February is Black History Month
The Greenhouse joins in the national effort to acknowledge, appreciate, and uplift Black business owners in our community.
Meet Kieth Simmons, Owner & Chief Strategist of Story24!
GH: Tell us a little about yourself & your business
KS: Story24 is a digital marketing group serving professional associations and small businesses. We focus on marketing “infrastructure,” which is your branding, your website, social media platforms, and search presence. By building and maintaining those, you not only have an effective digital presence, but the ability to scale any marketing campaigns in the future.
GH: What inspired you to start your business/what is your “why”?
KS: I wanted to start my own business because I believe it’s one of the most rewarding ways to help others and to challenge myself. I know that long-term success in business means I can’t settle for mediocrity. I have to push myself out of my comfort zone, find my tribe of peers, and help others grow while I also grow at the same time. My goal is to have the knowledge and resources to build my community.
GH: What advice would you give to others looking to start/grow their business?
KS: Become coachable. Too often, it’s easy to think we know the answers or that there’s something we simply can’t do. Find a mentor or someone who is in the place where you want to be. Try out one piece of advice—and do it the way they describe it—and see what happens. You’ll be surprised by the results.
GH: How can the community support you and your business?
KS: Shop local as much as you can! I participated in The Greenhouse’s Entrepreneur Academy (an awesome program, by the way!) and I made a lot of new friends who are doing some cool things in St. Pete. When you support them, you’ll continue to lift up the entire city.
Contact Information:
ksimmonswrites@gmail.com