Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Ambers.
Hi Melissa, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
“My journey, like many, hasn’t been a straight path. It didn’t start with a grand vision of becoming a well-known name, sharing insights from podcasts and books.
I began my career like anyone else, navigating the corporate world, often feeling frustrated by inefficiencies and how complicated simple tasks could become. I found myself stepping in to streamline things, honing my skills in various roles. I quickly realized that true transformation wasn’t just about tweaking processes; it was about truly understanding people, strategy, and the underlying systems. This led me to become an Administrative Assistant, the go-to person for getting things done. I then dove into methodologies like Lean Six Sigma (LSS) and Project Management (PMP), which became the foundation of how I approached business challenges.
A pivotal moment early on was recognizing the immense power of communication and personal branding. I saw brilliant professionals struggling to articulate their value, and businesses failing to connect with their audience. This sparked my journey into thought leadership – the idea that I could offer advice others would follow, and even write a book. Fast forward to the digital era and the rise of AI. The ‘digital streets’ were incredibly crowded, and I started thinking about how I could stand out and offer something to cut through the noise. So, I immersed myself in the amazing world of AI and, in an intense period, synthesized decades of experience and observation into actionable insights, producing four books in one month. Books like “Beyond Business As Usual: Leading in the Digital Era” became an extension of my consulting philosophy: empowering individuals and organizations to differentiate themselves and achieve clarity.
Soon after, I had even more to share, and the next three books followed: “Digital Horizons Unveiled: Navigating the Waters of the Digital Era” and “Embrace the Future: AI’s Role in the Workplace” were a double release. During this time, “Beyond Business As Usual” continued to receive recognition, and it’s now even in the Houston Public Library (Downtown Houston)! And yes, there was still more: “Strategic Synergy: Bridging Gaps in CXA, DevSecOps, and AI Workstreams.” Honestly, after all that, I didn’t fully grasp what I had accomplished until it started to sink in. I remember thinking, ‘How will all these books be released, so many in such a short time?’
About a month or two later, I noticed the continued ‘noise’ and so many people with podcasts who weren’t treating them as a brand. With my podcast, “Sustainable Growth,” I received so many compliments on the setup and interview preparation. I wanted to create platforms where the same transformative insights I shared with clients could reach a global audience. To see it resonate in over 30 countries across major platforms has been incredibly rewarding, reinforcing my belief that strategic thinking is universally applicable. I was even asked about consulting on how to set up a podcast – my brain started buzzing with new ideas again!
Unfortunately, at that time, ‘life started to lifing.’ I went through some personal challenges, including a divorce. I stayed sane by writing another book on branding. My thoughts went to the movie “Hustle & Flow,” and it made so much sense how many scenes were about branding, even in the streets.’ A lightbulb went off: the digital streets! That led to my next book: “Hustle & Flow: Rise Up, Stay Hungry, & Make Your Brand Legendary (The Digital Streets of Branding).”
Acknowledgments:
2021 Judge Bates Resolution
2023 Top 10 Emerging Change Management Company – HR Magazine
2023 Top 10 Organizational Development Service Providers – HR Tech
2025 The 10 Most Pioneering Women Leaders Revolutionizing Digital Transformation – Insights Success Magazine
2024 Top 100 Stellar Business Media/Branding Award
Even during that challenging time of divorce and navigating a crazy economy, I decided to listen to myself and take time for myself. It’s given me space to pull away and come back refreshed. My community has been incredibly supportive, calling and asking, ‘Hey, where are you? Are you okay? We don’t see you,’ or ‘Hey Melissa, I need you.’ This lets me know that I’ve been able to leave a mark, that people listened and wanted more. It’s also a testament to always treating others right and doing a good job.
Beyond the business world, my commitment to positive change deepened through community involvement. Serving on various advisory boards and my work with the BAME Health Collaborative in the UK aren’t separate endeavors; they’re integral to my vision – extending the principles of strategic thinking and empowerment to uplift communities. The two-time Winner of Distinction with the Better Business Bureau isn’t just an award; it’s a testament to the ethical and impactful approach I strive for in every facet of my work.
Today, as CEO of SAVVY Media Group, Inc.®, I stand at the intersection of media and strategy. My journey has always been about continuously asking, ‘How can we do this better?’ and then building the frameworks, platforms, and movements to answer that question.
From the early days of identifying problems to now, where I empower leaders on stages from Sirius XM Radio (as both an interviewee and co-host) to The Ion Houston, my core purpose remains the same: to help individuals and organizations tap into their innate power, navigate change, and achieve boundless success. It’s about turning the page to that next, most impactful chapter.”
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No, it has not been a smooth road. In this economy, clients started to pull back on the money that is being spent. It started to get harder to connect because people are more concerned with taking care of their families and putting food on the table. So many jobs are being lost, and money is tight.
The challenge was I should continue to push and push or go back to work and stop stressing so much. Yes, work is what I decided, and I have more peace now than ever. Am I still available for projects, ABSOLUTELY!!
When it slows again, I am not as stressed. Corporations are just like any individual, trying to hold on in this economy (small or large).
The landscape of entrepreneurship has shifted and understanding how to ride this train is crucial.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
SAVVY Media Group Inc®, where we transcend the conventional boundaries of branding and business development. At SAVVY Media Group Inc®, we believe building a brand is a holistic journey beyond just websites and logos. Our mission is clear: we collaborate with brands to delve into the core of their identity, creating a rock-solid foundation for their ventures.
At SAVVY Media Group Inc®, we pride ourselves on being more than consultants; we are partners in your growth. Our approach is distinctively personal, centered around active listening, understanding your vision, and unraveling the essence of who you are. We go beyond the surface to comprehend your brand at a profound level, ensuring that every strategy we devise genuinely reflects your identity.
In a world saturated with digital noise, we understand the paramount importance of authenticity. Before crafting websites and designing logos, we believe in building a solid brand identity that resonates with your audience. We don’t just work on projects; we embark on journeys with our clients, aligning ourselves with their aspirations and goals.
SAVVY Media Group Inc® is not merely a service; it’s a commitment to operational and digital transformation. We empower brands to evolve, not just in their outward appearance but in the very core of their existence. Join us as we redefine the art of branding, where every strategy is meticulously crafted to amplify your unique story, making a lasting impact in the hearts and minds of your audience.
What’s next?
I am looking forward to coming back to give value to business owners and professionals. Currently in the process of building content and workbooks to launch for “Hustle & Flow” in these digital streets.
Pricing:
- $99
- $247
Contact Info:
- Website: https://smginc.biz/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvymagbiz
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissaambers/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@savvymagbiz
Image Credits
The Photo Firm Tanya Rawlins
