Kelsey McKinny’s journey into marketing is proof that careers are often built through relationships, curiosity, and being willing to show up. In this conversation, she shares how networking shaped her path, why Downtown Works has built its brand around community and hospitality, and how flexible coworking can offer people more than just a place to work. She also gives a thoughtful take on AI in marketing, explaining that while it can improve efficiency and support content creation, it still cannot replace original thinking, authentic voice, or meaningful human connection. Her message is clear: in a world increasingly shaped by automation, creativity and real-life relationships still have lasting value.
Key Takeaways
- Relationships and networking can open doors that traditional applications often cannot.
- Strong branding comes from experience, community, and consistency, not just visuals.
- Flexible coworking appeals to people who want connection, productivity, and convenience.
- AI is a powerful support tool, but people are still needed for creativity and decision-making.
- Getting out, meeting people, and building relationships in person is still a major career advantage.
Kelsey Mckinny – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelseyleemckinny/
Meet REBL, the AI expert and CEO of REBL Labs AI. She’s the go-to AI authority who helps businesses navigate the future of marketing automation. Known for making AI approachable and actionable, REBL is a sought-after speaker in the AI space, turning complex tech into business wins. She’s here to ensure that every business can scale smarter, faster, and with zero guesswork.


