1. What have you found most challenging as a CEO or executive of a large enterprise?

NOT a CEO- don't want any confusion there :) I love the services and stability I can offer my clients as an employee of the largest company in the title industry, but sometimes that can make it a little more difficult to implement change. Obviously a large corporation has to have layers of management/approval in order to survive, but sometimes that makes it a little tough to get those creative ideas off the ground quickly.

2. How did you become a CEO or executive of a large enterprise? Can you please briefly tell the story?

I think showing a strong work ethic and an ability to learn is the key to advancing in any organization. When I started out as a low level admin, I never said no to helping anyone in our office. If I didn't understand the job, I would ask questions. I always did what I said I would do. When a sales job was available that I knew was much better suited to my personality, YEARS LATER, I was in the right position to ask for the opportunity. I am continuously shocked at how many new professionals I meet that come to work with the attitude that they need to pick and choose the work they want to do. If you want key employees to stop what they're doing and teach you about your industry, then you need to show them you're trustworthy and a hard worker.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

I've generally been very rigid on my daily routine during my career, BUT COVID has definitely thrown me for a loop, so I will go with my general routine :) I am way more productive in the morning, so I try to get up early. I hate the feeling of rushing out the door to work, so I have a system to help me have a clear head: I get up, make my bed, and I either clean up something or workout. Then I get my daughter off to school, get ready for my day, and work until at least until 5. I make it a point to eat dinner with my family a few nights a week, and once or twice a week I usually work late: either catching up on paperwork and email, or attending business networking events. The rest of the time I am usually with friends and family.

4. What's the most recent significant leadership lesson you've learned?

In this era of overwhelm, I think it's easy to get so focused on the never ending "to-do" checklist that you forget how important that personal connection is to your business relationships. As a leader of a group or in an organization, I think it's important to remember to stop to take a moment to check in with your clients and co-workers: see how they are doing, ask them how you can better serve them, and most importantly, let them know you appreciate them.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

I don't really have a book per se, but I spend a lot of time in the car and I love business and marketing podcasts. Some I like are I Love Marketing, Build Your Tribe, and School of Greatness.