Which entrepreneur do you admire the most and why?
Shelley Zalis and Sheryl Daija are two amazing female entrepreneurs in my life who both pivoted out of successful marketing careers to start organizations—The Female Quotient and BRIDGE, respectively—dedicated to issues of diversity, inclusion and equity. I admire their courage and commitment to turn a passion project into thriving not-for-profits making a real difference in the world.
What’s currently on your bedside reading list?
I’m an avid reader, so the list is almost endless, but right now I have a mix of fiction and non-fiction: “The Perfect Plan” by Bryan Reardon, “DEI Deconstructed” by Lily Zheng, “Seven Steps to College Success for Students With Disabilities” by Elizabeth Hamblett, “Love Lettering” by Kate Clayborn, and my trusted standby, “All Things Bright and Beautiful” by James Herriot.
What is the best career advice you’ve gotten?
Learn to use your superpowers and worry less about the things you are bad at.
Name one brand, other than the one you work for, that you admire.
I am a T-Mobile #fangirl both professionally and personally—they have a differentiated POV in a super cluttered category, which is carried through not just their marketing communications and advertising but into their product offerings and service experiences. The first time I went to their website as a customer 10-plus years ago, I was so impressed with an online experience that actually seemed like it was by humans for humans.
What is your secret weapon for business success?
I strive for the dynamic balance represented in the yin-yang symbol, where the never-ending tension between dark and light propels you toward a better future. I also believe deeply that business is a team sport—and 90% of success lies with great people in great teams working toward remarkable outputs and outcomes.