where growth

takes flight

Let us help your team rise, gain momentum, and
grow by leveraging the principles of flight.

$17B+ in wins

Three Principles of flight are Fundamental TO SUSTAINABLE GROWTH

I believe the principles of flight apply to driving business growth. That’s why I launched Wiederkehr Balloon Academy. Inspired by my father’s pioneering hot air balloon school, our approach is built around three principles: Lift, Envelope, and Navigation. It’s where legacy meets possibility—and where companies learn to
rise higher than they imagined.

Donna Wiederkehr, CEO

Inside view of a colorful hot air balloon being inflated with a flame.

LIFT Ignition of Ideas

Growth begins with energy. Just as a balloon requires flame to rise, businesses require bold ideas to break free of gravity. In this stage, we help our clients spark new thinking, and create the momentum that fuels lift-off.

Close-up of a red hot air balloon ascending with a basket.

ENVELOPE HOLDING THE VISION

The balloon’s envelope contains the heated air that makes flight possible. Likewise, growth requires a clear, resilient vision that holds everything together. We work with leaders to define what’s possible and shape the forward strategy.

Colorful hot air balloons rising against a blue sky.

NAVIGATION RIDING CURRENTS OF CHANGE

Once airborne, balloons don’t fight the wind—they learn to read and ride it. Growth means navigating shifting markets, competitors, and culture. We help clients recognize the right currents and adjust quickly to stay on course toward strong, positive outcomes.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Transformative Growth Leader

Lowe

Helped transform the agency into an industry comeback story in just 16 months, securing eight blue-chip client wins.

Dentsu

As CMO of the Americas, replicated success across international markets, strengthening the network’s global position and contributing to Dentsu being named Network of the Year.

Independent Consultancy

Built a business with a 100% RFP conversion rate and 75% win rate working across nearly every major holding company.

Expertise in Leading Transitions

Oversaw the integration of more than 100 agencies into Dentsu. Hired more than 600 people globally and led the launch of a new Detroit office when General Motors appointed Dentsu as its $3B global media partner. Lead global transitions for brands Microsoft, Intel and Microsoft. Lead the transition of LVMH’s 70+ individual Masions.

IPG

A founding leader in the Women’s Leadership Network, advancing women executives into CEO roles.

Global Pitch Trainer

Traveled the world teaching teams best practices to significantly improve win rates.

Carat

Reversed more than 40 consecutive losses and drove momentum that earned three Agency of the Year honors.

Industry Impact

Co-led the 4A’s Large Agency Committee, drafting proposed best practices for clients to reset effective pitch processes.

I’ve helped teams drive over $17B in growth, let’s discuss how we can fuel yours.