Occupation: Vice President and foamologist at Florida Foam Factory

What I do: I am the boots on the ground community liaison. I am in charge of marketing and growing Florida Foam Factory through various channels. I handle social media, networking and community outreach.

How I got started: I started this company in 2020 because of the global pandemic. When communities started reopening, we used foam parties as a way to bring people back together. What’s better than playing outside in mountains of foam after being stuck inside for months?

I’m passionate about parties because: I get to entertain people in such a unique and creative way which is something I have always felt I was born to do. Foam and bubbles always spark the biggest smiles on kids of all ages, pets too! We’ve held parties for dogs and it’s such a blast seeing them run around with their owners having fun as well.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far: Taking charge of my career. I have worked for various companies and corporations for all of my adult life, so I am most proud of taking that leap and leaving the steady job I had to found Florida Foam Factory. We have grown it to have multiple branches and spawn two more companies in the last three years.

When I’m not working: I am doing some sort of magic trick, something I started learning when I was 10 years old. I enjoy performing for my friends and being able to use magic as an ice breaker in any situation. Anyone who knows me knows I always have a deck of cards in my pocket.

My first job: I worked at a concession stand at a bingo hall. I learned a lot, from basic cooking to customer service.

My local mentor: My business partner, Shane. He is the one who helped me get the business started and helped push me to finally leave my day job to take Florida Foam Factory to a whole new level. He is consistently challenging me to think outside the box and to better myself to better the business.

The best advice I ever received: Fail fast and always remember you have survived 100 percent of your worst days.

Fun fact: I am originally from Kentucky.

If I had $1 million to give away: I would give to The Ronald McDonald House because I think it is incredibly important for families to be able to stay close as their kids are going through the hardest times in their young lives. I am also passionate for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, as well as supporting local libraries.

Life after 40: I see myself continuing to bring laughter and joy to as many people as I can for as long as I am able to. The goal is to inspire others to take the leap of faith towards their dreams like I was encouraged to do.