What is your vision for Knoxville 10 years from now?
Knoxville is in the conversations when other cities need examples of good leadership that thinks bold and move on big ideas when and where it makes sense. A city that creates spaces and a community that supports those spaces.
What is Knoxville's best kept secret?
That we have a lot more to offer than we market, advertise, and tell stories about. And for that we are still kind of a secret.
What would you do to strengthen Knoxville?
Have a private fund that focuses on generational projects and businesses and engages in three ways: 1.) Leads, 2.) Connects/Partners, 3.) Finishes. A Successful Change Center. Crime Stoppers becomes an asset and is successful in curbing a culture of silence and cultivating a culture of trust.
What is your favorite Knoxville memory?
I love Boomsday and I want to bring it back. Are we the class to bring back Boomsday??? Talk about Best Class Ever.
What is your favorite book or what book is currently on your nightstand?
Favorite: Real Life MBA by Jack Welch, Currently finishing: Faithful Presence By Bill Haslam
What is the best advice you have received from a mentor, and who was that mentor?
So many great ones: You will do things that you don't get paid to do. That doesn't make them unimportant or that someone or something is taking advantage of you, it is actually necessary for your growth and the secret sauce to culture and some companies success. Do or do not, there is no try. This is not 100% true, but we all can justify why, a lot of times we say I will try to come by, but in reality that is a half attempt of saying no so as to not hurt someones feelings. The reality is, if you say you'll try, then not do it, then it comes off even worse. I do think there are things that we are not capable of doing. That is where Try should be had and accepted!! This goes with the one above, if you want something you'll find a way, if not you'll find an excuse. This is so true. Things we take for granted, someone else is praying for. Be grateful and understand this. Feedback is love, silence is judgement. Too much to dive into here. Something that dawned on me in the restaurant industry that can be applied to all aspects of life. Humility Earns the respect that pride seeks. Part of Leadership is holding yourself accountable more than anyone else. Don't let perfection get in the way of progress. Nothing is easy if you care.
What advice would you give to your 16 year old self?
Cherish the time living at home and being around your two biggest champions (Mom and Dad). Take a trip with your brother, just the two of you. Never take for granted having an education, have safe fun, and smile, its going to be ok.
Connect With Us