Kelly Sundsvold shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Kelly, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Yes, absolutely! Recently, I had one of those moments where I just stopped and thought, ‘Wow, this is what it’s all about.’ My family and I were on vacation together, laughing, enjoying the little things, and just feeling so connected. It made me proud to see how close we are and how much we truly enjoy each other’s company. On top of that, I couldn’t help but think about how grateful I am for my work life too, running a successful company alongside such an amazing, dedicated team. It’s a mix of personal and professional joy that really fills me with pride.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Kelly, co-founder of GoldBear Media alongside my husband Shawn. We’re a small, tight-knit team based in Maryland and more importantly than what we do, it’s how we do it that matters to us. We help small businesses grow by crafting genuine digital experiences, whether through thoughtful social media management, website design, SEO, or email marketing, tailored to fit each brand’s unique story
What makes us feel lucky every day is being able to work hand-in-hand with people building something meaningful. We’re creative and data-driven, but also just real—listening, learning, and celebrating even the smallest wins together. That’s what’s special to us: real partnerships, steady results, and a little human magic behind every campaign.”
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
It’s hard to name just one person, because in my 20+ years of experience, I’ve been fortunate to learn from so many. Some lessons have been big, like strategic thinking or leadership and others small but powerful, like the importance of kindness in everyday interactions. Colleagues, clients, mentors, even team members just starting out have all taught me something along the way. Every interaction, every challenge, every success has shaped the way I work and lead today. I truly believe that the best teachers in our careers are the people we cross paths with, no matter their title or role.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
Life has given me my share of challenges, but one of the most defining was my recent battle with breast cancer. It’s something that shakes you to your core, it makes you face your fears, reevaluate your priorities, and appreciate the fragility and beauty of life in a whole new way. The journey wasn’t easy, but I’m deeply grateful to have come through it healthy and surrounded by incredible support from my family, friends, and team. Healing for me wasn’t just about the physical recovery, it was about finding strength in vulnerability, leaning on others, and allowing gratitude to guide me forward.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, it absolutely is the real me! Being yourself is the most wonderful thing in the world—there’s nothing like the feeling of total freedom that comes from living true to who you are. And being loyal to yourself? That’s where the magic happens
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I had just 10 years left? I’d immediately stop doing anything that doesn’t light me up inside.
I’d stop saying yes when I mean no.
I’d stop overthinking.
And I’d definitely stop going a single day without laughing.
Because honestly? A day without laughter feels like a day not fully lived.
I believe in joy. I believe in connection. And I believe life’s way too precious to spend it doing things that don’t feel aligned.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.goldbear.media/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldbear.media/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellysundsvold
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goldbear.media
