Meet Collin Hoffman | Builder of Unforgettable & Standout Brands

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

Hi Collin, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I embarked on the journey of starting The Branded Rooster, my thought process was deeply rooted in two fundamental aspirations. Firstly, I was driven by a profound desire to utilize my skills and talents to make a meaningful impact. This sentiment perfectly aligns with the ethos of our agency, which is to help businesses and individuals build unforgettable and standout brands. As the renowned designer Aaron James Draplin once said, “Use your little mouse finger to help.” I wholeheartedly believe in using my creative abilities to assist others, and in doing so, make a positive contribution to my communities, industry, and ultimately, the world.

The second driving force behind my decision to start my own business was the relentless pursuit of personal growth and self-improvement. I firmly believe that by challenging ourselves, we can reach our fullest potential. Entrepreneurship, to me, is a thrilling and dynamic path towards self-discovery and development. It pushes me to continually evolve, learn, and adapt to new challenges, ultimately molding me into the best version of myself.

Moreover, I have a vivid vision of the life I aspire to live, not only for myself but also for my family. The process of building and scaling a business is a means to manifest this vision. It serves as a vehicle for achieving my personal and professional goals, enabling me to provide the kind of life and opportunities I envision for my loved ones.

The journey of entrepreneurship is not just about financial success; it’s a path towards personal fulfillment, community engagement, and making a lasting impact. It’s about turning my passion into a purpose and using my skills to create meaningful connections. I believe in the power of creativity and branding to transform businesses and individuals, and that’s what continues to drive me forward every day.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The Branded Rooster is not just a brand experience design agency; it’s a dynamic force dedicated to forging unforgettable connections between brands and their audiences. Our mission goes beyond aesthetics – it’s about crafting genuine, robust bonds that elevate a brand’s relevance, relatability, and transformative influence.

What fills me with pride is witnessing our clients’ victories. When they share their success stories, attributing their ability to break free from the “Sea of Sameness,” capturing customer attention, and building unwavering loyalty, that’s when our mission feels truly accomplished. Knowing that we’ve not only boosted their ROI but also ignited their excitement for a focused path and strategy moving forward is incredibly fulfilling.

Our journey to serving clients across 8 US states, Canada, and Italy has been far from easy. Balancing the demands of growing a business while maintaining a full-time job demanded relentless dedication. Long hours stretching into the night, weekends sacrificed to the cause – these challenges were met with unwavering commitment. Each new obstacle became an opportunity for growth, and we persevered because we knew that it was in overcoming these challenges that we would truly thrive.

In the face of adversity, I’ve always remembered a powerful quote: “Understand that this is what hard feels like, and this is when most people quit.” This quote has become a constant reminder that challenges are the crucible of growth, both in business and as individuals. It’s the willingness to push through, to keep striving, that sets us apart.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way is the importance of embracing failure as a stepping stone to mastery. “You must be willing to play the fool to eventually become the master” – this mantra has encouraged me to take risks, to put myself out there, and to embrace failure as a profound learning opportunity. Every setback is a stride toward mastery, and this mindset fuels our tenacity.

Above all, I want the world to understand that The Branded Rooster is not just about our brand or my story; it’s about believing in the greatness within each client and their vision. We are passionate about your brand, and we share in your belief in its potential. Our role is to empower your vision, to create a brand and marketing strategy that will propel you toward your goals. Your success is our success, and together, we can achieve greatness.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When my best friend comes to visit Georgia for a week-long adventure, I make sure to show them the true essence of this beautiful state. Despite my relatively short time living here, I’ve come to find my peace in the majestic mountains that grace Georgia’s landscape. Our journey begins with a hike along the legendary Appalachian Trail, where we soak in the stunning scenery and the sense of adventure that this iconic trail offers.

Our exploration continues with a visit to Tallulah Gorge State Park, where we venture into the riverbed alongside multiple cascading waterfalls. Here, we are not just surrounded by natural beauty but also enveloped in a unique experience. Hiking through lush terrain, we eventually reach the climax of our journey, a thrilling rock water slide at the end of the gorge.

In the days that follow, we continue to embrace the mountains, discovering hidden gems along various hiking trails. We take in panoramic views from places like Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia, and explore the captivating beauty of Amicalola Falls State Park.

For our taste of local cuisine, we dine at charming mountain restaurants like The Smith House or Montaluce Winery, relishing delicious southern dishes and savoring some of Georgia’s finest wines.

Our evenings are spent stargazing in the serene mountain air or gathering around a campfire, where we share stories and connect with fellow travelers. Throughout the week, we not only immerse ourselves in the natural wonders of Georgia but also find solace and connection with the people we meet along the way. It’s a journey that combines the thrill of exploration with the serenity of nature, making it an unforgettable experience for any visitor to the area.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I owe a substantial part of my journey and who I’ve become to the remarkable mentors who have guided and supported me along the way. Two individuals, in particular, stand out, and I would like to dedicate my shoutout to them with the utmost gratitude.

First, let me acknowledge Matt Flores. Matt has been more than a mentor; he’s been a catalyst for my personal and professional growth. His unwavering belief in my potential has been a constant source of motivation. Matt didn’t just encourage me to step out of my comfort zone; he challenged me to embrace the discomfort, knowing that’s where true growth occurs. He leads by example, embodying the principles he instills in others. Matt’s enthusiasm and passion for life are infectious, and his ability to tackle new challenges with vigor has been a profound source of inspiration. He continues to be a guiding voice in my life, a wellspring of wisdom that I turn to in moments of adversity.

Equally deserving of recognition is Gina Comeaux, a mentor whose impact goes beyond words, manifesting in her actions. Gina’s unwavering support and encouragement have instilled in me the belief that I can conquer any obstacle and achieve any goal. She not only taught me to approach projects and tasks with depth and creativity but also emphasized the development of both hard and soft skills. Gina’s consistency in inspiring me to become better every day is a testament to her leadership and mentorship.

These two incredible individuals have not only shaped my professional journey but have also influenced the essence of who I am today. Their mentorship has been instrumental in my growth and success, and I am forever grateful for the wisdom, guidance, and inspiration they have shared with me.

Website: TheBrandedRooster.com

Instagram: TheBrandedRooster_Official

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/thebranded-rooster