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WIA Profile: Kathi Stout

How did you get into the business?

In 1997 I moved from Mississippi to Seattle. My first job there was with the ISP that hosted Flying Crocodile (SexTracker). The ISP was sold and several members of the accounting department moved over to Flying Crocodile. I was with Flying Crocodile’s hosting department for five years. I moved to Atlanta in 2004 to work for Tony Morgan and NationalNet, staying with my hosting roots. I moved to Phoenix in 2011 to be closer to my family and to work for Ron Cadwell and CCBill. I have to say, I have enjoyed and learned from each of my opportunities.

Be the change you want to see in the world. How can we expect change if we aren’t willing to change first?

Was there a person in your career who really made a difference?

I had a college professor that taught me to finish what you start and not be afraid to say “no.”

What do you do in your spare time?

I love to cook, entertain and travel. From each trip I learn something new to cook for my friends and family. This way, they can experience the same things I have without leaving home.

What is your personal mission statement?

Be the change you want to see in the world. How can we expect change if we aren’t willing to change first?

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. Women like Kathi Stout, event director of The Phoenix Forum.

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