What do you do in our industry?

I am co-founder and CEO of Lovevery, an early childhood development company focused on healthy brain development for ages 0-5.   

Why and how did you get into the Toy and Game industry?

I have spent the last 17 years of my career in early childhood. The first company I co-founded, Happy Family, is a leading brand of organic baby and toddler food.

After learning so much about the importance of nutrition for young children, I found myself wondering, “are we doing enough to nourish our children’s brains?” This question led me to cofound Lovevery in 2015.

What is it about the Toy and Game Industry that you love?

It’s an industry all about joy—creating moments of connection for children and families. It’s incredibly fulfilling to create products and resources that help new parents feel more confident and support a child’s development as they grow. At its core, the Toy and Game industry is one that’s built on fun, imagination, and meaningful impact to shape how children see the world.

What has kept you motivated to stay in the toy industry?

It is so meaningful to read messages from families on social media or meet children at an airport or at the supermarket, and hear directly from parents about the Lovevery book their child asked to read three times last night, the favorite toy that’s in their car, and how proud they are of their child. To me, that’s the motivation: making an impact in homes across the world.

What advice do you have for people starting in the industry?

It’s important to not be afraid to fail, and not get bogged down by the idea of what success should look like. Anything really worth doing is going to be hard. Invest your time in whatever ignites your passion and curiosity, and let yourself be guided by the impact you want to have on the world.

What and/or who inspires you?

I'm inspired by Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, for his bold and values-driven leadership. When he gave away all of Patagonia’s future profits declaring that “Earth is now our only shareholder,” he redefined what it means to run a responsible business. His actions remind me that companies can be a force for good.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Co-creating with our customers. We partner with families in our community so we know what is on their minds. They help us come up with ideas for new products and books and even connect us with experts. For example, we created a book about a little girl with a limb difference who goes to the playground and makes a new friend. Her mom reached out to us and asked if we could represent her story.  We always try to balance sharing helpful, insightful tips with the stories of real families, and we try not to shy away from meaningful and challenging topics.

What are you working on now?

So much! Our latest focus has been on early literacy. We introduced The Reading Skill Set, our first skills-based learning program, to support children’s reading development. Our solution incorporates the science of reading into what we already know about learning through play, so children stay motivated, engaged, and confident as they learn to read – and it really works! In a six-week study, The Reading Skill Set was shown to increase reading skills in 98% of children. Our program is proof that phonics can be fun without a screen.

Where do you come up with your best ideas?

I come up with my best ideas by watching how children play and by talking with other parents about what’s bringing joy or challenges in their daily lives. Those real, everyday moments spark the most meaningful insights. Often, it’s in those honest conversations and quiet observations that the most impactful ideas take shape.

Were you obsessed with any toys, games or objects as a kid?

I loved to play with Barbie Dolls as a child. I had the barbie dream house and would play with it for hours and hours with my cousin Marta.

I also loved reading. Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel, all of Roald Dahl’s children’s books, and the Ramona Series by Beverly Cleary were some of my top favorites. It’s special because my three children now love these books too.

Do you have any kiddos?

I have three children – ages 15, 12, and 10. It’s getting into the teenage and tween years which is becoming a new chapter to navigate!

Do you have any pets?

We officially welcomed our first family pet dog, Norman into our family a year ago. He’s such a sweetie and the kids love him. 

What’s the best book you’ve ever read?

I have been reading and re-reading The Power of Now-A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment, by Eckhart Tolle since my early 20’s. It’s so hard to be in the present, but when I get there I find a new level of flow.

Do you have a mantra that you live by?

The saying “the days are long but the years are short” has been a mantra of mine for a while. This feels very true for my life as a parent and as CEO. I’m always trying to find a way to be more present and enjoy the journey.