From Print Ads to PartnerVista: Hondo Lewis on Partner Marketing, Startups & Betting on Yourself

In this energizing episode, Rick Currier welcomes Hondo Lewis—newly minted President and Co-founder of PartnerVista—for a raw and inspiring conversation about risk, reinvention, and building for impact in the world of partner marketing. From his early days hustling in local print advertising to leading sales at IDG and launching his own consultancy, Hondo shares the winding road that led him to co-create a partner marketing startup with soul.Together, they dive into why partner marketers are the unsung heroes of B2B tech, how AI can bring leads closer to close, and what most publishers still get wrong about ecosystems. Hondo opens up about betting on himself, modeling courage for his kids, and why community—not just conversion—is at the core of PartnerVista’s mission.If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to leave a cushy corporate gig to chase purpose—or how to actually support sales with AI and strategic partnerships—this one’s for you.Mud water, Mos Def lyrics, and a little startup adrenaline included.