A Founder, Coder, currently helping people find Love at Bubby.

What’s your historical NYC and SF connection?

I spent my college summers living and working in New York, and always intended to end up there. But when, in 2011, I had an incredible opportunity to work with and learn from some of the most renowned entrepreneurs in San Francisco, I couldn’t refuse. That decision has led me on a roller coaster startup journey. I’m on my second company now, and am still trying to maneuver my way back to the big city!

Describe your experience in SF and your experience in NYC.
My New York experience can mostly described by one word: FOMO. There’s always so much going on – professionally, socially, culturally – that I’m in a race to fit it all in and never have a moment to breathe. In San Francisco, the laid back pace emphasizes getting work done while staying active. I go on weekend hikes, drive down to the beach, or relax in Dolores Park. I definitely need to work on bringing my SF lifestyle to my time in New York.

What was the biggest challenge of moving between NYC and SF?
I’m an introvert, so having a core community is really important to me. Going back and forth between two places, it can be difficult to keep up that strong core. Luckily, I’ve got spectacular humans in both cities that always embrace me with open hearts.

How can NYC and SF best engage with each other?
Less competition and more cooperation! I think rather than drawing comparisons between the two cities, we can pick our favorite bits of each and spread that magic across coasts.

Favorite SF secret spot
Laszlo for weekend brunch. It’s cozy, there’s usually funk records spinning, and they serve the entire Foreign Cinema menu without the wait!

Favorite NYC secret spot
An intimate 1:1 cocktail with a loved one at Angel’s Share.

If you were not where you are now, what would you be doing?
My dream is to foster a community where friends can bolster each other up, provide support, encouragement, and positive vibes, to help each other build their dreams. I’m definitely walking down that path.

Trip Entertainment: what song/album, TV show, podcast, or videos have you been consuming lately?
I’ve been listening to RKCB nonstop. It’s like – James Blake and Sam Smith making a baby. If you haven’t heard them, Elision is a great first listen.