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Wolfpack Wisdom August 2025

Author: Desiree Whitehead

From Miami Mixers to San Francisco Stages: What’s Next for Howl

You know those moments when everything just clicks? When you realize the universe has been setting you up for something bigger than you imagined? That’s been my entire season, from an evening in Miami that reminded me why intentional connection matters, to getting ready for INBOUND 2025 in San Francisco where I get to lean into all of it.

A Humbling Recognition

I am humbled to share that I have been recognized as a Marquis Who’s Who 2025 Honored Listee. For me, this is another reminder that legacy, visibility, and contribution matter, especially as a Black woman entrepreneur committed to creating spaces where others can rise.

INBOUND 2025: Where Strategy Meets Soul

In just a few weeks, I will be in San Francisco for INBOUND 2025, one of my favorite spaces for strategy, storytelling, and the kind of community that pushes you to grow. It’s where I get to move from digital connections to real hugs with people who’ve been part of my journey all year long.

This year feels bittersweet in the best way. The Spot Community is hosting their final activations, and I’m planning to hug my people a little tighter. I’m also looking forward to my time with the BOHAP family, the Black Owned HubSpot Agency Partners. Each year we gather in this retreat-like setting where we get real about challenges, opportunities, health, wellness, and what it means to be Black-owned agencies shaping the future. It’s honestly one of the most meaningful parts of my entire INBOUND experience.

A Moment That Changed Everything

Earlier this month, I found myself at the Zelaya Liger Power Mixer with my longtime friend Jeff and his wife Emma. The energy was incredible, but here’s what really got me: the intentionality behind it all. These two amazing humans looked around and said, “We know people who need to know each other,” and then they made it happen.

It reminded me of something Kevin Hart shared in a conversation with Issa Rae. He said he’s never afraid to tap into his network because closed mouths don’t get fed. And Issa, who I had the privilege of hearing speak at INBOUND a few years back, completely agreed. That boldness, that willingness to reach out, was alive in that room.

I reconnected with Jeff, ran into six or seven FIU alumni, and felt that Panthers pride all over again. Sometimes showing up is really that simple, and that powerful.

That is the power of Panthers. #PantherPride 🐾

AI Gets Personal: Meet Our Wolf Pup

AI will be everywhere at INBOUND, from agenda assistants to braindates to tools shaping the future of marketing. At Howl, we have already experienced the power of AI in a deeply personal way.

After 14 wonderful years, I lost my dog Maxwell. He was my protector, my companion, and part of my story. With the help of AI, we created a digital wolf pup avatar inspired by him. This pup is now our newest pack member, a way for Maxwell’s spirit to live on inside the Howl brand.

For me, this is what AI can be: not just powerful, but also warm and deeply human. It allows us to honor legacy, strengthen connection, and make our brand more friendly and approachable without always needing my face or abstract wolf imagery. Maxwell now gets to live on as part of the work we do, and that means everything.

And because I can’t resist a good marketing spin, M.AX also stands for Messaging. Audience. eXperience. Those three words are the heart of everything we do. 

Growing the Pack

Howl is expanding, and we are looking for project managers who are excited to help scaling businesses unlock their story and impact.

Join the Pack
If that is you, or if you know someone attending INBOUND, let’s connect.

Growing the Pack

Howl is expanding, and we are looking for project managers who are excited to help scaling businesses unlock their story and impact. If that is you, or if you know someone attending INBOUND, let’s connect.

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