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Twenty-nine-year-old Courtney Hancock has just been named CEO of SoulGrown.
Courtney has been part of the Yellowhammer Multimedia team for just under a year, developing content and messaging for the various platforms. In her new role, Courtney will be focusing solely on developing growth and business development strategies for SoulGrown, making sure the team is resourced and well-taken care of, finding compelling stories across the state, casting vision, and just being a boss.
Let’s get to know SoulGrown’s new CEO a little better, shall we?
- Tell us a bit about your background.
I grew up in a military home moving all over the place until we planted in Huntsville during my middle school years. I made my way to Birmingham for college, graduating from Samford University with a bachelor of arts in English Literature in 2014. After I started working in marketing and recruiting I went on to pursue my masters of science in organizational leadership from Charleston Southern University. I made the transition from recruiting to a communications and marketing role in media and have stayed in the industry focusing on strategic content creation ever since! I am a numbers girl. I love results, and I love finding new ways to create content that produces measurable growth.
- Where do you call home base?
Birmingham! Currently building a house in Knox Square (shout-out to Signature Homes, they have been incredible to work with!).
- Tell us what SoulGrown is all about?
SoulGrown represents the REAL Alabama in a way that the people who live here can be proud of, and that outsiders want to be a part of. Frankly, I don’t think our state gets the credit it deserves in the media and SoulGrown is here to see that that changes. Alabama is “the soul of the South.” The people here are incredible and it’s their time to shine.
- What are some things you like to do for fun?
I love to travel, shop, and watch Tik Toks! My husband and I both work remotely so we try to travel as much as we can. In the last year we’ve had the opportunity to go to Cabo San Lucas, Palm Springs, Santa Fe, Austin, and Norway! Our dream is to visit Japan but honestly, there’s nothing like coming home to Alabama the beautiful. I’m just as content with a weekend at Honeycomb on Lake Guntersville, sitting by the fire with my family.
- What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
Hmm.. I have 11 tattoos (that I keep hidden most of the time). I grew up in a military family which I’m very proud of. And, I’m a mom!
- What motivates and/or inspires you?
I’m very inspired and motivated by the stories of other women! Whether in business or homemaking, I’m always blown away by the capacity of women and their collective stories of overcoming. I think because of my faith I’m a naturally motivated person because I want my life to have purpose.
- What’s your favorite Southern food?
Mac & cheese. I’m on a hunt to find the best mac & cheese in the state, so if someone thinks they have it, my email is chancock@soul-grown.com.
- When do you feel most creative?
I am very impacted by my surroundings, so definitely when I’m somewhere scenic like a beautiful cafe or outside with a view where I can be visually inspired. My grandparents’ front porch is coming to mind, they live on a very dreamy farm.
- What do you envision for the future of SoulGrown?
You’ll just have to follow us to find out! I’m kidding… kind of. I see lots of collaboration! A space where all kinds of people across the state come together to share their stories and celebrate our beautiful home. I don’t know if you know this, but the national perception of the South is changing. As many people are relocating to our region, Alabama is getting quite the rebrand. I want SoulGrown to be out front leading that perception, telling our own story. We are in a position to be the ultimate champion for the people and businesses who contribute to the quality of life afforded here in Alabama.
- What is your favorite thing to do on a Sunday Funday?
Keep it simple, have a very slow and unplanned day! I am a church girl so definitely that and then a good meal with my friends and family! Maybe even binge watch a cooking show while my son takes a nap… I like to think I’m a foodie even though I don’t cook. Ultimately, I try to use my weekends to rest and take care of my soul in whatever way is needed at that time.
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