Company: Trio Solutions
Guests: Jessica Munday
Year Started: 2001
Employees: 11-25
Most agency owners see employee turnover as a problem. But what if it’s not just survivable, but strategic? In the latest episode of An Agency Story, Jessica Munday reveals how her agency has thrived for over 20 years by embracing mentorship, letting people grow beyond their roles, and turning exits into long-term opportunities.
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Episode Summary
In this episode of An Agency Story, host Russel Dubree sits down with Jessica Munday, founder of Trio Solutions, a Charleston-based marketing agency that’s been in business since 2001. Jessica brings a unique perspective on how employee turnover, when handled with the right mindset, can actually fuel agency growth.
You’ll hear how she’s built a culture of trust, learning, and resilience that’s led to powerful outcomes, even when people move on.
Key takeaways from the episode include:
- How empowering team members early on leads to loyalty, even after they leave
- Why mentorship can lead to future partnerships and business ventures
- The mindset shift agency owners need to turn turnover into opportunity
Key Takeaways and Lessons
Letting People Leave Can Build Long-Term Loyalty
Jessica challenges the common belief that retention is the ultimate goal. Instead, she invests in developing her team, knowing some will eventually leave. But many return, or become clients, referrers, or even partners.
“You train them and you teach them everything you know, and you see them blossom and then they leave… but it’s part of it. They’re a little bird and they’re gonna fly the nest and then they make you proud.” – Jessica Munday
Mentorship Isn’t a Perk—It’s a Growth Tool
Jessica believes in giving team members the tools, training, and trust to do great work. Her mentorship philosophy has created a ripple effect of growth, for her people and her agency.
“Empower them and mentor them, and just give people the space to be great at what their skillset is.”
When You Build a Great Culture, People Want to Come Back
Jessica has had former employees reach out years later, eager to rejoin or collaborate. She attributes this to creating a workplace that prioritizes purpose, growth, and personal connection.
Show Notes & Resources
- Full Circle Fishing Charters – Jessica’s family business
- Cloud Nine Nonprofit Advisors – her nonprofit consulting venture started with a long time employee
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