Marketing is about people.

I recently had the chance to sit down with my friend Brian Young on the Brand Builders Podcast, and it was such a fun, full-circle moment. We talked about my journey from playing Division I soccer at the University of Michigan to navigating leadership roles in marketing—from MAACO to my role as VP of Marketing at Reliable Residential. This episode covers:

1. Being a Goalkeeper Shaped How I Lead‍

My years as a Division I goalkeeper at Michigan taught me how to thrive under pressure, lead with confidence, and keep going—even when the odds are stacked against you. That mindset didn’t end with sports. It shows up every day in my career, whether I’m building a marketing team, launching a brand campaign, or navigating high-stakes decisions.

‍2. Marketing Is About People, Not Just Platforms

"I’ve learned that the best marketing doesn’t start with a tactic, it starts with a question."

Who are we talking to? What do they need? How can we create something that actually resonates? Whether it’s a 50-year-old brand like MAACO or a growing home services business, my focus is always on connecting emotionally and driving real impact.‍

3. Giving Back Keeps Me Grounded

I’m passionate about my work, but I’ve found real fulfillment through purpose-driven involvement—whether that’s coaching youth soccer or supporting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Being involved in the community reminds me why I do what I do and keeps me focused on building something bigger than just a career.

We also dug into what it’s like to scale a private equity-backed business, how to approach marketing in the home services space, and why giving back—especially through my work with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation—means so much to me.

If you’re into branding, leadership, or just love a good story about blending purpose with passion, give it a listen!

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