Briefly describe your daily job duties.
I am a Creative Director for Universal Orlando Resort. So in addition to regularly trying to drink my weight in Butterbeer, I’m responsible for creating work that helps tell brand stories and bring the Universal Orlando brand to life–whether that’s through social content or short films or any other medium. Daily duties can include anything from creative brainstorms to being on set for a production to working with an editor on a video piece.
As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job.
Obviously, my job requires a lot of talking. Pitching ideas, talking to casting agents, presenting to large groups of people, directing talent, etc. I’ve grown to be more comfortable in these situations over the years. Funny enough, it’s the daily video call meetings that I’m finding the most challenging right now. Lots of people on a call, lots of conversation back and forth. It can be hard to jump in and say what you want to say.
Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? If so, how did you do it and how do you currently disclose your stuttering to unsuspecting co-workers, clients and or customers?
I didn’t self-disclose during the hiring process for Universal Orlando because I didn’t feel like my stuttering was preventing me from presenting myself the way I wanted. I did, however, disclose it to several team members in recent months. I wanted them to be aware that some situations, particularly during COVID, are challenging for me.
Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work.
Stuttering has, no question, made me more empathetic and also a better listener. In work, sure, but also in life.
What is your proudest moment at your current company?
Working for a theme park and entertainment company like Universal has been a lifelong dream of mine. So my first day on the team was definitely one of my proudest moments, for sure. Since then, though, I’m proud any time I get to be on set, directing talent, working with our crew, or just collaborating with our team to create great work.
What are your long-term career aspirations?
To keep doing what I’m doing for this company for as long as possible. It’s a privilege to be able to create work and tell stories that resonate with millions of people. I love what I do and will continue to do it with passion and enthusiasm for as long as I can.
What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success?
Do not let stuttering stop you from achieving your goals. Yes, stuttering is hard and, some days, it downright sucks. But always remember, you are more than your stuttering. It’s just one part of you and you have gifts and talents that deserve to be recognized and celebrated. A person who stutters can absolutely do anything they want to do.
