Cheryl Knighten is the visionary founder of Sozo Digital Media, LLC, a forward-thinking digital solutions agency dedicated to helping businesses thrive in today’s ever-evolving digital landscape. With over 30 years of experience and a lifelong passion for innovation, Cheryl brings deep insight into marketing trends and a results-driven approach to every project.
After earning her degree in Computer Science, Cheryl began her career in print marketing with Southern Directory, an independent publisher of the Yellow Pages. During her 11-year tenure, she consistently earned monthly achievement awards and was a consecutive member of the company’s prestigious President’s Club.
Her career later expanded to include work with both local companies such as Mailing, Coupons and More, and national brands including Cox Media, Valpak of North Alabama, Valpak of Atlanta, Gannett, and her former competitor, The Real Yellow Pages. At YP, Cheryl specialized exclusively in digital marketing, gaining extensive training in Google’s “Best Practices” through YP’s Platinum Partnership with Google.
What sets Cheryl apart is her unwavering commitment to integrity, data-driven strategy, and staying ahead of digital shifts. She believes in “following Google’s rules” and has developed a proven formula for helping businesses increase visibility and organic growth. As the digital landscape continues to evolve—with AI transforming how brands appear and perform online—Cheryl emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach that combines SEO (Search Engine Optimization), AEO (Answer Engine Optimization), and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization).
Under Cheryl’s leadership, Sozo Digital Media offers a full suite of innovative services including AI Engagement Tools, Virtual AI Employees, Custom AI Solutions, and Social Media Management—all designed to help businesses engage audiences, scale efficiently, and stay competitive.
Sozo Digital Media’s approach is rooted in integrity, creativity, and adherence to Google’s best practices, helping clients achieve Page 1 rankings organically. Whether working with a startup building its digital foundation or an established company ready to leverage the power of AI, Cheryl and her team combine technical expertise with a personal touch that delivers measurable results and lasting partnerships.
Cheryl is also passionate about giving back to her community through volunteer work. Pictured below with her beloved best friend, Boots, she proudly served as a Marshall for the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce during the U.S. Paralympics Cycling Open in April 2021. This event played a vital role as a qualifying competition for the Tokyo Paralympic Games, and Cheryl was honored to contribute to such an inspiring and meaningful cause.
Cheryl is a long-standing and active member of the North Alabama business community. She has been a proud BNI member for over 17 years, where she also served as an Area Director, helping professionals connect, grow, and succeed through trusted relationships and collaboration.
In addition to her business leadership, Cheryl is deeply committed to supporting local organizations. She is an enthusiastic supporter of the Clayton E. Moneymaker American Legion Post 237, located in Huntsville on Drake Avenue, where she enjoys giving back and honoring those who have served.
Outside of her professional life, Cheryl is an avid animal lover with a special affection for dogs. She enjoys spending time outdoors and finds relaxation and joy in playing pool. Entertaining friends and family is one of her favorite pastimes, and her passion for cooking and gardening often takes center stage when hosting gatherings. Cheryl also loves a good mental challenge — she regularly plays Trivia with friends to keep their minds sharp and to share plenty of laughs along the way.
