control. By fostering connections through social media, partnerships, and grassroots initiatives, companies can build lasting relationships with their audience while staying true to their mission.

Tune in now for insights on branding, storytelling, and entrepreneurship.

Quincy Henry is the Co-founder and CEO of Campfire Coffee, which provides coffee roasted over a campfire. Through the company’s nonprofit arm, the Campfire Explorers Club, he eliminates barriers to outdoor activities by providing gear rentals and educational programs to underrepresented communities. Before his current ventures, Quincy was a Grammy Award nominee twice.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/quincyhenry/

https://www.welovecampfire.com/

Market research professionals often face the challenge of integrating data-driven insights with strategic marketing decisions. How can businesses leverage research to enhance communication, brand positioning, and market influence?

In today’s episode of Matters of Creative, Bobbie Bailey hosts Svetlana Gershman, the Vice President of Market Research at Method Communications, to explore the intersection of market research and marketing strategy. Svetlana shares how research can influence major marketing decisions, emerging market research trends, and how professionals can bridge the gap between insights-driven research and marketing.

Market research expert Svetlana Gershman believes that data is the foundation of effective marketing strategies. By combining multiple research sources, understanding audience behaviors, and leveraging AI for efficiency, businesses can make informed decisions that drive impact. However, Svetlana emphasizes the role of human interpretation in extracting meaningful insights and maintaining research integrity. Additionally, fostering collaboration between research and marketing teams translates insights into actionable strategies.

Tune in now to learn how data-driven research can shape the future of marketing.

Svetlana Gershman is the Vice President of Market Research at Method Communications, a global PR and marketing firm. In her role, she integrates research methodologies into marketing and communication strategies. With two decades of experience leveraging insights-driven business strategies, Svetlana has held various positions at Escalent, including Vice President in the technology division.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/svetlanagershman/

https://www.methodcommunications.com/

Women entrepreneurs can struggle to embrace their personal narratives in branding, which limits their visibility and financial potential. How can they develop their brands with confidence and authenticity to build a lasting impact?

In this episode of Matters of Creative, Natalie Sinisgalli-Kettavong, Founder and Strategic Brand Specialist at Embolden Your Brand, joins Jenny Ridenour to discuss personal storytelling in branding. Natalie explains how women can step into their power, how she balances multiple roles, and Embolden Your Brand’s expansion into accessible branding resources.

Authenticity and consistency in messaging are crucial for building a strong brand. Natalie Sinisgalli-Kettavong maintains that branding goes beyond a logo; it’s about storytelling and showing up with confidence. She advises women to take ownership of their stories by identifying key moments that led them to where they are today and translating those experiences into a brand narrative that resonates with their audience. Social media and digital marketing provide powerful tools for sharing these stories, but many women hesitate due to imposter syndrome. By overcoming self-doubt and aligning their branding efforts with their deeper purpose, they can build confidence and credibility in their industries.

Listen now for tips on branding, confidence, and business growth.

Natalie Sinisgalli-Kettavong is the Founder and Strategic Brand Specialist at Embolden Your Brand, a full-service branding and marketing agency. She merged Embolden with her photography studio, NSP Studio, to help women create visual brand stories. As an international award-winning photographer, Natalie has photographed celebrities such as Michael Douglas, Michael Keaton, Julia Roberts, and Jodie Foster.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliesinisgalli/

https://www.emboldenyourbrand.com/

Arts organizations can promote community engagement and impact. Yet the rapid adoption of technology and limited funding options can hinder opportunities for meaningful interactions. How can nonprofit arts associations foster cultural diversity and amplify their reach throughout communities?

In today’s episode of Matters of Creative, Bobbie Bailey and Rachel Brown of M Agency interview Dr. Anna Jensen, the Executive Director of the Tacoma Youth Symphony Association, about her efforts to promote community engagement through music. Dr. Jensen discusses her leadership philosophy, how arts associations shape communities’ cultural identities, and how she remains relevant in her role amid changing dynamics.

Nonprofit executive and musician Dr. Anna Jensen leads initiatives to provide creative outlets to diverse communities. She collaborates with team members and arts commissions to champion diversity and inclusion. Nonprofit art associations can connect communities by allowing youth and underprivileged individuals to participate in activities that build confidence and bolster leadership skills. Through events and activities that promote collaboration and creativity, these organizations can establish a lasting presence in their communities and beyond.

Listen in for insights on community impact and creative engagement.

Dr. Anna Jensen is the Executive Director of the Tacoma Youth Symphony Association, which provides music education opportunities for students. With 17 years of nonprofit administrative experience, she was the Education Manager for both the Symphony Tacoma and the Tacoma Youth Symphony Association, where she managed the Evergreen Music Festival for 12 years.

Dr. Jensen is also a Lecturer of Double Bass at Pacific Lutheran University and was the Senior Lecturer of Double Bass at Central Washington University. As a conductor, she is a clinician and adjudicator for concerts, festivals, and workshops across the Pacific Northwest. Dr. Jensen has conducted numerous all-state orchestras, regional honor groups, summer music festival orchestras, and city-wide orchestra festivals.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-jensen-029510163/

https://tysamusic.org/

With the fate of TikTok’s 2025 ban in the hands of the US Supreme Court and digital-first generations defining consumerism, the marketing landscape constantly changes. How can brands adapt their strategies in 2025 to meet these evolving demands?

In this special episode of Matters of Creative, Bobbie Bailey, Jenny Ridenour, and Matt Hirsch of M Agency discuss their marketing predictions for 2025. Together, they talk about balancing innovation with brand identity, how to collaborate with sales teams and adapt your marketing pitches to the latest trends, and the pressing challenges facing marketers in 2025.

Marketing strategists Bobbie Bailey, Matt Hirsch, and Jenny Ridenour believe brands should focus on their foundational values to create authentic human experiences and meaningful customer relationships. For instance, rather than using AI to replace manual content creation, marketers should leverage it to accelerate ideas, enhance creativity, and drive consumer engagement. Trust will remain the pillar of marketing strategies in 2025, so prioritizing first-party data collection ensures privacy. Additionally, integrating the latest tools, trends, and social platforms into your digital marketing strategies deepens customer relationships.

Tune in to hear the latest digital marketing trends and strategies for 2025 and beyond.

Bobbie Bailey is the Founder and CEO of M Agency, a brand identity and advertising design agency specializing in interactive, digital, and print media. For the past 15 years, M Agency has helped hundreds of businesses, including Alaska Airlines and Celebrity Cake Studio, catalyze success through meaningful and results-driven marketing. Bobbie has grown M Agency into an award-winning agency by cultivating a creative and intentional environment. To invest back into the community, she co-founded South Sound 100, a community collective that sets the forum for fundraising for local nonprofits.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiebailey/

Jenny Ridenour is the Creative Director of M Agency, a full-service creative agency in Tacoma, Washington. In her role, she develops creative campaign strategies, ensuring alignment between visual storytelling, marketing, and branding. With nearly two decades of design and branding experience, Jenny co-founded and helped grow into a seven-figure business and then sold it to continue her creative journey.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ridenour/

Matt Hirsch is the Director of Digital Marketing at M Agency, where he oversees the company’s digital strategy. With experience in digital innovation at the intersection of people, technology, and brands, Matt has helped business leaders in small companies, startups, and Fortune 100s scale and transform.