The Strategy Shed: Let’s Talk About Strategy In Small & Mid-Sized Agencies

Great strategy doesn’t need a big agency badge. It needs brave thinkers, sharp questions, and a space to share what actually works. That’s what the 4As Strategy Shed is all about—a 90-minute gathering for everyone from small/mid-sized agency planners to solo strategists. We’ll dig into the challenges we face every day—and trade best practices for adapting, thriving and building smarter in turbulent times.

Co-hosted by Mike Stefaniak (Hanson Dodge) and John Roberts (Truth Collective, Planner Parley founder), it’s part workshop, part rally cry for the underestimated. Come for the insight, stay for the community. Welcome to the Underdog’s Think Tank.

This event is open to 4As members and non-members alike. Please note, the event date/time is in ET.

Be sure to take our brief, anonymous survey. We’ll use your responses to shape session content, and share the results with all participants.

Speakers

Mike Stefaniak – Chief Strategy Officer @ Hanson Dodge

Mike Stefaniak is Chief Strategy Officer at Hanson Dodge: a full-service agency in Milwaukee, WI. A habitual hand raiser, dot connector and whiteboard enthusiast, Mike has led strategy initiatives for brands like Stanley, KEEN, Green Gobbler, Wolverine, Creminelli Meats, Sun Valley Resort, K-Swiss and Outdoor Industry Association. He also holds a special place in his heart for the countless B2B brands he’s worked with over the years. (Best not to get him started on supply chain SaaS, injection molded plastics or industrial boilers.)

John Roberts – Chief Strategy Officer & Founder @ Truth Collective

John Roberts is CSO at Truth Collective and founder of Planner Parley—a hive for strategists in small and mid-sized agencies to help each other be more remarkable. He’s hosted 11 years of meetups, 3 podcast seasons, and standout Stratfest workshops, all focused on sharing what actually works. A well-seasoned strategist across B2B and consumer brands—from Capital One to Genny Cream Ale to brands you’ve never heard of but matter deeply —John believes strategy gets sharper when we learn together.

Andy Goldsmith – SVP, Member Engagement & Development @ 4As

Andy Goldsmith is SVP of Member Engagement & Development for the Southern Region at 4As.. He’s responsible for providing leadership, advocacy and guidance to agencies across the southern US. Andy brings a many-layered background to the 4As, with decades of experience in the agency, client, and consulting worlds.