Full Work History
GrandPad, Senior Product Manager - Games & Engagement
March 2022 - Present
I'm passionate about leveraging technology to create meaningful connections and experiences. At GrandPad, I'm proud to be part of a team that is redefining how seniors interact with technology. My focus lies at the intersection of technology, entertainment, and enhancing the lives of seniors. I specialize in curating and delivering captivating gaming and engagement features for the GrandPad platform.
My Impact:
In my role at GrandPad, I've been instrumental in developing and executing a comprehensive product strategy that aligns with the company's commitment to transforming the tech landscape for seniors. From ideation to execution, I bring a user-centric approach to ensure our games and engagement features are not just entertaining but also intuitively designed for our senior demographic.
Major Initiatives:
I spearheaded the addition of an asynchronous multiplayer game system to our platform. This feature allows our users to connect in a whole new way by playing select turn-based games that notify you when it's your turn—adding a layer of excitement and interaction our platform has never had. We currently have added Checkers, Chess, and Yahtzy.
Another milestone initiative was enabling the ability to play games seamlessly during video calls. This not only enhances the gaming experience but also allows seniors to connect with family members in a new and fun way, fostering meaningful connections.
I led the development of a cutting-edge AI companion feature that leverages technologies like ChatGPT, speech-to-text, and text-to-speech. This feature not only brings a new level of accessibility to our platform but also introduces a personalized and interactive experience for our users. Learn more at grandie.ai or on GrandPad.net.
Key Strengths:
I have a proven track record of crafting and executing product strategies that are aligned with business objectives. I take pride in my ability to translate high-level goals into actionable plans that drive success.
I'm passionate about advocating for an exceptional user experience that is tailored to our user's needs. I believe that every one of our users deserves to have access to technology that is easy to use and designed with their specific needs in mind.
I'm proud to lead a small and dynamic team. I foster a collaborative and innovative environment where every team member's unique strengths contribute to our shared success. Together, we turn ideas into impactful features that delight our users.
I have a strong ability to analyze data and identify trends and patterns. I use this information to make data-driven decisions that improve product performance and user satisfaction.
Why Games and Engagement:
I'm passionate about using technology to create meaningful connections and experiences. Games and engagement are key to fostering joy, connection, and exploration. Games can bridge generational gaps and bring people together over shared interests. I'm proud to be part of the GrandPad team that is redefining how seniors interact with technology.
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Diggames - Etsy Store Owner
March 2023 - Present
I'm excited to share a significant chapter in my entrepreneurial journey! Since March 2023, I've been steering the ship at Diggames.com, a passion project turned thriving Etsy store. I've poured my heart into crafting unique and eye-catching items that resonate with gaming enthusiasts. I carefully select premium items to ensure the utmost comfort for our customers. When you choose Diggames, you're not just getting a gaming item– you're joining a club of gamers who appreciate quality, comfort, and style.
Crafting Designs:
Every product at Diggames.com is a product of creativity and care. From conceptualization to design, I've poured my heart into crafting unique and eye-catching items that resonate with gaming enthusiasts. I carefully select premium items to ensure the utmost comfort for our customers. When you choose Diggames, you're not just getting a gaming item– you're joining a club of gamers who appreciate quality, comfort, and style.
Setting Up Shop:
I worked hard to build a Shopify storefront, but as things progressed Etsy became the clear winning decision for my goals. So I moved all store setup through the Etsy shop and closed down the Shopify store.
Running Marketing Campaigns:
In the vast digital landscape, marketing is key. I've dipped my toes in the dynamic world of digital marketing, strategizing and executing campaigns to amplify the presence of Diggames.com. I run Facebook and Instagram campaigns and work with Micro-Influencers. It's not just about products; it's about building a community around a shared love for gaming.
What Drives Diggames.com:
I started Diggames with the simple goal of creating cool gaming-themed shirts that my kids and friends would love to wear. I wanted to offer nice quality items that looked great and felt comfortable. I carefully select premium items to ensure the utmost comfort for my customers.
DIGGAMES is created by Gamers for Gamers: I live and breathe gaming, and my goal is to provide fellow gamers with merchandise that celebrates our love for the game.
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Jumpstart, Process Improvement Manager
November 2020 - March 2022
I've spearheaded the creation of a comprehensive studio-wide process tailored for our dynamic hybrid teams. This transformative journey started with the creation and standardization of agile ceremonies, revolutionizing the way we collaborate and innovate across diverse projects.
Evolution of Agile Ceremonies:
Our teams, spanning Zoo Guardians, School of Dragons, and various JumpStart titles, operated seamlessly within the agile methodology. Each agile ceremony, from stand-ups to sprint planning, retrospectives, and reviews, is finely tuned to our studio's unique needs of their teams. This cohesive framework ensures effective communication, rapid adaptation, and a shared rhythm that transcends the boundaries of physical and virtual workspaces.
Tracking Velocity and Dates:
Our process is built on meticulous tracking and estimation of velocity and project timelines. Through collaborative efforts, we've refined our approach to ensure accuracy. This enables us to navigate the intricate timelines of Zoo Guardians, School of Dragons, and other JumpStart titles with precision.
Pioneering OKRs for Studio Excellence:
As we advance, our focus extends beyond day-to-day operations. I've played a key role in introducing a robust OKR (Objectives and Key Results) framework, aligning our teams and games with overarching studio objectives. This strategic approach ensures that every project, whether it's nurturing virtual ecosystems in Zoo Guardians or igniting the imaginations of young minds in School of Dragons, contributes to the larger vision of studio excellence.
Fostering Collaboration Across Titles:
Our studio was a tapestry of creativity, with each game telling a unique story. I've championed initiatives to break down silos and foster collaboration that transcends individual titles. Whether it's cross-functional workshops, knowledge-sharing sessions, or joint sprint reviews, the goal was to create an ecosystem where each team's expertise elevates the collective potential of the entire studio.
Future-Forward Agile Excellence:
This journey was a testament to our commitment to continuous improvement. Together, we were not just adapting to the hybrid landscape; we were thriving in it. Our agile methodologies, coupled with OKRs and collaborative efforts, position us for future success as we continued to create immersive experiences in Zoo Guardians, School of Dragons, and all our JumpStart titles.
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JumpStart, Senior Product Manager
November 2020 - March 2022
Zoo Guardians was a F2P mobile game by JumpStart built in partnership with the Smithsonian Zoo. Players take a transformative journey with Zoo Guardians, where gaming passion meets a profound dedication to animal conservation. As a member of the Young Guardians Initiative, players dive into a world where creating a custom zoo for endangered species is just the beginning.
Build Your Dream Zoo:
In Zoo Guardians, players create a haven for endangered species. They adopt diverse animals and care for them to ensure their well-being. Every decision, from designing enclosures to tending to each creature's unique needs, shapes the destiny of these majestic beings.
Key Focus: Early Engagement Metrics:
I was responsible for analyzing early engagement metrics to gain insights that could fuel strategic growth. By understanding player behavior from the start, I helped shape a product that not only captivates players but also instills a sense of responsibility for wildlife conservation.
Setting Achievable Team Milestones:
I worked with the team to outline KPIs that needed to be improved and helped set the team up to achieve the goals that we set. We worked to outline quick wins and longer term meta changes. Together, we've achieved milestones that helped to improve early metric issues we outlined.
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GrandPad, Product Manager
March 2019 - November 2020
B2C Innovations:
I was instrumental in enhancing the GrandPad experience for our users. I spearheaded feature additions and optimizations and orchestrated a transformative update that elevated our app ratings from 3.4 to an impressive 4.8. This not only reflected a tangible improvement in user satisfaction but also showcased the power of user-centric product enhancements.
B2B Leadership:
I transitioned to the dynamic realm of B2B, taking charge of GrandPad's foray into healthcare partnerships. I led the charge in developing the Provider Console solution—a cutting-edge platform empowering healthcare partners to seamlessly connect with their clients. This comprehensive solution enables partners to send emails, make calls, and exchange messages, fostering enhanced communication and care.
I'm thrilled to be part of GrandPad's evolution towards enriching lives through technology. My dual experiences, bridging B2C innovation and B2B healthcare solutions, encapsulate my commitment to driving transformative changes that not only meet but exceed user and partner expectations.
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LCAD, Adjunct Professor
October 2019 - June 2020
Guiding Future Game Design Visionaries at LCAD!
I was an Adjunct Professor at LCAD, contributing to the Art of Game Design MFA program. As the dedicated Instructor of the Game Prototype class, I worked to cultivate the next generation of game design visionaries.
Nurturing Creativity:
I was honored to lead the Game Prototype class, inspiring and guiding students through the intricate world of game design. From ideation to execution, the focus was on honing practical skills and fostering innovative thinking, equipping students with the tools to bring their gaming visions to life. Really understanding what parts of their final project needed to be prototyped and brought to live early.
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David Is Goliath Games, Co-Founder
January 2011 - November 2020
Mobile Gaming
At David Is Goliath, we proudly launched multiple titles on mobile platforms (iOS and Google), each designed to captivate audiences and push our team’s development boundaries.
Spider Run: An exhilarating endless runner game packed with power-ups and adrenaline-pumping challenges. Spider Run took players on a thrilling journey through dynamic landscapes, keeping them hooked for endless hours of fun.
Garden Match & Pop: A delightful kids' game inspired by the classic popcorn pop mat games, reimagined for mobile without any ads, 100% free and safe. Garden Match & Pop offered young players a vibrant and engaging experience, fostering creativity and excitement.
Colors on the Brain: A brain-training puzzle game that challenged players to think critically and strategize their moves. Colors on the Brain not only entertained but also sharpened cognitive skills, making it a favorite among puzzle enthusiasts.
Nurturing Creativity:
In addition to our creative endeavors, I honed my skills in retention strategies and key performance indicators, ensuring our games not only attracted but also retained a loyal fan base. From analyzing user behavior to optimizing gameplay mechanics, my focus was always on delivering exceptional gaming experiences that keep players coming back for more.
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Neopets, Producer
March 2018 - March 2019
During my time as Neopets Producer for the mobile game Legends & Letters, I had the honor of overseeing the development and launch of an innovative turn-based battler that brought the beloved Neopets universe to life in a whole new way. One of the standout features of Legends & Letters was the integration of a dynamic Scrabble board as the primary gameplay mechanic, where spelling larger words not only showcased players' vocabulary prowess but also powered up their characters' attacks.
Innovative Gameplay Concept:
Legends & Letters introduced a fresh twist to the traditional turn-based battle genre by incorporating a Scrabble-inspired gameplay mechanic. As players engaged in wordplay on the Scrabble board, they not only strategized their next moves but also fueled their characters' abilities and unleashed powerful attacks by spelling longer and more complex words.
Engagement Through Wordplay:
The integration of the Scrabble board not only provided players with a fun and interactive gaming experience but also encouraged creativity and strategic thinking. The active gameplay element of forming words added a dynamic layer of engagement, keeping players invested and immersed in the world of Neopets. By spelling larger words, players not only dealt devastating blows to their opponents but also advanced their characters' abilities and unlocked new powers. This unique fusion of wordplay and battle mechanics offered a compelling gameplay loop, where players were rewarded for both their linguistic skills and strategic prowess.
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Knowledge Adventure, Producer
June 2017 - March 2018
During my tenure as Game Producer at Knowledge Adventure, I had the opportunity to lead the development of the captivating School of Dragons game—a thrilling journey into the magical realm of dragons and adventure. One of the highlights of my time at Knowledge Adventure was the introduction of a groundbreaking new game mode to School of Dragons, which significantly impacted our player base and monetization strategy.
Innovative Game Mode Introduction:
I spearheaded the introduction of a new turn-based battle mode to School of Dragons, revolutionizing the gameplay experience for our players. This immersive feature allowed players to engage in strategic battles with their dragons and characters, adding a new layer of depth and excitement to the game.
Impact on Player Engagement:
The introduction of the turn-based battle mode proved to be a game-changer, drawing in the highest amount of core users from the School of Dragons game into this highly replayable mode. The strategic gameplay and competitive nature of the new mode captivated our players, leading to increased engagement and retention rates.
Monetization Opportunities:
Furthermore, the success of the turn-based battle mode allowed us to monetize our core users in a more repeatable manner. By offering enticing in-game purchases and premium features within the new mode, we were able to generate sustainable revenue streams while providing value to our dedicated player base.
Collaborative Achievement:
This accomplishment was the result of collaborative effort and dedication from the entire development team. Through effective communication, strategic planning, and innovative thinking, we successfully brought this exciting new game mode to life and witnessed its transformative impact on the School of Dragons.
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Knowledge Adventure, Game Design Manager
June 2013 - June 2017
During my time as the Game Design Manager at Knowledge Adventure, I had the honor of overseeing the development of an expansive portfolio of educational and entertainment games, including iconic titles such as School of Dragons, Math Blaster, JumpStart, and two NFL titles, among others. My role encompassed leading a talented team of designers, shaping the creative vision for each project, and ensuring that our games not only entertained but also educated and inspired players of all ages.
Innovative Game Design Leadership:
As Game Design Manager, I played a pivotal role in shaping the creative direction and gameplay mechanics of our diverse range of titles. From the fantasy world of School of Dragons to the high-energy action of Math Blaster and the immersive adventures of JumpStart, each game was a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence in game design.
Collaborative Excellence:
At Knowledge Adventure, collaboration was key to our success. I worked closely with cross-functional teams, including artists, programmers, writers, and marketers, to ensure alignment with project goals and objectives. By fostering a culture of creativity, communication, and collaboration, we were able to deliver games that resonated with players worldwide.
Legacy of Innovation:
As I look back on my time at Knowledge Adventure, I am immensely proud of the contributions I made to our diverse portfolio of games. From educational classics like Math Blaster and JumpStart to immersive worlds like School of Dragons and NFL titles, each game was a labor of love and a testament to our commitment to excellence.
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Knowledge Adventure, Game Designer
June 2011 - June 2013
During my time as a Game Designer at Knowledge Adventure, I had the privilege of contributing to some of the most iconic educational MMOs, including Math Blaster, JumpStart, and Super Secret. My focus was primarily on level design and creating engaging mini-games within these immersive virtual worlds, aimed at sparking curiosity and fostering learning in young players.
Engaging Mini-Games:
One of the highlights of my role was designing and developing mini-games that not only entertained but also reinforced key educational concepts. Whether it was solving math puzzles, exploring science experiments, or embarking on thrilling adventures, these mini-games added depth and variety to the gameplay experience, encouraging active participation and learning.
Collaborative Creativity:
Working closely with artists, programmers, and fellow designers, I collaborated on the conception, implementation, and iteration of game levels and mini-games. By fostering a collaborative and innovative environment, we were able to push the boundaries of educational gaming and deliver experiences that captivated and inspired young learners.
Player-Centric Approach:
At Knowledge Adventure, our primary focus was always on the player. By listening to feedback, analyzing gameplay data, and staying attuned to the needs of our audience, we continually refined and improved our games to ensure they resonated with players and provided meaningful learning experiences.
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Mattel Inc, Lead QA Analyst
October 2009 - June 2011
Conducted thorough testing of website updates and Flash games for Mattel's US and International platforms.
Served as the Lead QA Analyst for the Hot Wheels Racing Circuit PC game and corresponding website.
Led Quality Assurance efforts for Mattel's extensive portfolio, overseeing websites and Flash games for Hot Wheels (US and International), Battle Force 5 (US and International), Hot Wheels Racing Circuit, Hot Wheels Collectors, Max Steel (International), and Matchbox.
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Epicenter Studios, Senior Tester
November 2008 - August 2009
As a Senior Tester on "Real Heroes: Firefighters" for the Wii, I played a pivotal role in ensuring the game's quality and immersive experience. My responsibilities included conducting rigorous testing protocols, identifying and reporting bugs, and collaborating with the development team to enhance gameplay and address any issues.
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Treyarch/Activision, Production Tester
March 2008 - October 2008
As a tester for two iconic titles, "James Bond 007: Quantum of Solace" and "Call of Duty: World at War," I played a crucial role in ensuring the quality, functionality, and overall gaming experience met the high standards expected by enthusiasts.
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2k Games, QA tester
May 2007 - March 2008
As a tester for the sports gaming realm, I contributed to the quality assurance efforts for several noteworthy titles, including "NBA 2K8," "NCAA 2K8," and "MLB 2K8" across multiple platforms, including PS2, PS3, and Xbox 360. My responsibilities extended beyond traditional game testing, encompassing the evaluation of associated websites for a holistic gaming experience.
Gallup top 5 strengths
Strategic
Positivity
Ideation
Achiever
Developer