Company: Moxie Sozo
Guests: Derek Springston
Year Started: 2000
Employees: 25-50
What happens when you work for free, take a leap of faith, and never stop figuring it out?
In this episode we sit down with Derek Springston, Partner and Chief Creative Officer at Moxie Sozo, to explore his unconventional path from unpaid intern to co-owner of one of Colorado’s most respected branding agencies.
Whether you’re navigating your own leadership evolution or considering passing the torch in your agency, Derek’s story offers timeless lessons on ownership, trust, and the real work behind culture.
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Episode Summary
Derek has spent over 15 years at Moxie Sozo, helping shape its creative identity and culture through both design and leadership. As a former intern turned owner, he offers a rare inside look at what it takes to lead people you once worked beside and why growing into leadership is often more emotional than strategic.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
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Why culture can’t be copied and what actually keeps people around
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What founders often get wrong when transitioning ownership
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How to balance creative work with long-term business thinking
Key Takeaways & Lessons
Leadership is Earned, Not Given
When Derek became an owner, many of his coworkers suddenly became his employees. The shift was more than just a title change, it required a mindset transformation.
“Just because you thought that way as an employee doesn’t mean everybody else does.”
Culture is Built Through Shared History, Not Perks
One of the driving forces that brought Derek back to Moxie Sozo after a brief departure was the people. The shared shorthand, mutual effort, and deep respect were irreplaceable. Culture isn’t something you bolt on—it’s something you build through time, trust, and consistency.
Ownership is a Constant Learning Curve
From navigating finances to guiding people, ownership revealed blind spots Derek never considered. But he embraced the discomfort with one powerful mindset:
“We will figure it out. I’ve always kind of had that mentality.”
Derek’s story highlights you don’t need all the answers, you just need a commitment to keep learning and adapting.
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