How did you end up at Prolink, and what keeps you coming back every day?
I was referred by my good friend, Jason. It’s the people and the culture that keep me coming back. I love the people I work with, and the fun quirks and traditions we have in our office. Whether it’s bumping EDM for 12 hours, or having phone screen competitions amongst the recruiters, all of my friends tell me how they’re jealous of where I work, and that I actually like the people in my office. Apparently, that’s an anomaly!
Tell us about your musical background and how it affects your work at Prolink.
I’ve been playing music since I can remember. We had an upright piano in my house as a child, and for some reason my parents let me bang on it constantly, until I developed some semblance of skill. Ever since then, guitar has been my weapon of choice, and rock & roll my muse. To be making my own music, and have people tell me they love it and how they relate to it, is literally the most surreal experience. I’m currently in two bands right now, and we play music all throughout the state of Ohio. If we’re ever in your city, come check us out!
The Foogazies (Cleveland Band): https://www.facebook.com/thethreefoogazies/
Ghost Train (Cincinnati Band): https://www.ghostrainmusic1.com/
You’ve been growing habaneros at the Cleveland office since March. Why habaneros?
I am indeed growing habanero peppers in the Cleveland office. The reason that I am doing this is because we eat peppers and other spicy things during lunch and before call block sometimes in order to get hyped up and perform at the top level! The link between peppers and recruiting has been scientifically proven. It only seemed natural that I would try to grow some on the window ledge behind me. I don’t currently have plans for any more plants, but you never know! I enjoy the zen that raising these plants provides, and hope to watch them blossom to full growth in the coming months.
What is your favorite meal to cook for someone else?
My favorite meal to cook for others is Pappardelle Amatriciana. This is a spicy pasta dish that originates out of Rome and Southern Italy. The reason I like making this is because I cook it DARN well, and because it is a dish of romance as well as intrigue. Its savory aroma lures you in, only to deliver a one-two punch of bold spice and flavor. Plus, it pairs well with any wine.
What is something you get unreasonably excited about?
- Music festivals: When the bass drops, a primal, untethered feeling emerges, and when it is in a live setting, or even just listening with my buddies, it is a sense of community and euphoria that is unparalleled.
- Disc golf: Disc golf is awesome—an afternoon of free, outdoor fun.
- The Cleveland Indians: This one speaks for itself.
Who is your favorite character of all time (can be from anything, movie, book, TV, whatever)? Why?
Michael Scott—I appreciate The Office more ever since I started working in an office. That dude is outrageous, and though I’ve seen the show about seven times, I still laugh out loud.
What band/artist do you love but would be hesitant to tell anyone because of the weird looks they might give you?
Excision. He makes EDM music that is pretty intense. I’ve been told that it sounds like robots fighting. While it’s not for the faint of heart, his music totally bangs and I’m all about it.
If you had unlimited resources for the next two years, what would you do? (After two years, you go back to your life as is now.)
No question, I would record a professional studio album with my band, and then promote it with a world tour in order to properly spread the gospel. I’d obviously have to buy a yacht, G6 and the whole deal as well, just so I could truly live the lifestyle and speak from the heart.
Best concert you’ve ever been to, why?
Lost Lands was the best one, hands down. It’s a three-day music festival outside of Columbus. I went with some friends from school, and it changed me as a person. There were about 80,000 people headbanging and going off in the woods of Ohio. EDM music served as a backdrop to an Ohio sunset, surrounded by plastic dinosaur sculptures—it was truly an unforgettable experience. There was such a feeling of community, as well as learning about a style of music that was so new to us at that time. We’re going back this year, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store.
What is your spirit animal? If you think you don’t have one, you do now.
Squirrels are my sprit animal. They are very social creatures and are super fun to watch. You ever just sit and watch a squirrel in his natural habitat? They’re rambunctious little guys, and you never know what they’re going to do next. Super energetic and upbeat, I could imagine myself amongst their ranks in the magnificent herds that traverse the plains of Ohio.
