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How I came to be a creative director and content creator who champions heartful stuff that connects...

I first learned how to connect with audiences the old-fashioned way -- by demanding that they pay attention to me on stage. That was when I was 10, so there's been time to hone this into something of grown-up value. My story in geography:

  • Grew up in New England, which gave me feet-on-the-ground pragmatism.

  • Studied Journalism at UMD, which fostered a passion for integrity in truth.

  • Lived in New York, which solidified my work ethic, pace and edge.

  • Relocated to Los Angeles, which inspired me to reach and push creativity.

  • Came back to New England, which...well here we are.

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Entertainment & branding

 

Through my work in entertainment, I learned a lot about leading creative under pressure (which may have crescendoed while writing and producing Rob Gronkowski for WWE at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic...right after he signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers...this man getting sick was absolutely not an option). 

Finding my voice and focus under duress organically evolved into helping brands define theirs. I've worked with athletes, actors, CMOs and more as both an independent contractor and full-time agency employee.

Philosophy & approach

Maybe it's my background in theatre and comedy, but I can't help but sense a rhythm to a thing -- a key pace that makes it work. Presentations, publications, product experiences -- they all have their own pace. Nailing that builds trust with audiences.

 

Within that, it's about expression that's own-able and relatable -- because people are all different...and a little bit the same. I aim to hear the story first -- then pull the core of that story to the surface. 

 

I'm also partially deaf in one ear. But that's a story for another time. What matters is that I work extra hard on that listening thing. In my experience, it's an undervalued cornerstone of collaboration.

Highlights & impact

  • Writing a musical that has been produced in 48 states, 5 countries on 4 continents, in 2 languages (then another, and another)

  • Creating "buzzy," broad content for WWE -- some of which resulted in YouTube views in the millions

  • Conceiving, pitching, selling and writing TV pilots for MTV, Disney Channel, Warner Brothers and others

  • Applying my experience to help guide early-career writers in finding their voice in new and ambitious projects

  • Becoming an in-demand UX Writer and Content Strategist for premium global brands like American Express, The Wall Street Journal, Fubo and Verizon

  • Adapting my skill set to guide corporate clients in creative work sessions that help them express their value in singular-yet-relatable ways

Betsy Kelso business portrait
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