At Business Insiders, we’re always drawn to stories about people who bring creativity and strategy together in unique ways. Colin Rowe, a Social & Marketing Specialist at Arthron INC., is a perfect example. His journey—from managing roofing teams to connecting community at music festivals—is about adaptability and vision.
Living in Franklin, Tennessee, Colin has made a smooth shift from operations to marketing, using his technical know-how and a storytelling talent. We had the chance to chat with Colin about what drives his leadership, his gift for forming real connections, and how his passions for travel and creativity shape the way he works and thinks.
What’s your approach to leadership, and how has it evolved over time?
Leadership thrives on collaboration and empathy. Early in my career, I believed leaders needed all the answers. I thought making every decision was the key to success. I was wrong.
Working with teams taught me something different. True leadership means empowering others. It’s about creating an environment where people can thrive.
Now, I prioritize clear communication. I focus on understanding each team member’s strengths. Whether it’s a roofing project or a marketing plan, I set clear goals. I trust the team. I stay flexible.
Leadership isn’t about control. It’s about guidance.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career, and what did you learn from them?
My first manager at Mr. Roof changed how I see challenges. They showed me resilience is more than just pushing through—it’s finding the opportunity in every setback. We faced weather delays on a project. It could have gone badly. Instead, my manager stayed calm and focused on solutions.
That moment stuck with me. I realized problems are just puzzles waiting to be solved. Staying calm and solution-driven isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken in your career, and how did it pay off?
Switching from operations to marketing in 2021 felt like stepping into uncharted territory. I had a steady career managing service teams and handling projects. But something about marketing’s blend of creativity and strategy pulled me in.
Joining Festisia was a bold move. It wasn’t the safe choice, but it became one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Working on large-scale music events was thrilling. I dove into building partnerships and shaping sales strategies, often learning on the go.
The steep learning curve taught me a lot. More importantly, it showed me how much I love connecting with audiences in meaningful ways. Taking the risk was worth it. It didn’t just expand my skill set; it reignited my passion for building something that resonates with people.
What trends do you see shaping the future of your industry, and how are you preparing for them?
Marketing today is all about connection. People want to feel like the brands they support truly get them. Social media isn’t just a platform to share posts anymore—it’s a space to build real relationships.
At Arthron INC., I’ve been diving into strategies that use data to make our messages feel more personal and relatable. I’m also keeping an eye on what’s next, from experimenting with short videos to teaming up with influencers. For me, it’s all about staying curious and trying new things to keep our approach fresh and engaging.
What failure taught you the most, and how did you bounce back from it?
I thought I had to do everything myself to get things right. During a major project at ACS Commercial Roofing, I took on too much, and it backfired—things got delayed, and the stress was overwhelming. That moment was a wake-up call. I realized I needed to trust my team and let them take on more. Now, I focus on sharing responsibilities and supporting everyone in their roles. It’s made a huge difference—not just for me, but for the whole team. Less stress, more growth.
What habits or routines do you follow that contribute to your success?
Each morning, I take a moment to think about what I want to accomplish that day, both at work and in my personal life. It’s a simple habit, but it keeps me on track and focused on what really matters. Learning is also something I’m passionate about. Whether I’m diving into a good book, tuning into a webinar, or trying out the latest tools, I’m always looking for ways to grow and stay ahead in my field. When I’m not working, I love producing music videos and traveling—they’re my escape and my way of staying inspired. These hobbies give me the energy and fresh ideas I need to keep moving forward.
What’s next for you? Any exciting projects or goals on the horizon that you can share?
I just released my first book, The Social Media Playbook, on Amazon. It’s now available on Kindle and walks readers through the ins and outs of social media marketing in a clear, step-by-step way. I detail some of the startegies I use in my podcast on Spotify.
Lately, I’ve been diving into projects that blend creativity and strategy, especially when working with local artists. It’s such a fulfilling experience to turn ideas into reality and watch them connect with people in meaningful ways.
Key Takeaways
Interviewing Colin Rowe of Franklin, Tennessee was a refreshing reminder that success in any industry hinges on adaptability, empathy, and the ability to blend creativity with strategy. What stood out most was Colin’s journey from operations to marketing—a leap that many might find daunting but one he embraced with confidence and a willingness to learn.
His approach to leadership, rooted in collaboration and trust, is a lesson for anyone striving to build strong, effective teams. Colin’s emphasis on community-building in Franklin and personalization as the future of marketing is not only insightful but also highlights his forward-thinking mindset.
Personally, I was inspired by his ability to balance professional growth with personal passions like producing music videos and traveling. It’s a powerful reminder that creativity and personal fulfillment often fuel our best work. Colin’s story is proof that taking risks, staying curious, and prioritizing meaningful connections can lead to both professional success and a richer, more fulfilling life.
