What was your first job?
My career began in 1989 and coincided with the launch of the World Wide Web. My first job was on a marketing communications team at Mycro-Tek, a rising tech company specializing in hardware and software for the newspaper publishing industry. It was a time charged with the promise of the digital revolution.

I was a sponge in an environment brimming with cutting-edge tools like Apple Macintosh, Macromedia Director, QuarkXPress, and PageMaker. It was there I found the “arts” of communication and honed my writing, graphic design, and animation skills. The team needed some educational materials to train newspaper teams on how to go from cut-and-paste to digital pagination. That was my first instructional video and sparked a whole new interest in education and coaching.

What’s one of the greatest innovations you have seen in your industry?
The democratization of content creation since the digital revolution began is truly remarkable. It’s as if the Internet handed everyone a megaphone, turning social media, blogs, and websites into a bustling town square. This shift has fundamentally changed how information is shared, allowing diverse voices from individuals and organizations of all sizes to join the global conversation.

However, there’s a flipside to this abundance of content. It’s easy to get lost in the noise or find ourselves in echo chambers and filter bubbles, limiting our exposure to different perspectives and falsehoods. And let’s not forget about the privacy creepers and online trolls – they only add to the chaos. Still, I’m a strong advocate for open content creation.

Do you have any brainstorming rituals?
When it comes to brainstorming, I have a routine that keeps my creativity flowing. First, I grab a stick of Doublemint gum and cue up some Ludovico Einaudi to set the mood and get in the zone. Then, I like to kick things off with a warm-up, jotting down random ideas or doodling—simple sketches often spark brilliant ideas.

I don’t shy away from the absurd. Some of my best ideas have emerged from those unexpected shadows. And if I ever hit the wall, a walk with my Corgi friend always does the trick. Nature, and the birds, ground me.

When I’m not flying solo and collaborating with a team, I have a mantra: we embrace randomness, banish judgment, and believe there are no bad ideas. We foster a fun environment where bouncing and building upon ideas are encouraged, alongside plenty of silliness and laughter. And of course, there’s R-E-S-P-E -C -T, usually sung. Those moments of laughter and camaraderie often lead to the best ideas and unexpected breakthroughs.

What is your evaluation process for projects this year?
Before diving into judging a Davey Award, coffee first.

First thing, I’m on the lookout for that “whoa” factor – the kind of creativity, design, and effectiveness that blows me away.

Then I start by diving into the entry’s concept and originality. Is it breaking new ground? Offering up a fresh perspective? Next, I take a closer look at the details of design and execution, like visual appeal, user experience, and technical prowess. Is the piece boosting brand, sparking engagement, or packing a punch with its message?

After sizing up each entry’s strengths and weaknesses in line with the category criteria, it’s decision time. I love being a juror for the Davey Awards because it allows me to see and celebrate the remarkable creativity and innovation worldwide.

Now, who’s up for another round of coffee?

When you submit your work into the Davey Awards, it lands in front of creative professionals like Dee.
Enter now before the Early Entry Deadline on May 31st and take advantage of preferred early pricing.