What it really means to #OwnIt with Christy & Whit Hiler, Owners of Cornett

Christy and Whit Hiler are the powerhouse duo driving huge growth for Cornett, the nationally acclaimed, independent ad agency based in Lexington, Kentucky.

Since becoming Cornett's owner in 2020, Christy has led the agency to four Ad Age Small Agency of the Year wins. Beyond running the shop, she's driving the Own It movement – working to increase women and nonbinary ownership across the industry.

Alongside Christy through it all is her partner, Chief Creative Officer Whit Hiler, known for wallet-opening work that's captured the attention – and long-term commitment – of iconic national and regional brands

In this bonus episode of Question Everything, you'll hear how Christy defines her role as an owner, why she champions a promote-from-within culture, and why CMOs should partner with agencies that treat themselves like a client.

What you'll learn in this episode:

The story behind Cocaine Bear, and why the Hilers own the rights
When ownership stopped being a title and became part of Christy's identity
Why an agency's people and culture are the ultimate growth engine
What happens when you start treating your agency's brand like a client's
The keys to a successful agency rebrand

Resources:

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