How did you get into the business?
I was doing mainstream sales, when my friend told me about an opening at Cybersocket. Until that point, I didn’t really know much about the business, but after interviewing with the owner, Morgan Sommer, I was immediately impressed. I took that job about 12 years ago. I subsequently spent some years expanding my network and learning about other areas in the industry through work at NakedSword, and most recently Lucas Entertainment, but I always felt like Cybersocket was my home. So I returned 3 years ago and have been working with Morgan and the team again since.
Attitude is everything! So many people live their lives not knowing this secret.
What in your background prepared you for what you are doing now?
I think a combination of education, experience and personality type. Sure, I have a college education, but a little known fact about me is that I also served in Rwanda in the National Guard which was education in itself. This taught me a lot about adapting, being quick on my feet and understanding people. Coupling that with experience in the industry and the fact that I am a people person, sales and relationship building comes almost naturally to me. In my mind, relationships and sales is about inspiring trust and finding solutions.
What do you see as the challenges of working in the adult online business? How do you overcome them?
I love what I do and I love what our business does! I am proud of the work we all do to bring sexuality and sexual freedom and acceptance to the front lines. The challenges that face this industry are no different then the ones effecting outside industries; downsizing, bad economy woes, and etc. The only way to stay ahead in a time like this is to keep your focus on producing the best work you possibly can, being smart about your business and being creative with budgets.
Does your work life affect your personal life?
Of course, but again, in a way, so does any job you enjoy as much as I enjoy mine. We could always use a few extra hours in the day during trade shows, events or in our case, the close of our magazine deadlines but at the same time, I have made so many wonderful friends in this business that often work is as fun and fulfilling as personal, and the barriers between the two are blurred. I have a very blessed life and a big part of it is my career!
Do you have a personal motto or mantra that you live by?
There are so many mantras and mottos that speak to me. But I would have to say that the one that resonates with me the most is one that was given to me by my mother, Naomi Ruprecht: “Attitude is everything!” It’s simple but for me, the truest words spoken. So many people live their lives not knowing this secret. I am giving it to you free!
Each month, industry news media organization XBIZ spotlights the career accomplishments and outstanding contributions of Women in Adult. WIA profiles offer an intimate look at the professional lives of the industry's most influential female executives.
