The Fathers of The Phoenix
Building Legacies, Not Just Brands.
Building Legacies, Not Just Brands: The Fathers of The Phoenix
Fatherhood and leadership share a common thread—both call for presence, patience and a willingness to evolve. The fathers of The Phoenix embody these qualities not only in their homes but in their daily work, where strategy, empathy and excellence go hand in hand. From guiding their children through life’s complexities to shaping campaigns that move communities, these men lead with intention. Here, they reflect on what drives them, who they are beyond their titles and what kind of mark they hope to leave behind.
Drew Beck | EVP, Client Services
Drew leads by example, rooted in discipline and a quiet determination to show up for others. His approach to success has shifted over time, less about milestones, more about impact. Whether mentoring younger teammates or helping a client hit a crucial goal, he finds fulfillment in watching others grow. “Success used to be personal. Now, it’s collective,” he says. “If I can be remembered for anything, I hope it is my work ethic—the consistency, the integrity, the commitment to doing it right.” Outside the office, Drew remains grounded by the same values he brings to the boardroom: reliability, connection and a belief in showing up even when it is not easy. He uplifts those around him through listening, guidance and quiet presence, making sure no one feels alone in the process.
Corey Black | Director, Client Services
Curiosity is Corey’s compass. A creator at heart, he brings a builder’s mindset to both strategy and life. Whether crafting music, writing, acting or raising his children, he stays rooted in discovery and purpose. “I love figuring out how to make things happen,” Corey says. “But more than that, I want to be remembered for how I showed up for people. Not in grand gestures, but in those small, meaningful moments that stick.” Corey offers support in unexpected ways, like a message of encouragement to a friend who needs it or a listening ear at just the right time. He sees value in presence over performance and lives by a principle his mother instilled in him: make your world better by letting others move you.
Corey Barnes | Senior Manager, Brand Strategy
For two decades, Corey has led the East End Holiday Dinner in his hometown, serving hundreds of meals each year with dignity and love. His leadership, inside and outside The Phoenix, centers on creating space for others, especially for men who have been taught to keep emotions buried. “Brotherhood over bravado,” he says. “That is how I lead. That is how I support.” Corey defines success through alignment, not accolades. He prioritizes meaning, values relationships and focuses on building something greater than himself. His legacy, he hopes, will reflect doors opened, stories heard and lives lifted.
Reggie Carter | Senior Manager, Brand Strategy
Music taught Reggie rhythm, empathy and connection long before strategy entered the picture, and that same rhythm now guides how he leads, listens and shows up for those he loves. Reggie draws strength from his village—family, chosen brothers and mentors who remind him he is not alone. Whether lifting his peers or raising his son, he carries the weight of legacy with humility and pride. “Support looks like showing up without conditions,” he says. “If I can help someone feel seen, even once, I have done something that matters.” Success, for Reggie, is a moving target. Some days it looks like joy. Other days, it looks like simply continuing. Either way, he holds love as the center of it all.
Jason Uzarraga | Associate Creative Director
Jason’s path from development to design reflects a deep respect for craft and a hunger for growth. His creativity is both analytical and emotive, bridging logic with imagination. But fatherhood, he says, changed everything. “Being a dad to three girls made me a better leader,” Jason shares. “It taught me how to listen differently, create space and focus on what really matters.” That shift is felt in the way he leads teams, through collaboration, empathy and a strong sense of purpose. Jason’s work lives at the intersection of innovation and care, fueled by the belief that great ideas come from fully showing up.
As these fathers navigate the complexities of both family life and their professional journeys, they demonstrate the power of leadership built on authenticity, empathy and resilience. Their legacies extend beyond the work they do; they are shaping the future through their children, their teams and the communities they serve. Each man’s story is a testament to the importance of presence, their commitment to meaningful support and the strength which defines true leadership.
