Murphy Funkhouser

Brand & Marketing Strategist • Storyteller/Peformer • Business Educator & Speaker

“Murphy is a dynamic and inspiring person, and so fun to work with!” – Christa Capua, Capua Law

Just as the spark bursts from the flame, most paths to success do not follow a straight line. After years in business management, sales, and then radio production, I founded the successful branding and marketing agency Kudzu Brands in 2010. In 2021, I opened a private consulting firm BrandStage Consulting.

When I am not creating brand and marketing strategies that help businesses perform, I am on the stage myself. I have written and produced multiple one-woman shows performed at theaters across the country.

My understanding of the stage and the elements of a performance transfer to my understanding of business and branding. I know how to tell a compelling story. I understand how to get an audience’s attention.

I know that your business and your brand must PERFORM if you want to capture the hearts and minds of your ideal audience.

My brand and marketing expertise combined with my experience as a business owner and as a performer makes me the perfect business or brand strategist or speaker for any business or organization looking for ideas, inspiration, or effective strategies for taking center stage in the market.

Professional Bio:

I am a marketing and brand consultant with over 20 years of experience. My expertise includes creating, launching, and building brands and developing business and non-profit marketing strategies. My specialization is putting your business center stage in the market.

I have taught branding and entrepreneurship at UNC-Asheville, AB Tech and Blue Ridge Community College. I am on the UNC-Asheville Management and Accountancy Department Advisory Board.

In 2018, I was awarded the Entrepreneur of the Year from the Asheville Chamber of Commerce. In 2019, I received the Girl Scout’s Woman of Distinction Award for my work with female entrepreneurs.

I am currently obtaining my Master’s Degree in Communications and Storytelling from East Tennessee State University.

In addition to helping my clients tell their stories. I also have some of my own. I share my personal story as the author and performer of multiple award-winning plays that have been performed across the country. My personal storytelling shows have been called, “humorous and poignant reflections on courage, redemption, and strength.” Learn more about my stage performances here.