How did you get into the business?
I started in the pioneer days back in 1998, working for a company called Itslive.com. I attended my first trade show in Orlando when there were very few attendees in a small ballroom of the hotel, directly across from Downtown Disney. Interesting, to say the least. From that point, I am lucky to say that I have been witness to the explosion and evolution of our industry, working for MegaHardcore.com, ClubJenna, Playboy and now Rude.com. In the meantime, I’ve seen quite a few interesting things! It has been a great ride so far.
I love just about every aspect of our business. I wouldn’t trade my experience for the world.
What in your background prepared you for what you are doing now?
Truth be told, Hooter’s did! I was a tried and true Hooter’s girl for about seven years and was able to travel the country as a corporate trainer and promotions manager. It taught me so many things about sales, presentation and marketing. And it taught me the art of saying “no” sometimes or problem solving something that isn’t necessarily in my control. The kitchen’s problems were my problems and being able to assess situations, resolve them and make everyone satisfied was an invaluable lesson. I practice it now nearly every day. I may even still have a pair of orange shorts around somewhere.
What do you see as the challenges of working in the adult online business? How do you overcome them?
I think there are many challenges as a female working in the adult business but there are just as many advantages so they balance one another, in my experience. Our industry evolves so quickly and trying to stay in front of the curve is probably my greatest challenge as a sales professional. That evolution also creates a need to analyze your relationships and be conscientious about who you choose to do business with because there is always someone new in the game. Being strategic is the key to longevity in our industry. Luckily, I think the length of time that I have been here has gifted me with friendships and relationships that make the strategy part fairly simple.
Does your work life affect your personal life?
It used to, I think. But as the years have passed, my personal life and professional life have collided and I have surrounded myself with my industry peers and colleagues, which makes for one interesting lunch conversation! And it’s somewhat fun to see the look on people’s faces when you tell them that you work in porn. It’s a definite icebreaker. I come in handy at parties! And I love just about every aspect of our business. I wouldn’t trade my experience for the world.
Each month, industry news media organization XBIZ spotlights the career accomplishments and outstanding contributions of Women in Adult. WIA profiles offer an intimate look at the professional lives of the industry's most influential female executives.