About me
As a chef for over 10 years, I learned that in order to create delicious food, you need the right recipe, and also a splash of creativity. After 25 years in the marketing field, I’ve come to realize that the same thing is true for your marketing strategy.
This is why GasStoveCreative is a marketing agency that delivers completely custom, full-service marketing strategies.
I’ve been a guest speaker on dozens of podcasts on the topics of marketing and accessibility for websites, and a featured speaker for the National Institute for Social Media on ADA Compliance and accessibility, as well as the VC Europe X conference for women and minorities leading startups. I’m also a monthly contributor for Breakthrough Author Magazine as well as the Mental Health Talk Magazine for LGBTQIA+ issues. And I have a new show- Unique Voices, airing on AppleTV and Roku.
I’m passionate about social issues and giving back to the community. As the President of Unmasking Lafayette, a local, not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) organization that I co-founded with my friend Michelle Zaremba, our goal is “Unmasking” social issues in the community. And when I’m not doing that, you can find me playing gigs with my band, and spending time with my amazing wife, Heather, and our crazy pups, Skyler, and Piper.
GasStoveCreative has evolved into a full-service agency because I love helping businesses find their stride with marketing that works for them – without having to hire 20 different people to get it done. At GasStoveCreative, we meet you where you are.
My motto is: “If you’re not online, you’re not an option!”
What do you do and why do you do it?
Business-wise, my primary focus is helping individuals grow their businesses through tailored marketing campaigns. I’m driven by the sheer joy of witnessing people and their ventures flourish. The reason I’m so passionate about this work is that I’ve noticed a significant amount of ineffective marketing out there. It pains me to see companies suffer due to subpar marketing efforts, which can profoundly impact their bottom line. I also need to ensure that I can genuinely assist a company in achieving their goals. I take great care in selecting whom I work with. It’s essential for me to have unwavering confidence in my ability to make a tangible difference in their success.
By leveraging my expertise and crafting individualized strategies, I empower my clients to thrive in their respective industries. Beyond my business, I wholeheartedly believe in the significance of giving back to the community. For me, community plays a pivotal role, and I seize every opportunity to contribute and create positive change in people’s lives. Whether it involves volunteering my time, supporting local initiatives, or utilizing my skills to empower others, I’m deeply committed to fostering a stronger, more connected community.
My passion for helping businesses flourish through personalized marketing campaigns is intertwined with my desire to make a meaningful impact. By addressing the prevalent issue of ineffective marketing and dedicating myself to supporting the community, I strive to create a world where businesses thrive, individuals succeed, and the community as a whole prospers.
What changed for you after age 50?
My BS meter got MUCH better. In my 60’s I’ve learned to lean into my spirituality, and it has made all the difference in the world for me. Through mindfulness, meditation, and intention, I have grown in ways I never thought possible.
What would you tell the 20 or 30-year-old YOU?
Don’t take things too personally. Most times it’s not about you.
What do you think you’ll tell yourself in retrospect at the end of your life?
I would hope that I have learned the lesson that I was sent here to learn and I’d like to tell myself- you lived and loved well.
What impact do you think increased visibility can have on your business?
Really, when people get to know me, they want to work with me, so I would hope that it could bring in more intentional business. More clients that align with my values.
Who or what inspires you and why?
Lizzo. She has helped so many people allow themselves to be authentic. She takes zero shit from people, she embraces her authenticity, and doesn’t care what people think about her. She’s helped me embrace the badass in myself.
Something else I’d like to share
I always say be kind. You never know what someone else is going through. Being kind and empathetic in personal relationships allows you to see things from their perspective, acknowledge their feelings, and offer understanding and compassion. Small acts of kindness can go a long way in brightening someone’s day or providing much-needed encouragement.
In the business world, kindness and empathy are equally important. Treating clients with respect and understanding can enhance collaboration and improve client satisfaction. Additionally, showing empathy towards clients can help you better understand their needs and provide tailored solutions.
Being kind and empathetic doesn’t mean you have to agree with everyone or compromise your own boundaries and values. It simply means being considerate, compassionate, and understanding towards others, especially when they may be going through challenging times. Overall, incorporating kindness and empathy into your life and business interactions can lead to more meaningful connections, improved relationships, and a positive impact on the well-being of those around you.
