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Vp Takes Charge At Work, In Gym

The Capital Times :: SAVVY :: 6F

Thursday, May 15, 2003

Job: Vice president and principal, ZD Studios, 111 S. Hamilton on the Capitol Square.

Education/experience: B.S. in human ecology, UW-Madison; associate's degree in marketing, MATC; Aerobics Federation of America certifications. Ten years at ZD Studios, a visual brand firm specializing in corporate, Web, product and environmental identity. I play "point guard" on all projects and manage a team of 14. I teach BODYPump, sculpt and step classes at Pinnacle Health and Fitness.

What I like best about my job: Working with ZD staff and working downtown. Each project is unique and my job is very different each day. Clients range from international health spas and specialty retail to the Green Bay Packers.

What I like least about it: When business people fail to see the significant value in brand design and imaging services, which is the ultimate investment for a business.

My best boss taught me: In a design and advertising business, there's the business side and the art side. You can't let the business side be second. And five passes before a shot (high school basketball coach).

My worst boss taught me: How to overreact and be emotionally unhealthy.

I work best when: I've worked out the night before. It clears my mind and improves my mood.

Birthplace: Racine. I grew up in Verona.

Where I live: Madison, near Glenway Golf Course.

Age: 35 in July.

Family: Single, no kids or pets.

Person outside my family I most admire: Ralph Nader for the difference he's made in consumer safety.

My real passion is: Fitness, fashion and UW men's basketball.

Favorite place to go for enjoyment: Concerts on the Square is my favorite summer event.

Music, munchies and mantra that get me through the day: Fresh flowers; Starbucks; and breathing deep and thinking, "Let go, let go, let go."

Most valuable lesson I've learned: "Two sides to every story" and "get it in writing."

Looking at me you'd never guess: I have an acupuncturist.