It’s been a crazy few years (for all of us, but this is all about me, so whatever) I’ve been dad, teacher, supportive spouse to an overworked wife, chaffeur, all while concepting a new retail brand, then rethinking it, and redeveloping it into something that I truly feel will support parents, kids and teachers in our community. I love to be creative. My brain never stops thinking of a different way to “tell the story”. I love when there is a history to a brand, experience or business, and I love it more when they leverage every creative tool to tell me that story. I don’t hate technology, but I see it used too often as a crutch. I love paper and printed things and am sad that the days of a well designed, thick stock business card are coming to a close. I see all the details at once, and stress myself out trying to bring them all to life as quickly as possible. I believe that life is a series of experiences, and humans still crave tactile, sensual (like all 5 – not all sexy-like) interactions. Things done don’t have to be expensive just for the sake of luxury, but they should be intentional in their design and execution. The provenance of person place and process is, to me, as exciting to purchase as the final product itself.
Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I live with my wife, Megan and 3 kids in Westwood neighborhood.
Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I was the creative director of Bromwells – loved creating Christmas windows to bring magic to the streets of Cincinnati. Currently, I am on the membership experience team at Gamble Nippert and Central Parkway YMCA. I love making each member feel important and make sure they have a great experience with the Y.
What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
I love going from one extreme to the other from Santorini to SOTTO.
How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived in Cincinnati since 1995.
Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
I met quite a few interesting folks in my time at Joseph Beth booksellers. I’d have to say its hard to beat Jim Tarbel for an all around Cincinnati Icon.
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I think I’d stay put right now – too crazy out there LOL
What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Just wrapped up Inventing Anna – fascinating how peoples need to be a part of something “important” can blind them to the logic and reason right in front of them – goes to show you that money does speak the loudest.
What advice would you give to people?
Just stick with it.
What is something on your bucket list?
Open one of my 3 retail concepts here in Cincinnati to bring an elevated, unique shopping experience to our city.
What is your go to music when you cant decide what to listen to?
Not sure – often prefer silence.
What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
All of 4th street in its prime would’ve been amazing to have seen.
What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love the history and the strong sense of place in each neighborhood. I think thats a tremendous asset we need to lean into even more.
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Probably right here – with a paid off house (in 11 years – sorry more long term goal)
What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I can s-p-e-l-l words as I say them – its SUPER a-n-n-o-y-i-n-g
What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Montana was pretty spectacular.
Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
October – Christmas – October 12th.
What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
A solid mac and cheese.
Who inspires you to be better?
Me – I’m my own worst critic and never let myself off the hook
What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Coffee – Charred wood.
Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Comfort, Warmth, To-Do-List
