#216: Kat Gordon, Founder of The 3% Movement

Breaking and Entering Advertising Podcast

In this episode of the Breaking and Entering Advertising Podcast, the host welcomes guest Kat Gordon, founder of the 3 Percent Movement and a seasoned creative director. They discuss the challenges and pathways for breaking into the advertising industry, focusing on nonlinear career paths and the importance of diversity in creative leadership. Kat shares her journey from starting in ad sales to becoming a change-maker addressing the gender disparity in advertising's creative director roles. She explains the inception of the 3 Percent Movement, aimed at increasing female representation in creative director positions from 3% by building a community and showcasing the business case for diversity and creativity. The conversation covers the impact of the 3 Percent Movement, including conferences and efforts to make the creative industry more inclusive. Kat also talks about transitioning to virtual events during COVID-19 and introducing a coaching coalition to support creative leaders. Advice for women aiming to enter the advertising field and the significance of company culture are also discussed.

00:00 Welcome to the Breaking and Entering Advertising Podcast

00:31 The Nonlinear Paths into Advertising

01:01 Introducing Kat Gordon and the 3% Movement

01:29 The Genesis and Impact of the 3% Movement

04:04 Expanding the 3% Movement: Conferences and Virtual Events

07:22 Evolving the 3% Movement: Coaching and Future Directions

10:52 Kat Gordon's Personal Journey into Advertising

17:38 Advice for Aspiring Creatives and the Importance of Company Culture

31:08 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More Information