Q. What did you want to be when you were a little kid and why?
A. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to be. Nothing really clicked when I was young. I eventually started a career in architecture because I enjoyed drawing and building. I always knew I’d run a business. I just didn’t know what it would be or how I’d get there.

Q. What does your company do?
A. Tree Ring Digital is a full-service digital agency. We help businesses with multiple brands or locations turn their digital presence into a tool for growth. We manage everything in-house. That includes websites, hosting, SEO, paid ads, branding, design, integrations, and digital asset management. We work with corporate teams, private equity firms, and companies preparing for sale or expansion.

Q. How long has your company been in business?
A. Over 15 years.

Q. Can you tell us about why and how you started the company.
A. I graduated during the housing crash and lost two jobs in architecture. I also had health issues that made it hard to work in a traditional office. I started teaching myself web design and helped anyone who needed support. If I didn’t know how to fix something, I learned.
As my skills grew, so did my client base. Many started asking for help with marketing. I taught myself digital marketing so I could offer more. Over time, I hired a team and built Tree Ring Digital into a full-service agency.

Q. What has been your biggest business challenge in the past year, and how have you addressed it?
A. Our biggest challenge was shifting our focus. We moved from supporting small businesses to partnering with larger organizations. These clients often have someone managing digital tasks internally. But they lack the time, tools, or strategy to do it all.
We created systems that give them full visibility and control. That meant updating our own processes and sales approach. It was a big change. But it helped us offer more value to clients managing complex operations.

Q. What is one thing that makes you and your company stand out from your competition?
A. We do more than offer strategy. We implement everything. Our clients don’t need multiple vendors. They come to us for websites, ads, integrations, tracking, design, and more.
We’re also known for solving problems fast. If a client needs help fixing a tech issue, we jump in. No ticket system. No delays. That level of support builds trust and keeps projects moving.

Q. How has being part of the LGBTQ+ community shaped the way your life and career have developed?
A. Being LGBTQ+ shaped how I lead and how I show up. I came out at 16, but when I started the business, I stayed closeted with clients. I was worried it would affect their decision to hire me.
As I grew more confident, I realized how important visibility is. I started speaking about my story and got involved with LGBTQ Chambers. I also made sure our company culture is one where everyone feels safe and welcome.

Q. Can you tell us about a turning point in your life and why it sticks out as so significant.
A. The biggest turning point was having a grand mal seizure while driving. It caused a major accident. Thankfully, no one was hurt.
That moment forced me to change course. I couldn’t pursue my architecture plans without a license. So I taught myself web development and found a path I love. It taught me to stay calm, pivot when needed, and focus on what I can control.

Q. What do you wish you had more time to do? (or What do you love to do when you’re not working?)
A. I’d love to spend more time woodworking. I enjoyed it in high school and still find it fascinating. One day I’d like to have a small workshop where I can build and create just for fun.

Q. What’s your favorite place in the world you’ve ever visited, and why do you love it?
A. Tulum is one of my favorite places. I went there solo to step back from the day-to-day and refocus. I worked outside, moved at my own pace, and made time for reflection.
I also went scuba diving in the cenotes. It requires staying calm and trusting yourself. That mindset shows up in how I lead, especially when things get tough.

Q. What is one piece of business advice you would offer your LGBTQ+ peers?
A. Be visible. Be focused. Be yourself. Your perspective is a strength. The more you show up fully, the more people you’ll inspire.

How to connect … TreeRingDigital.com