Arctic Bee Blog

In a powerful recent exchange, Arctic Bee founder Tracey Cleminson sat down with Chris Fordy from the Northern Powerhouse to discuss the raw origins of her business and the personal fire that fuels its growth. This wasn’t just a talk about digital marketing; it was a masterclass in resilience, coaching, and the transformative power of surviving adversity.

Tracey’s path to becoming a leader in the digital agency space was not linear. During the conversation, she shared her deeply personal story of surviving domestic violence and navigating the dark depths of depression. While these experiences were harrowing, they became the catalyst for her professional rebirth.

Because she had to rebuild her own life from the ground up, Tracey developed an unshakable drive. She founded Arctic Bee not just as a website design firm, but as a sanctuary for strategic growth and authentic connection. Her journey from survival to thriving is the heartbeat of the company’s culture today.

Chris and Tracey delved into the role of coaching in high-level business performance. Tracey explained that her background in overcoming personal trauma allows her to offer a unique perspective on personal branding consultancy.

  • Emotional Intelligence: Understanding the “human” behind the brand.

  • Empowerment: Helping clients find their voice when they feel unheard.

  • Resilience Training: Teaching businesses how to pivot during market downturns.

By integrating academic research into her coaching methods, Tracey ensures that her clients aren’t just seen—they are understood. Consequently, her approach to personal branding is about more than just aesthetics; it is about reclaiming one’s narrative and building social capital with purpose.

Looking ahead, the future of Arctic Bee is bright and expansive. Tracey shared her vision for the agency as it grows its presence across Leeds, West Yorkshire, and beyond.

The focus remains on “joined-up thinking.” Future plans include a deeper investment in AI-powered marketing, carbon-neutral hosting, and expanded team consultancy services. Most importantly, Tracey intends to continue using her platform to advocate for mental health and support others who are navigating their own paths through adversity.

“Your past does not define your future; it provides the tools to build it.” – Tracey Cleminson