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Company: Agency H5
Owners: Kathleen Sarpy
Year Started: 2001
Employees: 51-100 (Large)

Welcome to An Agency Story podcast, I’m your host Russel.

On this episode we have Kathleen Sarpy, founder of Agency H5 based in Chicago, IL.

Kathleen opens up about the drive and determination that shaped her path, from persistent job-seeking at top PR firms to stepping out on her own when she felt a disconnect between her corporate role and personal values. Her reflections reveal a career built on resilience, creativity, and the courage to start fresh.

From a humble and rocky start in her basement, Kathleen shares the highs and lows of Agency H5’s beginnings, including memorable client campaigns that helped her agency gain traction despite a challenging start. She emphasizes the values-driven culture at Agency H5, which she created around kindness, creativity, passion, hustle, and integrity, ensuring a positive work environment for her team and an authentic approach with clients.

Listen to Kathleen’s unique approach to leadership and her belief in nurturing relationships like gardens as the foundation for lasting success.

Enjoy the story.

Show Insights

Building a Values-Driven Culture: Kathleen emphasizes the importance of leading with values and creating a workplace that reflects kindness, integrity, creativity, and passion. By establishing a "no-asshole policy," she ensures that Agency H5 works only with clients and hires team members who respect these values. This focus on positive relationships and supportive work culture helps retain great talent and deliver excellent client experiences.

The Power of Relationships in Business Growth: Kathleen views relationships as the "currency" of her agency, likening them to a garden that must be nurtured to bloom over time. Her dedication to fostering strong, authentic connections with clients has allowed her to retain business, gain new opportunities through referrals, and even reconnect with past clients who moved on to new roles. This approach to business, focused on relationships over transactions, has been a cornerstone of Agency H5's growth and success.