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

Hi Kate, how do you think about risk?
Until recently, I considered myself someone who likes to err on the side of caution, take the safest route. This year I chose to take what felt like a significant risk, and it turned out to be a great decision. I left healthcare after 15 years of working as an occupational therapist for various hospital systems and accepted a position in the field of video production and marketing at Match Frame Creative, Studio Jefferson, and The Mondo Group. I’m grateful for the supportive work environment, flexible schedule, amazing leaders, and co-workers who have taught me skills that I never imagined I would learn. Doing this taught me that even if I fail in future risks, I have a strong support system of family and friends who will always be there to cheer me on.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I grew up with parents who worked in healthcare, enjoying science courses, and a love for serving others, so healthcare seemed like a natural career choice. I received a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy. I went on to work in Chicago, Savannah, GA, and Grand Rapids as an occupational therapist for 15 years, serving mostly individuals who sustained neurological injuries. Although I loved using my education to walk alongside individuals in the middle of a traumatic experience, I began to feel as though many healthcare systems drop the ball when it comes to creating an environment in which clinicians feel supported in taking care of themselves and creating a work-life balance. I felt I owed it to myself and my family to take the knowledge and skills I gained over the years and find a job where I felt better cared for and with a schedule that supported family life, but I didn’t know where to start.

Luckily, God was already shaping my path. Jay Irwin, Co-Founder of Match Frame Creative, Studio Jefferson, and The Mondo Group attended a benefit I planned as part of an advancement campaign for a not-for-profit for which I volunteer. It was after this benefit that I was told he noticed my eye for detail and how it could be an asset to his companies. After several more months of thinking and praying about my path, I decided one night that I had nothing to lose, and I sent a text message to inquire about whether these companies may consider hiring support staff in the near future. That one decision changed everything, and now I’ve been working here for nearly 10 months.

Throughout my career, I’ve served others in a variety of ways, but what I’ve come to learn is that I shouldn’t be afraid to ask for something I want or need to take care of myself. Children aren’t afraid to ask for what they want, but as adults, we seem to be afraid that we are asking too much for ourselves or of being denied. I’ve also learned that we best achieve goals as a part of a community or team. It’s important to support others, make a habit of speaking your appreciation to people, and give compliments regularly.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would have to spend some time outdoors with them and show off Michigan in the summertime. We would likely do a hike somewhere along the lakeshore- Saugatuck Dunes State Park or Sleeping Bear. I also love hitting up any number of local breweries. Speciation Ales, The Mitten, and Harmony are a few of my favorites and also Eastern Kille Distillery. Finally, we would have to thrift shop at Urban Exchange and hit up some live music at Meijer Gardens, 20 Monroe Live, or Bell’s Brewery.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I absolutely want to give my husband, Jonathan, a shoutout. His support and encouragement for doing what makes me happy is never-ending, and I could never imagined having a better partner and father to our two kids. Also to Jay Irwin, John Pottenger, and Jesse Johnson-Brower- thank you for taking a risk and choosing me to be a part of your team. I’m amazed every day at your talent, knowledge, creativity, and drive.

Instagram: @MatchFrameCreative @StudioJefferson1200 @MondoSportsGroup

Image Credits
Ryan Prins Photography for the Match Frame Christmas picture and Brandon Dexter Photography for the horizontal picture of Match Frame Creative/The Mondo Group

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