I’m Stephanie Solheim, and I’m lucky enough to call Northwest, Ohio home along with my wonderful family – my husband Byron and our two energetic boys, Liam who’s 7 and Wesley who’s 4. They definitely keep us on our toes.
I’m the co-founder of Grow With Meerkat Digital Marketing Agency, which I started with my business partner Alex Brinkman. We’re passionate about helping businesses thrive in the digital world. Our services range from website design and development to brand building, content marketing, and SEO. It’s exciting because we work with such a diverse set of clients, not just here in Toledo but globally too.
When I’m not juggling being a mom which is a full-time job in itself and running the agency, I love to unwind in nature. You’ll often find me in my pollinator garden, watching the bees and hummingbirds do their thing. It’s like my own little slice of paradise right in the backyard.
I’m also a big fan of the Toledo Metroparks. There’s nothing quite like wandering the trails with my camera, trying to capture the perfect shot. And speaking of outdoor adventures, kayaking on the Maumee with my family is one of our favorite weekend activities. There’s something so peaceful about being out on the water together.
Oh, and I can’t forget to mention our amazing local playgrounds. As a mom of two young boys, I’ve become quite the playground connoisseur. It’s great to see Toledo investing in these spaces for our kids.
I feel really fortunate to be able to balance my passion for digital marketing with my love for family and nature. Toledo’s been a great place for us to put down roots, both personally and professionally. There’s always something new to discover or explore, whether it’s in the digital world or right here in our beautiful community.
Q: What do you love most about what you do?
I’ve been a tech geek and data nerd since childhood, even teaching my mom about the internet in 4th grade. Decades later, my passion for all things internet, AI, and communications is stronger than ever. What I love most about my work is that while I get to indulge my tech fascination, the real reward is helping other businesses achieve their dreams and goals – there’s truly nothing that feels better than that.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Without a doubt, the most interesting person I’ve met in our community is Meredith Soleau. She’s the powerhouse behind 424 Degrees Marketing, focusing on social media, and let me tell you, that woman has more talent, energy, and passion in her little finger than half the population of Ohio! We often collaborate on projects as sister agencies, and I’m constantly in awe of how she lights up a room. Her podcasts are an absolute hoot too. With all the different things she does, I honestly wonder if she ever sleeps!
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
If I could travel anywhere in the world right now, I’d pack up my family and head straight to Norway. It’s where my husband Byron’s family is from, and they still have relatives living there. I’ve always dreamed of showing Liam and Wesley the family’s house and property that’s been passed down through generations. Just imagine the stories those walls could tell! I think it would be an incredible experience for our boys to connect with their heritage in such a tangible way. They could see where their great-grandparents grew up, maybe even walk the same paths their ancestors did. And let’s not forget about the stunning Norwegian landscapes – fjords, mountains, and the midnight sun. Plus, I have to admit, I’m curious to see if my kids inherited any of that Viking spirit! It would be such a meaningful adventure for our whole family, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
The internet is not real life. Whether it’s your friends and colleagues on Instagram, celebrities, politicians, or your favorite brands, remember that everything online is carefully curated to evoke strong emotional reactions and keep you engaged. Sometimes this means sensationalizing negative aspects, which can make us feel bad about ourselves and the world we live in. Working in digital marketing has shown me both the beautiful side of global 24/7 connection and its darker aspects. While the internet offers incredible opportunities for connection and growth, it’s crucial to maintain a balanced perspective. Make sure you spend time being present offline in your real life too. Engage in face-to-face conversations, enjoy nature, pursue offline hobbies, and create meaningful experiences that don’t require a screen. Remember, the most fulfilling moments often happen when we’re fully present in the physical world around us.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I’ve always had this vision of having a farm, even if it’s just a small one. There’s something so appealing about the idea of living closer to the land and being more self-sufficient. I can just picture it: a big organic garden where I could grow all sorts of vegetables and herbs. Maybe we’d have a little orchard too – imagine picking fresh apples right off the tree! And of course, there would be animals. I’d definitely want chickens for fresh eggs, and goats because they’re just so full of personality. Geese would be fun to have waddling around, and oh, wouldn’t an alpaca be the cutest addition? I think part of the appeal is the idea of creating this little sanctuary where my family and I could really connect with nature. It would be amazing to teach Liam and Wesley about where their food comes from, and the responsibility of caring for animals. Plus, I bet tending to a farm would be a great way to unwind after a day of digital marketing!
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
I would love to sit down with Sam Altman of Open AI and have a conversation about where Artificial Intelligence is taking society. We would absolutely have to go to Registry Bistro, my favorite Toledo restaurant.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
There is a little something for everyone here and there is so much creativity in Toledo. From the Toledo Museum of Art, to the downtown creators at the Toledo Night Market, all of the incredible music, Toledo certainly has culture.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Mr. G’s Barn’s Chocolate Malts with extra malt and the Toledo Botanical Garden.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
love that question, and the answer is so close to my heart. Without a doubt, my children and my husband inspire me to be better every single day. Liam and Wesley, they’re my constant motivation to grow, learn, and be the best version of myself. Every time I look at them, I’m reminded of the incredible responsibility I have as a parent. I want to model the kind of behavior I hope to see in them as they grow up. I want them to see a mom who’s strong, kind, and always striving to make a positive impact. And Byron, my husband, he’s my rock. His support and love push me to reach for my dreams, both personally and professionally. I want to be the kind of partner he can always rely on, just as I rely on him.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Peace, Safety, Comfort
