We’re looking forward to introducing you to Cody Carpenter. Check out our conversation below.
Cody, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I’m most proud of the company I’ve built over the past 10 years, even though much of the work behind it goes unseen. It’s been incredible to watch the relationships I’ve formed and the projects I’ve been able to contribute to all across Kansas City. Chances are, people have seen my work without ever realizing it was mine—whether at the Ambassador Hotel, The College Basketball Experience, or even their local Pizza Hut. What most don’t see, though, are the countless late nights, time away from family, occasional travel, and even the free work I sometimes took on to help clients. Those behind-the-scenes sacrifices are what made the visible results possible.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Cody Carpenter, and I’ve spent the last decade building a creative business rooted in relationships, storytelling, and community. I started CC Media five years ago—though you could say it really began 10 years ago when I first started working with clients. Through CC Media, my main focus has been on weddings, capturing stories in a way that’s both personal and timeless. I’ve also done in-house photography for a variety of bands at The Truman, which has been an incredible way to combine creativity with live music culture. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with organizations such as KC Current, The Ambassador Hotel, The NCAA Men’s College Basketball Hall of Fame, and Pizza Hut. I’m currently with Moss Marketing Group, where I continue to bring creativity and connection together in every project.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
I’ve learned from so many people over the years, and one of the biggest lessons I’ve taken with me is to always be open to criticism from other creators—that’s how you grow in this industry. More than anything though, God has had the greatest impact on my career. He’s taught me patience, reminded me to bring joy into every part of life, even when it’s difficult, and helped me stay grounded in my purpose. My family has also been a huge influence, always supporting me and pushing me to keep going. And my church community has played a big role too, shaping me not only as a creator but as a person.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, there were many times I felt like giving up. There were moments when I wanted to walk away from weddings, put down the camera, or even just find an easier job. Burnout hit hard at times, and there were nights I stayed up until three in the morning working on wedding edits or client projects—sometimes while juggling three jobs at once. But through it all, I knew God was the one keeping me going. I carried the responsibility of being a provider for my family and the head of our household, and that pushed me to keep moving forward. I would remind myself that I refuse to fail or live in fear. God gave me the strength to keep going—as both a father and a husband—and I’ve learned that hard work truly does pay off.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, the public version of me is the real me. You can even ask my coworkers—I show up the same way with clients, colleagues, or even just one person. I’m that fun, hype guy who loves to bring joy wherever I go, because I believe every day is a good day. I’m always striving to lift people up and make sure good things are happening for those around me.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
I like to say I’m always tap dancing at work—but in my case, it’s more like break dancing, since I was actually on a dance team back in the day. That energy has carried over into my career, because for me, every day is a good day. No matter what’s going on, I try to keep that joy and excitement alive, and I bring it with me into everything I do.
Contact Info:
- Website: I don’t have one anymore
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccmed.ia/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/codycarpenter8/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100067433181791
Image Credits
These were all taken by me. Cody Carpenter
