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Company: Growth Marketing Werks

Guest: Suzanne Coriell

Year Started: 2011

Employees: 1-10

What happens when you build an agency around energy, intentionality, and a deep sense of why? Suzanne Coriell, Founder of Growth Marketing Werks, shares her journey from Chicago’s ad scene to Colorado’s mountaintops where a single ski lift conversation sparked the creation of a mission-driven media agency. This episode is packed with fresh perspective on building a sustainable agency fueled by purpose, real relationships, and personal freedom.

Key Takeaways

• How defining your “why” can sharpen focus, reduce distractions, and guide major business decisions
• Why financial freedom early on gave Suzanne the confidence to build an agency her way
• How consistent relationship-building (like handwritten notes and thoughtful gifting) drives long-term loyalty
• The role of energy and “flow” in building a thriving, values-aligned team culture
• A simple weekly ritual to stay in tune with team morale and avoid being blindsided by turnover