When Sam joined Idea Decanter as an Account Executive, that 20 years of experience in the wide world of sports, where he regularly interviewed the biggest names in the NFL and coached brand new pro athletes through their first network TV interviews, really came in handy.
He’s applied those skills to coaching Idea Kit clients through remote record sessions and fired some tough (along with some softball) questions at advisors in Muse session interviews. But where he really shines is on demo calls with advisors who are interested in finding out more about how Idea Kit works. Like a coach with a dry erase board, Sam lays out the process. And like any standout quarterback, when Sam has a big sales win, he smiles graciously and then puts his head down and gets back in the game.
#10: Born and raised in the vibrant state of Louisiana, Sam now calls the Windy City, Chicago, his home. But if you’re looking for food recommendations on your next trip to Louisiana– from boudin to the perfect ‘po boy – Sam’s the guy to ask.
#9: Despite living in Chicago for 9 years, Sam still has a strong dislike for shoveling snow and gets lots of use out the remote start for his car in the dead of winter.
#8: Standing tall at 6 feet 5 inches leads everyone to think Sam was destined for the NBA. Sam has not played on a team since the 7th grade.
#7: Sam and Idea Decanter’s co-founder, Laura Garfield, both cut their teeth in broadcasting at the same New Orleans TV station. Laura was a weekend reporter, while Sam was the weekend producer. They both worked there when Hurricane Katrina left her mark on the city.
#6: Sam’s dedication knows no bounds. During the challenging days after Hurricane Katrina, which flooded the newsroom, he and his news team put together post-storm coverage working from a different city and later a studio that had been submerged in 15 feet of water.
#5: Sam’s life is an adventure! He’s been chased by an alligator and even attacked by a bear. Luckily, not on the same day.
#4: Sam’s theme song is none other than “This Is How We Do It” by Montel Jordan. Once you hear it, it’s guaranteed to stay with you. You’re welcome!
#3 Sam enjoys playing poker in his free time. Unfortunately, he has not yet hit a royal flush.
#2: Sam’s professional accolades include 3 Emmy Awards, 2 Telly Awards, and immense pride in seeing former interns and those he’s trained go on to achieve greatness in their careers.
#1: On a personal note, Sam’s greatest treasures are his two wonderful sons, Sammy and Jacob.
