What got you into this business in the first place?
I was living in Vermont pursuing the life of the starving artist.
I got tired
of starving.
What was “your finest moment,” the thing you’re
most
proud of?
It was a campaign for Stanley Tools. Not only was it a Kelly
Award finalist,
months later I saw one of our ads nailed to a wall
out at a construction
site. I’d say it hit home with our audience.
What attracted you to Gearon Hoffman?
It came down to the honesty and integrity of the agency and
especially
of Dan and Bob.
What makes a brand a giant killing brand?
The challenge is to stand for something. People like brands that
are clearly
defined. Everybody in business today copies everyone
else. You
cannot stand out that way. If a company wants to
be
noticed (and name one that doesn’t) it can’t say and
do every-
thing the same way the big guys do. It’s safe. But
it’s suicidal.
What talent do you wish you had?
One of the favorite parts of my job is picking up a pencil and
drawing
storyboards. I’m not half bad but I always have to endure
jokes
about some distortion I’ve created.
What can't you live without?
Fresh vegetables.
Is there any food that helps you think more creatively?
It ain’t fresh vegetables. It’s coffee. I’ve quit it
a few times. But I
always get back to drinking coffee because I feel
I owe it to my
partner and the agency.
What’s your favorite sports team?
Patriots. I’m not a huge fan, but I am amazed by the pure
athleticism of
the sport.
Do you have any pets?
I’m embarrassed to say that we have a little cockapoo. Sort of
a
lap dog. I’m the one responsible for exercising it. We make an
odd
pair running down the street.
Do you have any kids?
2 step-daughters and one daughter. In fact one of my steps
recently had
a baby. I think I’m the only grandparent at the agency.
What was college like for you?
I went to Rhode Island School of Design. It was a great environment
filled
with people who loved to do what they were doing.
What do you do for a good time when you’re not working?
I
get up a little after 5 AM and swim, bike, or run – usually in
combinations
of 2. I train for triathlons. You might not consider it a
good time.
I can’t tell you why, but it is.
