My next step professionally

As of today, there is no more Sideways8, and I couldn’t be more excited. We have been acquired by Dragon Army, one of the fastest-growing agencies in Atlanta, which also happens to be founded and run by my friend Jeff!

Aaron and I started Sideways8 ten years ago. It began as a lifestyle business, allowing us to make a living while giving us the freedom to work from home. Then, In 2015, we got serious about the company and started to grow. Most years, we grew by 30%, but more importantly, we built a fantastic team. The team at Sideways8 are some of the best people I have ever had the pleasure to know, much less work alongside. Now that team is joining Dragon Army, and we will be stronger together!

Though I should note that the entire team isn’t coming, Aaron is going on to other adventures, though I expect we will remain great friends. Aaron has been an amazing business partner and friend these last 10-years. I’ll miss his humor, sarcasm in particular, and wit. Aaron, thanks for being a great partner!

I’m also excited that this acquisition includes Watchword Brand as well! Watchword is an agency founded by my friend (and OG 48in48 volunteer) Rachelle. Watchword works in the branding and messaging space with some amazing brands, and Rachelle is one of the best content people I have ever met!

With Dragon Army, Sideways8, and Watchword combining, Dragon Army will be a full-service agency, working with small to midsize companies, as well as Fortune 500 companies like Coke and IHG. My role in the agency will be to lead the growth. I’ll be over, thought leadership, new channels, and helping to grow marketing and sales.

This move also means that I’ll be stepping back from the 48in48 staff. I will still be heavily involved in leading the organization as an active board member. I have loved being a part of the 48in48 staff, but working for two companies at once is difficult to balance. By being fully immersed at Dragon Army, I will have a better balance in my life, giving me more room for writing, hobbies, and most importantly, my family and our upcoming adoption.

Letting Sideways8 (and by business partner Aaron) go, is one of the hardest things I have ever done. Sideways8 is like one of my children. But, like all children, it must grow up and live to its full potential. Joining Dragon Army will make that happen.

This move marks the end of a significant chapter and the opening of another. I can’t wait to see where we go next!

Also, check out this podcast where Jeff interview me and Rachelle about joining Dragon Army. It was a blast!


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