my story

how i got here

seeker of collective effervescence.

(Yes, AI helped me write this Bio)

Kelsey R. Martin is a seasoned professional in the ever-evolving world of social media, known for her remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming a driving force in the industry. Inspired by the wisdom of one of the most prominent social media gurus, Gary Vaynerchuk, Kelsey embarked on a transformative career that has left an indelible mark on the landscape of digital marketing.

Kelsey's passion for social media was ignited when she joined the ranks of a budding social media agency in the heart of the Midwest. Starting as an intern, she immersed herself in the intricacies of this dynamic field, mastering every aspect of it. Over the course of a decade, Kelsey's dedication, creativity, and relentless pursuit of excellence led her to the pinnacle of success as the Chief Operations Officer of the agency. Her remarkable journey is a testament to the power of persistence, innovation, and unwavering commitment.

Beyond her role as a social media maven, Kelsey is also an ardent podcast producer enthusiast. She understands the transformative potential of audio content and is passionate about harnessing its power to connect with audiences on a deeper level.

In her current role as a Customer Success Manager at Sprout Social, Kelsey is on a mission to empower social media agencies with the tools, strategies, and insights they need to overcome their biggest challenges. She works closely with 120 social media agencies, guiding them through the intricate maze of platform strategy, navigating rough economic times, harnessing the potential of AI, diversifying their services, acquiring clients, and managing influencer programs, among a myriad of other critical tasks.

Kelsey R. Martin's expertise and dynamic presence make her a sought-after speaker in the world of social media. Her journey, from intern to COO, combined with her deep insights into the industry, provides invaluable lessons for businesses and professionals looking to thrive in the digital age. Kelsey's passion, knowledge, and dedication shine through in every presentation, leaving audiences inspired and equipped to conquer the challenges of the modern social media landscape.

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  • 1989

    Born in western Nebraska

  • 1991

    Middle Child Syndrome Cemented. I have second born energy to my core.

  • Early 90s

    Moved across Nebraska > Hemingford, Hastings, Omaha, Grand Island

  • Late 90s-Early 2000s

    Sports Sports Sports

  • 2004-2006

    High School with my sister, so much fun!

  • May 2008

    Graduated High School. My Sister, Brother, and I all graduated from different schools.

  • August 2008

    Moved to Iowa to attend Morningside College and study Advertising.

  • November 2011

    Met Gary V, inspired to do social media. Also met future boss, Beth Trejo who put on the event.

  • February 2012

    Started an internship at Chatterkick, a newly formed social media agency.

  • May 2012

    2012 Graduated Morningside College, legit was called crazy by career advisors as I turned down multiple corporate offers to stay at the non-paying startup. Worked a side hustle, 30hr/week job doing Marketing Research, and 30hr/week as a Social Media Specialist at the agency.

  • 2013

    Become 1st official employee at Chatterkick as Community Manager

  • 2015

    Role change, Director of Digital Media! This was a tough upgrade. Retrospectively, I realize I was absolutely not ready to manage 20+ team members. I had never even had a full-time manager/leader let alone knew how to be one.

  • 2016

    Became an aunt. Prior to this day, you would rarely catch me anywhere other than work. Welcoming Haley into this world and becoming an aunt completely changed my energy and perspective on life.

  • 2017

    Read Braving the Wilderness by Brené Brown. Reading, learning, and growing as an adult was unlocked. Became obsessed with Brené and quickly dove into binging growth, development, marketing, and social media podcasts. (always have multiple copies on deck)

  • 2017

    After failing and learning for 2 years, enlisted the support and help of Revela to better develop leadership vision and skills.

  • 2018

    Became Chief of Operations. Finally found my “thing.” I absolutely loved business operations. Something about the intersection of humans/teambuilding, operating systems/workflows, branding, business development, technology, KPIs. This was my jam.

  • October 2018

    Opened new Chatterkick office in Sioux City, IA.

  • May 2019

    Look out world, a mini-me somehow slipped through the cracks and landed earthside. Amelia is the daily fearless, untamed reminder to always be myself.

  • October 2019

    Launched the Generation Social Media Podcast! My favorite passion project at Chatterkick.

  • April 2021

    Finally “came out” as a part of the queer community and opted for living a more authentic life.

  • April 2021

    Collabed on a music video with Sav and Bri.

  • October 2021

    Exploring entrepreneurship. Started working on podcasts, copywriting, and digital media conversion as I recharge from the burnout.

  • November 2021

    Became an ordained minister and completed my first wedding! Most nerve-wracking thing I’ve ever done.

  • December 2021

    The niece squad just got cooler and cuter! Welcome baby Freyja.

  • End of 2021

    Sold my first home, moved to a new city, and living my best aunt life.

  • feeling lost is right where you're supposed to be

    2022

    Got lost and then re-tethered myself to the world.

  • 2022

    Found myself on the move again to downtown Omaha, NE.

  • aug 2022

    Joined Sprout Social’s incredible agency team as a Customer Success Manager. the tech world is wildly different in some of the best ways.

  • 2023

    Living my best life traveling across the US for women’s basketball