The global licensing community is guided by an incredible group of senior executives whose diverse backgrounds and creative energy drive innovation and excellence. Each month, we’re profiling one of these professionals in this ongoing series. 

How do you start your day?
Walking the dogs, followed by feeding the dogs. And I read the NY Times each morning, religiously. John Nee sends me his completed Wordle first thing every day, so that prompts me to finish Wordle and my newest obsession, Connections. John’s way better at Wordle, but I’m a master at Connections.

What’s one item you always need on your desk?
My d’Alba Piedmont aromatic spray serum. Winters in NYC can be dry, and it was a gift from my son.

What unique skill or characteristic do you bring to your team?
Enthusiasm and a sense of possibility. At Click Media I’m working with some of the smartest, most talented people I’ve ever met, but I contribute energy, enthusiasm, and a belief in the endless opportunities for the organization.

What is something you learned at a previous job that prepared you for your current role?
I learned about myself mostly—what I want, my values, the types of people I want to work with, and the environment in which I thrive. I believe each role, and each experience should help you hone in on who you are, what gifts you bring, and how you can thrive.

What is your favorite aspect of your current role? 
I’m working in the creator economy and I am in awe of our clients and all creators. They put themselves out there for the world to see and judge, to like or not like. It takes so much hard work and courage. I am passionate about this space and I predict  that, in the next decade, the creator economy will fundamentally change licensing, branding, retail, and entertainment. I’m not sure most folks understand how seismic this change will be for so many industries.

What is one thing you would change about the licensing industry?
I would make it less transactional and require every category manager to have a thorough understanding of how a product is actually made—manufactured, shipped, received at a distribution center—and a deep understanding of how retail functions.   

If you had an extra hour in your workday, how would you use it?
I would use it to think, imagine, read, and contemplate. It would look like I’m not doing much, but it would probably be the most productive part of my day.

What is one thing you need to do every day to feel accomplished?
It’s pretty simple—make my bed. I promise you, making your bed neatly every morning is life changing. It sets the tone for your whole day. I think there’s even a Ted Talk about it.

Are you a carry-on or checked bag traveler?
It depends on so many factors, but I will say there is nothing I hate worse than fighting for overhead bin space. If that is even a remote possibility, the bag gets checked.  

What do you always have in your suitcase on a work trip?
Fuzzy socks.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing?
I’d have a farm/animal sanctuary with about a dozen dogs where I would also raise sheep and sell my own hand-dyed yarn. Or I’d be an investment banker. Tough to choose.

What advice would you give to yourself 10 years ago? 
Dude, calm down! Enjoy your life, focus on what really matters, and have the confidence to say “no” to things—jobs, people, relationships—that don’t serve you. And I would definitely advise my past self to hang on to the Apple stock.

What are you most excited about moving forward?
Everything. I love where I am. I love the people I work with. I love the space I’m working in. I live in the greatest city in the world, and I have an amazing family, friends, and community. I’m grateful. The future looks bright.