What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your job and why?
Keeping up with the ever-changing technology and the many ways to communicate with the media for maximum exposure for our clients. For many years, the main focus in my publicity business was to promote clients through traditional media, such as newspapers, magazines, radio, and television. The most rewarding aspect of my business has always been getting clients the coverage they deserve in print publications, TV interviews, and more. It takes persistence and follow-up, follow-up, and even more follow-up with the media.
Who do you look up to or admire in business and why?
Local dynamo Melanie Ramey. Her entire career advocating for causes ranging from social justice to hospice care has been amazing. She can accomplish anything she decides to do and has received many awards throughout the community for her good works. Due to some physical limitations, she no longer drives, but she still manages to attend meetings and events throughout the city. She drives a four-wheel, bright red scooter and rarely misses a weekly Downtown Rotary meeting, where she is very active, including as past president. She is an idea person but then goes the next step and implements her good ideas, such as fundraising. She also has a terrific sense of humor and uses it often!
What has been the high point of your career?
The high point goes way back to when I started my business three years after graduating from the University of Wisconsin, majoring in journalism. It did not dawn on me that young women were not supposed to be entrepreneurs. I was the only woman in the room for many years. I have been asked many times if I ever felt discriminated against. I was too busy running my business and going for the goal to worry about it. I’m pleased to report that young women today now have the tools, support, resources, and opportunities to start viable businesses.
What would you say are the best things about living and working in Dane County?
Being able to commute by bike to many events and meetings has been terrific and continues to get better as more bike lanes open. The vibrant University of Wisconsin — a world class powerhouse — is a huge asset. And my office window looks right across Lake Monona with spectacular views of Monona Terrace and our beautiful Capitol. I don’t cook but love to eat, so I appreciate the huge variety of locally owned restaurants. Supper clubs are my favorites.
