Episode Summary
This episode of An Agency Story features Leah Messina, founder and CEO of Sinuate Media, a full-service digital marketing agency based in Las Cruces, New Mexico. From launching her agency days before turning 25 to helping the NHL send out its first tweet, Leah’s journey is packed with strategic foresight, resourcefulness, and reinvention.
Episode Highlights:
- How Leah leveraged her network and a virtual launch party to land Virgin Mobile and Major League Baseball as early
- clients
- Why she pursued a master’s degree while starting her agency
- The story behind getting a tractor trailer full of rum unstuck in downtown Baltimore
- Lessons learned from the 2008 economic crash and moving her business cross-country
- Why community involvement and proactive listening remain her agency’s core strengths
Agency Info
-
Company: Sinuate Media
-
Guest: Leah Messina
-
Year Started: 2007
-
Employees: 11-25
It’s not sexy at all, but really listening to what clients are saying and then anticipating what they need,…that’s been critical.
Leah Messina
Key Takeaways
Have a Clear Vision and a Date
Leah didn’t stumble into entrepreneurship; she chose it. By setting a firm goal, launch a business before turning 25, she built a runway of experience, education, and confidence to execute that vision. Setting a clear, time-bound goal creates urgency and structure for entrepreneurial action.
Your Network Is a Launchpad
Her first three clients came from a single email blast to personal contacts. She turned those relationships into paid work with major brands. Never underestimate the power of a well-timed ask to your existing network, especially at launch.
Adaptation Beats Stagnation
The 2008 crash forced Leah to reevaluate staffing, client relationships, and her own geographic location. Rather than fold, she downsized, moved cross-country, and redefined her business strategy. Tough moments call for bold pivots, not blind optimism.
Teach What You Know
From educating big brands about social media in its infancy to teaching e-commerce at New Mexico State University, Leah continues to use education as a way to expand her influence and deepen client value. Positioning yourself as a teacher builds credibility and creates opportunities to lead.
Stay Curious and Keep Diversifying
Leah’s entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t stop at Sinuate Media. She’s explored ventures in publishing, chocolate, scientific communication, and now blockchain logistics. Side ventures can be creative labs that sharpen your thinking for your core business.
Enjoy this Episode?
Subscribe to An Agency Story on your favorite podcast app for more real stories from agency owners. Loved what you heard? Leave a review or share this episode with someone building their agency from the ground up.
