START WHERE YOU ARE:
LET GO OF THE PRESSURE TO START FRESH
each month we explore a single word OR PHRASE that sheds light on the themes and insights shared by our contributors.
Words carry power, and their impact can go beyond their simple meaning. They encapsulate ideas, emotions, and experiences that inspire reflection and action.
As the calendar turned to 2025, the world feels both exciting and daunting. We’re surrounded by stories of bold moves and sweeping changes, making it easy to believe that transformation requires an elaborate master plan. But the truth is, many of the greatest stories start with something much simpler: the courage to begin, exactly where you are.
This issue is a celebration of beginnings—the ones we plan and the ones we stumble into. We’re thrilled to feature Carrie Kerpen in our Transformer spotlight. After selling her business, Carrie turned her journey into a megaphone for other women navigating the path to growth and eventual sale. She reminds us that stepping into something new doesn’t mean letting go of who you’ve been—it’s about amplifying your voice for others to follow.
We’re equally honoured to feature John Rapley as both our Ignitor and Trailblazer. John’s work as a political economist has ignited conversations that challenge the way we see the world and approach its most pressing issues. Through his bold ideas, he sparks reflection, creativity, and the courage to question the status quo. But John doesn’t just inspire others—he leads by example. His journey is one of tireless exploration, whether authoring thought-provoking books, contributing to global debates, or guiding others to navigate complex economic and social landscapes with clarity and purpose.
John represents the dual nature of creating impact: the spark to ignite meaningful ideas and the determination to forge a path where none existed. He embodies what it means to transform thought into action, bridging the gap between vision and change. John’s work reminds us that true leadership is not just about lighting the way for others but also daring to take those first steps into the unknown.
Both Carrie and John show us that “starting” looks different for everyone. For some, it’s a pivot toward an unknown future. For others, it’s building momentum from the foundations already in place. And sometimes, it’s a quiet moment of reflection before the next move.
At Impact&Agency, we’re here to remind you that wherever you are in your journey, it’s enough. Whether you’re mapping out your next big goal, pausing to reflect, or simply taking a breath—it’s all part of the process.
So as you step into this year, remember this: your path doesn’t need to look perfect. It just needs to be yours. Start where you are, and trust that each step you take matters.
With gratitude,
Impact&Agency