Years lived in Toledo: 39
Occupation: Owner, GearUp419
My story, in one sentence: Proud Toledoan working to make a difference in our city by helping local business thrive.
You might know me from: My business, GearUp419, a local
consulting agency dedicated to helping small businesses achieve their goals through marketing, technology and human capital consulting. We also have a new online marketplace where you can purchase branded apparel, drinkware, and other items from local businesses all in one place. We are locally owned and operated! Check us out at gearup419.com.
Most people know me for: My humor.
I wish more people knew me for: My ambitions.
The best thing I’ve ever eaten in Toledo was: Mancy’s steak.
The street I drive on/walk on most often is: Central Ave.
The best time I ever had in Toledo: It’s really hard to pick just one, but most recently it was both the pub cycle and party trolley downtown. What great ideas and huge benefits for Toledo.
If I could change one thing about Toledo: The negative association younger people have with the city; having lived in both Boston and Cleveland after college, there is so much about Toledo that is very similar to a “big” city. In many ways we are simply a smaller (and better) version of a larger, progressive city.
If I knew I could afford it, I would: Build a cabin on a lake, surrounded by woods. There is something very tranquil about being in nature. It’s my favorite way to recharge.
The best view in Toledo: The new rooftop bar at The Heights; from there you feel like anything is possible in this town!
When I’m craving live music, I go to: Bar 145.
The Toledoan I most admire: Mike Bell; I think he has great ideas and cares about the city.
If I could apologize to anyone: Myself 10 years ago for not pursuing my dreams earlier.
The thing I truly need to let go of: Overthinking things and trying to make everything perfect.
The reason I am most proud of myself right now: Landing some very unique opportunities to promote my brand. And being the emcee at my kids’ Cub Scout Pinewood Derby; it was awesome and my kids loved seeing me in front of a crowd for 8 hours.
The Toledoan I’ve met in passing that I’d love to get coffee with: Tony Packo. I had a very interesting phone conversation with him recently about new ideas to help local businesses and I would like to continue it. Tony – I’ll call you again soon.
The hardest decision I have made in the past year: To abandon the “day job” and pursue my startup. Hands down one of the most scary, exciting, honest, excruciating and revealing experiences I’ve ever had. But when you believe in what you are doing, and you can literally feel in your gut that ‘this is your purpose in life’…it’s awesome.
The last time I had a serious-oh-my-god-my-stomach-hurts-now belly laugh was: Whenever I’m with my closest friends. It literally happens every time.
My favorite local people to follow on social media are: Meredith Soleau, Toledo Matters (podcast).
