Julie Spugnardi
Julie Spugnardi is an accomplished entrepreneur, marketing professional, and brand storyteller with over two decades of experience helping businesses communicate their value and inspire action. As the co-founder of Bootstrap Marketing, LLC, she partners with a wide spectrum of clients—from global B2B brands to local small businesses—to create compelling content, drive brand awareness, and deliver interactive experiences that educate and engage audiences. Her expertise spans event marketing, content strategy, digital campaigns, public relations, SEO, and web design, all aimed at producing measurable results. Prior to founding Bootstrap Marketing, Julie held leadership roles in marketing at global organizations including RGA and Gen Re, where she oversaw strategy development, multi-channel campaigns, and project management for a variety of insurance-related businesses. She has been recognized nationally for her innovative marketing approaches and has a proven track record of building strong relationships with clients and stakeholders. A former high school debate enthusiast, Julie applies the principles of persuasive and clear communication across every medium, ensuring her messaging motivates and resonates with target audiences. Beyond her professional achievements, Julie is a certified yoga teacher and Reiki practitioner. She has served as a board member of the New England Tech Hub and has volunteered with numerous non-profit organizations, including Hospice of Southern Maine, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Maine, and the Maine chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. Julie is passionate about lifelong learning, community engagement, and helping others grow—whether through mentorship, marketing guidance, or creative collaboration.
• Stonehill College
• University of Southern Maine
• Rising Star in Marketing and Communications
• Hospice of Southern Maine
• Ronald McDonald House Charities of Maine
• Alzheimer’s Association
What do you attribute your success to?
I would say my willingness to adapt has truly served me well. Throughout my career in marketing, the common theme has been change - from shifting markets to evolving priorities or challenges, I've been asked to pivot to meet the needs of the business or customer, and by being flexible have gained fresh skills and perspectives. Being flexible allows room for growth, and there's nothing more exciting to me than seeing where I have room to learn more.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Don't underestimate the power of kindness. We're all human, but we can forget that in our roles as business owners or professionals. There's something to be said for a small act that demonstrates empathy or compassion to your colleagues or customers. Remember that people want to do business with people, not just a business, so developing a relationship that's rooted in kindness will always serve you well.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Know your worth. It's vital to be able to stand firm in who you are. I was once told by a senior colleague of mine "know who you are and what you represent." If you're asked to do something that feels like a compromise to your values or capabilities, it's vital to speak up, and advocate for yourself.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life center on people, purpose, and holistic growth. Beyond my professional work in marketing and brand storytelling, I’m deeply committed to wellness—I’m a certified yoga teacher and Reiki practitioner, and I love traveling, engaging in wellness activities, and spending quality time with my two sons at sporting events and family adventures. Networking, recognition, leadership, and personal development all matter to me, and I strive to bring intention and meaning to everything I do.