Feb. 26, 2024

This paid piece is sponsored by MarketBeat.

In March 2017, Florida native Don Miller began his journey with MarketBeat, embarking on a path that would shape his professional endeavors and personal life in profound ways.

This journey, which would include growth and a deep passion for building up others, started with his role transition from a contractor to a full-time employee, setting the stage for a series of developments that would enrich his career and lead to a meaningful relocation to Sioux Falls.

Don Miller in MarketBeat’s first office downtown

From contractor to full-time employee, Miller’s contributions to MarketBeat began with building websites and performing analyst updates, which laid the groundwork for his future with the company. This initial phase was marked by long nights of collaboration over Skype. Miller and the founder of MarketBeat, Matt Paulson, shared ideas and projects that later would become central to MarketBeat’s growth.

“Both of us were deeply involved in personal finance blogs at the time. Gradually, Matt began entrusting me with various tasks, from web development to WordPress sites. I must have built hundreds of sites for Matt,” Miller said.

His role at MarketBeat underwent a significant transformation as he moved from handling miscellaneous tasks to leading the company’s content strategy — a role that would come to define his contribution to the company.

“I remember sitting down with Matt when he met me in Orlando and suggesting ‘we should do news.’ That conversation marked a pivotal shift in my responsibilities, leading me to manage a team of 15 writers,” Miller recalls.

This shift was not just a change in duties but also a reflection of MarketBeat’s evolving content strategy, which broadened from financial terms to a comprehensive news offering under Miller’s leadership. This evolution mirrored the dynamic nature of the financial market and positioned MarketBeat as a key player in the financial information sector.

MarketBeat team photo at Roots of Brasil

“Don has been a pivotal part of our team. He built our news division from the ground up, which has become a substantial competitive advantage for our business,” Paulson said.

This journey with MarketBeat also led to a significant personal decision for Miller to relocate from New Port Richey to Sioux Falls. This decision was influenced by several visits to the city, where he and his wife, Linda, discovered a community that resonated with their values and lifestyle.

Don and Linda Miller, center and right, enjoy dinner with co-worker Rebecca McKeever and family.

The two first visited Sioux Falls during the height of the COVID pandemic in September 2020.

“Matt had been trying for a long time to get me to visit,” Miller said. “I didn’t like flying, so we rented a car and drove up. When we got to Sioux Falls, I instantly said, ‘Wow, this is kind of a cool little town.’’’

Linda and Don Miller visit Queen City Bakery.

After the Millers’ first visit to Sioux Falls, they began considering what life might look like if they moved.

Paulson didn’t believe it actually would happen.

“I have to admit that despite my efforts to get them to visit, I was skeptical about the possibility of them actually making the move,” Paulson said. “Don’s life was firmly established elsewhere. So when they started talking seriously about relocating, part of me thought it was just wishful thinking. It wasn’t until they started making concrete plans that I realized they were truly committed to the idea.”

The Millers were truly committed, and within 45 days of solidifying their decision, they had listed the house, packed their bags and were on their way to Sioux Falls.

Linda and Don Miller prepare for the drive to Sioux Falls.

“We felt very strongly Sioux Falls was the place for us,” Miller said. “Family is why we delayed the decision for as long as we did; moving away from them was difficult. It’s never easy leaving family, but we feel at peace with our decision and are grateful to have airplanes and the ability to be just a FaceTime away from saying hello to loved ones.”

The people of Sioux Falls, with their warmth and community spirit, played a crucial role in their decision to move. MarketBeat supported this transition, assisting with the logistics of the move and helping Miller and his wife find their place in the new city. This support was reflective of the company’s culture, where employees are valued not just for their professional contributions but also as individuals with unique needs and aspirations.

One of the biggest adjustments Miller would have to face was going from a fully remote employee to being in the office every day.

“I didn’t know how I would adjust to coming back to the office, but I really enjoy it,” he said. “I’m a relational person, I get to see people face-to-face on a day-to-day basis, and now I can’t wait to get here in the morning. This office is perfect for me.”

Don Miller’s first day in the new MarketBeat office.

As Miller reflects on his journey with MarketBeat, he recognizes the unique culture of the company, one that fosters support, collaboration and a shared vision for success. This culture, along with the opportunities for professional development and community engagement, have made his journey with MarketBeat a defining feature of his career and personal life.

Don Miller unpacking in his new apartment in Sioux Falls.

In looking forward, Miller remains committed to contributing to MarketBeat’s success, exploring new opportunities for growth and deepening his connections within the Sioux Falls community.

“I keep telling my wife, ‘I wish we moved here sooner.’”