If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to turn passion into purpose, Rachel Matos, owner of the marketing agency Refined Media Group, is your answer. From a young girl sketching in the classrooms of New York City to becoming a powerhouse in marketing, storytelling, and culture, Rachel’s journey is a masterclass in evolution, adaptability, and artistry.
Her story is one of creativity and unrelenting dedication: the perfect combination for inspiring women navigating their own careers and dreams.
Falling in Love with Art
“When did you first fall in love with art?” I asked Rachel.
“I’ve always loved to draw, as far back as I can remember,” she says, recounting how her mother, a college student at the time, would take her to class. “She’d pack coloring books and drawing pads, and I’d spend the entire class time creating art.”
Rachel’s artistic talent emerged early. At just six years old, her work was exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art as part of a New York City art contest. But it was a visit to MoMA at age seven that would truly transform her.
“I saw Frida Kahlo’s Fulang-Chang and I for the first time,” she recalls. “As a kid, I was drawn to the monkey in the painting, but what stuck with me was my mom mentioning that Frida was Latina. I remember thinking that in some way, she was like me. That was the moment I realized that art could tell powerful stories. It clicked for me that art was so much more than just something I did to keep me busy.”
Art as a Foundation for Marketing
Rachel’s love for art evolved into a career in the museum field and, eventually, into the world of marketing. Today, her artistic background is the secret ingredient in her success as a storyteller and creative strategist.
“Art has expanded my mind in ways that have helped me understand marketing and storytelling on a much deeper level,” Rachel explains. “I believe art’s influence has given me a unique ability to offer creative solutions for brands, where nuanced thinking is at the heart of the work I do.”
Her clients agree. They rave about her keen eye and ability to deliver results, even on a tight budget. “All of my clients come from referrals or people I’ve worked with in the past,” she says. “They trust that they’ll receive quality work.”
Creativity Meets Culture
Refined Media Group focuses on media buy campaigns, experiential marketing, and influencer marketing—all with a cultural and creative twist. “We’re bringing unique, engaging experiences to life for our clients, always keeping creativity and culture at the forefront,” she shares.
But what truly sets Rachel apart is her multidimensional approach. “I don’t think there are many marketers who have a museum background and are also portrait artists with the ability to translate out-of-the-box thinking into mainstream markets,” she says. “Add a bit of grit from my Bronx upbringing, discipline from my Catholic school roots, and a hardworking family ethic, and you’ve got a well-rounded person on your team who sets a clear vision and executes it.”
A New Chapter
What’s next for Rachel? She’s working on a publishing platform that will soon be announced. “It’s a new chapter that will bring fresh opportunities to connect and create,” she reveals, hinting at even bigger projects on the horizon.
Lessons for the Rest of Us
When asked what advice she has for others who want to build a career out of what they love, Rachel emphasizes adaptability. “It’s a constant evolution. Embrace new ideas, stay open to technology, and never get stuck in one way of doing things,” she says.
The key, she says, is to embrace change. “The biggest mistake I’ve seen is people not willing to adapt. It’s the only way to have longevity in your career and to create more opportunities. Along the way, you’ll meet new people, learn new things, and discover unexpected paths.”
Rachel’s story reminds us that life is full of possibilities. Whether you’re an artist, a marketer, or someone still figuring it all out, the secret is to stay curious, stay creative, and always be willing to evolve.