Originally Published in the St. Louis Small Business Monthly, March 1, 2015

Website: www.ChemistryMultimedia.com 
Industry: Public Relations, Event Management and Video Production

What is your mission?

Chemistry Multimedia’s mission is to effectively formulate brands using multiple messages through multiple mediums. Specifically, we focus on assisting clients through media relations, event management, video production and effective communications strategies so that our customers see success and then refer us future business. 

What was your first job?  

At the age of 9, I was selling magazines and holiday cards door to door. But at the age of 14 I got my first official job as a busboy at Howard Johnson’s in Kirkwood. From there, I moved up to dishwasher, cook, host and waiter. By the time I moved on at age 18, I like to think I could have easily managed the restaurant. 

What was your worst job?  

All of my jobs have provided me with great personal development in some way. As much as I disliked working in the restaurant industry, I learned so much and wouldn’t give that experience up for anything! 

What led you to your industry?  

I have to say that the combination of an inspiring journalism teacher in high school, my amazing political experiences in the early 1990’s and my master’s degree in media relations has all led me to realizing my passion of supporting my clients’ public relations needs through superior media relations capabilities. 

What was the smartest thing your company did in the past year?  

The smartest thing we’ve done in the last year has been to make the methodical decision to expand our staffing operations and focus on growth in developing more national clients. Then I became honored to represent actor Gary Sinise’s foundation, the Gary Sinise Foundation, as our signature client. 

Who is your industry role model?

Peter Shankman has been a friend and an industry role model. However, when I have questions about my industry, I have come to also respect colleagues’ answers to my questions on key LinkedIn and Facebook industry groups. 

How do you try to differentiate your business from others in your industry?

For six years, our ethics, hard work and proven track record have led to our company obtaining new clients strictly based upon referrals and reputation in the industry. 

What’s the hardest part of your job?

Public relations has been proven to be one of the most stressful jobs. I believe the hardest and most stressful part of producing PR events include ensuring the following three components are executed flawlessly: 1.) media, PR and publicity, 2.) logistics, contracts and vendors and 3.) ensuring clients reach their highest possible potential in ROI for each event.

What’s the best part?

For me, working with clients like the Gary Sinise Foundation, where their overall mission is to do good in the world, inspires me to want to do more. 

What best advice would you share with new entrepreneurs? 

As a serial entrepreneur, I find myself always falling back on what I do best, media relations. So, as you follow your dreams, make sure you’re doing what you do best, or at least doing what you love to do. 

What’s your favorite place in St. Louis?

Busch Stadium during the playoffs! 

What has made you successful in your industry and in St. Louis?

I am reputable and respected in the St. Louis community because of my ethics, dedication to service and a drive for true success. And I just enjoy creating with people!

– See more at: Small Business Monthly – Time with the Boss