How would you describe what you do to someone who knows nothing about Clif Bar or your role?
I’m a personal trainer supporting our employees to achieve their health and wellness goals. Whether a person is looking to improve their sleep schedule, lose weight, or simply gain healthier habits, I create programs that take into account the whole person, physically, mentally and emotionally. At Clif, I do this by asking questions during orientation like “What’s going on with you? What’s working and not working?” Then I tailor a program specifically to that person’s requirements and include the type of movement they prefer. Everyone’s programs are individualized because everyone has different needs.
What do you love most about working at Clif Bar?
I love Clif people and the connections we have with each other. People don’t just know your name; they really know who you are on a personal level, and you have a close relationship with everyone you meet. You’re respected, celebrated, and part of a team.
What are your interests and passions outside of work?
I enjoy mountain biking, surfing, and cycling. My personal lifestyle aligns perfectly with my occupational lifestyle of prioritizing health and being active, as well as helping people prioritize their health in the same ways I do.
A totally different hobby I love is going to the theater to see Broadway shows with my wife. We buy season tickets and see all the shows that premiere each year.
Where is your favorite place to get outside?
I am a big beach goer, especially in Santa Cruz, California. It’s such a peaceful and reflective space that reminds me of my mom, and of course, it’s where I go to surf, which I absolutely love to do.
What is one of your most memorable experiences with Clif Bar?
I have made many memories throughout my 25 years here, but one of my favorites has been our cook-off competitions. With an Iron Chef theme and a list of ingredients, teams would compete to make the best dish with what we were given. Food and cooking are such key components of our company, and this really showed the types of lifestyles we like to lead with the addition of some friendly competition!
How has your life personally changed since you started at Clif?
When I started at CLIF, I was single; since then, I’ve gotten married, bought a house, had kids, and my daughter’s college graduation is this month!
What has been or will be your greatest adventure?
My greatest adventure was a solo one. I was traveling in the Dolomites of Northern Italy with Kit Crawford and Gary Erickson (Clif Bar’s founders), an incredibly beautiful part of the world with a rich history in cycling and food. I was going to ride 5 passes totaling 14,500' of climbing in 78 miles. Gary drew directions for the ride on a napkin for me (a classic route) and I took off at about 9:00am. On my final climb back to the hotel, I totally cracked and needed energy to keep me going. Thankfully the combination of CLIF Bars and food from the last Rifugio I could find, powered me up the last mile when I didn’t think I could go further. All in, it took me about 8 hours to do the ride which pushed me to my absolute limit. Upon my arrival back at the hotel, saw Gary and yelled ‘I'M BACK’ and was so proud to have made it!
What have you learned about Clif on these types of adventures?
These types of adventures are good for the soul and really embody what Clif is all about – inspiring us to enjoy the outdoors and do what we love. It was an incredible experience.
What is your motto or personal mantra?
Pay now or pay later. In life – let’s pay now so later we’re cruising! If you’re not taking care of yourself now you won’t be able to do all the things, you may want to do down the road.
What is your favorite CLIF product?
CLIF BAR Chocolate Chip and CLIF Nut Butter Bar Peanut Butter