Why did you get into advertising?

Well, it wasn’t on purpose, honestly. My father has owned an agency for about 25 years, so I grew up around it. I’ve worked with him on and off on projects for my entire adult life. I’ve been on TV more times than most rational people, I’ve done on-air appearances on QVC, I’ve written scripts, directed commercial shoots, bought media, managed entire campaigns, blah, blah, blah. And, while I swore that I never wanted to be “part of the family business,” I didn’t expect that I would end up starting my agency (although I guess I’m not part of the family business!). The truth is, I’m an entrepreneur at heart. I love disassembling things, then rebuilding them. It’s just the way my mind works. And I LOVE working with other entrepreneurs. We’re our own strange breed of people and we just “get each other.” I want to see more small businesses succeed, and the best way to do that is to help business owners learn how to sell their products and services. So, here I am. Ready, willing, and able to help anyone who is ready to take the next step toward greatness.

What wakes you up every morning?

Well, I live downtown, so usually it is the construction crews working on the nearby buildings.

Seriously though, it is my need to see every person reach their potential. Not to get too serious, but my personal passion is about people being able to see themselves the way that they could be. People are so capable of “becoming,” but in our society, there is a vacuum of mentorship which leaves even mature individuals lacking. And all of our public speakers and social influencers spend their time “inspiring,” because it sells better, but really leave their audience with no tangible steps toward finding their own greatness.

When I wake up, I want to make people better than they were when they woke up. In business, I want to see my clients achieve goals they never thought possible. I want to see them believe they can do it – like REALLY do it. I want to see my staff achieve beyond what they thought possible. I want them to share in the reward and make tons of money. I don’t want them to come to work because they have a job. I want them to find their passion. I want my friends and loved ones to wake up believing that there are no limits to what they can do. Past the paychecks, there are realities that I don’t think most people have the ability to dream about. Maybe I live in a fantasy world, but there are no limits to what I want to accomplish.

What is your favorite thing about what you do every day?

Solving problems. I’ll keep this answer short and just say that when I get to work each morning, it is like I get to work a puzzle. New problems. New clients. New strategies. And I get to connect the dots all day (and sometimes wake up in the middle of the night with the solutions).

Your bio says that you have a lot of college degrees? What is that about?

Yes, that’s true. I do hold a lot of degrees, but I’ll be honest and say that I have learned more through life experience than a classroom could ever provide. As my bio reads, I have also been a college professor for many years, and until you have had to teach a subject, you will never understand it.

You dodged the question. Tell us about those credentials. People want to know that about you.

Yes, I did dodge the question. I’m not much into talking about myself, but okay.

I have an undergrad degree in psychology from the University of Michigan (go blue!). I then went back and earned a master’s degree in business from Central Michigan University. For personal enrichment, I earned a master’s degree in theology from Moody University. Then a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the same. Then I did an MBA from Clearly University, where I was concurrently a professor, chairing the public speaking department. It was fun being a teacher and a student at the same school. Freaked out my professors. I then went back to the University of Michigan for my doctorate in Educational Leadership. Later, I attended Grand Canyon for a PhD in Industrial / Organizational Psychology, but did not complete that (I’m a little busy).

If we’re getting detailed, I also hold all available MCAS certifications from Microsoft, which is how I was able to teach computer science. I joined American MENSA in 2002 on a dare (funny story).

I’m getting uncomfortable talking about this though. Clients don’t do business with us because of my degrees and certifications. They want to know that we know how to sell their products. And THAT we do.

If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be doing instead?

I can’t imagine life that way, as strange as that sounds. I chuckled on a phone call the other day when a colleague said that he was talking to a “retired entrepreneur.” A retired entrepreneur? There is no such thing. Entrepreneurs are always “just between gigs.” I love what I do and I love when I get to meet people who love what they do. It’s truly a gift to love what you do.

Now, I’d love to be doing it from a beach in Greece, but I’ll settle for the beach in Florida for now.

We are always evolving, and when you said that you have been an entrepreneur for nearly 30 years, I couldn’t help but wonder how you have evolved since then.

Oh, yes. I actually owned my first business when I was 16 years old. I owned a few retail stores that sold pagers – and later, cell phones. I’m that old. And, yes, I used to hire people to work at my retail stores during the mornings while I was in school. Freaked out my high school because they had no idea how to grade that “co-op work credit.”

My gosh, I think back to those days and want to go back and shake the younger me.

When I’m talking to potential clients, or even staff members, I’m always trying to remain cognizant of where they are on their journey. Twenty-some years ago, I wouldn’t have been ready to listen to a 44-year-old version of me. I wasn’t ready to hear some of the things that I should have. And, likewise, some of our potential clients aren’t ready either – so I make a conscious effort to meet them where they are. Everyone is somewhere. I take the time to figure out where that is, honestly, then meet them there. Sometimes it is just a matter of baby steps. And, honestly, I’m here for the long haul. We’ll make it work.

Your bio also reads “author.” What is that about? Do you have a book out?

Oh, I can’t wait to get through final edits. I did just recently complete a book and am working on the finishing touches now. You have no idea how excited I am to get this out to people, but it goes along with everything we have already talked about. And it’s hilarious. Because, well, I’m funny. If a book about business can be entertaining, you know you’re winning. Hang tight. It’s coming and you’ll love it.

FUN FACTS

• Was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, and proudly declares himself a Wolverine for life. Go blue!

• Has enjoyed 16 years as an adjunct college professor, lecturing in business management, English, psychology, computer science, finance, and public speaking.

• Is mildly obsessed with the travel guide “1,000 Places to See Before You Die.” It may be the world’s most expensive bucket list.

• Has a personal passion for international humanitarian work and has both participated and led dozens of relief teams worldwide.

• Cannot imagine moving out of South Florida, being an active runner and outdoor enthusiast. SCUBA anyone?

Why did you get into advertising?

I believe that advertising has always been a part of my life. You might even say it is in my DNA. My dad is a pastor, and, as a family, we moved around a lot. All of my life I have been a part of creating whatever was needed. The PowerPoint slides for worship lyrics, the posters for the church, creating bulletins for services, and anything else that was needed. As I got older, those same skills sharpened, and I was able to assist creating brand awareness, social media campaigns, and the like. I am grateful that this passion is now my professional life.

What wakes you up every morning?

"Morning is here! The morning is here. Sunshine is here..." Come on, you know it! (“Friends Trivia Champion,” you’ll recall.)

Other than a teething infant? It's probably a text message from Mark.

Really though, I wake up for the challenge that is digital marketing. I am grateful for the blessings that I have in my life and every day that I wake up, I am humbled that I have been given such a beautiful family. I am also thankful for the fact that I have an amazing job and co-workers that push me to be better in every aspect.

What is your favorite thing about what you do every day in your role?

Anyone in the digital creative space can vouch for the fact that there is never a day that goes as you planned it! Whether it is a last-minute change request from a client or a broken link on a website, or even a last-minute promotion, it always keeps me moving and encourages me to think outside of the box. It grants me the opportunity to face a challenge and overcome it.

From Brazil, to Ohio State, to South Florida? What is that about? And, why not the University of Michigan?

Ha! Michigan? No way! My body would turn into a Brazilian popsicle (a/k/a Picole)!

My family moved from a small city in northern Brazil to Dallas, Texas, when I was seven. It was a huge culture shock, and I enjoyed every minute of it. My family is very close and supportive of one another, so the transition was not terribly difficult, but it was absolutely a challenge. After a few years, we moved to South Florida and I loved it there too. Much closer to “home vibe.” I think my parents were testing out our (my brother and my) resolve, because they moved us back to Texas for a little bit before moving us to Columbus, Ohio. (Now if you have been in Columbus, Ohio, you know that the summers are beautiful, but the winters…let’s just say that it was the first place I had ever lived where it snowed.)

While we lived there, I graduated from high school and enrolled at Ohio State. I learned to tolerate the weather enough that, even when my family relocated again, I stayed and completed my degree. (Please note, however, that I have come back to my senses and relocated and started my own family in the sunny paradise of Florida.)

If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be doing instead?

That is an excellent question. I have always loved creating designs and helping people. For instance, when I was in college, I worked for Staples in the Business Center. People would bring me materials they had designed themselves to be printed. I would talk to them and help them through a complete redesign. Giving back and helping others in this way has always brought me satisfaction and purpose.

So, while I would have to say that I would go wherever God leads me, my suspicion is that He would take me places where I could use these talents again.

But, as I play a few instruments ,and like every other teen who plays guitar dreams, maybe I would tour the country as a musician!

FUN FACTS

• His first job in advertising was when he was 14 years old, wearing a banana costume, standing outside in the Dallas heat waving at would-be customers.

• Played “American football” in the Dallas Cowboys' Arena (although he is a bigger fan of real “futbol, being a diehard fan of the Barcelona soccer team (FCB)).

• Most definitely is not afraid of commitment: he proposed to his wife on their first date (and she said YES!).

• Likes his space. As much as he loves people, don’t stand too close to him in line. It is a big pet peeve.

• Loves all drinks that are sparkling. Sparkling water? Yes, please. Sparkling cider? But, of course!

Why did you get into advertising?

Unintentionally, really. While I have spent the majority of my career in higher education, I happened to meet this guy on the very first day I started working at the very first college that hired me. You may have heard of him. His name is Mark Young. Granted, we were a lot younger then, but we’re even better looking now. [winks]

In reality, Mark and I have stayed in very close touch over the years, despite multiple cross-country moves for each of us. When the opportunity arose to join forces once again (and in Fort Lauderdale), I couldn’t refuse. Although it has been a step outside of higher education, the symmetry between my past experiences and my role at Ryze Agency is uncanny. Having spent a great deal of my career in enrollment management and college administration, my roles have always been in sales, dependent on marketing, outreach, retention, and most importantly, people. The parallels between my past experiences and my place here at Ryze align beautifully.

What wakes you up every morning?

Nespresso. This is luxurious coffee. I’m not kidding, people. Invest. You will not be sorry. I have a machine at home and one in my office (next to my Brookstone Peanut M&M dispenser, which is also a recommended investment).

A bit more seriously, for the first time in a long time, I have fallen back in love with what I do. I work with an extremely talented and intelligent team which knows how to keep each other challenged and motivated. We definitely work hard and play harder.

What is your favorite thing about what you do every day in your role?

I absolutely love that every single day is different. Meeting new people and new clients is a highlight for me. We have amazing clients; working with them is something I love to do every day.

Your bio says that you have multiple college degrees and lived in Paris? What is that about?

Well, I consider myself to be a life-long learner, both inside and outside of the classroom. In grade 10, I went on my first study abroad experience to France, Switzerland, and Monaco. It was life-changing. (Merci, Mme. Rowley. Thank your teachers, people.) This influenced a bachelor of arts degree in Foreign Language and International Trade (French and Marketing) from Eastern Michigan University. I figured, with an international business degree, I should be fluent in French, so I applied and got accepted at the L’Université de la Sorbonne, Paris, France. Then, onto an MBA, and a graduate certificate in international business from Madonna University, which I was certain would take me straight to Wall Street. Rather, I transitioned from teaching at Orchard Lake St. Mary’s into college admissions, then into higher education administration.

I am blessed and happy to say I have found my home here at Ryze Agency. The latest, and perhaps not the last, degree will be a Ph.D. in leadership, management, and policy which is in progress.

Taking it back to that 10th-grade trip, I have been a student in some capacity ever since, and I’m still traveling the world.

If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be doing instead?

Easy: traveling. I’ll go back to eating and drinking my way around the world. Anthony Bourdain can never be replaced, but I’m not opposed to trying.

FUN FACTS

• Wears black like it is the only color available.

• Believes the higher the heel, the closer to Jesus.

• Traded “lake life” for an ocean view. Born in southeast Michigan, south Florida was an easy transition, although the salty water and the sharks are an adjustment.

• Showed and trained Arabian, Half-Arabian, and National Show Horses.

• Working on eating and drinking her way around the world. Loves travel, fabulous food, and fine wine. Santé!