The Creative Impulse
At one point growing up, I wanted to be a fashion designer, so I’ve always had this interest in doing something creative.
Falling into Media
I decided to major in business and ended up in marketing to take advantage of something that was a little bit more creative than economics or accounting. Then I fell into media by chance, and it happened to be a great fit for me.
Starting at the Front
I took a receptionist position at an agency to get my foot in the door and then begged people to give me extra projects and teach me things on the side. I got lucky and had great people mentor me.
It’s Different Here
I think that it is different on the West Coast, especially in the Bay Area. Even if a brand is not a startup, the startup mentality is very real. There is this constant pressure to perform, whether it is to meet shareholder value or to get your next round of funding.
Looking In
You have a lot of homegrown companies, so there is a focus on in-housing. Of course this is happening everywhere now, but I find it more here.
Back to Core Values
One of the best examples is our client CVS, who decided to stop selling cigarettes five years ago. There are many examples now where companies have foregone short-term profits in service of what they are in existence for.
Meaningful Conversations
Standing up for what you believe in is a great opportunity to have a deeper, more meaningful connection with customers and also with employees. It speaks to all stakeholders.
The Startup Spirit
NewFronts West has the startup spirit of the Bay Area. It’s a really exciting time for entertainment and the streaming business, so I’m looking forward to hearing from those industries.
Understanding Is First
We just finished a content program with ESPN, who has a very strong brand with a lot of specifics. I think coming to the table with an understanding of what each party needs first is key. Ultimately we were able to create some awesome, successful work that everybody was happy with.
Working & Living
I spend most of my time in Santa Monica for work, but there’s also good access to the beach to get a run in after work, great food and a nice relaxed vibe here as well.
Creative Input
We’re lucky to have some wonderful museums in San Francisco, like MOMA and the Asian Art Museum. They always give me a dose of creative inspiration.
A Nice Thing
I love getting to the ocean. I feel that inside of us as human beings, a nice sort of relaxing thing happens when we get to the water. At least for me.
Watch Highlights from the 2019 NewFronts West Here