I’ve spent more than 20 years helping companies and organizations bring big ideas to life. Before founding Sprehe Studio, I co-founded Almanac and led its growth from a two-person startup into a nationally recognized marketing agency focused on purpose-driven brands. Our work has earned honors from Communication Arts, HOW, Print, AIGA, CASE, and others. And awards are great, but that’s not what gets me out of bed in the morning. I love the challenge of helping our clients uncover their “why” and translating it into solutions that feel new, yet right at home.
I believe community impact and business are intertwined, thus I see every communication touch point as an opportunity to make things better. I love learning, whether it’s about marketing strategy, branding trends, specialty food production, or carpentry. My life has been shaped by working with truly creative craftspeople, much like my time working as a stone mason (shout out to Lee Lindsey!).
I live in St. Louis with my wife (and business partner) and our two daughters, where I find joy in old homes, live music, good food, and the sense of possibility this city holds.
Get Your House Right Book
Balance and harmony in architecture were encoded by the Greeks and the Romans over 2,500 years ago. This book is perfect if you're trying to build something today.
This American Life
I've been listening to TAL since the beginning. It's the most important piece of audio journalism ever produced about, well, American life.
The Death and Life of Great American Cities
Brilliant writing from Jane Jacobs on what makes a great city, great.
Let's Go So We Can Get Back
Jeff Tweedy's memoir about growing up in Belleville and St. Louis, pioneering the alt-country genre of music with Uncle Tupelo and living a life of creativity with his band, Wilco.
Fred Again
I don't think there was an artist who better channelled the complicated feelings during the pandemic. I celebrate Fred's entire catalog.
Grand Bistro (Pho Grand)
For over 25 years Pho Grand has been one of my favorite restaurants in St. Louis. I'm so happy to see the Trinh's son Andrew take the reigns with Grand Bistro. Favorite dish? 1503 (and sometimes 1702). When you know, you know.
Ozark National Scenic Riverway
From this spot on the Current River, it's possible to see bald eagles and wild horses in the same scene. America!
Crystal Bridges
Built over a creek and a ravine, sits Crystal Bridges museum of American Art. I love Bentonville, even with its deep contradictions.