Experience

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  Starbucks

  Nov 1997 - Jan 2020

  Star team/manager/shift supervisor

  • Opened stores from concept to coffee in 6 weeks, in both domestic and international settings; earning the Manager of the Quarter Award, along with other accolades. Recruited, hired, and trained all level partners from hourly to management level; consistently remained in the Million $ club; meaning my stores consistently profited $1MM annually. • In this position, I successfully worked in and managed many fast-paced environments, maintained a calm demeanor during periods of high volume or unusual events, controlled chaos, continually refined problem-solving skills, and adapted to ever-changing technologies and company direction. Show less

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  Enjoy rome

  May 2000 - Oct 2000

  Walking tour guide

  • Conducted English-speaking walking tours in Venice, Italy, including attractions, historic monuments, cultural centers, and hidden gems. Researched, planned, and infused a healthy dose of humor into the tour. Provided background information and sightseeing advice for the remainder of their Italian visit.• In this role, I became an engaging storyteller, building rapport, by continually researching and learning about the area–(i.e. I was able to point out an original Andy Warhol in Mick Jagger’s living room), enthusiastically sharing with guests, and honing my abilities to improvise and adapt. Show less

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  Ocean avenue seafood

  Jan 2003 - Jan 2004

  Food server

  As a food server in this waterfront Michelin star restaurant, I was fully immersed in the world of high end seafood and A-List clientele. The rotating raw bar, featured 10 types of oysters and an ever-changing fresh seafood specials, dependent upon what the sea provided that day. The guest list ranged from rock stars (Robert Plant, Anthony Keidis ), film personalities (Chris Tucker, Jackie Chan) and many other well-known and incognito folk. I learned a lot about seafood and people in this role; the importance of knowing your audience, as well as anticipating, providing and exceeding their needs, wants and desires. Show less

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  Zinc cafe & market

  Jan 2004 - Jan 2007

  Wine sales representative

  • Built wine and cheese counter from concept to fruition, while developing relationships with guests/community and providing education on wine and food pairing. Created and developed promotional events, i.e.: networked with local realtors to host wine & cheese tastings for open houses in Newport Beach; created exclusive wedding and shower gifts for clientele, to increase sales & guest experience. Impeccably maintained wine shop to an exacting standard.

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  Fat tire tours

  May 2007 - Oct 2007

  English speaking tour guide

  • Conducted a full-day tour from Paris to Versailles; beginning with a train ride to the historic home of the French monarchy; followed by a bike tour of the palace grounds, a picnic lunch next to the Grand Canal; and then a visit to Marie Antoinette’s chalet; complete with my own brand of charismatic storytelling and retelling of a sordid history. • In this role, I constantly challenged myself to learn the history, and little-known details and impart stories with flare and enthusiasm; while maintaining an itinerary that allowed ample photo opportunities and enjoyment of the amazing countryside. Show less

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  Freelance editor/writer

  Nov 2010 - Oct 2022

  Book author

  • The Noise Beneath the Apple: A Celebration of Busking in New York City.Successfully funded and created a limited-edition, 200-page edition art-style book full of high-quality photographs and intimate stories from 35 groundbreaking musicians in New York City’s underground music scene. This multi-faceted project included a coffee table book, vinyl record, and short film and won three coveted awards. • 2013: Book of The Year Award in Performing Arts & Media • Shelf Unbound Award • American Book Fest Award Show less

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  Fodor's travel

  Jan 2020 - Oct 2022

  Freelance travel writer

  • Craft, pitch, create, and write original posts, and articles for notable publications--(Fodor's/GoNomad/ROVA/Others) focusing on the zig-not the zag of travel: from off-the-beaten-path advice to unique destinations; the humorous and unknown; the unexpected and inspiring. Produce funny, entertaining, and informative content.• I am passionate about travel, places, and people, possess stellar verbal/written communication skills; am skilled at networking, receiving feedback, selling story ideas, and consistently meet tight deadlines and schedules. In this position, I have gained an understanding of SEO and social media platforms. Show less

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  Juneau food tours

  May 2023 - Sept 2023

  Tour guide
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  Skagit cellars llc

  Mar 2024 - Nov 2024

  Wine

  Conducting wine tastings and hosting guests I. The beautiful La Conner, Washington.

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  Freelance

  Jun 2024 - now

  Freelance

  We have officially released our lines and are sailing the globe. I am writing and teaching yoga online.