Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Clinton Gorham. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Clinton, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
My work ethic was shaped long before I ever stepped into a design studio. Growing up in a small rural town in North Carolina, hard work wasn’t a choice. It was a way of life. My parents made sure I understood the value of earning what you want, and I got an early taste of it picking speckled butter beans on my grandmother’s farm back in middle school.
From there, life kept sharpening that edge… from serving my country as a United States Marine, protecting my community with the Pitt County Sheriff’s Department, and pushing through college with a 3.5 GPA. Each season taught me something new about perseverance, purpose, and pride in what you do.
Now, at The Gorham Agency, that same drive fuels how I show up for every client with discipline, creativity, and a deep respect for the work it takes to turn vision into reality.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m the Founder and Creative Director of The Gorham Agency, a full-service digital branding studio based in San Diego. What started as a small side-gig has grown into an award-winning agency helping entrepreneurs, churches, and organizations bring their stories to life through bold strategy and beautifully crafted design.
What excites me most about what we do is seeing people “believe in their genius”. It’s the moment when they realize their brand isn’t just about visuals, it’s about identity, confidence, and purpose. We don’t do cookie-cutter creativity; we help people build from the inside out, with affirming strategy and visuals that actually feel alive.
Right now, we’re continuing to expand our reach, taking on more purpose-driven brands, growing our creative team, and developing new tools and content through our blog, BrandUp Insider. Every project reminds me why I started: to help people see themselves clearly, stand boldly in their story, and share it with the world.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, I’d say there are three qualities that have truly shaped my journey… purpose, preparation, and perseverance.
1. Identifying my purpose early.
I’ve always known I was a creative. My mind just ticks a little differently. It’s hard to bottle up what’s bursting out of you naturally. Once I understood why I was created and what I was designed to do, it unlocked everything for me. My energy, focus, and mindset all aligned, and that clarity gave me the freedom to be the best version of myself.
2. Studying to show myself approved.
With any skill, there’s a level of knowledge required to truly be effective. I’ve always believed you should learn the rules before you try to break them. Especially in the creative world. That’s why I went to college. I wanted to understand the history behind my craft and the tools that make it work. I think we’ve lost some of that patience in today’s world… the art of putting in your time. You’ve got to crawl before you walk, walk before you run, and run before you become a world-class sprinter.
3. Quitting isn’t an option.
This one’s simple, but it’s everything. Every dream, every brand, every calling will test your endurance. There have been seasons where giving up might’ve felt easier, but when you know your purpose and you’ve prepared for it, quitting just isn’t on the table. I’ve learned that resilience doesn’t mean you never get tired; it means you keep showing up, trusting that the work you’ve sown will bear fruit in time.
My advice? Know your why, learn your how, and never lose sight of your what’s next. That’s how you build something that lasts.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Absolutely! I’m always excited to collaborate with people who are passionate, purpose-driven, and ready to think boldly. I love working with individuals and brands who aren’t afraid to dream big, challenge the status quo, and bring their full creativity to the table. The kind of collaboration I’m drawn to is one where energy meets intention, where both sides are committed to creating something meaningful, impactful, and authentic.
If you’re reading this and feel that spark, I’d love to connect. The best way to reach me is through my website, https://thegorhamagency.com/, or via email. Let’s explore how we can bring something remarkable to life together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thegorhamagency.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegorhamagency/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegorhamagency
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegorhamagency
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