On this episode’s menu of the Fresh Ideas Podcast, host Alejo Porras sits down with Carly Kerndt, Founder and CEO of FlyDog Digital, to explore how to turn rejection into opportunity and build a thriving creative business from the ground up.

Carly shares how getting laid off during the pandemic became the catalyst for creating her own agency, and the lessons she learned about marketing, client experience, and self-belief along the way. From freelancing out of necessity to leading a global team, Carly’s story is a masterclass in resilience, clarity, and creative leadership.

This conversation is packed with insights for creatives and solopreneurs who want to grow their business with structure, strategy, and heart especially when things don’t go according to plan.

Carly Kerndt is the Founder and CEO of FlyDog Digital, a full-service marketing agency known for bringing fresh energy and strategic clarity to growing brands.

What began as a temporary freelance pivot after getting laid off from her full-time job during the COVID-19 pandemic quickly transformed into a thriving agency supporting businesses around the world.

At FlyDog Digital, Carly leads a team of experts in branding, website design, social media, SEO, email marketing, and paid advertising. Together, they deliver more than just marketing — they offer fresh perspectives, bold ideas, and a collaborative spirit that helps clients cut through the noise and move with confidence.

Carly is passionate about helping business owners gain focus, build momentum, and create marketing systems that feel as good as they perform. With a mix of creative spark and data-driven strategy, she’s built a business that’s as approachable as it is effective.

On this episode’s menu:

* What to do when no one hires you

* How to market yourself when starting from scratch

* The difference between a provider and a partner

* Building a client experience that creates loyalty and referrals

* How to turn rejection into creative fuel

LET’S CONNECT ON SOCIALS:

Alejo Porras

IG: instagram.com/alejoporrasart/

LI: linkedin.com/in/alejoporras/

STACK: alejoporrasart.substack.com

Website: alejoporrasart.com

Carly Kerndt and FlyDog

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/by.carlybridget/

FlyDog Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flydogdigital/

Website: www.flydogdigital.com

We also sell some website templates here: www.flydogdesigns.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlykerndt/

FlyDog LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flydogdigital

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alejoporrasart.substack.com