Where We've Been /|/ Robin Ernst, Principal

Thrive was founded by Robin Ernst, an advertising professional with a notable background in media. A graduate from the University of Washington’s School of Communication, Robin started her marketing career at KOMO 4 TV's talk show Northwest Afternoon where she worked as the liaison between Northwest Afternoon and local non-profit organizations. Ernst was responsible for NWA’s public service announcements and other local advertising for non-profit groups.

Continuing to pursue her media passion, Ernst transitioned from Northwest Afternoon to KOMO 4 TV's newsroom working exclusively with Emmy Award Winning Reporter John Sharify (also known as “The People Helper”) and News Anchor Connie Thompson. Gaining invaluable insight into newsroom operations, Ernst learned what it takes to have a story receive news coverage which ultimately led to her career in advertising.

Witnessing the power and influence of television; Ernst became an Account Executive for KOMO 4 TV's sales department. There, she helped local businesses achieve their revenue goals and create positive images within the community through the power of TV. She guided media buyers and negotiated advertising buys with large accounts such as Honda National, Acura National, Les Schwab Tires Centers, Puget Sound Energy and the American Heart Association. She is now the chair of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women marketing committee.

Robin Ernst founded Thrive, an advertising company because she saw first hand how difficult it is for business owners to negotiate advertising buys with the media on their own. Ernst understands the frustrations business owners feel while trying to decide where to best invest their advertising dollars. In a challenging business climate it’s imperative to have an ad agency that knows the ins and outs of the media landscape to work on your behalf. Ernst has a passion for growing local businesses and looks forward to helping your company THRIVE!


Kiri Garruto