Company: aStash Web Design & Marketing
Guests: Kateryna Quinn
Year Started: 2018
Employees: 1-10
What happens when every door seems to close and instead of waiting, you build your own? In this episode of An Agency Story, we talk with Kateryna Quinn, founder of aStash Web Design & Marketing, who turned early career setbacks into a thriving, family-first agency. Her journey isn’t just inspiring, it’s a masterclass in grit, entrepreneurship, and staying grounded in your values, no matter how tough the climb.
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Episode Summary
Kateryna Quinn isn’t your typical agency founder. After moving from Ukraine to the U.S. on a tennis scholarship, she faced a harsh reality: no one wanted to hire her in marketing. Instead of giving up, she carved her own path starting a full-service digital agency that now supports her family, her team, and a growing client base across the U.S.
In this conversation, Kateryna shares her deeply personal story, including:
- Why failure often signals the start of something better
- The power of a strong purpose in growing your business
- The overlooked emotional and financial realities of starting an agency as an immigrant
Key Takeaways and Lessons
Rejection Can Be a Launchpad
Kateryna was turned away from internships and marketing jobs—despite her passion and qualifications. Instead of giving in to frustration, she used the time to build websites, learn design, and work with clients directly. Her story underscores a powerful truth: doors closing may be a sign to create your own.
Lead with Core Values
One of the most striking things about Kateryna’s agency is its unwavering commitment to family. She didn’t just build a business to support herself—she brought her parents from Ukraine, gave them roles in the company, and created a workplace culture rooted in trust and care.
Growth Requires Sacrifice and a Clear Why
From 4 AM mornings to juggling freelance work while coaching tennis, Kateryna’s early years were marked by sacrifice. What kept her going? A strong sense of purpose: helping her family and building a life on her terms.
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