Challenge

ThinkHuman had powerful programs—used by organizations like Spotify and SoulCycle to train their managers and build internal academies—but no consistent strategy to grow brand awareness or generate new business beyond word of mouth. There was a strong heart behind the work, but no system for expanding its reach.

Role & Responsibilities

As employee #3, I spent 7.5 years helping grow the organization. I wore many hats, from community strategy and client engagement to experience design, facilitation, and culture building. I eventually became part of the executive team, shaping our broader vision and strategy.

My core focus: creating meaningful ways for people to encounter our work—and remember it.

Methods

• Built a full-spectrum community strategy: From wide-access online events to invite-only VIP circles, I created layered pathways of engagement that brought people into deeper relationship with our brand.
  
• Designed and led high-impact events: I crafted gatherings that invited real conversation on issues like race, healthy masculinity, leadership fatigue, and belonging. Every experience was designed to be emotionally resonant, intellectually honest, and rooted in transformation.
  
• Grew and managed a team: I hired, trained, and led a team of five focused on content and event delivery.
  
• Supported facilitators: I prepped them before sessions, debriefed after, occasionally co-facilitated, and helped bring more emotional depth and clarity into the room.
  
• Built cross-sector partnerships: I co-created events and marketing collaborations with platforms like 15Five, CultureAmp, Donut, and HiBob. I also secured high-value partnerships with conference organizers, artists, and thought leaders.
  
• Wove marketing into community: I helped grow our email list from 400 to over 20,000 engaged contacts, and developed systems to deepen those relationships through learning experiences.

Outcomes

• From 50-person events to 1,200+ participants: Our monthly online gatherings grew dramatically and became known for emotional honesty, inclusivity, and high engagement.
  
• Expanded reach and resonance: ThinkHuman became recognized as a brand that leads with heart, tackling hard topics with care, and creating gatherings that people remember long after they leave.
  
• Partnerships that delivered results: I opened doors to clients like Shiseido, created immersive sessions at major HR conferences, and helped secure long-term business relationships.
  
• A lasting foundation: The community strategy I co-designed is still used today as the core engagement funnel for ThinkHuman’s offerings