Throughout the rest of 2024, PHCPPros will be rolling out a series of spotlights on our team members who make our company possible. In our latest spotlight, we invite you to meet Ruth Mitchell, Editor of The Wholesaler magazine!  

How did you enter the PHCP industry? 

I started working a part-time job at American Supply Association (ASA). What I thought was a temporary job then turned into a long career guiding wholesalers, manufacturers and mfg. reps to maximize their investment in not only their membership, but also with providing opportunities to network and collaborate for the betterment of their companies and themselves. The saying is true — once you are in our industry, it's hard to leave. The people I have met on my journey are the reason why I have stayed. 

What are your responsibilities in your role at PHCPPros? 

As Editor of The Wholesaler magazine, I design and create a monthly publication from cover to cover. This includes discovering industry stories and developing conversations that lead to opportunities for growth. From attending industry events such as buying group annual meetings, trade shows, educational sessions and annual conventions, there are many ways to meet with people.

However, it's the long-standing relationships that have been cultivated through multiple generations — the trust factor is a responsibility I hold close to the heart. Often times I will hear from companies, "We like to stay under the radar and not talk about our successes and challenges." My response is always that in telling one's story, it will help other companies in encouraging them to take a chance, and by doing so will keep the health within the channel. While people generally do not like to talk about themselves, they often will go outside of their own comfort zone to help others. It comes down to building trust. A while back, someone introduced me as a reporter. Instead, I prefer the moniker of "Industry Advocate," as it goes beyond what is in the headlines and allows me to connect with companies and the teams that run them on a deeper level. It's these types of conversations that I believe make this industry so great — sharing with people the ups and downs, the good and bad, celebrating all our achievements, and spotlighting the changemakers who make a difference.

What do you like most about working in our industry? 

It's knowing when you walk into an event alone, you are never alone, as the PHCP industry is so different from others. It's where competitive companies and brands can work together for the betterment of all and welcome you with open arms. The partnerships and friendships I have formed have taken me through this lifetime. I've found some of the most amazing individuals — whom I call changemakers. Their stories will make you laugh, cry and tug at your heartstrings.

I am lucky to be a part of an industry channel that values partnerships, and the work needed to make sure they not only survive, but thrive. I enjoy having conversations and not what others call "interviews," as conversations are more casual in nature and often reveal the personal side. One of my favorite "dinner party" questions that I ask while traveling is, "Tell me something about you that no one knows." It always leads to hearing the most interesting stories! And, in doing so, we share a moment of trust and intrigue. 

What are your favorite hobbies or interests outside of work? 

Spending time with family and friends is sacred. My love language is cooking and telling a good story; everyone knows when they hear me say it's a "Ruth Mitchell long story short" it means you are going to be here awhile. I usually say that while hosting dinner parties. (I love entertaining!) And in doing so, things usually go wrong — remind me to tell you about the time we threw a pig roast and the only way we could get the pig off the grill was with a sled! 

Additionally, drinking wine, weather chasing (yup, I'm one of those people), being an astronomy geek, swimming, boating, duck hunting and enjoying a great knock-knock joke are among my top favorites. Lastly, I'm an injured athlete, but that doesn't stop me. I've been known to hobble through a 5K injured, then head to the ER for foot surgery. It's happened more than once!

What is the best piece of advice someone has given to you that you would pass onto others? 

Everyone is fighting a battle that we know nothing about. Be kind, always.