Q: First, tell us a little about yourself–where you live, your family, how long you’ve been at DE, and what you did before coming here.
A: My wife, Andrea, and I have 6 kids, and live in Phoenix, Arizona. Our kids’ ages range from 3 to 15 – 4 girls and 2 boys. I started working at DE about 2.5 years ago, and even though sales was completely new to me, it has been an exciting and very fruitful experience. I started working at DE exactly 2 years ago and it has been a great 2 years, even though a sales position was completely new to me. Before coming to DE, I was the principal of a Catholic high school in Phoenix and enjoyed serving the Church in the work of forming young people. I spent my entire professional career in education, and before working as a principal, I worked as an assistant principal, dean of students, math teacher, and coached various sports. Helping young people grow in virtue, wisdom, and faith was a very joyful (and challenging) endeavor.
Q: What do you love most about working at DE?
A: I love that I am participating in the work of evangelization, by starting and supporting magazines that reach thousands of Catholics, both parishioners and non-parishioners all across Phoenix. I also love that I am able to do this meaningful and important work, while also having a flexible schedule that allows me to be a present husband and father and make an income that provides for my family. And lastly, I love the people at DE. What a great group of positive, encouraging, and mission-minded people!
Q: Are you a morning person or a night person?
A: I am much more of a night person. That is when all the great prospecting happens!!
Q: If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would it be?
A: Not sure about for a year, but if I could get 2 summer months on the beach on Lake Champlain, VT, I would be thrilled. I am originally from Vermont, and throughout childhood my family would spend just about every summer in a little house right on the beach on Lake Champlain. I love going back. Hawaii would also work…
Q: Do you have a favorite prayer and if so, why is it your favorite?
A: Salve Regina. During our family’s evening prayer, we typically end by singing the Salve Regina, and it is a beautiful way to end the day, hearing all the kids’ voices.
Q: Would you rather give up your smartphone or your computer?
A: Computer. With all that our phones do now, I probably don’t even need the computer anymore.
Q: What book could you read over and over again?
A: I think the Bible is the correct answer, right? If not, then any Michael O’Brien novel – mainly Fr. Elijah and the first three books of the Children of the Last Days series. Entering into a Michael O’Brien novel is always a great escape, but at the same time enriches my faith.
Q: What is one thing that always makes your day better?
A: #1: Hearing my wife and kids laugh.
#2: Watching my kids play sports.
#3: Making a sale.
Q: What advice would you give to someone new in the business?
A: Follow the program, talk to your region and division advisors a lot, and let the rewards and challenges of the job make you a better person. And get your YESES!!