Katie Thompson is the founder of Modern Darling Media and the Host of The Hustlenomics Podcast. Modern Darling Media is a full-service branding, marketing, and design agency for creative entrepreneurs who want to make a bold and meaningful impact. Katie helps build bold brands and craft strategic marketing campaigns that provoke emotion, have personality, and help build your tribe.

Can you tell our readers about your background? 

My entrepreneurial journey started right after I graduated from graduate school from The University of Georgia with a degree in Journalism and Media Studies. I was excited to get out in the world and find a job and make a difference in the world!

After working in Marketing for a few different companies, I found myself unfulfilled, depressed, and uninspired. I craved more creative freedom, autonomy, and the ability to work when and where I wanted.

I started a photography "side hustle" and started booking weddings, engagements, and family photoshoots on the weekends. I had the skills and knowledge from my undergrad and graduate programs to build my website, create my branding, and manage my social media profiles. Not only did that work in my favor because I was on a tight budget, but it inspired me to try offering those same services to other people. 

Over the next three years, I rebranded, invested in education, and honed my skills. After moving to Utah and leaving my part-time teaching job, I finally went full time in my business in October of 2018. 

What inspired you to start your business? 

I was inspired to start my business because I wanted more freedom and wanted to be able to make my own choices. I'm naturally a leader and liked that I could make my own schedule and decide when and where I got my work done. I also hated being stuck in an office and loved the idea of being able to work from home and even travel if I wanted to.

Where is your business based?

My business is based in Herriman, Utah. 

How did you start your business? What were the first steps you took?

My business started as a side hustle. I started by creating a website and my social media accounts. I got my first clients by running Facebook ads and joining Facebook groups where people posted about job openings and freelance opportunities.  

What has been the most effective way of raising awareness for your business? 

The most effective way of raising awareness for your business is to show up anywhere you can. Consistently post high-quality content on social media, be a guest on podcasts, guest posts on blogs, get articles published in popular publications, and work on growing your email list. Most importantly, tell people! Share what you do with your family and friends so that when they find someone looking to hire, they can refer you. 

What have been your biggest challenges, and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges was learning to say no. When you first start out, you want to say yes to everyone and everything. You want to get experience, build your portfolio, and, of course, make money! But, it's important to know that not every client and project will be right for you. It's essential to really understand your ideal client and be very clear about your values. It's ok to turn down a client if you know your personalities will clash or if the project doesn't align with your core values.

How do you stay focused?

I stay focused by using tools like Asana to make to-do lists. I rank tasks by priority, and Asana lets me set deadlines and enter notes on each task, so I don't forget any essential information. 

How do you differentiate your business from the competition?  

My approach is different because I approach everything I do with a strategy in mind. I don't just deliver services to a client, but I help craft a strategy behind those services so it will be the most effective. 

What has been your most effective marketing strategy to grow your business? 

One of the most effective marketing strategies I have used has been showing up and engaging in Facebook groups. I joined 20+ groups that I knew my target market would also be in. From there, I engaged with people, answered questions, provided free value, and eventually was able to convert a lot of them into paying customers. 

What's your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?  

Good things take time. One thing I've learned is that anything good will take time to grow. You might hear about these "overnight success" stories, but that's really a myth. Most of these business owners have been working for years behind they reached that level of success. So, be patient, continue to challenge yourself, and don't compare your journey or timeline to anyone else.

What's your favorite app, blog, and book? Why?

My favorite book is Boss Up!: This Ain't Your Mama's Business Book By Lindsay Teague Moreno because it shows women that no matter their education or experience levels, they can tap into their passions and create businesses that give them increased flexibility, fulfillment, and financial security. My favorite app is my podcast app! I listen to podcasts all the time, and it's been a fantastic source of free education. My favorite blog is Jenna Kutcher's blog. It's the perfect combination of business-related topics, sharing her life and experiences as well as tips for other women and entrepreneurs. 

What's your favorite business tool or resource? Why?

My favorite business tool is Dubsado. It's my customer management system where I can send invoices, email my clients, create and send proposals, track my financial goals, and create workflows. It's a fantastic CRM for creative entrepreneurs.

Who is your business role model? Why?  

My business role model is Jenna Kutcher. I love her honesty, transparency, and mission to help other entrepreneurs be successful. I really look up to her because she teaches others how to make a living doing what they love without it taking over their life. 

What is your beauty routine? What are some of your favorite products? 

Since I mostly work from home, my beauty routine is simple. Daily, I use natural deodorant and moisturizer, no heat on my hair if I can help it, and always try to take my vitamins. 

How do you balance work and life? 

I think the idea of work-life balance is a fallacy. I try to focus on work-life harmony. As a business owner, it's really hard to completely separate the two. I try to find ways to have them work in harmony. For example, I try to make setting boundaries with myself and my clients a priority, and I make sure to separate my workspace from the rest of my home. 

What's your favorite way to decompress? 

My favorite way to decompress is by going for a walk and listening to my favorite true crime podcasts. 

What do you have planned for the next six months? 

I am hoping to have added a team member in the next six months. I am growing at a pace where I know I will need some help, so I am excited to start expanding!

How can our readers connect with you?

Web: Modern Darling Media

Web: Hustlenomics Podcast

Instagram: Modern Darling Media

Instagram: Hustlenomics Podcast

Pinterest: Modern Darling Media

Community: Hustlenomics Mastermind

Facebook Page: Modern Darling Media

Facebook Page: Hustlenomics Podcast