This week on Own It we’re talking to Courtney Worthman and Stacey Gersten from Main Character. Their firm’s goal is to make their client’s brands the Main Character in stories, the marketplace and impact. They launched the company in 2025 after working together for several years at Burns Entertainment.
We talked about their individual and partnership journeys, which character from Sex & The City they resemble most and so much more. Their perspectives on closing the gender gap in agency ownership are so powerful. We got so much from them and know you will, too.
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Launching and growing a business, especially as a woman, can be incredibly challenging. Having a strong, supportive partner allows for bouncing ideas, sharing the creative load, and offering mutual encouragement, making the journey more manageable and fostering resilience during difficult times.
Instead of immediately dismissing seemingly impossible ideas (like getting Lady Gaga for a campaign), a more effective approach is to embrace a "yes, and" mindset. This involves understanding the core desired outcome behind an ambitious idea and then creatively finding alternative, viable solutions that achieve the same goal, rather than simply stating limitations.
Historically, male-dominated industries often fostered a competitive environment where individuals guarded information. However, in a growing landscape of female agency owners, there's a shift towards collaboration. Sharing insights, celebrating successes, and learning from "competitors" creates a stronger, more supportive ecosystem that benefits everyone involved.
Experienced professionals, particularly women who have navigated leadership roles, have a crucial responsibility to mentor younger generations. This involves not only offering guidance and introductions but also actively creating opportunities and instilling confidence, ensuring a positive cycle of support and growth within the industry.
To get ahead in a competitive industry, it's essential to be proactive. This means consistently raising your hand, asking for specific help, and being genuinely helpful to those you seek guidance from. Beyond intelligence and experience, demonstrating dedication and "heart"—going the extra mile and proving your commitment—can open doors to invaluable opportunities and mentorship.
