Hi Lisa! Thank you for taking time to answer a few questions. Let’s start with talking about what you do in our industry?

I partner with small- and mid-size toy, game, and entertainment companies to evaluate ideas, clarify strategy and ensure their marketing efforts are both effective and efficient. Every client is different. With some clients, I work as a fractional marketing leader; with others, as a project-based strategist; and with smaller clients, as a trusted advisor to move their business forward.

What is it about the Toy and Game Industry that you love?

I love the joy this industry brings to all ages. We’re not simply selling a product; we’re encouraging interaction, creating memories, and building self-esteem.

What was your favorite project to date?

I’m known for creating brand partnerships that deliver joy and measurable results. That said, I wanted to work with Southwest Airlines because of its playful brand personality and reputation for hospitality. This year, that dream came true when I pitched, negotiated and executed a promotional partnership between my client, The Op Games and Southwest Airlines for the launch of the 10 Days in the USA game at Target. We ran a sweepstakes on the game package at Target with Southwest gift cards as prizes.

What are you working on now?

I’m currently working with The Op Games, a leading publisher of board games, to develop promotional partnerships that expand brand reach and consumer engagement. I also lead marketing for Santoki, the US distributor of LEGO-licensed stationery and LED lights. In addition, I’m consulting with several small businesses on strategic marketing projects to help founders focus, prioritize and grow.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Collaborating with founders and brands that I believe in. Helping passionate people bring their ideas to market and watching those ideas bring joy to others.

What advice would you give a young adult graduating from high school or college today?

Focus on relationships. Be curious, stay connected and show genuine interest in others.

How do you recharge or take a break?

Hiking with my family at America’s amazing National Parks. It clears my mind and leads to fresh ideas.

Were you obsessed with any toys or games as a kid?

Monopoly. I kept asking the adults to play until I finally won a game.

Who is your all-time favorite Disney character?

Tigger. He is playful with boundless enthusiasm and optimism.

What was your life like growing up?

I grew up with entrepreneurial parents who owned a candy manufacturing and retail business. I saw firsthand what it takes to build a business. It taught me the value of hard work, creativity and relationships, which still guide me today.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

Walt Disney. I’d love to hear how he balanced creativity and commerce while keeping magic at the center of it all.

What are your favorite childhood memories?

Building tree forts in the summer and snow forts in the winter with my brothers. We were constantly imagining, constructing and reinventing what we could build to make it bigger and better.

What music will you always dance to?

Walking on Sunshine by Katrina and the Waves

What is the last time you did something for the first time?

Last month, I wrote a chapter titled “Connection Currency” for an upcoming book, “We Wish We Had Known V3: Communication and Inclusion in Consulting.” It will be released on Amazon on November 13. It was an exciting challenge to put my knowledge and experience on paper.

What are your favorite books?

I read widely, from business and marketing to thrillers and historical fiction. Some of my favorites include The Ride of a Lifetime by Robert Iger, Stories & Heart by Sharon Price John, Atomic Habits by James Clear and The Women by Kristin Hannah.

Tell us about your hobbies?

I love to read, garden, and cheer on my Wisconsin Badgers.

What do you feel has been your greatest “win” so far in life?

My greatest achievement is raising two children, alongside my husband, to be confident, hard-working and passionate individuals.  Professionally, I’m proud to have launched my consulting business, where I can utilize my experience to help small businesses thrive and compete effectively.

I’m grateful that….

I have a loving family and supportive friends who encouraged me to take the leap into becoming an independent consultant.