By Published On: April 12, 2020

During my recent interview with Todd Nelson for the Movers and Shakers section of the Star Tribune, I had the opportunity to discuss a number of things happening at d.trio, including what is an exciting new chapter for us. We are celebrating our 20-year anniversary and we’re entering a new decade as an individually owned company. In spite of the recent COVID-19 global pandemic and the challenges that it presents, I remain tremendously excited about piloting d.trio’s future.

This interview was different than one I participated in several years ago with my former d.trio partners, Maureen and Fred. I felt a greater sense of ownership, of course, and I also felt more responsibility to accurately communicate the agency’s message and vision in my own words.

We talked about the impact of taking on sole ownership at this stage in my career. It’s not what everyone would choose to do, but I know it’s the right choice for me. We also talked how my definition of success has changed over the years. I used to think success was measured in terms of growth and revenue. Now I define it through a different perspective—I see long-term relationships and helping clients solve problems to help grow their careers or businesses as the things that really matter. And to me, that’s the fun part. The better we get at solving problems, the more successful we are. From there, the growth and revenue will follow.

I’m thrilled and honored to be among the other successful businessmen and women of the Twin Cities community who have been featured in this column. The great work we do for our clients is the backbone of who we are and how we’ve stood the test of time. 20 years is a remarkable milestone and I’m tremendously proud of that and of the team I have around me.

As for the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re traveling once again in uncharted waters. My heart goes out to the all people and businesses who are so greatly affected by both the illness and the shutdown of business. We can’t predict the future, but we can continue to communicate, support each other and extend a helping hand where we can. And that’s our plan.

About the Author: Megan Devine

Megan Devine
Megan taps into her left-brain logic and right brain creativity—steering the business, bantering with her team, and strategizing on client work. She says it’s her dream job and we believe her. Using her passion and knack for understanding complex connections in business and marketing, she collaborates to create love between brands and customers. She possesses expertise and experience that only comes from persevering in the ever-changing marketing agency world. Megan co-founded d.trio marketing group, now cat&tonic, in January of 2000 and took sole ownership in 2019. Her vision, support, and sheer stubbornness got us through 9/11, the great recession, and a pandemic. She has judged the International ECHO Awards since 2005, has consulted for several organizations, and serves on several boards. Educated at Carleton College, she learned the importance of critical thinking for success. At home she learned the value of a good story.
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