Where did you grow up and what was your childhood like? Did you have any particular experiences/stories that shaped your adult life?

I grew up in Encino, California, my father was a TV producer, having produced the Mike Douglas Show and The Partridge Family, my great Aunt and Uncle were music publishers with Nat King Cole. As a young kid, I always wanted to be a lawyer, but I was exposed to guitar and rock & roll music by a friend and was blown away. That completely redirected my passion.

What is something you wish you would’ve realized earlier in your life?

Get a great mentor on your side. Having a mentor is crucial to making decisions that shape your future. Learning from others that have been in your same shoes and can give proper perspective to you when you hit those forks in the road.

Tell me about one of the darker periods you’ve experienced in life. How you came out of it and what you learned from it? I had a bout with Cancer that leads to a stem cell transplant at the end of 2017. You understand quickly that life is short and precious, you prioritize everything in proper perspective and that leads to a far better quality of life and happiness.

What is one thing that you do that you feel has been the biggest contributor to your success so far?

Passion for what I do and an ability to not let one or two “No’s” stop you from pursuing and believing in each project enough to keep them alive.

What habit or behavior that you have pursued for a few years has most improved your life?

Surround yourself with those you love, respect, and make you laugh. Be rid of toxic personalities.

What are your strategies for being productive and using your time most efficiently?

When you work hard and are motivated every day you realize that there are days that being productive just isn’t going well, so I’ve learned to take those days to regroup, enjoy life, and go to the beach.

What book(s) have influenced your life the most? Why?

Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess by Bobby Fischer and Stuart Margulies. I read this book at a very young age as I taught myself to play chess. It introduced me to reasoning, logic, and strategy.

Do you have any quotes you live by or think of often?

“There is no rush for failure”. Everyone’s in a hurry. Get it right the first time and your chances of success will increase. Another one is “You need a little bit of luck in life, but it’s up to you to put yourself in a position to be lucky and then take advantage of that luck once you are presented with it”.