Tell us a bit about yourself!
I am a workplace psychologist and live media host. I’ve worked at Accenture and Bloomberg over my 20-year career, primarily focused on global leadership development. It was here in NYC that found my second career, as an emcee and host for industry conferences, and formerly broadcasting for Bloomberg Radio & Bloomberg Live.
I’m also the founder of The Corner of the Court Project, a platform which celebrates women’s careers and stories of male allies. It is rooted in positive psychology, and believes men can be capable allies for collaboration and women’s success.
How did you get started with your current career path/business journey?
What’s interesting about my career is I had spent time in college (University of Virginia) externing with our local TV news channel, but without a media focused major, I took my passion for psychology and went into a career as a consultant in workplace psychology.
It was only at age 37 that broadcasting found me as a career, with several wonderful coaches and mentors who helped me. I now love bringing my psychology background to the stage when interviewing guests. And, I see how important it is to allow things to develop in the right sequence, when you are ready!
How are you overcoming challenges during the pandemic as a business owner?
As the pandemic has wiped out live events for a while, I’ve embraced another side of myself — the side that’s not on stage or in the public eye — and have spent personal time in NYC to write as a psychologist.
I’ve developed Fonty Tales, a set of characters and interactive stories about an ambitious elephant (affectionately named Fonty). He comes to New York City to follow his dream of becoming a window washer! Along the way he befriends lifelong New Yorkers, and learns about himself, the hustle, and many lessons about optimism and resilience.
The stories were inspired by what I’ve learned through living here in the pandemic; reflecting on the strength of New York City, and the resilience & support of our neighbors. Fonty Tales characters represent a message of humanity in urban spaces; we’ve now been sharing our work with non profits around NYC which has been extremely rewarding.
What behavior or personality trait do you most attribute your success to, and why?
I keep a journal — about everything! Journaling helps capture information that I may not need right away, but eventually patterns emerge that help in decision making, or help navigate when a similar situation comes up in the future. I always recommend journaling as a leadership development tool — it’s a tangible, sensory approach to reinforce your instincts.
What’s a mistake you made early on in your career, and what did you learn from it?
When I was first promoted into an executive position I didn’t ask for help. I thought I was supposed to know the answers already, so I missed some key lessons at a time when I was actually allowed to ask questions.
What’s one professional skill you’re currently working on?
I’ve been developing a real admiration for leaders who are mission-driven in the highest sense. Luminary, in particular, has been a place where I’ve witnessed women pivot their businesses in 2020 for the greater good— to feed New Yorkers, produce masks for healthcare workers, or strengthen the scale of their impact.
It’s what I hope for Fonty Tales, as the stories reflect both the spirit of New York City, and carry a global vision to help rehabilitate abused elephants from circuses and tourism.In what ways are you taking care of your personal well being and what are your #selfcare tips?
To exercise my body and mind, I go for very long walks in the city and take photos of buildings, art and moments that inspire me.
How are you inviting others to take a seat at the table #virtually?
Luminary embodies the spirit of virtual connection! Making introductions to other women, particularly linking my corporate, media and entrepreneur networks, has been an easy but impactful way I’ve brought others together.
What impact has Luminary made in your career? eg: Business Generated, Revenue, New Clients, Career Connections, Advancement Opportunities
Luminaries have contributed their voices to my work in many ways, in particular sharing male ally stories for The Corner of the Court Project, and connecting on the conference circuit.
And, Luminary’s impact actually followed me to Germany last year! At Thanksgiving dinner with the American Chamber of Commerce, one of the German dinner guests had heard of Luminary and recognized my affiliation from LinkedIn! It’s a truly small world, and Luminary has always made me feel like a deeply connected part of the business community.
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