Meet Joanna Umali | Founder at UMedia

We had the good fortune of connecting with Joanna Umali and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Joanna, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
What’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?

Invest in your relationships.

Whether I was self-employed, part of a team, or an individual contributor, I realized early on that building strong professional relationships were essential in the foundation of my career. It not only propelled me to the next stage, but helped develop key competencies that were useful in all aspects of life — such as adaptability, empathy and communication skills.

This became evident when I launched my business. Venturing out independently initially felt intimidating but the invaluable encouragement, support, and collaboration from former colleagues and partners over the years has been instrumental.

Simple things like a brief check-in call, a LinkedIn recommendation, or an informational meeting with a recent graduate. Sharing my expertise, embracing new connections and ideas, and following through on my commitments.

People helping people. Lifting each other up. Bringing value and receiving it. You won’t regret it.

What should our readers know about your business?
UMedia is a full service digital marketing agency committed to helping other business owners succeed. We understand that the path of entrepreneurship can be challenging, and there isn’t a one size fits all answer to marketing. So our mission is to create a true partnership with our clients — understand what success means to them and come up with a strategy that makes a measurable impact. Our clientele spans diverse industries, ranging from real estate to entertainment, focused on unlocking business growth by helping build their brand and connecting with customers on their terms.

Having spent most of my career in the startup world, I explored different roles and ultimately discovered a passion for marketing, specifically PR and Social Media. For me, there was nothing more inspiring than working side by side with a founder to not only help bring their vision to life, but find ways to tangibly reach their business goals.

Eventually my career came to a turning point. Although I had always dreamed of going out on my own and knew I had the skills and experience, it just didn’t seem realistic. I didn’t know many entrepreneurs and it seemed daunting to start. At the same time, I had always waited for opportunities to come my way — and knew this was a moment I needed to make happen for myself.

Deciding to work for myself was the easy part. Overcoming the doubts and fears that I wasn’t ready was a bit more challenging, and is why I wholeheartedly believe in the importance of human connection. I wouldn’t have come this far without the encouragement, confidence and support from my circle (both professional and personal). Remaining receptive to their experiences and expertise has proven immensely beneficial—learning from missteps, embracing feedback, brainstorming and gaining insights around this new path.

Having gone through this journey just affirms the essence of our work. We know what it takes to build from the ground up, but also how to make sure you continue to scale your business.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The great thing about Los Angeles is that there is something for everyone (regardless of the traffic)!

A perfect week with my best friend would be a combination of art, culture, food, nature and entertainment — with a mix of casual and upscale options. And because LA is so diverse, everywhere you go would be great to people watch.

We would spend our weekdays in the nature and arts scene, specifically the Getty, LACMA and the Kobe Bryant mural. If you know me, you know Griffith Observatory is my favorite view of the city, so catching a sunset there is absolutely necessary. We’re also known for our iconic beaches, so a weekday or two at Malibu Beach or the Santa Monica Pier is on the list. Hiking isn’t my thing, but I’d make an exception and take her to Runyon Canyon and the Hollywood sign.

We’d spend a weekday evening at the Improv at the Comedy Club or a Dodgers game if in season. If not, Rocco’s in Pasadena is a fun place to watch any sports games (and their chicken wings are phenomenal).

The food scene is incredibly diverse, so we’d check out my favorites: Avenue 26 Tacos (Little Tokyo), Casa Vega (Sherman Oaks), Porto’s (Glendale) Korean BBQ at Moodaepo (DTLA), and Tacos La Perla (Gardena). Can’t forget a champagne brunch at Schooner or Later in Long Beach, followed by Ballast Point Brewery right next door. On the weekend, we’d dress up for dinner at Perch or Nobu and end with drinks at Thunderbolt in Historic Filipinotown.

Since LA is home to some of the most talented musicians in the world, and music is my love language — attending an event is a must. Vinyl and Vino at the Slow Jams Gallery in the Arts District is something I never miss. Happening every other week, it’s a blend of music appreciation and storytelling, where enthusiasts gather for intentional album listening and discussions. Definitely an essential event for music lovers, and a unique way to connect with the local creative community.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Elizabeth Alligood has been one of my biggest motivators (plus coach) and was the first to convince me it was time to go out on my own. She inspires me everyday with her drive, work ethic, positive attitude and huge heart. So proud to have her on my side and call her a friend.

HUGE thank you to Lizeth Coronado, as well as: Brandon Manzano, Joseph Harrison, Jim Forde, Joel Lee and Beth Haiken.

Lastly, my story would not be possible without the unconditional support of my Mom — who has been by my side to celebrate the wins as well as instill the resilience to keep going even in challenging times.

Website: www.umediamarketing.com

Instagram: _umedia_marketing

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannaumali/

Image Credits
Carter Rockwood photo (Sandi Rockwood)