What started as a standalone firm has grown into a delightfully diverse, interesting and focused collection of agencies, known now as TBA Worldwide. Over the past decade, they’ve expanded their capabilities by acquiring agencies specializing in travel, influencer marketing, and performance search. While some agencies remain separate for branding purposes, they all collaborate under one umbrella, creating a dynamic, multifaceted organization.
We caught up with Tyler Easterling, President and COO of TBA Worldwide, to learn more about its strategy, why it matters a great deal to retain agency brands (and how they can collaborate effectively under a single umbrella)—and perhaps a shared dislike for a certain dislike for a New York-based baseball team that’s not based in the Bronx.
Watch the interview
What the Agency Is Best Known For
The agency is known for blending consultancy and agency services, and clients often come to them because they lack large internal marketing teams. TBA WW steps in as an extension of those teams, helping with strategy, planning, and execution. Their ability to both develop strategic roadmaps and bring them to life sets them apart.
The Agency’s Main Strengths
Strategic planning and execution are core strength, and TBA WW focuses on setting clear goals before jumping into creative work. They are super-focused on making sure strategy aligns closely to business objectives. An even bigger bonus? The team is also competitive, treating their clients’ goals as their own, which fuels their drive for results.
Why Independence Is Important
Independence allows the agency to be nimble and proactive—and they can quickly adjust strategies, adopt new technologies (such as AI), and stay ahead of what’s next. Independence also help with flexibility in decision-making, making the agency more responsive to client needs.
Why Brands Should Work With the Agency
Brands benefit from a combination of consultancy-level strategy and agency-level execution. Many clients come to TBA WW because they need a marketing partner that not only creates ideas but also brings them to life. The agency’s ability to provide both strategy and hands-on work makes them a valuable partner for brands looking for end-to-end marketing solutions.
Why Talent Should Consider the Agency
The agency offers an enticing mix of great locations (such as Charleston, Charlotte, and Phoenix), flexibility (remote and in-office work options), and a culture focused on continuous learning. Employees stay for long tenures, which speaks to job satisfaction and fulfillment. Agency leadership encourages growth, staying hands-on with clients to ensure the team is always learning and evolving.
Weirdos, Misfits, or Underdogs?
Easterling proudly identifies TBA WW as an “underdog.” Based in a region not traditionally known for “top “buzzy” advertising agencies, they’ve defied expectations by building a strong, innovative presence—and strong acquisitions help create a wider opportunity for brand partners. The team has recruited top talent and proved that great work doesn’t have to come from a big-city agency.
The Marketer or CMO They Want to Say Hello To
On a personal level, Easterling would love to work with the Atlanta Braves, calling them a classic yet innovative brand. As an agency, they enjoy working with CPG brands, particularly startups and emerging brands that need strong strategic support. They thrive on helping brands grow from the ground up and bring their vision to market.
Learn more
TBA WW
Tyler Easterling on LinkedIn
Doug Zanger is the founder and editor-in-chief of Indie Agency News. He is also the founder of the Creative Bohemian consultancy, lives in the Pacific Northwest and is insufferable about it.
