Stephen is a proud Canadian who has lived the past 12 years in Charlotte NC with his wife Jane and his three favorite daughters.
Q: What one word best describes you?
A: Quirky
Q: Tell us about one thing that makes you weird?
A: Just one? Ha! I’m one of three siblings married to one of three siblings. I’ll stop right there.
Q: What qualifies you to lead this group of companies?
A: Not much. I am a C student with a 12th grade education who has done about 30 years in the school of hard knocks.
Q: Favorite movies and why?
A: Shawshank Redemption and The Fugitive. Both stories are about hope.
Q: What annoys your children about you?
A: Singing old gospel hymns loudly in the morning. Being quick to spot their infractions and not my own.
Q: Favorite book and why?
A: The bible. Hands down. It cuts me open in a good way and leaves me filled with hope of a better tomorrow.
Q: What do you enjoy outside of work?
A: Long walks. Travelling with my family. A nap after lunch each day. Getting to bed by 9 pm.
Q: What are some things you would like to change about you?
A: To be a better listener and less judgmental like my wife.
Q: What keeps you up at night?
A: Sometimes my brain starts going off like a popcorn machine with new ideas, things I need to do the next day or worries. Once that happens sleep is over!
Q: What was your primary role in the early days and why?
A: Product development and marketing. It’s where I could add value. I was average to poor at everything else.
Q: What is your role within the group of companies now?
A: To encourage leaders to take risks and not be too afraid of intelligent failure. I’ve got an MBA in that subject so I can speak with some authority!
Q: What are some unpopular business beliefs you have?
A: Try and put people before profits. Get small to get big. Divide to multiply.
Q: Do you have a favorite quote or saying?
A: I have at least 50 of them according to my kids. They gave me this for my 50th birthday. Best gift ever
