26. How I Quit My Corporate Job and Launched BeWeird Marketing

In this week’s episode of the Higher Purpose Marketing Strategy podcast, I'm opening up about the moment that changed everything: the breaking point that pushed me out of corporate life and into founding BeWeird Marketing.

Humble Kentucky Roots

I grew up in rural Kentucky - right between Elizabethtown and Owensboro - where our county high school had fewer than 300 graduates. Getting a new stoplight warranted a school‑wide announcement.

In high school, I was the Future Business Leaders of America nerd. FBLA gave me my first taste of public speaking, business reports, and community. At one conference, a public relations pro’s stories about her career lit a spark in me. I realized that writing and communicating came naturally. And it made sense to me to pursue a career in PR.

Sunday Scaries and Corporate Fast Lanes

After earning my PR degree (with a marketing minor) from Murray State University, I dove into big‑brand corporate life, first with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield in Louisville, then a Florida orthopedics company.

When we moved to Tennessee in 2008, the economy was rocky, and I desperately accepted the only job I could find-- an account executive at a nonprofit account. The problem was that role felt more like babysitting than creativity. Endless meetings, email marathons, and Sunday night dread had me at my breaking point.

Taking the Leap: The Early “BeWeird Marketing” Days

In 2010, I quit with no backup plan, just a sense that God had more for me. I tried wellness coaching, personal training, even MLM companies, but none were a great fit.

Then, in 2011, a church friend asked for marketing help. I thought, “Why not?” I hadn’t even filed a DBA; I just answered the call and quietly began what would become BeWeird Marketing.

Slow Growth, Sudden Clarity

For years, the business survived on referrals alone - juggling babies, a thyroid cancer diagnosis, and cross‑country moves.

Then, in 2022, something clicked: my revenue doubled, again and again. I realized this was more than a side hustle; it was where I was supposed to be. So, I invested in coaching, masterminds, and systems to serve my clients better.

A Different Kind of Vision

But even now, I'm running this business unconventionally.

Here's the unpopular truth: I don’t have a grand, 10‑year plan or an empire‑building vision. Instead, I ask God, “What’s the next right thing for this season?”

If you’ve ever felt pressured by “smart goals” and annual vision crafting, consider this your permission slip: you can build your business in a way that's true to you. Even if it doesn't make sense to anyone else.

Ready to Bring Your Story and Your Marketing to Life?

If you’re ready to translate your authentic story into a marketing system that attracts your ideal clients, let’s dive in together. Book a Power Hour Coaching session, and in 60 minutes, we’ll identify quick wins to move your marketing—and your business—forward.