Just like any business, our team is the most important part to our success. Every couple of months, we like to showcase a member of our team, so that you can get the opportunity to learn a bit more about who they are, their role at Twenty Over Ten, their interests and hobbies, and some fun facts. Today, meet Ed Russell, Project Manager and CFO of Twenty Over Ten.
1. Hi Ed. Thanks so much for taking the time to speak with me. My first question for you is: As the oldest member of our start up team, you have an interesting career trajectory. Can you share a bit about your work background and experience?
Thirty years prior to Twenty Over Ten I was owner/operator of multiple radiation oncology facilities. It taught me that success comes from team work. It also taught me to appreciate each waking day. Prior to selling my cancer centers, Ryan approached me about a business idea that he was interested in pursuing. Not only did I think that his idea was exceptional, the thought of working with my son on this project gave me a great sense of pride.
2. As the Project Manager and CFO for Twenty Over Ten, what do you find to be the most challenging part of your job? What part do you enjoy most?
As the Project Manager and CFO the most challenging part of my job is keeping up with the ever-changing technology. The part of my job that I enjoy the most is working with our team and watching everyone’s individual strengths come together to keep our mobile responsive app the most innovative in the industry. I also really enjoy the interaction of working with our clients.
3. What hobbies do you most enjoy when you are not working?
The number one hobby that I enjoy most is spending time with my family…my wife Mickey who I have been married to for 38 years…my two children, Kimberly, Ryan, and their respective spouses Justin and Samantha… and my 4 grandchildren, Kyle, Ellie, Will and Hudson. They bring me my greatest joy.
4. I know you are an avid cyclist – why do you think you are most drawn to that sport? What do you like most about it?
Since my youth I have always been involved in competitive sports, so cycling seemed to be the next logical step for me. I am now an avid cyclist in my 60’s! For the past 6 years I found cycling a great way to challenge myself both physically and mentally. While cycling is mind clearing, it is also stress relieving.
5. I heard you have a love for super long biking events/rides. What is the longest ride you have ever completed? Where was it and how did it go?
I have completed 10 Century Rides per summer with my fastest 100 mile ride averaging 20.35 miles per hour. The longest bike ride I have ever done was 280 miles, from Fort Myers, Florida to Key West, Florida. Not only is each ride an amazing experience but all rides that I compete in are rides for Charity.
I also competed in the National 24 Hour Challenge in Middleville, Michigan. I thought that one was a “one and done” because the heat index was 115 degrees and the elevation climb was 5300 feet. Last week I couldn’t help myself and signed up again to compete in the 2017 National 24 Hour Challenge.
6. What keeps you inspired throughout the work day? What gets you out of bed in the morning?
You asked me what inspired me throughout the work day. I would say that because I am now in my 60’s, keeping my mind sharp is important. I do this by starting each morning with completing a Sudoku Puzzle and then head out to face the day’s challenges at work.
7. Do you practice any daily activities? What is a “must- do” for yourself everyday?
It is interesting too that you asked me if I have a daily “must- do” ritual. I would say yes, as I focus on really enjoying the moment that I’m in.
8. What is your favorite part about being apart of the Twenty Over Ten team?
My favorite part of being a member of Twenty Over Ten is the opportunity to work with my son and being a part of such a creative and also innovative group of incredible people.
9. Do you have any favorite books? Articles? What are they?
As for reading, I am a fan of John Grisham’s novels. I also enjoyed the book Living With A Seal by Jesse Itzler and of course I look forward to reading Twenty Over Ten blogs.
10. We’re happy to see you love the Twenty Over Ten Blog Posts 🙂 And lastly, if you could spend a month all expenses paid anywhere in the world, where would you travel to?
I loved your last question Nicole about traveling anywhere in the world all expenses paid…. well, one thing on my Bucket List is to cycle across America, starting on the West Coast and ending on the East Coast. That would be the trip (and challenge) of a life time.
I am a believer of pushing myself out of my comfort zone both physically and mentally… I have been involved with running multiple companies and physically I have rode motorcycles, flew airplanes, hang glided, bungee jumped and parachuted.
We loved learning more about you, Ed!
Other “Meet the Team” Posts: Ryan Russell (Co-Founder), Nick DiMatteo (Co-Founder), Geoff Muskett (Design), Nicole Skalamera (Marketing), Samantha Russell (Marketing).
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