I just got back late last night from an exhilarating couple of days at the AdAge Small Agency Conference in Toronto, and honestly, it was worth every minute and every penny. If you’re in the agency world and wondering whether this conference is for you: it absolutely is. Highly recommend!
Here are a few key takeaways that I’m still chewing on:
- The Power of Community
Huge shoutout to Worldwide Partners and Own It. You know that awkward, “middle-school lunchroom” feeling when you walk into a conference not knowing a soul? Yeah, none of that this time. Thanks to these two organizations, I literally knew someone in almost every room, plus a built-in wingperson or introduction ready to make networking effortless and genuine. Community isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a game changer. - Sarah Watson’s Opening Keynote = Mind. Blown.
Are you familiar with Sarah? Her point that crises and difficult behaviors aren’t just headaches, but deep insights into the agency’s blind spots? YES. Agencies desperately need to hear this and lean into the discomfort. So much truth there. - AI Sessions: From Dread to Goldmine
I always brace myself for the AI talks and approach them with part skepticism, part exhaustion. But every time, I come away with tangible, actionable ideas I can’t wait to test. - Creativity That Lights a Fire
The Duke’s Mayo/Familiar Creatures team and Aaron Starkman, Rethink’s Global CCO, showed next-level creative case studies that inspired me big time. I’m fired up to bring that same boldness and boundary-pushing energy into my own work.
The Indie Identity Puzzle
Watching the PE panel was fascinating: agencies with majority PE ownership are still proudly calling themselves “independent.” What does independent even mean anymore? The definition is evolving, and it’s worth keeping an eye on. - Freelance vs. Traditional Agencies: Not an Either/Or
Loved the lively debate between Sandy Greenberg (Terri and Sandy) and Alex McInnis (Murder Hornet). The takeaway? Both models can coexist and thrive. It’s about finding what fits your rhythm and serves your clients best. - Fashion Notes (Because Yes, It Matters)
Not industry-related, but gotta shout out my Nuuly subscription. Multiple outfit compliments received, and it made conference dressing a breeze. Conferences + Nuuly = winning combo. - Travel Win
And last but not least, my podcast co-host Casey was the perfect road trip companion, even when the U.S. Border Control detained us (literally had us leave the car and go into a holding room).
If you’re thinking about diving into more conferences this year, or just want to build stronger, more authentic industry connections, take it from me: find your tribe, show up curious, and be ready to learn (and be inspired).
What’s your favorite conference or community that fuels you? Would love to hear!
Danielle