
Kate-Madonna doesn’t mind being called a geek. In fact, it’s become somewhat of a pen name for this social media maven, ingenious inspirer, and winning wordsmith. For the past eight years, she has spun and cast a wide web across the Twin Cities and beyond, motivating individuals and organizations to unlock and pursue their passions through social media and marketing. With countless speaking engagements, nationally printed articles, and her wildly praised blog girl.meets.geek, we were thrilled just to be able to catch up with her! Here, she discusses her non-conventional approach to goal-setting, grown-up movie theatres, and how her daughter keeps her focused on what’s most important.
How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?
Human. Honest. Connective.
What is something people may be surprised to know about your job…
I consider it after the birth of my daughter to be my life’s greatest work. I’m given a platform to tell people that being authentic is the ticket to sales, success and relationships that MATTER—there’s nothing better than that. My job is something that I’m constantly learning from, and bringing to new levels. I have no business plan: Can you believe that? The moment I make a goal, I feel that I box myself in. I have my guidelines and hopes- and I plan to exceed them all.
What or who inspired you to start your business?
I’ve been blogging for almost eight years and dreaming of becoming a writer since I was 7. It wasn’t until last year when I looked around the room of potential job seekers and realized that the dream of wanting to change lives never went away, it just took another form. The business found me, and I’ve never, ever looked back.
Who is your role model or mentor?
My daughter. Hands down this child reminds me of the need to calm down and back away from the computer, or get onto the floor. Routinely you can find me singing along to the animated toys with her in the Target toy aisle. Without her perfect silliness, I’m really nothing. Additionally, there is a a mentor I was given in business years ago who with his wife, have always been there through my greatest failures and successes. Never before have I had someone to look me straight in the eye and say, “Fail Anyway. You’ll learn from it.” Mr. Pollack’s passion for shaping me into who I am really has humbled me to see what I can do to give back.
What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat?
As a woman, I’ve undersold who I was to try to play with the bigger players. I found that when I believed in my value, people were often willing to pay more than I imagined for my services because I believed I was worth it. I’ll never doubt my value again.
How do you spend your free time?
It’s split between a new obsession, spin cycling class at Lifetime Fitness, to which I’ve only recently understood the beauty of padded riding pants and cheerfully watching The Wiggles for the 89th time.
Where is your favorite place to go with your girlfriends?
It’s only recently we’ve found the VIP theater at the Mall of America. For a few bucks more than a normal movie you’re served WINE during the movie and no one under 21 is allowed in. This means peaceful enjoyment and couch-like seating. It’s a mecca for me and friends and often, it’s the recipient of the ‘wine giggles’ after our 1/2 glass and another viewing of, “Hot Tub Time Machine.”
What do you CRAVE? In business? In life?
I crave stories, passion and everyday miracles. When someone opens up to me, or I’m able to connect with another soul- I’m content. I also crave sinks that do my dishes for me and a preschooler that doesn’t think it’s hilarious to turn off the bathroom light when I’m in the shower, but whatever: little things first, right?
One Response to “Q&A with Kate-Madonna of girl.meets.geek”
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