The Innovative Agency 333. Succession Under Pressure, with Christy & Whit Hiler
On this episode of The Innovative Agency Podcast Sharon Toerek welcomes Christy and Whit Hiler of Cornett, for a candid conversation about what happens when leadership, legacy, and marriage all intersect.
As a married couple stepping into agency ownership, Christy and Whit share the real story behind succession and transition: the uncertainty, the high-stakes decisions, and the mindset shifts required to reimagine what ownership can look like.
They unpack how intentional decision-making became their anchor, how they strengthened culture while the ground was moving, and why betting on themselves ultimately became the catalyst for Cornett's next chapter of growth.
For agency leaders thinking about succession, entrepreneurs weighing a leap into ownership, or anyone building a business alongside a life partner, this episode pulls back the curtain with practical lessons, hard-earned clarity, and a refreshing dose of authenticity.
What you will learn in this episode:
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The unique journey of succession and ownership transition within a creative agency
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How internal leaders can position themselves for ownership
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Why intentionality and clear vision matter when growing and evolving an agency, and how those values show up in daily decision-making
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The power and necessity of building an authentic network
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How to get comfortable with putting yourself out there
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How fostering a collaborative and dynamic leadership team shapes the culture and trajectory of an agency
Bio
Christy Hiler is the owner/CEO of Cornett, an independent creative and strategy agency in Lexington, Kentucky. Her vision and drive have powered not only Cornett's growth (78% over the last three years), but also the rise of OwnIt—the movement she co-founded to spotlight and support women agency owners across the country. Christy's recent recognition includes Ad Age Small Agency Executive of the Year in 2025, Ad Age Leading Women in 2023, and Adweek Women Trailblazers in 2022. Under Christy's leadership, Cornett has also been recognized multiple times at the Ad Age Small Agency Awards and earned an impressive list of additional accolades.
Whit Hiler is ECD at Cornett in Lexington, Kentucky; a Kentucky Colonel; and a partner in Kentucky for Kentucky and Southern Socks. An Adweek Creative 100 honoree—once dubbed "the biggest weirdo in advertising"—his work has appeared in NPR, The New York Times, Fast Company, CNN, Adweek, and Ad Age.
Resources:
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Website: http://www.teamcornett.com/