The seed took root…
(sorry, couldn’t resist) in 2015 at one of my life’s significant transition points … you know, the ones you look back on years later, and realize your decisions completely altered your story in ways you could never have imagined.
Bloom Strategic Communications, lovingly referred to as The OG, launched from my belief that the root of most organizational challenges (heck, life challenges!) stem from our inability to communicate effectively. I saw opportunities to help small businesses and nonprofits create a business strategy built on powerful internal and external communications practices.
As I engaged with people doing important work…
I recognized the significant need for strategic guidance and creative problem solving. My conviction about communication struggles remains as strong as ever, but effective communication becomes easier when it stems from secure values, a bold vision, and comfort in the discomfort that the path to achieving that vision is never clear.
In this growing and changing version of bloom., I’m partnering with people to breathe life into things — both new and old. I’m embracing being different and ignoring the status quo. I’m asking a lot of questions, both to embrace my own curiosity, but also to inspire yours. I’m facilitating difficult conversations, engaging communities of unique individuals, and helping organizations take action toward a different future. My thinking cap is always on (for better or worse!).
Making vision a reality…
After nearly nine years at Bank of America during some of our country’s most challenging financial times, Julie returned to Davidson College as what we now like to call The Resident Make-It-Happen gal. Armed with a law degree and an impressive ability to influence collaboration and help teams transition and integrate, Julie handled one project after another at her alma mater. When a new idea surfaced about what to do with an old cotton mill building the College had purchased several years earlier, Julie was the natural choice to help bring the vision to life, then serve as the General Manager for the Jay Hurt Hub for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Davidson College for its inaugural two years.
I want you to come to bloom.
When you need to pick someone’s brain, or when you feel completely uncertain about your next step. I want you to come to bloom. for authentic relationships and partnership on your most pressing opportunities and challenges. I want you to come to bloom. when you know you need to grow and change… whether you are ready or not.
Together, let’s lean into those tough conversations. It will move us forward and change the world.
Blooming with Erica
ERICA MADDEN
Owner
- I am a Northern girl who went to school in the Midwest (Go Hoosiers!) and found her life in the South.
- I’m one of those morning people who trades coffee for running shoes. Give me a hard workout to get my creative juices flowing.
- My StrengthsFinder Top 5 are: Discipline, Achiever, Focus, Analytical, Learner. Let’s go.
- I can find the perfect snail mail cards for any occasion. Calling all Emily McDowell fans!
- The first two days of March Madness are my favorites of every year, and I never miss a Steelers game.
- Brene Brown is my hero. Always working to dare greatly, love my gifts of imperfection, rise strong, and do brave work.
- Running is my outlet. I recently crossed ‘qualify for the Boston Marathon’ off my bucket list!
- I make THE BEST chocolate chip cookies. Seriously.
- I believe in the power of moments. I love to create experiences for clients, employees, friends and family that elevate and change them.
- The non-profit that has a hold on my heart is Access to Success. I make an annual trip to Nigeria every summer to support and educate local entrepreneurs.
Erica is also part of the Align Collective, a small group of expert consultants who collaborate to help leaders navigate growth, transition, or rollout. We are dedicated to producing great teams and great organizations.