What is your vision for Knoxville 10 years from now?
I love the feel one gets when walking in downtown Knoxville. There is a sense of city experiences with small town atmospheres mixed in. I would hope that Knoxville will continue to take pride in growing and looking for unique ways to make Knoxville expand in our region but keep the atmosphere of downtown life. My vision for Knoxville would be to continue recruiting the right businesses to grow the Knoxville community. In line with that, Knoxville should continue to expand parks, greenways, and outdoor adventures that are unique to our community.
What is Knoxville's best kept secret?
I believe Knoxville's best kept secrets are their parks and urban adventures. Some of my best memories are geocaching with my kids around Knoxville, walking on trails around town and through neighboring woods, and watching my kids enjoy the many parks as they have grown up. I love the companies that have figured out ways to partner with the great outdoors to give families unique adventures in our amazing ecosystem of East Tennessee.
What would you do to strengthen Knoxville?
Strength comes through respect and appreciation of all. Bringing people together to learn, grow, collaborate, and build better together is vital. We must figure out ways to appreciate the background and skill sets of everyone. Together Knoxville is better.
What is your favorite Knoxville memory?
One of my favorite memories of Knoxville was a scavenger hunt my wife and I did through the middle of downtown using a scavenger hunt app. The scavenger hunt pointed out historical points, art, building design, and sculptures that I had missed so many times before. It was a great way to learn about Knoxville.
What is your favorite book or what book is currently on your nightstand?
"The Innovator's DNA" is currently on my nightstand.
What is the best advice you have received from a mentor, and who was that mentor?
Brad Bryant once told me that, "Hurt people, hurt people". That advice put many daily interactions in perspective. I should not assume that someone being hurtful towards me is always about the present situation. Instead, give people that benefit of the doubt and look for ways to help. Also, don't allow my past hurt to hurt others.
What advice would you give to your 16 year old self?
"Enjoy the Process." Too often we get caught up in what is going on in the moment and working toward the next step. We need to enjoy the process that we are going through. I would not have planned to be where I am, but I am grateful for the process that has brought me to East Tennessee.
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