We’re looking forward to introducing you to Tod Meisner. Check out our conversation below.
Tod, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I like to start my days intentionally to set the tone. I feed the dogs, do a Peloton workout, and journal during my cool down—this is also when I check personal email. After a quick shower, I make protein oatmeal and a shake, then I’m ready to log in and tackle work calls and to-dos.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a Sr. Analyst in Corporate Communications at State Farm, where I help talented communicators step back from daily tactics and focus on the bigger picture. I love being the internal consultant who helps people shine and do their jobs better—it’s where my people-focused, “nurturer” side really comes alive.
I also teach undergrad and grad courses at Auburn, ASU, WVU, UF, SMU, and NYU, covering social media, PR, branding, advertising, and digital marketing. My teaching philosophy is simple: mentor, guide, and set students up for real-world success.
At home, I’m a devoted husband and dad to two boys, Courtney and Clancy, and two Brittany Spaniels, Snoozer and Weagle. I spend my free time watching Cardinals baseball, smoking meats on my offset smoker, enjoying the occasional bourbon, and working out or taking walks with my wife Megan while raising our boys.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
Hands down, my parents. They always saw my potential before I did and pushed me to aim higher, even when I wasn’t sure I could. Their belief in me shaped the way I approach both work and life.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I started turning pain into power during the 100X Leader course. The “know yourself to lead yourself” principle really hit me. I realized that some of the challenges I’d been avoiding or frustrated over were actually signals showing me where I needed to grow. By facing those experiences head-on and understanding my own patterns, I could channel that energy into intentional action, both in my work and in life. It was the first time I truly felt like I was leading from a place of self-awareness rather than just reacting to circumstances.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I admire my long-time friend Chris Yandle—not for any position or power he’s held, but for his character. Over the years, I’ve watched him face challenges head-on with vulnerability and honesty, never shying away from the hard work of growth. His resilience and willingness to learn from adversity have been inspiring, and it’s a reminder to me that true strength comes from self-awareness and integrity, not titles or accolades.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Have you ever gotten what you wanted, and found it did not satisfy you?
Absolutely, many times. Early in my career, I thought landing a high-profile project or a leadership role would feel like the ultimate win, but often the satisfaction was fleeting. It wasn’t the title or the recognition that mattered—it was the growth, the relationships, and the sense that I was making an impact. I’ve learned that achieving something external is only truly fulfilling when it aligns with purpose and the kind of person I want to be. Those experiences taught me to pause, reflect, and focus on what really matters rather than chasing milestones for their own sake.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.todmeisner.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todmeisner
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todmeisner
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/todmeisner
