My Youth and Education
I grew up attending two prep schools, one stressing a military type discipline. I spent my summers out in the wilderness doing outward bound like trips into very remote areas. I am sure my parents felt that it would build character, but all it did was reinforce the notion of me being a big city kid. I have an undergraduate degree in economics and have had three stints at graduate school with degrees in finance and mass communication. After receiving my MBA I felt like I wanted a different kind of challenge so I attended Christie’s apprenticeship program in England to learn about the fine arts trade. I am also a trained audio engineer and theatrical make-up artist.
Professional Experience
I have worked primarily in the commercial real estate field over the last thirty years, but curiosity and intriguing opportunities led me off into sojourns in the music business and public opinion research. My time in the music business had me managing and promoting two different acts. Both ended in a lot of frustration and disappointment, costing me financially, as well as emotionally. I am the first to admit that I don’t have the moral compass, or Machiavellian traits needed, to succeed in the entertainment world. Public opinion polling was also an interesting chapter of my life where I quickly gained a reputation for good results surveying minority populations. Unfortunately, most of the money is in politics, and most politicians aren’t open to hearing what their constituents really think. As for the real estate trade, there isn’t too much that’s sexy or dazzling about that business. It is basically good judgment and strong math that help you succeed.