As part of XBIZ World’s “Execs of 2018: The Year in Review,” the retail market's most influential Women in Adult (WIA) share their personal advice for industry newcomers.
These renowned figures have mastered their respective businesses with tough-as-nails willpower, big ideas and inventive perspectives. By fostering teamwork and clearly communicating their goals, not to mention delegating with finesse and executing key initiatives, they have cemented their status as veritable forces of nature.
Each of the executives we spoke to below is among the finalist nominees for Woman of the Year in the retail edition of the 2019 XBIZ Exec Awards.
What advice would you offer young women looking to forge a career in adult retail?
Coyote Amrich
Director of Purchasing and Product Development, Good Vibrations
“I would suggest anybody looking at a career in this great industry learn the history, listen to the stories, find a mentor or three, be true to themselves and be ready to work really, really hard. People in this industry are some of the best!”
Kimberly Scott Faubel
Director of Operations, Clandestine Services
“For anyone who is looking to forge a career in this business, I would encourage them to stay connected and remain humble. Humility provides the right mindset to constantly be seeking and learning, and that’s the attitude that I believe is necessary in order to maintain longevity in this industry — along with any other industry, for that matter. If people are interested in turning their jobs or positions into careers, it would behoove them to know that, just like technology, there is always something new. Throw yourself into your business by educating yourself. Attend trade shows and make connections with the people you admire and the brands that interest you, but also, remain open-minded on all fronts so you’re not setting yourself up for failure. And don’t be afraid to ask questions. The vendors and educators at your disposal are here for a reason; so take advantage of us and the wealth of resources that our world provides to remain forward-thinking.”
Alexandra Fine
Co-Founder and CEO, Dame Products
“I would give women the same advice I’d give men: know your beliefs, set your intentions and validate both routinely.”
April Lampert
Head of Global Sales, Hot Octopuss
“Persevere, have confidence, believe in yourself, and never ever be afraid to fail. Our greatest successes are born out of our most epic failures. I have a quote I reference every day, and I would love to share — as I believe it’s the key to unlocking your best self: ‘In the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.’ For the folks out there wanting to make a career shift, and to the female-identified humans who resonate with the adult industry’s dynamic: buy the ticket, get on the ride and take all the chances. You won’t regret it!”
Nicole McCree
Sales Executive and Product Educator, Classic Brands
“Partnering and developing relationships with both men and women who are great mentors in manufacturing, distribution, and retail. Don’t be scared to step out of your circle. Watch and learn from women who have forged the way. Build a reputation that focuses on your work ethic, and follow through. Establish a reputation that promotes trust, respect and mutual benefit. And always remain humble.”
Autumn O'Bryan
COO, Topco Sales
“It’s an evolving industry with a lot of opportunities for young women. With the industry going more mainstream, the possibilities are endless. I would tell all young women to believe in yourself if you think you can achieve it. Focus on your goals and starve the distractions.”
Alicia Sinclair
Founder and CEO, COTR
“We need you. Now, more than ever, is a time for women to take key roles in all areas of adult retail. Choose a company that aligns with your values and most importantly, will value you. Or, create one if you don’t see what you want in the marketplace.”
Julie Stewart
President, Sportsheets International
“When I started in the industry 22 years ago, it was such a different time. I feel really fortunate that I got to see and be a part of the evolution of women’s needs, desires…. For many of us, we ran our companies from the standpoint of female and human empowerment. But often, when we would visit customers or attend events, the people we encountered didn’t always share our beliefs about women in the workplace. Respect was hard earned. In many ways, it still is….For many consumers out there, manufacturers, store clerks and spokespeople provide the only safe place for authentic and helpful discussions of sexuality. So, the advice I would offer anyone of any gender would be to educate yourself, take advantage of new experiences and learning opportunities, and bring your full self to what you do. And find a group of peers within the business who always have your back.”
Sarah Tomchesson
Head of Business Operations, The Pleasure Chest
“Now is an incredible time to be in adult retail. We are a niche market, which invites a creative approach and a small industry that has seen tremendous growth over the last decade. I would encourage anyone looking to start a career in a sex-positive profession to tap into their passion for sexuality and let that guide their work, and to approach the work with a drive to innovate. So many of the positive changes I’ve seen in the 12 years I have been running sex-positive retail stores have been driven by women, trans and gender non-conforming people pushing the industry to prioritize sexual health, wellness and education. And we’ve only skimmed the iceberg.”
Rebecca Weinberg
Director of Sales and Marketing, XR Brands
“My advice to young women in this industry is that this business can be challenging at times, yet is a very fulfilling line of work if you stick it out for the long haul. Remember to be vocal in business, as there is a place for you and your opinion matters. Work hard, know your business, be creative — and you will thrive. The most important thing is to treat all customers and competitors with respect, as you never know in which capacity you will work with them in the future.”
