When Julie finished her graduate degree in Journalism, she decided to join a start-up launched by Campbell Mithun Advertising until she found a real job.

It was such a great adventure that she stayed for 20 years.

Known as Cash Plus Media Services, the start-up specialized in spot TV buying, a targeted approach that places client ads in select markets. The company delivered better advertising rates for its clients by offering stations client cash plus syndicated TV specials. Julie worked on the programming side, writing and producing all press materials for television stations and overseeing video editing and program distribution. She eventually headed the programming department, working with HBO and independent producers to acquire and produce TV specials for syndication. Today the company continues as CompassPoint Media, now a full-service media arm of McCann Minneapolis.

In addition to agency experience, Julie worked in corporate communications as a marketing associate for Excel, a multi-shop auto service provider. She helped the company rebrand when they left a franchise model to become an independent service company, developing new marketing materials and website content.

In 2014, Julie and her husband launched Carcierge, an independent auto buying service that works directly for clients to find their next new or used vehicle. Julie continues to manage the company’s client communications.

As an editor and writer for Stevelear.org, Julie enjoys working with the team to promote effective leadership, improve financial literacy, and encourage generosity.