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In this episode, Michelle Bowler, a trailblazing CEO and branding expert, shares her journey as a Black woman, mom, and leader of a 23-year-old creative agency. Michelle dives into her mission to reshape the branding industry, her passion for mental health, and her commitment to diversity.

She explains why mental health matters in demanding roles, emphasizing how it fuels creativity, resilience, and effective leadership. For Michelle, a healthy mind isn’t optional—it’s essential.

We also explore diversity, a core value Michelle champions in her work. She shares an eye-opening fact: companies with diverse teams are 70% more likely to capture new markets. Her agency thrives by embracing different perspectives, creating innovative branding solutions for clients with diverse customer bases.

As a CEO and mom, Michelle opens up about balancing business and family while breaking barriers for women—especially women of color—in the design industry. She’s committed to addressing the lack of representation, noting that fewer than 5% of professional designers identify as Black.

Michelle reveals her bold vision for “The New 4040,” an initiative to create opportunities for people who aren't typically afforded a seat at the table. Her goal is to make branding agencies better reflect the diverse world we live in, with solutions that connect authentically to all audiences.

Looking ahead, Michelle plans to welcome fresh perspectives and ideas, ensuring her agency continues to deliver impactful solutions for major brands and startups alike. More importantly, she’s determined to redefine what leadership looks like in branding—proving that inclusion and mental health drive success.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about leadership, innovation, and meaningful change.

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WINK x Michelle Bowler - CEO & Co-Owner of 4040Agency

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