In this episode of The Growth Nexus Podcast, host Ryan Shelley sits down with Marissa Kennerson, Director of Partnerships at EarPeace and a published novelist, to discuss how creativity and personal passion can profoundly transform our approach to work.
In this episode, Marissa shares how a piece of advice from a grad school professor shapes her approach to daily tasks, even in her high-pressure sales roles. Instead of grinding through work, she looks for ways to inject her creative passions into it. For example, by focusing outreach efforts on industries she loves—like music and hospitality—Marissa reframes cold outreach into a personally meaningful activity. This mindset shift improves her performance and makes the process more enjoyable and sustainable.
The Human Touch in an AI World
As Ryan and Marissa discuss the rise of AI, they touch on its limitations—namely, that while machines are efficient, they lack human intuition, empathy, and creativity. Marissa emphasizes that while she uses AI for tasks like lead generation or analyzing fiction drafts, she avoids letting it take over personal communication or content that demands authenticity.
Ryan echoes this by noting that AI doesn’t understand the passions or values of a business’s audience the way a person can. Both agree that the key to using AI effectively is to treat it as an enhancement tool, not a replacement for human connection. This conversation is a strong reminder that, in business, relationships still matter most.
The Power of Tiny Wins and Self-Care
When asked how she handles professional roadblocks or burnout, Marissa credits her resilience to consistent self-care and celebrating “tiny wins.” Whether it’s a short walk, a smoothie, or simply giving herself a sticker after writing, these small acts of recognition help her recharge and stay motivated.
Ryan adds that while hustle culture promotes “pushing through walls,” sometimes stepping back is the wiser approach. Simple things like eating lunch or taking a break can dramatically improve clarity and decision-making. Marissa’s example of celebrating small daily actions—like writing a novel one scene at a time—reminds us that progress doesn’t have to be flashy to be meaningful.
Authenticity and Knowing Yourself
One of the most impactful themes in the episode is the importance of self-awareness. Marissa and Ryan both emphasize the value of tools like the Enneagram and Myers-Briggs in helping people understand their triggers, strengths, and growth paths. Marissa, an Enneagram Seven, shares how she’s learned that boredom isn’t always a red flag—it’s a signal to reflect, not a reason to quit.
Ryan reflects on his journey from burnout to balance, noting how knowing himself—and being okay with who he is—has made him a better leader, father, and friend. They both agree that when you stop chasing external validation and begin trusting your internal compass, everything, from business decisions to personal relationships, becomes more authentic and fulfilling.
Creating a Human-First Culture in a Digital Age
The episode closes with a return to the theme of human connection. Marissa recalls her early career at DoubleClick, where the leadership’s personal investment in employees made her work harder.
Ryan ties this to his experience leading a small agency, highlighting how a human-first culture creates a contagious sense of purpose. As technology continues to evolve, the message is clear: the businesses that thrive will be those that combine digital efficiency with genuine empathy and connection.
Be sure to check out Marissa’s writing and creative projects. You can explore her books at marissakennerson.net. She also hosts the Age Thoughtfully podcast, where she continues the conversation on creativity, personal growth, and navigating life with intention.
Host and Show Info
Host Name: Ryan Shelley
About the Host: Ryan Shelley is a business growth strategist and the host of The Growth Nexus Podcast. He specializes in helping businesses navigate the complexities of growth through strategic insights and actionable advice, working with both startups and large corporations.
Podcast Website:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FtJfRmql30
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2T6JlvR57wdbLkek2IbZiB?si=74d4de85dcc3440b
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