Episode Summary
In this episode of An Agency Story, host Russel Dubree sits down with Kevin and Brandon Tydlaska-Dziedzic, the passionate co-founders of BKN Creative, a boutique, certified LGBT business enterprise based in Tampa, FL. Their journey from personal partners to business collaborators is anything but ordinary. From building community one headshot at a time to championing culture and transparency in their agency, Kevin and Brandon dive into the highs, lows, and everything in between.
Episode Highlights:
- Why launching with a headshot party was a game-changer for business and branding.
- How culture and transparency became their agency’s superpowers.
- The lessons they learned the hard way, including one client that walked right after a vacation.
- What it’s like running a business with your spouse (and why separating work from home is essential).
Agency Info
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Company: BKN Creative
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Guest: Kevin Tydlaska–Dziedzic and Brandon Tydlaska-Dziedzic
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Year Started: 2015
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Employees: 11-25
If you take care of your team, they’ll take care of you, but only if they know you’ve got their back.
Kevin Tydlaska–Dziedzic
Key Takeaways
Build Culture Intentionally, Not as an Afterthought
Kevin and Brandon didn’t stumble into a good work culture, they engineered it. From feminine hygiene products in the office to team transparency about salaries and challenges, they’ve created an environment where people feel valued and safe.
Lead with Transparency, Even When It’s Hard
In an industry often criticized for opacity, BKN Creative leads with radical transparency. Their team knows what clients pay, what the leadership earns, and where the business stands.
Know Your Role, Respect Your Partner
As co-founders and life partners, Kevin and Brandon learned early on to divide and respect responsibilities. Kevin leads with intensity and business acumen; Brandon brings design clarity and creative leadership. Their ability to “volley” ideas and roles has been essential to their success.
Risk-Taking Isn’t Reckless, It’s Calculated
Starting with no network in Tampa, Kevin launched a now-iconic headshot party series that not only paid the bills but helped BKN Creative build local roots. Brandon soon left his full-time job to join in, trusting the momentum.
Treat People Like Humans, Not Resources
Whether it’s hybrid work, unlimited PTO, or confronting a toxic client on behalf of an employee, BKN Creative puts people first…always.
“We don’t just want to work with anyone, we want to work with people who share our values.”
Show Notes
- BKN’s Holiday Mockumentary: A behind-the-scenes team comedy: https://www.imdb.com/search/title/?role=nm6299247
- Kevin’s acting credits on IMDB
- Instagram: @bkncreative
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