Exploring the Evolution of Two Hawks: From Learning Mode to Refinement and Growth

Summary: 

In this podcast episode of "The Agency Rocket Show," hosts Liz Hunt and Chelsea Poppens interview Katie Kemerling and Heidi Mausbach, co-owners of The Two Hawks. The guests discuss their transition from traditional agency roles to their current venture, emphasizing the value of diverse perspectives and cross-functional collaboration in brand strategy and problem-solving. They share insights on the benefits of their smaller, flexible business model, which aligns with their personal values and allows for direct involvement in employee development and client strategy. The episode explores the dynamics of their partnership, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the guests' ability to adapt to client needs through services like fractional CMO offerings and team training. The conversation also touches on the challenges of scaling their business while maintaining a focus on core strengths and market demands.

"It has been incredibly rewarding, and the impact we've had on the teams, just getting that unsolicited feedback, it's just like, 'Oh, this is why we did what we did, this is why we started Two Hawks.'"

Chapters: 

The background of Katie Kemerling and Heidi Mausbach (00:00:00)
Liz and Chelsea introduce Katie and Heidi, the owners of The Two Hawks, and discuss their background and the start of their business.

Katie’s background in advertising and marketing (00:01:23)
Katie shares her experiences and skills gained from working in advertising, marketing, and creative strategy for over 20 years.

Heidi’s experience in the advertising industry (00:03:17)
Heidi discusses her career journey from being an account assistant to becoming the president and CEO of a mid-size agency and her focus on client services.

Employer branding and talent retention (00:05:14)
Heidi explains the concept of employer branding and shares her experience in helping clients with retention and acquisition strategies.

The importance of diverse perspectives in problem-solving (00:07:32)
Katie and Heidi emphasize the significance of different perspectives in successful projects and the need for cross-functional collaboration.

Challenges of integrating conflicting objectives (00:09:53)
Chelsea raises the issue of conflicting objectives when multiple voices are involved, and Katie and Heidi discuss the importance of creating a unified strategy.

Navigating conflicting voices and perspectives (00:10:08)
The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities of synthesizing diverse perspectives and creating a cohesive strategy.

The role of facilitation in collaborative meetings (00:11:04)
Heidi’s skill in facilitating collaborative discussions and creating a safe space for diverse voices is highlighted.

Compliments on teamwork and mediation skills (00:13:21)
Liz and Chelsea acknowledge Katie and Heidi’s expertise in recognizing and communicating with people effectively, leading to a unified team dynamic.

The dynamics of partnership and conflict resolution (00:15:07)
The conversation humorously touches on the dynamics of Katie and Heidi’s partnership and how they navigate conflicts.

The challenges of partnership (00:15:21)
Discussion about the dynamics of working together as business partners and the importance of open communication.

Navigating emotional escalations (00:18:03)
The importance of mediating each other's emotions and finding balance in decision-making.

Apologizing and forgiveness (00:19:04)
The significance of promptly apologizing, forgiving, and moving on in a business partnership.

Separating friendship and business (00:20:00)
The necessity of distinguishing between friendship and business relationships for functional partnership.

Emotional intelligence and self-awareness (00:22:20)
The value of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in managing triggers and stressors.

Understanding and supporting each other's work styles (00:25:42)
Discussion about how partners support each other by understanding and accommodating different work styles.

Freedom and values in running a business (00:28:28)
The satisfaction of having the freedom to run the business in alignment with personal values and vision.

Employee Development and Coaching (00:29:20)
The benefits of an outsider's perspective in employee management and engagement, and the rewards of coaching.

Integration and Access with Clients (00:30:19)
The unique seat at the table and the level of data and access with clients as consultants, allowing for impactful strategies.

Starting Two Hawks (00:33:34)
The leap of faith and gradual growth of starting their own company, including the learning and refining process.

Future Business Plans (00:35:11)
The focus on online courses, team training, and fractional CMO services, and the importance of learning and growth.

Overcoming Fears and Barriers (00:38:42)
Addressing fears around money, imposter syndrome, and the privilege and support that enabled the leap into entrepreneurship.

Support and Encouragement (00:42:24)
The importance of support from partners and the encouragement to take the next best step in pursuing entrepreneurship.

The teenagers' reaction (00:43:32)
Liz shares her teenagers' positive reaction to her career change, emphasizing the support and encouragement she received.

Wrapping up the conversation (00:44:42)
The hosts express gratitude to the guests and the conversation comes to an end, with a mention of reaching out and finding more information about the guests' business.

Contact information (00:45:14)
Katie provides the website and social media handles for Two Hawks, inviting listeners to connect with them.

Closing remarks (00:45:31)
The podcast ends with a cheerful "cheers" and "bye" from the speakers.

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About Two Hawks

Two Hawks is a marketing and brand consultancy created by ex-ad agency executive leaders, Heidi Mausbach and Katie Kemerling. Think of Two Hawks as a Strategic Learning Partner that provides online courses, team training, and fractional CMO expertise, sharing ideas and teachings on leadership, personal growth and development, and marketing strategy.

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