I haven’t always been a “language person” like some of our trained linguists here. My passion for language developed gradually throughout my career. As I took on different roles and projects, I began to see just how powerful language could be; how even a single word can shift perceptions and influence behavior. Over time, what started as curiosity turned into a genuine passion. Now, I’m fascinated by the impact language has on everything we do.

And I have to say, being more intentional with my choice of words – and remembering “it’s not what you say, it’s what they hear” – has been very handy in my personal life too!

In my teens and early twenties, I was convinced I was destined to be a rock star. Fortunately, my parents had other ideas – and insisted I go to college, likely suspecting that my “tour bus” would end up being their minivan (thanks, Mom and Dad!).

After graduating, I started my career in sales at a market research and insights company focused on the pharma industry. That’s where I was first introduced to the agency world, and I was immediately drawn to the mix of creativity and strategy it offered. As a musician turned professional, I found the opportunity to combine creative thinking with real business impact especially exciting.

From there, I transitioned fully into the agency side, working across consulting, branding, and advertising before ultimately planting my flag at maslansky + partners.

Back at my first job, I remember some UK colleagues referring to our subscription model as a “scheme.” I had to jump in and say, “Whoa, you can’t call it that in the US – people will think it’s a scam!” That moment has stayed with me over the years and is a core memory that reminds me how much a single word can change your message.

Years later, when maslansky + partners first contacted me, my first thought was, “Where has this been all my life?” I immediately saw the value Language Strategy could have brought to my work and to my clients. In my first conversation with the team, they shared their Starbucks case study; how they changed the messaging for Starbucks VIA Instant from “instant coffee, from Starbucks” to “Starbucks coffee, in an instant.” As a coffee snob with a cabinet full of Starbucks VIA, I realized their language had worked on me! That’s when I knew there was something special here, and I wanted in.

As Head of Client Services, my day looks a bit different than the typical maslansky team member and is focused on three main areas. First, I spend a lot of time connecting with current and prospective partners – listening to their challenges, understanding their goals, and exploring how maslansky can help.

Second, I’m often heads down on proposals, designing project scopes and research plans tailored to each partner’s needs. This is where I get to blend creativity with strategy, making sure we set everyone up for success from the start.

Third, I work closely with our marketing and new business teams to keep us engaged with existing partners and to find new opportunities to grow. Whether it’s brainstorming new ways to add value or reaching out to new audiences, there’s always something interesting to tackle.

No two days are ever quite the same – and honestly, that’s one of my favorite parts of the job.

Toto is my favorite band of all time, and I listen to them completely unironically. My amazing wife (who I’ve proudly converted into a fan) even let us use one of their songs as our wedding song! Now our daughter is a super fan, too. At this point, “Africa” isn’t just a song in our house – it’s basically a family anthem. If you ever need someone to passionately debate Toto’s discography, I’m your man.

Words matter because the right ones can open doors, build trust, and change minds – while the wrong ones can do just the opposite.