Lauren is a Social Media specialist who has worked in advertising since her sophomore year at the University of South Florida where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Marketing. Lauren is a Bradenton native and started out as an intern at BSE where upon graduating from USF, she quickly accelerated to a full-time position in the Social Media Department here at Brand Story Experts. She continued her education immediately earning certifications in Social and Community Mastery, Content Marketing, Conversion Funnel creation, Search Marketing, Email Marketing, Google Analytics and Data, Optimization and Paid Traffic Mastery. She is a non-stop learner and an enthusiastic leader who goes the extra mile for every client and every campaign. As a result of her dedication and commitment to her clients and her company, Lauren was promoted to BSE’s Social Media Manager in 2019 and continues to lead & grow the Social Media Department.

When Lauren isn’t in the office, you can find her around town, trying out new, local restaurants with her husband, Ashton. She loves spending time with loved ones and really cherishes quality time & conversation with others. She keeps busy with numerous home renovation projects and is very passionate about home design. Lauren is a valued member of the weekly BSE runners club and partakes in races with team members outside of work. Lastly, Lauren has a passion for her four-legged friends, Kylo & Ace. In addition to her two pups, she even fosters dogs-in-need through a local dog rescue in Bradenton.

Certifications
Google Analytics 4 • Facebook Certified Media Planning Professional • Facebook Certified Media Buying Professional • Facebook Cerfiited Ads Product Developer 1 • Facebook Cerfiited Ads Product Developer 2 • Facebook Cerfiited Ads Product Developer 3 • Google Ads Fundamentals • Google Ads Search • Google Ads Mobile • Google Ads Display • Google Ads Video • YouTube • Content Ownership • YouTube Channel Growth • YouTube Asset Monetization • Programmatic Digital Certification • Programmatic Digital Advanced Certification • Copywriting Mastery • Analytics and Data Mastery • Social and Community • Mastery • Community Management Mastery • Optimization and testing Mastery • Paid Traffic • Mastery • Content Marketing Management • Conversion Funnel Mastery • Search Marketing • Mastery • Email Marketing Mastery • Pre-suasion Book • Brainfluence • Google Analytics

Kelly is a speaker, coach, and business owner who has been specializing in brand and culture development for over two decades. He is a graduate of Baldwin Wallace University who opened his first ad agency at the age of 24. Over the past two decades, Kelly has excelled as a marketing director, communications executive, innovation specialist, and agency owner.

In 2009, he identified, formalized and trademarked a Culture Development Marketing process that had been guiding his success in clarifying brand stories in a way that builds participation and creates a culture-building celebration of the brand’s story. The Culture Development Marketing process is powered by the 3-P principle™ as it involves the defining of the three core components of a story: Attitude, Drive, and Direction. The base of the 3-P Principle is simple: when you define these three areas in concert together, they transform in a way that allows you to validate trust and connect on every level. Your Attitude becomes Positive, your Drive becomes Powerful, and your Direction becomes Purposeful.

For 10 years the process of Culture Development Marketing has been the starting point in every brand relationship at Brand Story Experts and the foundation for the success of the company.

In 2018, Kelly partnered in the development of The All In App. The All In App is an internal communications app that works hand-in-hand in with Culture Development Marketing by creating a cohesive system for keeping teams informed while gamifying internal content creation.

SAMANTHA is the CFO and Marketing Mastermind here are Brand Story Experts. Born and raised on Long Island, NY, Samantha will always consider that home. Before moving to Sarasota, she lived in Daytona & Orlando for several years each. When starting her education, Samantha had an emphasis in business and accounting but soon figured crunching numbers all day was not for her, she missed human interaction. Samantha graduated from Florida State College and has spent the last decade in extensive master training in the fields of Leadership, Marketing, Digital Marketing, SEO, and Sales Development.

Samantha has a strong background in accounting, strategic planning, and media buying. Out of college, she worked for an accounting firm in NY. Once she moved to Florida she worked for Publix Supermarkets in their corporate office assisting the Southwest Region with Daily Operations. She went on to a career with Clear Channel Radio (now iHeartMedia) where she worked with both local clients as well as National Sales. She was recognized as a top Integrated Marketing Specialist during her time there. Samantha loves being a part of our clients’ success. To her, this is not just a job, it’s her life. The best part of her job is when our clients start to see the results of the plan. It’s rewarding for her to see that the foundation we are building together is contributing to their successes.

Outside of work, Samantha loves to cook. She absolutely loves to try out new recipes using only the freshest of ingredients! When it comes to TV, Samantha considers herself a Netflix junkie. Shows like Mad Men, Bloodline, Black List, House of Cards, Breaking Bad, and Better Call Saul are just some of her favorites. Three things Samantha wants to check off her bucket list are going to Hawaii, traveling to Italy, and running a bed and breakfast when she retires. If she could choose one superpower it would be to fly.

Certifications
Programmatic Digital Certification • Google Analytics 4

Chris is our Partnership Development Director here at Brand Story Experts. Chris was born and raised in the Chicago suburbs then moved to sunny Southern California for 15 years prior to fulfilling his dream of becoming a Florida resident. He studied at Western Michigan University where he was a Quarterback for the football team and obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and Media Studies from Concordia University Irvine, CA.

Chris is a go-getter and has thrived in the advertising and marketing world for his entire career. Proficient in Account Management, Data Analysis, and Strategic Planning, Chris has collaborated with a wide portfolio of large national brands/clients as well as a variety of media vendors to tactically ensure media campaigns reach mutual objectives. Chris has been a Senior Media Manager and a Senior Account Executive where he has worked diligently to ensure his clients’ needs are met and campaigns are performing. He has handled everything from media planning to analyzing client data as well as training media managers and administrative assistants in order to ensure success for his clients. His work ethic and determination to always get things done are evident in his day-to-day role here at Brand Story Experts.

Chris’ favorite part of his job is building relationships with both his coworkers and clients alike. The most rewarding feeling for him comes from creating a strategic marketing plan, executing it, and delivering awesome results. He compares his passion for his job to his passion for football – it’s similar to drawing up a play, scoring a touchdown, and celebrating the results. Outside of work, Chris is very active, enjoying anything on or near the water, especially fishing and enjoying the beautiful beaches here in Florida. An avid sports fan, you can find him cheering on college and NFL football during the fall but he also enjoys working out, jogging, and playing golf. His bucket list includes traveling to Germany, experiencing Christmas in New York City, and owning a boat.

In 2022, Chris was promoted from Client Relationship Manager to Partnership Development Director. Chris worked passionately as a Client Relationship Manager with our team for 3 years. He is devoted to ensuring our clients’ stories are celebrated and that we are doing all we can to execute strategic marketing campaigns with measurable results. Chris is an Influencer when it comes to Brand Story Experts, our process, and how each department works to lead our clients to success.

Certifications
Google Ads Video • Google Ads Mobile • Google Ads Fundamentals • Google Ads Display • Google Ads Search • Google Analytics • Programmatic Digital Certification • Google Analytics 4

Hello, my name is Caren Jones.

I enjoy spicy food, science fiction, hammering out early 2000s bangers on my ukulele, and I can do an impressive Chewbacca impression.

I became interested in visual art through my love for illustration and was encouraged to explore graphic design as a career path. I graduated in May 2019 with my Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Florida’s competitive design program, emphasizing concept driven work and flexible design systems. I enjoy using illustration in my designs when it suits the project, but since studying the field, I’ve also gained a love and appreciation for typography, web design, and writing.

I have many creative interests, and I push myself to learn something new every day. This allows me to take on a challenging project with unfamiliar concepts and leverage research and communication to find the best solution.

Since graduating, I have been working as a Junior Designer at Brand Story Experts where I work with a fantastic multidisciplinary team to develop and uphold brand graphics and standards, create engaging print and web designs, and participate in training and brand culture involvement.

Emily is a Client Relationship Coordinator on our Client Relations Team. She received her Bachelor of Science in Marketing with an outside concentration in Spanish Language and then her Master of International Business from the University of Florida – Go Gators! Following her graduation, she moved to Spain to work as an au pair for a family of four just outside of Madrid. After working a few years back home in Bradenton, FL, she decided that her time in Spain wasn’t quite over. Emily moved back to Spain to work in Madrid as an English teacher for elementary school children. This was an amazing opportunity for her to travel around Spain and other parts of Europe while solidifying her Spanish communication skills. When she came home from Spain, she joined our BSE family!

Emily’s favorite part about working here is the amazing teams she has the opportunity to collaborate with daily. No one is siloed at our office! The open concept of the floor plan (no offices!) was strange when she first started, but now she wouldn’t have it any other way. She also loves participating in our weekly Runners Club. Our office is located right by the Bradenton Riverwalk, which is a picturesque spot to go for an evening run.

Emily was born in Atlanta, GA, but grew up here in beautiful Bradenton. She loves ALL things outdoors. The beach and her garden are her favorite places to exist, but any sunny spot outside will do! Food is more than nourishment for Emily — she looks forward to enjoying each meal and snack throughout the day. Pizza is her favorite, but Emily will also eat any dessert placed in front of her regardless of the time of day. After work and on the weekends, you can find her out in nature going for runs, reading, or enjoying the water on the boat (swimming whenever she has the opportunity). She is looking forward to continuing to grow her roots here where she is happiest with occasional trips back to Spain, of course!

Certifications
Google Ads Video • Google Ads Mobile • Google Ads Fundamentals • Google Ads Display • Google Ads Search • Google Analytics • Programmatic Digital Certification • Google Analytics 4

Ryan is our Director of Photography here at BSE. Ryan is originally from Buffalo, NY but has lived in Arizona, California, and currently Florida. Even though Ryan has studied Film and Communications, he considers his real education to be what he learned in his hands-on experience of working with talented professionals in the film industry in Buffalo and Los Angeles. Ryan began an independent film career in 2004 after traveling to Thailand to produce a film about backpacking following the Southeast Asia tsunami. In 2006, he moved to Los Angeles and shot reality television for NBC, ABC, CBS, DISNEY, MTV, VH-1, SPIKE, Discovery, Animal Planet, The National Geographic Channel, and has also worked as a DIT for AT&T and the 2008 Olympics to produce a new iPhone commercial.

His experience as a specialty camera operator landed him in an awesome field working as Key Aerial Assist Camera Rigger. This position held him responsible for managing cameras mounted on various fighter jets including the L-39, Sukoi 27, and Mig 29. Ryan has even shot an independent film in 2010 which garnered him many prestigious awards in the film community. Currently, Ryan also owns a wedding videography company called “The Cinematic Moment” which he has grown here in Florida and he has also had the opportunity of directing a film academy teaching kids grade 9-12 how to work with the camera and edit.

Ryan’s favorite part of his job is getting to travel often and learn about life through the lens of a camera. Outside of work Ryan enjoys building and crafting furniture out of reclaimed wood. Ryan would love to travel to Alaska and ride in a hot air balloon someday.

Annie is one of our amazing Client Relationship Coordinators here at BSE. She is from a small town just outside of Jefferson City, Missouri but from a big, loud, and entertaining family! Annie began her academic career at Lincoln University in Missouri for nursing. However, she quickly realized she had a different goal in mind and moved down to the Sunshine State. When Annie relocated to Bradenton, she enrolled at SCF and received her Associates in Business Administration. While earning her Associates Degree, she earned certifications in Business Operations and as a Business Specialist. She is now working towards finishing her B.A.S in Supervision and Management and is on track to graduate in the fall of 2022! 

She began her career at BSE in 2019 as an intern to gain experience in the marketing world and quickly joined the BSE team soon after as our Media Coordinator/Office Manager. She has been a huge asset to our team for the past 3 years and was promoted to a full-time position as Client Relationship Coordinator in 2022. We are extremely proud of her growth and enthusiasm for our clients. 

Annie has always had an interest in marketing, mainly from her early exposure to the publishing world with her grandparents. Her grandparents owned a newspaper company, Vernon Publishing, in Eldon, Missouri. Throughout her summers she would work for her grandparents as a reporter, gaining experience to write about various stories in her town. Annie fell in love with connecting with local businesses and bringing their stories to life for their community to read. She believes this came full circle when she started at BSE and saw how our clients’ stories are brought to life.

When Annie isn’t at work, you can find her cooking vegan soul foods, catching sun at the beach, or relaxing in her hammock with a book in hand. She is a proud pet parent to her dog, Ralphie, and two cats, Rajah and Rogan.

Certifications

Google Analytics 4

Andres is a Graphic Designer here at Brand Story Experts. Andres was born in Bogota, Colombia but moved to Tampa, FL over 18 years ago. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design & Fine Arts from the International Academy of Design and Technology, which was later renamed Sanford Brown College.

Andres started his career in Tampa working for a company called MarkMaster Inc., where he did design work for corporations like Bank of America, Universal Studios, Disney, and the University of South Florida. Later he transitioned to another role in Clearwater where he furthered his career and honed his skills in graphic design. This eventually led him to a position in Bradenton, FL, with Bealls Corporate and later a job right here at Brand Story Experts. His favorite aspect of his job is being creative and coming up with new designs and ideas that make him feel good, knowing that all those things matter to a lot of people.

Outside of his job, he loves to spend time with his son, his girlfriend, and his family. One of his favorite activities is going to theme parks, water parks, out to eat, and to car shows. Andres’ biggest passion is cars, and so is his son’s. He loves going on rides in his Stinger GT1 in his free time. Andres’ bucket list includes going to Thailand, Europe, and skydiving.

Meet Memorie, one of our Client Relationship Managers, here at Brand Story Experts. Originally from Bloomington, IL, she moved to Tampa when she was just two years old and has lived in the Sunshine State ever since. 

Memorie attended The University of Central Florida where she obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Advertising and Public Relations. After graduation, she quickly dove into the world of marketing where she started working as a Marketing Coordinator for a finance firm in Tampa. After expanding her knowledge and honing her skills, she accepted a position as a Key Account Manager at a local full-service agency where she worked with home service companies. This has helped her seamlessly fit into the role of Client Relationship Manager here at BSE. Memorie has knowledge across all mediums of marketing, advertising, and account management and has actively put those skills to work at Brand Story Experts. Memorie says her favorite aspect of her job is the clients. She says, “It is fulfilling to work with a brand and be able to contribute to its growth through a marketing strategy.” 

When she’s not in the office, Memorie is either cooking or out on the water. She says she loves to cook for others and try new recipes for family and friends when she gets the chance. Vampire Diaries is her favorite show, she loves it just as much now as she did when it first came out. Her bucket list consists of sky diving, going to Greece, and taking a cooking class with a celebrity chef. If she could choose any superpower, it would be the ability to fly so she could travel the world.

Certifications

Google Analytics 4

Bree is a dynamic Junior Media Buyer with a strong educational foundation, having recently graduated from The State University Of New York at Fredonia with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, majoring in Marketing. She has quickly transitioned into her full-time role in her desired field after successful college internships.

Bree is passionate about her work, finding satisfaction in the diversity of media buying and the camaraderie of her colleagues. Her prior experience includes roles as a Business Manager at her school’s newspaper, overseeing budgets, advertisements, and invoices, as well as a Marketing and graphic design intern at a technology incubator.

Outside of work, Bree enjoys family time, exploring the beautiful Florida surroundings, trying out new restaurants, attending live concerts, and nurturing her garden. She’s a dedicated professional with a global perspective, with Italy on her travel bucket list for an upcoming adventure.

Meet Krista, one of our Social Media & Content Strategists. She is originally from Fort Myers, Florida, and graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Entrepreneurship & Creativity. Krista has honed her expertise in Social Media through her dedicated work and has a specific focus on the Home Service Industry. 

Her favorite part of her job is the ability to be creative and is passionate about expressing her ideas through art. Krista loves having the ability to collaborate and brainstorm with team members in order to produce something great for our clients. 

As a fervent traveler, her bucket list includes witnessing Japan’s cherry blossoms, attending Tomorrowland in Belgium, and meeting her musical idol, Boris Brejcha. If she could pick one superpower, Krista’s choice would be teleportation, allowing her to travel the world without jetlag. Krista’s professional journey is a testament to her creative spirit, both in her career and personal pursuits.

Meet Skyler, our Digital Media Manager, hailing from the great state of Georgia. He’s got quite the academic background, holding a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Florida State University, and he even capped it off with an MBA from the University of North Florida.

With a decade of experience in the digital marketing arena, including five years in agency roles, Skyler is a seasoned professional in the field. Skyler’s core passion lies in ensuring that clients achieve their objectives and secure exceptional results. His dedication to this mission is unwavering and we are grateful to have him on our team. 

When Skyler isn’t working, he enjoys exploring the serene landscapes of National Parks. Skyler’s also got a pretty exciting bucket list. Bali, the Great Wall of China, and a tropical Hawaiian vacation all make the cut.