Hey CMO

Fractional Spotlight

Chantel Soumis

Chantel Soumis

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Exclusive strategies, templates, and tools for business owners ready to scale with clarity and confidence.

Behind the Scenes of a Fractional Executive’s Journey

With a career spanning marketing leadership across franchising, beauty, health and wellness, SaaS, and more, Chantel Soumis has built a reputation for blending strategy with empathy. Based in Madison, Wisconsin, she is the founder of Stay in Your Lane and Train in Your Lane, and today she works as a Fractional CMO, helping businesses grow while staying true to their brand’s vision.

“Protect your peace, trust your discernment, and watch the growth follow.”

The Leap Into Fractional Leadership: Chantel’s Career Pivot

Chantel Soumis move into Fractional leadership came after years of carrying the full responsibilities of a CMO, without the recognition, support, or balance.

“For years, I was strategist, executor, designer, and analyst all at once. It drained me. Living with Multiple Sclerosis, I realized I had to find a new way to lead that honored my health and my purpose.”

That realization led Chantel to build a business around impact, efficiency, and balance, proving that Fractional work can unlock freedom while still delivering transformation for clients.

Superpower in Action: Chantel’s Strength as a Fractional Executive

Every Fractional has a unique edge. For Chantel Soumis, it’s discernment.

“As a 6/2 Projector in Human Design, I see the big picture with clarity. I can quickly cut through distractions and identify what actually drives growth.”

Her ability to translate chaos into strategy allows clients to gain direction, clarity, and measurable results.

Breaking the Myths: What Fractional Leadership Really Looks Like

A common misconception Chantel sees is equating Fractional executives with freelancers.

“Being a Fractional CMO isn’t just task execution, it’s executive-level strategy, leadership, and growth. I’m in board meetings, setting vision, and aligning organizations at the highest level.”

She also brings a team of specialists, ensuring strategy doesn’t just stay on paper but gets executed effectively.

Wins That Define Their Fractional Journey

One client summed it up best:

“Getting 6-7 leads on the first weekend from you is more than I have seen in a week from over a dozen brokers.”

For Chantel, the wins aren’t just in numbers, it’s about building healthier brands, stronger teams, and sustainable growth engines.

Lessons from the First Few Months in Fractional Work

Looking back, Chantel wishes she had stepped into Fractional leadership sooner.

Chantel's Advice for New Fractionals

“I already had the experience and results, but imposter syndrome held me back. I thought I needed more titles, more years. In truth, I was already ready.”

Her advice to new Fractionals:

“Surround yourself with executives and peers. Build relationships, and referrals will follow.”

Beyond the Resume: The Real Chantel

Living with chronic illness has taught Chantel to lead with empathy and efficiency.

“I refuse to glorify ‘doing it all.’ I focus on what matters most, build empowered teams, and protect energy so growth doesn’t come at the cost of burnout.”

And beyond the boardroom? She once got to interview Matthew McConaughey during the pandemic, an experience that cemented her passion for storytelling and connection.

One Quote That Sums It All Up

“Protect your peace, trust your discernment, and watch the growth follow.”

It’s more than a quote, it’s the compass guiding Chantel’s work, leadership, and life.

Connect with Chantel