Catharine Montgomery Is Founder And CEO Of Better Together, A Trailblazing Communications Agency Dedicated To Fostering Purpose-driven Change

I am the founder and CEO of Better Together, a trailblazing communications agency dedicated to fostering purpose-driven change. With over 15 years of experience in public relations, I've honed an expertise in crafting impactful strategies that resonate deeply within the realms of education, environment and social justice. At Better Together, we're not just about creating messages; we're about sparking movements. My academic background, with a BS in Public Relations and Marketing and an MBA, coupled with my hands-on experience, has equipped me to lead campaigns that don't just change perceptions but drive behavioral change. From strategic planning to stakeholder engagement, my approach is always focused on clear, effective communication that leads to tangible, positive outcomes.

What motivated you to become an entrepreneur? Is having your own business something you always wanted?

Better Together represents more than just a business to me; it's an example of my commitment to effecting positive change in the world. I hold a steadfast belief that everyone, irrespective of their background or circumstances, has the potential to contribute to a better future. Through Better Together, my aim is to empower organizations to move beyond merely discussing social responsibility to actively implementing measures that drive positive change through thoughtful action.

The path to establishing Better Together was marked by significant challenges, including a pivotal moment when I had to leave a previous position due to the presence of a racist colleague. This difficult experience strengthened my resolve to establish a business grounded in social responsibility, one capable of making a meaningful impact.

When did you consider yourself a success? Did you ever have to deal with the imposter syndrome? How do you overcome the imposter syndrome?

Navigating the challenges of establishing and expanding Better Together has been a journey marked by significant hurdles. As a Black woman at the helm of a company, I've grappled with imposter syndrome, the persistent doubt of "do I truly belong here?" This is a common struggle, intensified by the societal biases and obstacles that frequently accompany Black women in professional settings.

My partnership with MXP Ventures in launching Better Together was a strategic move that significantly aided in overcoming these challenges. Their team not only provided financial expertise but also showed a genuine commitment to our mission, offering essential stability and strategic insight. Additionally, engaging with fellow founders created a supportive environment where we could candidly discuss the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. This wasn’t just about voicing challenges; it was about exchanging solutions, support, and understanding.

From this experience, I've learned two key lessons. Firstly, seeking help is not only acceptable but vital. Being open about your struggles and allowing others to assist doesn’t diminish your leadership; it enhances it, making you a more authentic, approachable, and grounded leader. Secondly, the importance of continual learning cannot be overstated. Constantly enhancing your skills and knowledge is crucial, not just as a counter to imposter syndrome, but as a means to maintain effective leadership.

What advice would you give to someone starting out or pivoting their business or their career?

For anyone starting or pivoting their business or career, my advice is straightforward: trust your timing. If you're feeling hesitant, consider it a sign that it might not be the right moment to move forward. Entrepreneurship demands your full commitment, often requiring sacrifices in personal life, like fewer dinners with friends or less travel. It's crucial to be comfortable with these concessions, keeping in mind that these challenges are temporary and the long-term rewards can be substantial. Remember, the journey gets easier and the sacrifices you make today pave the way for a more fulfilling tomorrow.

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