When I think about the most impactful voices in my life: the ones who challenge me, inspire me, and remind me to live in alignment, Tracie Anes is right there at the top of the list.

She’s been my colleague, my co-conspirator, and one of my dearest friends for nearly 15 years. We met in our early days of marketing, both navigating a corporate world that was fast-paced and full of possibility. Tracie has since built a powerhouse career, currently leading marketing initiatives at the director level while running her own business on the side. She’s someone who walks the talk, constantly evolving, always learning, and doing it all with contagious optimism.

In the latest episode of Business Origin Stories, Tracie joined me for a conversation that went way beyond marketing strategies. We talked about what it really means to lead from a place of growth, how to build cultures that retain talent, and why personal values matter more than ever in the workplace.

Here are just a few gems from our conversation:

Growth Mindset Isn’t Just
for Entrepreneurs

Tracie’s story is proof that personal development isn’t limited to the entrepreneurial world. She’s been intentional about growth since day one by asking questions, staying curious, and collecting experiences like a true marketer of life. Whether it’s learning a new industry, mentoring teammates, or navigating international campaigns, she sees every challenge as an opportunity to expand.

“At first, the growth really started in just trying to learn the industry… and then I was able to take all of that and embed it into this role and harness my skill set.”

Tracie didn’t wait for permission to grow. She chased learning like it was part of her job description – because in a way, it was.

Why Investing in Your Team Always Pays Off

Let’s talk culture. As business owners and leaders, we often wrestle with the question: What if I invest in my people and they leave? But Tracie reframes it beautifully:

“It costs more to onboard than it does to train. If you believe that the more I invest in you, the more you’ll invest in me, then everybody wins.”

Yes, people might move on, but while they’re with you, you’re creating brand ambassadors. And if you’ve built something meaningful they’ll carry that story with them long after they’ve gone.

Gen Z, Work Culture, and Why Story Matters

Tracie also brought a refreshing take on the new generation of workers entering the field. Far from being entitled, she sees Gen Z as fearless and values-driven. They want to make a difference, and they’re not afraid to ask hard questions.

“Gen Z isn’t afraid to take up space. They want to contribute to something meaningful. And honestly? That’s a gift.”

This isn’t just an HR issue, it’s a marketing one. How your team experiences your company is your brand. And the stories your employees tell? They’re just as powerful as any campaign you put out into the world.

Values That Guide the Work
(and the Life)

One of my favorite parts of this episode was hearing Tracie walk through her annual values practice. She doesn’t just pick words that sound good. She lives them.

From “adventure” to “connection,” from “fearlessness” to “power,” Tracie’s values shape how she approaches her work, her relationships, and even her grief.

“Happiness is something I actively choose. Optimism is a belief. And both are values that ground me when everything else feels shaky.”

She’s proof that when your values are clear, your decisions become easier. Your energy becomes more focused. And the impact you make? Way more intentional.

A Few Takeaways You’ll
Want to Sit With

If you’re navigating the messy middle of leadership, culture-building, or even your own personal growth journey, this episode is full of gold. Here are a few ideas you might want to borrow:

• Try a “word of the year” practice with your team to spark more meaningful conversations.

• Ask new hires for feedback at 30, 60, and 90 days. Fresh eyes see what you’ve stopped noticing.

• Rethink your investment in professional development as a long-term brand play, not just an expense line.

• Revisit your own core values and ask: Are these still true for me?

Tracie’s current word? Power. And honestly, after this conversation, I feel more connected to my own.

🎧 Listen to the full episode now on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to hear:

• How Tracie turned every job into a growth opportunity
• Why investing in your people is always worth it (even if they leave)
• The generational shifts that are reshaping workplace culture
• How to ground your brand (and your life) in personal values
• The mindset that helps you recover from failure, and even welcome it

And if this episode resonates, forward it to a friend who’s leading a team, building a brand, or just trying to grow with grace.

Because here’s the truth: your culture is your brand. And your story, especially the one you live out every day, has more power than you know.