What's it Like to Launch an Agency During a Global Pandemic?

Leaving a job to set up your own independent business comes with its risks at any time. Doing so in the middle of a global pandemic that's impacting every aspect of life? Well, that definitely adds an extra edge to it. 

But these past few months have seen a flurry of new agencies open up, some that have been in the works for years, others a more spontaneous launch. Just a few examples include New Commercial Arts, the new agency from adam&eveDDB co-founders James Murphy and David Golding, This Agency in Amsterdam, Cartwright from former 72andSunny ECD Keith Cartwright, Bold White Space, Mud Orange, which is aiming to redefine how Muslims are portrayed within adland, Sauce Idea Lab from former FCB North American creative partner Ari Halper, and Broken Heart Love Affair, which has been founded by a crop of Canada's top talent. 

What's more, we've also seen Grey's global creative chairman Per Pedersen step down to launch a global network of independent agencies, and production company AKKURAT launch in Berlin and Los Angeles. 

We were intrigued to know more about the intricacies, challenges and maybe even positives of launching something brand new during such "unprecedented times". LBB's Addison Capper caught up with James Murphy from New Commercial Arts, Sauce Idea Lab's Ari Halper, and Denise Rossetto, co-founder and co-chief creative officer at Broken Heart Love Affair for an intriguing chat to find out exactly that. 

Check out the conversation below.