How do you contribute to Starr Tincup excellence?

I write content ... and I write it really good. I write marketing emails, white papers, press releases, and whatever else our clients need. Because I'm a former daily newspaper journalist who has a background in HR communications, writing and consulting, I bring a unique and valuable perspective to the process of gathering information and turning it into content for Starr Tincup clients.

What is your favorite marketing cliche?

"Find out what the customer needs, convince them that they need it, and sell it to 'em."

What were you doing before you came to work at ST?

Before I came to work at Starr Tincup today, I was having lunch at Paul's Donuts, Subs and Gyros, on Hemphill Street. Great gyros sandwiches. Before that, I taught a yoga class. Is that far enough back?

Why do you like working at ST?

Crazy as it sounds, I get paid a good wage to do something I enjoy doing, working around some mighty sharp folks who, for the most part, have a pretty good sense of humor. Oh, and it's right across the street from Benito's Mexican Restaurant and only 10 minutes from my house (including time to park and get upstairs to the office).

Who would win in a fight William or Bret?

I have seen the end of this story. It was revealed to me a dream. Well, it wasn't exactly revealed to me. And it wasn't exactly a dream. Regardless, I am obliged by higher powers to not reveal the final outcome.

Summarize your professional background in 50 words or less

Received my Masters in Journalism from Columbia University; worked as a journalist on major newspapers in Colorado, New York City, New Orleans and Fort Worth; was a writer and project manager for a niche HR communications firm; handled marketing & communication for an artificial grass company.

Where did you grow up?

I'd give you one answer. My therapist and both of my former wives would probably give you different answers, if any answer at all.

What's your favorite all-time pet?

Cooper, the wonder Pug. He was my wing man, my campadre. Calling him a pet is slightly demeaning.

What is the stupidest thing you did in school?

The statue of limitations hasn't expired, so I respectfully decline to respond. But it did not involve .... Well, never mind.

What is your most heart-wrenching / best breakup?

The ones that come back to mind very late at night or very early in the morning.

What song changed your life?

“Subterranean Homesick Blues” by Bob Dylan.

What's your life philosophy?

You do what you must do, and you do it well.

Who is your role model?

Hanuman

Tell us your best celebrity encounter story

I met Bob Dylan and actually shook his hand after his Friday evening concert in New Orleans during the 2003 Jazz Fest. I was dumbstruck. Literally. I didn't know what to say. It was so unexpected the way it happened. I said, "Thank you." And then I told him, "For my Bar Mitzvah, my parents gave me an electric Gibson guitar and the songbook for Highway 61 Revisited." Then he was gone.