Jeff Turnbow - My Personal Story
My Journey
I was born and raised in West Tennessee, where my mother worked for a major garment factory (Garan) for over 35 years. Her work ethic amazes me to this day.
My father was a small farmer, and I enjoyed riding my ATV on the farm and participating in various sports, with basketball being my favorite. I have two older sisters who provided as three female role models growing up.
Faith Matters
Faith has always been important to our family, and we went to church every Sunday, Sunday night, and Wednesday night.
School Days
As an introverted kid in elementary school, I was bullied for being the quiet thinker in the room and found elementary and junior high school boring. I can clearly recall being at the water fountain in 6th grade and thinking of owning a business to help my family have a better lifestyle.
The Business Bug Bites
In 7th grade, I started sourcing sunglasses and custom visors to sell at the local flea market. My dad would take me, sit back, and watch me sell out most weekends. In high school, I started enjoying school again and joined clubs such as Future Business Leaders and Student Council.
Secondary Education
I attended college in Jackson TN before ending up at The University of Memphis. At first, I wanted to pursue politics or law but eventually settled into marketing with sociology as my minor. During college, I excelled in telemarketing to become a manager of a call center. I loved telemarketing and performed in this role for companies like ADT, Gannett newspapers, American Airlines, and received excellent training. I advanced quickly at each company.
Career Highlights
I started my career in the Yellow Pages sales position and found my calling in marketing, design, and working with a diverse set of businesses. I remained in that industry for over 8 years and became a district manager and then a regional manager. During this time, I received amazing consultative selling training and marketing training that is still very applicable today.
I met my wife in the industry, and we moved to Arkansas, where we had three amazing children. After years of working with businesses, several began to ask me to handle all their marketing. I did that side hustle until I was able to replace my income and go on my own.
Beginning The Agency
Next, I created direct mail magazines and began the first online news and city website in Arkansas. We offered news, coupons, real estate directories, contractor’s directories, and aimed to replace the need to pick up the Yellow Pages and newspapers/magazines in my area.
I began to create partnerships with digital marketing platforms to provide digital marketing services. I learned web design and started a full-service agency.
Stepping Stones
Gannett recruited me due to my fast-growing digital marketing client list. I set up their first-ever digital marketing services and sales department, growing their revenues from 10k per month to 100k monthly within about 4-5 months.
News travels fast in the media world, and I was quickly recruited by a top 50 TV station located in Memphis. I replicated my success from Little Rock Arkansas for Gannett, hitting 100k in monthly billing within 90 days. My team became the top station for digital marketing and sales in the company.
Keep in mind that I was still running my digital agency at this time.
Loss
My father passed away after years of deteriorating health. While his passing was tragic for me, I was able to spend quality time with him, get prepared as much as possible, and say goodbye.
When my mother was diagnosed with cancer, it was unexpected, sudden, and ended her life quickly. It had a profound impact on me. I find it difficult to put into words the extent to which my goals, values, and every aspect of my life were shaken. It would take years for me to fully comprehend and heal from this experience. My priority became being close to my kids every day. I had to leave Memphis and return to be with my family as much as possible.
Moving Forward
I faced a setback but I began again. I started slowly providing consulting services to several independent yellow pages/media companies, helping them find partners and develop digital marketing strategies. Traditional media sales were declining rapidly, and I wanted to assist these companies in adapting to the changing landscape. This was a big challenge for me and it gained much of my focus.
I continued to grow my business while recognizing the need for increased focus and skill development. I attended certification classes and digital marketing seminars, honing my expertise in the field.
As a result of my dedication, I started receiving speaking offers. I seized the opportunity to share my knowledge of growing companies, both large and small, through digital marketing. This newfound passion became an integral part of my journey.
Awards & Recognition Begin
I have had the honor of receiving some remarkable awards, including the esteemed title of Best Marketing Consultant in Arkansas. Additionally, I have been recognized as one of the Men of Distinction in AY Magazine. One of my notable achievements was co-authoring a book called “Mastering the Art of Success” with Jack Canfield, the renowned author of “Chicken Soup for the Soul and The Success Principles.” This book became an Amazon Best Seller in four different categories. I have also received several other prestigious awards and recognition. While I am not one to boast about my accomplishments, I acknowledge that highlighting these accolades can be immensely beneficial in promoting my company.
Today's Focus
In my personal capacity, I take on approximately 7-10 accounts where I provide consulting services or work as their Chief Marketing Officer, Fractional CMO, Director of Marketing, or any other title they deem appropriate. Leveraging their assets in conjunction with my skills and agency, we collaborate to develop winning strategies.
Happiness Is
On a lighter note, I find great joy in engaging with my children’s interests. Whether it’s coaching soccer, basketball, or attempting to keep up with their dance routines, these moments bring me tremendous joy and happiness.
International
While I reside in central Arkansas, I travel across the World or meet via Zoom to engage with business owners and colleagues. The ability to connect with people globally is truly exhilarating. This year, I was asked to give keynotes, master classes, and emcee at DigiMarCon in London, Dublin, Barcelona, and Amsterdam. The international experience and connections made were a highlight for me personally and professionally.
Business Advocate
When I am not traveling, I actively participate in local church activities. Additionally, I am somewhat of a political activist advocating for small businesses and free enterprise. Recognizing the invaluable contributions of small businesses to our society, I firmly believe that our voices must be resolute and unwavering to capture the attention of our city, state, and national leaders.
Hard Work & Efficiency
To many, it may seem like I am one of the busiest individuals they know. While it is true that I have numerous commitments, I have become exceptionally adept at maximizing efficiency. Hard work is an inherent part of my DNA, a trait instilled in me by my parents. Alongside my faith, this has been one of the most precious gifts they have bestowed upon me. Developing good organizational skills was forced upon me in order to effectively manage such a workload while balancing quality of life - time with my kids, hobbies, and friends.
Business Influence
Throughout my journey, I have studied influential figures such as Zig Ziglar who imparted invaluable wisdom: “You can have everything you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want.” This statement resonates deeply with me as I have discovered that by prioritizing the needs and desires of my clients, they remain loyal and are willing to invest more in our partnership.
Growing Stronger
Today, I am the proud owner of a robust digital agency that is stronger than ever. Additionally, I operate a consulting business where I work directly and exclusively with select clients. I enjoy attending or speaking at conferences where I can keep my skills sharp and my capabilities stronger.
I was born and raised in West Tennessee, where my mother worked for a major garment factory (Garan) for over 35 years. Her work ethic amazes me to this day.
My father was a small farmer, and I enjoyed riding my ATV on the farm and participating in various sports, with basketball being my favorite. I have two older sisters who provided as three female role models growing up.
Faith Matters
Faith has always been important to our family, and we went to church every Sunday, Sunday night, and Wednesday night.
School Days
As an introverted kid in elementary school, I was bullied for being the quiet thinker in the room and found elementary and junior high school boring. I can clearly recall being at the water fountain in 6th grade and thinking of owning a business to help my family have a better lifestyle.
The Business Bug Bites
In 7th grade, I started sourcing sunglasses and custom visors to sell at the local flea market. My dad would take me, sit back, and watch me sell out most weekends. In high school, I started enjoying school again and joined clubs such as Future Business Leaders and Student Council.
Secondary Education
I attended college in Jackson TN before ending up at The University of Memphis. At first, I wanted to pursue politics or law but eventually settled into marketing with sociology as my minor. During college, I excelled in telemarketing to become a manager of a call center. I loved telemarketing and performed in this role for companies like ADT, Gannett newspapers, American Airlines, and received excellent training. I advanced quickly at each company.
Career Highlights
I started my career in the Yellow Pages sales position and found my calling in marketing, design, and working with a diverse set of businesses. I remained in that industry for over 8 years and became a district manager and then a regional manager. During this time, I received amazing consultative selling training and marketing training that is still very applicable today.
I met my wife in the industry, and we moved to Arkansas, where we had three amazing children. After years of working with businesses, several began to ask me to handle all their marketing. I did that side hustle until I was able to replace my income and go on my own.
Beginning The Agency
Next, I created direct mail magazines and began the first online news and city website in Arkansas. We offered news, coupons, real estate directories, contractor’s directories, and aimed to replace the need to pick up the Yellow Pages and newspapers/magazines in my area.
I began to create partnerships with digital marketing platforms to provide digital marketing services. I learned web design and started a full-service agency.
Stepping Stones
Gannett recruited me due to my fast-growing digital marketing client list. I set up their first-ever digital marketing services and sales department, growing their revenues from 10k per month to 100k monthly within about 4-5 months.
News travels fast in the media world, and I was quickly recruited by a top 50 TV station located in Memphis. I replicated my success from Little Rock Arkansas for Gannett, hitting 100k in monthly billing within 90 days. My team became the top station for digital marketing and sales in the company.
Keep in mind that I was still running my digital agency at this time.
Loss
My father passed away after years of deteriorating health. While his passing was tragic for me, I was able to spend quality time with him, get prepared as much as possible, and say goodbye.
When my mother was diagnosed with cancer, it was unexpected, sudden, and ended her life quickly. It had a profound impact on me. I find it difficult to put into words the extent to which my goals, values, and every aspect of my life were shaken. It would take years for me to fully comprehend and heal from this experience. My priority became being close to my kids every day. I had to leave Memphis and return to be with my family as much as possible.
Moving Forward
I faced a setback but I began again. I started slowly providing consulting services to several independent yellow pages/media companies, helping them find partners and develop digital marketing strategies. Traditional media sales were declining rapidly, and I wanted to assist these companies in adapting to the changing landscape. This was a big challenge for me and it gained much of my focus.
I continued to grow my business while recognizing the need for increased focus and skill development. I attended certification classes and digital marketing seminars, honing my expertise in the field.
As a result of my dedication, I started receiving speaking offers. I seized the opportunity to share my knowledge of growing companies, both large and small, through digital marketing. This newfound passion became an integral part of my journey.
Awards & Recognition Begin
I have had the honor of receiving some remarkable awards, including the esteemed title of Best Marketing Consultant in Arkansas. Additionally, I have been recognized as one of the Men of Distinction in AY Magazine. One of my notable achievements was co-authoring a book called “Mastering the Art of Success” with Jack Canfield, the renowned author of “Chicken Soup for the Soul and The Success Principles.” This book became an Amazon Best Seller in four different categories. I have also received several other prestigious awards and recognition. While I am not one to boast about my accomplishments, I acknowledge that highlighting these accolades can be immensely beneficial in promoting my company.
Today's Focus
In my personal capacity, I take on approximately 7-10 accounts where I provide consulting services or work as their Chief Marketing Officer, Fractional CMO, Director of Marketing, or any other title they deem appropriate. Leveraging their assets in conjunction with my skills and agency, we collaborate to develop winning strategies.
Happiness Is
On a lighter note, I find great joy in engaging with my children’s interests. Whether it’s coaching soccer, basketball, or attempting to keep up with their dance routines, these moments bring me tremendous joy and happiness.
International
While I reside in central Arkansas, I travel across the World or meet via Zoom to engage with business owners and colleagues. The ability to connect with people globally is truly exhilarating. This year, I was asked to give keynotes, master classes, and emcee at DigiMarCon in London, Dublin, Barcelona, and Amsterdam. The international experience and connections made were a highlight for me personally and professionally.
Business Advocate
When I am not traveling, I actively participate in local church activities. Additionally, I am somewhat of a political activist advocating for small businesses and free enterprise. Recognizing the invaluable contributions of small businesses to our society, I firmly believe that our voices must be resolute and unwavering to capture the attention of our city, state, and national leaders.
Hard Work & Efficiency
To many, it may seem like I am one of the busiest individuals they know. While it is true that I have numerous commitments, I have become exceptionally adept at maximizing efficiency. Hard work is an inherent part of my DNA, a trait instilled in me by my parents. Alongside my faith, this has been one of the most precious gifts they have bestowed upon me. Developing good organizational skills was forced upon me in order to effectively manage such a workload while balancing quality of life - time with my kids, hobbies, and friends.
Business Influence
Throughout my journey, I have studied influential figures such as Zig Ziglar who imparted invaluable wisdom: “You can have everything you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want.” This statement resonates deeply with me as I have discovered that by prioritizing the needs and desires of my clients, they remain loyal and are willing to invest more in our partnership.
Growing Stronger
Today, I am the proud owner of a robust digital agency that is stronger than ever. Additionally, I operate a consulting business where I work directly and exclusively with select clients. I enjoy attending or speaking at conferences where I can keep my skills sharp and my capabilities stronger.