20 Under 40 | Danielle Martin

Written and compiled by LAUREN JURGENSEN | Photos by JOHN BURN

Founder & CEO | Authentic Media

Danielle’s journey in media began as a TV news anchor and has grown into a career fueled by her passion for media. She recently served as a TV host at Advisors Excel, where she helped financial advisors share their stories, build trust with their audiences and step into their role as strong business owners.

Building on that expertise, Danielle launched Authentic Media, a boutique branding and consulting agency. She is also behind the Rise & Thrive Women’s Conference, which united more than 200 women for empowerment and growth. Danielle serves her community through the Topeka Zoo Board, Victory City Church and as a sought-after event emcee.

What’s the best leadership advice you’ve received?
It’s simple but powerful: “If serving is beneath you, then leadership is beyond you.” That truth shapes how I show up every single day. Leadership isn’t about titles, spotlights or being the loudest voice in the room. It’s about serving with integrity, listening before speaking and creating space for others to shine.

What advice would you give to young professionals?
Don’t chase titles, chase purpose. Let your “why” be bigger than you. The world will always tell you to run after success, but true fulfillment comes when you align what you do with who God created you to be. Michelle Obama once said, “Success isn’t about how much money you make, it’s about the difference you make in people’s lives.” Be faithful where you are, even in the small assignments, because excellence and integrity open doors that talent alone can’t. And remember, obedience may not always look popular, but it will always position you exactly where you’re supposed to be.

What’s your guilty-pleasure TV show?
“This Is Us.” I love it because it’s real, raw and rooted in family and purpose. Every episode reminds me of the beauty and complexity of life, the highs, the lows and how our stories connect us. As a storyteller myself, I appreciate how it weaves together past, present and future to show that every season of life matters. It makes me laugh, cry and reflect all at once. Honestly, it reminds me why I do what I do: help people own their story and see the value in it.

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