Beverage Director & Partner for Cote Korean Steakhouse

I've learned that the key to a healthy work/life balance is to be okay with saying "no" to things. At the beginning of my career, I said yes to everything; I thought it was necessary to build my skillset. Now my focus is on balance and my health. I exercise, eat lots of greens, drink lots of water, and monitor my alcohol intake carefully. Also, I make time for relationships that are emotionally healthy and supportive.

Positivity and love are what I look for when hiring team members. I can teach someone to be a sommelier, but I cannot teach them to have a heart. The people I hire are good people first, reliable professionals second, and curious and humble.

The essential skills to succeed in this industry are patience, empathy, and a broad understanding of different cultures and current events. I manage a team of over 100 persons and interact with over 300 guests a night. I have to be able to understand many different viewpoints and backgrounds and how to make them all happy.

I keep my team motivated by listening to their needs, giving them the tools they need, making them feel special, and most importantly showing them their growth potential. I try my best to serve my team every day by always, always remaining positive.