Some people think that the key to success lies within their daily routines. Do you agree with this, and if so, what is your daily routine?
I do think having a daily routine is important, but I don’t think it is the key to success. Especially for working moms, routines can be hard to establish. As I have gotten older and am now an empty nester (sad!), I have been able to establish somewhat of a routine. My dog, Duke, and I have developed a morning routine that I have really come to enjoy. Each morning we read online – everything from major newspapers to trade publications. Then we play Wordle and send it to my partner David, who is the most competitive person in the world. Then Duke moves to the couch while I make coffee and get ready for work.
Looking back at your teenage years, did you have any entrepreneurial interests?
My teenage years were consumed with having fun with my friends so I would have to say no to that. However, I am a 4th generation entrepreneur so somewhere, I believe this was pre-destined. My great-grandfather started a flashlight and battery company that my grandfather took over. We had government contracts during both World Wars, and my grandfather’s patented flashlight sits in the Smithsonian and the museum in Normandy, France! My Dad just recently applied for a grant for a new app he has developed for storing and retrieving data called My Private Vault Plus. He’s 82!
Is there a specific time of day when you feel most productive?
Perhaps this stems from my days as a stand-up comic in NYC, but my most productive time of the day is after midnight.
Do you think there is one character trait/skill that is important to have in order to become a successful entrepreneur in today’s world?
I do believe that you need a thick skin to be a successful entrepreneur. You will hear the word “no” more times than “yes,” and you need to let that roll off your back and move on quickly. Self-confidence is key to being successful. You will need to be unwavering in your commitment, undaunted by the journey, and relentless in its pursuit.
Has being a woman in the business world affected you positively or negatively, and how so?
I don’t think it’s had much of an effect on my business growth. There are many women in the consumer goods space that I have had the good fortune of working with. There have probably been one or two times when I have felt a bit of male chauvinism step in, but I would like to think that my business acumen won them over! That or a sly, good joke at their expense!
What is one major goal that you wish to achieve by 2030?
I will be really old by then! I hope to be a retired grandma who has made my family proud. Many of my goals now are personal, as I feel I have achieved my professional goals in life.
Who is your biggest influence, and why?
My Dad continues to be my biggest influence. As I said, he is 82 and working on an app that most people half his age don’t understand. He turned me on to ChatGPT long before anyone had heard of it! He has shown me to keep busy, keep reading, and never, ever give up on my dreams.
If you could pick one female entrepreneur, who would you say is your biggest inspiration?
Anyone who knows me knows that I’m slightly obsessed with Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx. Sara taught me that I don’t have to play by the rules; that if I believe in myself and my brand, I can do things my way and stay true to myself.
What has been the most formative advice you have received and why?
My Dad told me years ago to just keep my head down, focus on my company and the path I was on, and not to worry about anyone else. It has served me well over the last 20 years. I have seen brands come and go, and I don’t focus on their journey – I stay true to mine.
What has been the most impressive/memorable question anyone has ever asked you?
Are you Jack and Ava’s Mom? That is always my favorite question to hear. I am beyond proud of my kids. They are stellar humans and have grown up to be intelligent, interesting, and kind adults.
If you have siblings, are they also entrepreneurs?
They are not, but my brother and sister’s husband have both dabbled! I think my Dad and I are entrepreneurial enough for any family.
Do you think the drive to become an entrepreneur is born with or is learned?
I think it’s a bit of both. I do believe you are born with something that drives you to want to work hard, but I also believe that when you find something that you love and want to grow, your entrepreneurial instincts take over.
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