MadWoman of the Month: Alex Steinman
First, tell us a little about yourself: Name, Title, Company, How you got there. We want to know your story.
Alex Steinman, Communications Director at Fallon. I started out of college on the PR side of agencies. I was drawn to Fallon by how far they continue to push creative boundaries and make incredible work that both speaks to human truths and entertains without feeling like advertising.
You recently moved into the Communications Director role at your agency, at the age of 27 (Congrats!). To what do you attribute such an impressive career path at such a young age?
Growing up in the burbs of Minnesota as a woman of color (big afro and all), I've always stuck out like a wildflower in sea of daisies. I come from a diverse family with a feminist father and an incredibly strong mother (seriously, don't cross her), who've been both my biggest champions and grounders in life. The advertising industry closely mimics the burbs in diversity, and it's my goal to help change the make up to better reflect the consumers to whom we sell through mentorship, sponsorship and advocacy.
When you started off in your career, did you envision the path you've forged for yourself, or would your 20-year-old self be surprised with where you are now?
While I'm constantly learning and iterating "the plan," my 20-year old me would be surprised to see I'm working in one of the most amazing agencies in the country, raising 1.5 children, and starting a business out of a successful blog (stronglikemama.com) about the ups and downs of working motherhood.
What advice would you give to those just starting off in their careers in this industry?
Know your strengths and surround yourself with people who are smarter than you. You can't know everything, so don't be afraid to be curious and ask questions. Generally, don't be an asshole.
What do you do to maintain your passion and your drive?
I've always found joy in learning and reinventing myself, but since having a son and being pregnant with a daughter, my feminist game has been raised to a whole new level. It's become my mission to show my kids that women can be just as strong, smart and powerful as men. I have the most supportive husband and partner, and we both challenge and champion each other in the best ways. We're raising our tiny feminists together, and everything we do is through the lens of leaving a better world for them.
What is your personal definition of what makes a "MPLS MadWoman"?
A MPLS MadWoman is someone who embraces diversity and is a strong voice in the community. She seeks opportunities to make organizational change and doesn't back down in the face of adversity. It's not easy being a Goddess, but she wears it well.
You are currently pregnant with a baby girl. How do you foresee your involvement in this organization and community shaping how you choose to raise her?
The minute "it" boldly became "she," I suddenly feel a shift in my very existence. I'm louder, bolder and stronger than I've ever felt because that's what I know my daughter will need to see when she's here. I'll continue to grow with MPLS MadWomen to help build the foundation of a more diverse industry.