Running an independent, boutique ad agency is full of a lot of unexpected things. Even with all the MBAs, design/media training and leadership courses the world has to offer, there will always be something new to figure out, and that’s something I love.

But my favorite part of running a global media empire, and something I didn’t expect, is the deep friendships that have resulted.

I counted on really enjoying working with my clients, but I didn’t really expect that they’d become friends. And that is something that makes me eternally grateful. It occurred to me that the reason my clients have become such great friends is because we truly believe in each others’ mission, and I really think that all of my clients are trying to make the world a better place. They are good people following their dreams, and it’s exciting to be a part of.

To me, it’s not just working on finishing up a project, or creating something beautiful. It’s actually about partnering with my clientfriends™ to help us both succeed. I love, love, love that.

As we get closer to Thanksgiving, I want to take a moment to express gratitude for the amazing people I get to work with, and call friends. I’d like to start with one of the first clients I had the privilege to work with—Paradise Arabians.

Immediately, I loved Gary and Wanda (and their son Matt and daughter-in-law Misty.) They showed me the most amazing Southern Hospitality on their Georgia farm I have ever experienced to this day. We sat in their living room by the fire, drinking wine and laughing ’till our stomachs hurt. We rode around in golf carts petting million-dollar stallions. Wanda cooked for us, and the sweet tea flowed all day long. We talked about life, goals, our passion and everything in between. Instant friends. I was totally green in the biz, and younger than their kids, but they actually trusted us to market their Arabian horse business. I believe they really took a chance, and together we created some beautiful, beautiful work.

At Paradise, I truly believe Gary and Wanda are doing more than selling horses. With every new client they see come to their farm, they ignite a passion in them. People who are over-worked, stressed out and struggling discover a true passion, and connect with nature and God’s creation in a way you don’t often see. When someone becomes a client at Paradise, their lives are changed forever, and they are practically beaming. Paradise’s first love is helping new people get started. And while not everyone can afford a rare horse typically, they’ve done some amazing things to ensure that almost anyone can own a horse—barter, trading, mucking stalls, etc. included!

Another thing I love about the Kenworthys is their generosity, and opening their home and farm to anyone. It’s a veritable B&B. It just so happens that October is probably the most beautiful time to visit, and I know they’d love to have you. In fact, I need to get down there too for some R&R. Honestly, if you love horses, or just need a break from the grind, do yourself a favor and call Wanda. Tell her Jason sent you, and she’ll have a cup of sweet tea waiting for you when you pull down the lane.

Love you, Gary, Wanda, Matt and Misty!