Let’s start at the beginning. Can you share a formative memory from childhood?

I can still remember the first time I saw vinegar and baking soda mix together to create a bubble explosion — while making red velvet cake with my mom. Peering into the mixing bowl, I learned that two seemingly different components can come together to create something magical and explosive. 

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Wow. Are there any other family lessons that have stuck with you?

My grandfather used to say, “change or fail.” I’ve kept that adage close to my heart, constantly reminding myself that change, while it can be scary, is integral to growth and success. As soon as I’m comfortable, I know it’s time to start trying something new. 

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That’s a great ethos.

Yes, and so much of the work our entrepreneurs do is rooted in that tenet. They’re iterating constantly, always checking the pulse of their customers, employees, or especially their own gut.

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Did you study business in college?

I actually studied history, which has made me a huge advocate for the humanities. It taught me how to think creatively, problem solve, tell stories, and draw connections, and many of those skills are integral to the entrepreneurial and investor journey. 

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I also learned so much about people, different perspectives, the importance of contextualization and interpretation, and the power of the written word to give voice to those who’ve lived in the footnotes or who’ve never had a voice. I love reading, so that’s how I continue strengthening those muscles today.

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Incredible. So I’m guessing the perfect Saturday would involve a good book?

Yes! I’m a huge bookworm. Aside from your classic paperbacks, I’m obsessed with cookbooks — I actually read them cover to cover and have a stack of at least five next to my bed at all times. Plenty by Yotam Ottolenghi is currently at the top of the stack.

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That’s amazing.

So my day would definitely start with going through a few cookbooks to put together a menu for a dinner party. Then I would go to a farmer’s market to gather ingredients and get to cooking! Friends would start trickling in a few hours later, and laughter, chatter, and delicious food would fill the house until late.

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You’re honestly the first person I’ve ever met with a cookbook addiction.

Yes, but I’ve cut down to one a month, so it’s totally under control. 😉