Superpower at 43North: Cultivator of authentic relationships

On the weekend, where are we likely to find you?
Teaching at my yoga studio, Space on Seneca, in Larkinville on most weekend mornings! Then, outside in the summer golfing or at a beach/pool, and in the winter I love a Greek omelet and rye toast at the Swan Street Diner and spending the afternoon with a book and cup of tea. You won’t find me watching TV or going to the movies!

What inspires you most about being in your role at 43North?
It’s such a gift to have the opportunity to lead an organization that is making a visible and trusted impact on the Buffalo region. I am inspired by our founders and their insane dedication to their startups. Having a front-row seat watching them grow their teams with local talent and fall in love with Buffalo just the way I did again after moving back from L.A. is heartwarming and magical to witness. And, our board. I feel incredibly supported by those that encouraged me to take this role, and their commitment to this community and strong business success is something that makes me want to perform better each day.

What travel destinations are on your bucket list?
Family trip to Ireland! A bunch of us have been, but not together, and to find our ancestors’ towns and relatives would be incredible! I want to ski Taos, NM and Jackson Hole, WY, and explore our National Parks out west in the summer. I’d love to visit the beaches of Bermuda and drink wine in Tuscany after visiting Portofino!

Superpower at 43North: Storytelling & brand amplification

What is your favorite thing about living in Buffalo?
Our ability to live, work, and play (outside) in all four seasons.

What inspires you most about being in your role at 43North?
It’s exciting to think that the work we’re doing today is creating opportunities that future generations will look back on and point to as a turning point for this city that we love.

What was the first job you ever had?
I cut my teeth in the working world as a professional fire hydrant painter. #TrueStory

Superpower at 43North: Creativity & an eye for design

What is your favorite thing about living in Buffalo?
The people. I love talking and connecting with people; a friendly place like Buffalo makes that possible every day!

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
If I had one superpower it would be the ability to speak every language in the world fluently – the ability to connect with people all over the world.

What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not working?
Travel. I love exploring new places and learning new things.

Superpower at 43North/Forge Buffalo: Multifaceted shapeshifter

What’s something unique about your contributions to 43North/Forge Buffalo?
Throughout the entirety of my career, I’ve been asked to wear multiple hats. And as a result, I’ve developed the ability to adapt and execute any task asked of me, no matter the role. Want me to lead the Forge Buffalo initiative? No problem! Looking for support with your social media strategy and execution? I got you! Need balloons for a press event? Say less! I know who to call.

What is your favorite thing about living in Buffalo?
The people! I’m originally from Miami, FL and came to Buffalo in 2006, chasing my dream of playing in the NFL. I met my wife and made a lot of amazing friends here, so I really can’t imagine my life without them or the city.

What travel destinations are on your bucket list?
Australia – many of my recent vacations involve lounging poolside or beachside with drinks that have tiny umbrellas. I want to switch it up at some point and take a trip that has a bit more adventure. Australia seems like the perfect place.

Superpower at 43North/Forge Buffalo: Commander of connections

What inspires you in your role at 43North?
Buffalo is my hometown. I grew up here and my family is here. After almost a decade working between New York City and Silicon Valley, I am very excited to be back home and contribute to the next decade of startup growth in Western New York.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
Automatically connect founders with the capital they need to execute their vision. 

What is your dream vehicle?
Dodge Viper

Superpower at 43North: Prospector of the next great Buffalo startup

What is your favorite thing about living in Buffalo?
The vibe! From the people, the food, the events, THE SUMMER – the vibe is the total package.

What destinations are on your travel bucket list?
My lofty goal is Tanzania to climb Mt Kilimanjaro but wine-tasting in Italy is up there too. It’s all about balance.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
My “light “answer is teleportation (hello free travel) but my “dark” answer is mind-reading (hello power of persuasion).

Superpower at 43North: Organization with a side of humor

What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not working?

Explore everything Buffalo has to offer! I just moved back after 12 years in NYC, and can’t wait to explore Canalside, catch some theater downtown or in Delaware Park, and eat allllll the wings.

What travel destinations are on your bucket list?
Greece, Italy, South Korea, Iceland- there’s too many to count, but the priorities are definitely around views and food.

What inspires you in your role at 43North?
Having the opportunity to help incredible founders achieve their vision, all while contributing to the growth and future of Buffalo and beyond.

Superpower at 43North: Digital storytelling 

What is your favorite thing about living in Buffalo?
Being by the water. Whether it’s boating, kayaking, or walking along Canalside, being on the water is my happy place. I am also a huge fan of the short commutes and endless pizza options.

What travel destinations are on your bucket list?
I’d like to visit all of the Hawaiian islands – but basically any place with a warm beach and cold cocktail.

What is your dream vehicle?
A turquois 1955 Chevy with the windows down and Beach Boys playing on the radio

Superpower at 43North: Character of Hope, Optimism, and Cheer!!!

Superpower at 43North: Attentive to the details

What’s your favorite thing about living in Buffalo?
The people! I grew up in Rochester and went to college in Florida and when I moved back to Buffalo, the people made it feel like I was home again even though it wasn’t the same city. I love living in a place that is on the up and up with people who are kind and hard working!

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
Freeze time! My boys are growing so fast and I would love to freeze time and savor the moments.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
 Help others achieve their dreams and you will achieve yours. I am a firm believer in doing small acts of kindness and going the extra mile to help people achieve their full potential. The reward and fulfillment it gives me to brighten someone’s day is unlike anything else.